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artistfingers · 3 years

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There’s one ~silver lining~ of my iPad being broken: I’ve had loads of time to think about my many half-formed undercover phantom au ideas! Since I have no idea when or what will make it to comic form, here’s the lowdown…. AKA, everything that’s been rattling around my brain recently :P

For context: Danny, Sam and Tucker have never met, and nobody knows Danny is Phantom. When Vlad’s newest bit of tech gets Danny stuck in ghost mode (with the rest of his powers on the fritz to boot), he meets Tucker and Sam—who instantly see through his disguise and lend a helping hand. (Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4!!)

So. After that, Danny—no, Phantom—becomes friends with them. It’s exciting! He was invisible at school even before the ghost powers; he was pretty isolated and lonely and being Phantom for the last year hasn’t exactly been a social boon. Kid’s lonely, ok?

But now… two human friends? Who’re his age & share his interests? It’s like a dream come true! If only they weren’t exclusively friends with his ghost self… and if only they didn’t wanna be so involved in his dangerous ghost hunting things…Uhhh. Hm. Could be a problem.

Danny angsts about the danger he’s putting his new friends in, and about not being able to befriend them as a human. He plays with the idea of telling them Everything but that’s… risky to say the least. He’s only known them a few weeks! ugh….!! it’s too much. maybe he should just throw the towel in.

Buuut Sam & Tucker don’t take no for an answer. Especially after they rescue him a third time.

Thus… Phantom friendship shenanigans!!

Sam filched some parts from the Fentonworks Lab when Phantom took them there, and later convinced Tucker to help her build a custom mini ectogun in case of emergency. They didn’t tell Phantom.

Danny is really sentimental about that DP hat he wore when he first met Sam & Tucker. He wore it as Phantom for a while but it got singed in a fight. He still wears it when he hangs out with Tucker & Sam but otherwise keeps it squirreled away for Sentimental Reasons.

“So Phantom, how old are you?” “I’m 15.” “15 now? Or 15 when you died?” “Yes.”

Tucker has a bunch of awful 90s button up shirts, and gives one to Phantom

They aren’t able to convince Sam to wear one too, but they sure do try.

Phantom won’t tell them when he died, so once he starts wearing 90s shirts they start using terrible 90s slang with him

“I am NOT from the 90s!!! They didn’t even SAY that then!!!” “methinks the lady doth protest too much…..home slice” “NOOO!!!”

“Phantom I have an extremely important question. Like, life or death. SHIT is on the LINE here. Are you listening?? I really need to know…. Do ghosts play video games”

The answer may surprise you (no it won’t)

Sam is completely convinced they can ACTUALLY get a good working guess of when Phantom lived and died based on the fact he liked Nasty Burger when he was alive, since NB’s a regional chain with a not-so-distant past. Tucker meanwhile thinks Phantom probably has a good reason for keeping them at arm’s length—but regardless of method, they can agree: they want to break down Phantom’s walls.

The next arc is less “Undercover Phantom” and more “Undercover Fenton” because the juxtaposition of him having to do hidden identities squared (squared again) is too good for me to pass up. It boils down to this: during a ghost attack at school, Danny finds himself stuck being “protected” by Sam and Tucker.

Sam and Tucker take their new jobs as Phantom’s ghost hunting companions too seriously to let this skinny stranger they just met run TOWARDS the danger. WHY does he keep trying to run TOWARDS the danger

NO YOU CANNOT GO TO THE BATHROOM THE SCHOOL IS ON G H O S T L O C K D O W N

Sam pulls out her ectogun.

Danny: WHERE DID YOU GET THAT?!

Sam does not tell him.

“Wait, your last name’s Fenton? Like Fentonworks Fenton?” “No, the other Fenton.” “Oh… well, that’s too bad…” “YES LIKE FENTONWORKS FENTON”

Sam is initially wary of Danny because of his parents’ super strong anti-ecto views. Danny is clueless as to why she isn’t very friendly to him-as-a-human when she’s great with him-as-a-ghost. but she warms up after he helps resolve the ghost issue in a way that shows he doesn’t subscribe to his parents’ views.

afterwards you get this excellent situation where Danny is now friends with Sam and Tucker as Phantom and as Fenton, and they’re not connecting the dots as quickly as they did when it was just “that’s Phantom wearing a hoodie and a cap with his own logo on it”.

the potential here? *chefs kiss* here’s a few things but honestly? the possibilities are limitless

Danny pretending to not have a cell phone because he already gave them his number as Phantom

Tucker: *dials Phantom*

Danny, standing directly next to him: *frantically attempting to silence his phone*

Sam & Tucker try to introduce Danny and Phantom. Danny has to make excuses to avoid this happening in both forms.

Danny takes Sam & Tucker down to the Fentonworks Lab to get them some real equipment. Sam & Tucker pretend (very badly) that they’ve never been there before

Rooftop chill sessions as Phantom, late night teenage hijinks as Fenton, plus school AND fighting ghosts does not do any favors for Danny’s sleep deprivation. Tucker introduces him to caffeine pills with… mixed results.

Tucker and Sam teach Phantom some sign language. Later Danny slips up and uses it casually with them as Fenton

…. And many other silly mixups that I’ve yet to think of because I live for that shit

Sam & Tucker have theories about the Fenton-Phantom connection and they’re all wrong but somehow also plausible and that freaks Danny out just a little bit if he ever overhears them

Ultimately, I see this AU having a final arc where a New Situation occurs in which Danny-as-Phantom has to—once again—pretend to be human. This time, he’s with Sam & Tucker as Phantom from the get go, and can’t disappear or transform, even if being Phantom is extremely dangerous at that moment. Somehow this scenario would lead to the Fenton-is-Phantom (or, in this case, Phantom-is-Fenton) reveal…. But the details still escape me :P

so in short………… I really like hidden identities

#danny phantom #danny phantom au #danny fenton #tucker foley #sam manson #undercover phantom au #no one knows au #DP #WHY is this 1000 words long IM SO SORRY #PS if you are reading these tags and you left tags on any of the comics so far with your own ideas for this au THANK YOU I LOVE YOU #PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE feel free to add on ideas to this au any way youd like 🙏#it is just a big ol hidden identities sandbox with also lots of teenages hijinks #im hoping to have my ipad fixed by wednesday-ish so more comics........ eventually :"D #in the meantime please enjoy this long text post and maybe some sketchbook things #if i can work up the nerve to post something straight out of the sketchbook lmfao #long post #fic #art writes

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starr-fall-knight-rise · 4 years

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Humans are Space Orcs “To Deep Space.”

I am finished with university, had my last final yesterday, so we will be moving back to the normal writing schedule, yay!

I have no idea where this arc is going tbh, but it is going to be good and I am excited. I hope you guys will enjoy it as well!

“Dr. Adric, Dr. Adric please report to the bridge.”

He stepped from his office wondering what they could possibly need him for there. He had just been trying to get his office situated when the call came out. He set down his papers on the desk and made his way into the ship looking around as he made his tentative way towards the bridge. The ship was roomier than he thought it might be, but still rather small, he wondered how that affected the people on the ship.

He knew that they had to keep plants aboard the ship for the crew’s mental health, but he honestly wondered how much that help. Overhead he was assured the lights were UV in nature to mimic the sun and stave off depression after long months of being trapped inside a metal tin can hurtling through space. Not one was really sure what the effects of deep space on a person.

They knew that being lost in space could result in mass hysteria as demonstrated by the Commander’s own crew and malfunctioned civilian transport, the likes of which had apparently driven themselves to cannibalism in their panic and confusion.

He had read the reports, it was both disgusting and fascinating.

He paused just inside the bridge turning to stare with wide eyed at the men and women positioned at their consuls arrayed in a semicircular pattern against the outside edge of the room. A second tier comprised another smaller set of consoles for about four people, and just above that was a single raised chair.

The captain’s seat.

The room had been designed with both hierarchy and function in mind in that the captain’s chair could look down on all the other chairs with the ability to see what his crew was doing at all times.

And right now they were prepping for launch.

“Engines.”

“Engine one through six online and reporting no malfunctioning cells Commander.”

“Check them one more time. Crew manifest.”

“Four hundred and eighty six confirmed crewmen, sir.”

“What does the manifest say?”

“The same.”

Dr Adric tilted his head watching as the crew worked, but specifically watching the commander. The man spun this way and that, giving orders, taking information, and all the while making quick check-marks in a little black book he held in one hand. He seemed at east in his chair.

The chief weapons officer, the Drev named Sunny, sat at her station despite not really needing her at the moment, and he could see over her shoulder that she was also doing a weapons check for the ship.

The commander turned in his chair spotting the doctor and motioning him over.

He came confused not sure what he would be needed for.

“Commander?”

The man smiled, an expression that fit well on his face. Despite his youth, the doctor could already see laugh lines, faint and barely visible beginning to form around his eyes…. This was a man used to smiling.

“Take a seat doctor, and strap yourself in. This will be an uncomfortable assent.”

“What do you mean?” He wondered in confusion.

“I generally let all new recruits sit on the bridge for at least one launch or warp. I feel it makes the experience real for them instead of just expecting them to use their imagination. Besides, who doesn’t want to watch a ship launch.”

He was a bit surprised but of course he nodded walking over to the indicated seats and strapping himself in with the five point harness. He continued to watch the crew work. The bridge itself seemed to run rather smoothly under the direction of the commander, and from what he could tell the crew seemed very excited to be off.

“Engines ready, commander.”

“Fuel cells engaged.”

Commander Vir reached for his microphone broadcasting his voice throughout the ship, “Alright you beautiful hooligans launch begins in T minus one minute. Please strap yourself and any loose items down and keep your hands and feet inside the ship for the duration of the ride.” He cut off his mic smiling.

Dr Adric watched closely.

“Ground control this is Harbinger preparing to liftoff in T minus 55, do you copy.”

“Copy harbinger. Launch is ready for go standby on grid line trajectory Alpha two niner one one preparing for liftoff over.”

“Thirty seconds.”

He gripped the seatbelt hard teeth gritted watching as the rest of the crew braced themselves as well. The commander flexed his hands sliding his fingers into the flight gloves and hooking his toes onto the pedals. The holographic shield popped up to cover his eyes.

“launch in 10, 9 ,8, 7, 6, 5.”

He gripped tighter.

“4, 3, 2, 1, “

“Launch.”

The force of the rising ship slammed him back into his seat as they were born skyward. All around them the ship seemed to vibrate and rattle. His chest felt like it had a carton of bricks stacked on top of it and a little black circle was beginning to encroach at the edges of his vision.

Somewhere, someone in the room was cheering. Past his vibrating eyes, he could see the commander valiantly fighting to bring the ship into the sky despite it’s immense bulk which had never been designed for gravity. Eyes wide he watched as the eggshell blue of a perfect day morphed before them and grew darker until space stretched out before them like a pair of waiting arms.

“Prepare core for warp. Navigations.”

“Yes commander?”

“Warp Coarse.”

“Sagittarius A. But not to close! Keep to the coordinates the smart guys gave us” he repeated very suddenly looking very nervous all things told.

“What’s in Sagittarius A?” He wondered

The commander turned in his chair one eyebrow raised looking almost incredulous, “you don’t know?”

The rest of the crew shifted very nervously, he could see it on them though there were hints of excitement.”

He shook his head.

“Our primary directive on this ship is deep space exploration. We are a military vessel, but we hold trillions of dollars in scientific equipment aboard this ship, as such we have been tasked by the UNSC in accordance with the NASA foundation to head to Sagittarius A and take the first close space images of the supermassive black hole at the center of the milky way.”

He felt his hands and feet go suddenly cold.

“B but how can you take a picture of something that sucks in light.”

“The accretion disk of course and then the massive black spot at the middle.”

“But if we get to close….”

“Yes yes doctor, I have been flying in space long enough to know what happens if you run amuck of a black hole. We get sucked in and suspended forever in a slow spiral of doom as time slows down and our bodies are slowly ripped apart atom by atom. Please we aren’t getting THAT close. Even I’m pissing myself just thinking about it, but also super excited to be honest. No mess ups this time which is why the ship has been checked to hell and back to make sure it’s working.”

Not for the first time, he was beginning to wonder if he was psychologically stable enough to be on this mission as it seemed you hat to be just a little crazy to want to do this. Maybe that is why a high percentage of people on the ship had presented with psychological anomalies, least of all the commander himself.

How he hadn’t gone mad with fear regarding the eminent death that surrounded them constantly was a mystery.

“Warp core?”

“Ready for ignition sir.”

“How far out are we.”

“Almost to the warp zone sir,”

Dr Adric rubbed his temples. He wasn’t entirely sure he wanted to see a black hole. What kind of psychological effects does something that powerful have on someone, knowing that if you are caught in its gravity well you are done for in the most horrible way possible, and just looking at it from a distance he imagined would be like watching a bear or tiger out in the wild accept for this was different since the bear could now swallow stares whole and the tiger ad gravity so immense that not even light can escape it’s center.

“Preparing for warp in ten.”

He closed his eyes

But they didn’t stay closed as the countdown continued opening for a moment as he felt the space around him go strange. When he did he nearly lost it as his vision seemed to be looking through a glass fish bowl all warped out to the sides and stretched, far things looking close, close things looking far. Outside the window a massive spot appeared before him and around it the stars were morphing and repeating.

The ship reflected back a thousand times in fractal images.

He yelled in shock clenching his seat, and then, it was over.

He was breathing hard, outside there was nothing but blackness, and the emergency lights had flicked on over the crew.

The captain unbuckled his seat-belt and stepped down onto the floor.

He turned to look at Adric who was gripping the seat so hard his knuckles had gone white, “Nice work, first time I warped I definitely pissed myself so, good constitution.” He patted Adric on the shoulder. The blue Drev stood, and the commander grabbed her by the shoulder hauling himself up onto her back.

Adric watched as the two of them walked away.

How strange.

He was in for seeing a lot of strange things in the next few days. The commander and the blue drev spent a lot of time together, and often he rode on her back. At one point he walked in on the crew having a jousting contest where two drev ran full tilt at the other while the two crewmen brandished brooms.

He walked out of his room more than once to find the commander heelieing down the hall at the head of the bridge crew giving orders.

When that wasn’t happening he had run amuck of a freaky group of spider creatures being taken care of by a dog and a very strange humanoid creature who claimed he could read minds. He hadn’t believed it until it started repeating his inner thoughts back to himself.

Instead of being freaked out he found himself almost envious. If he had that kind of power imagine the sort of things he could do to help his patients.

Everywhere he went it seemed as if something strange was happening.

One day they were playing an aggressive game of keep the balloon off the floor and the next they were using window markers to drawn on the viewing field. As expected from a group of soldiers it turned into a heard of inappropriate doodles until it looked as if their ship was cruising past a heard of winged space dicks.

And he himself kept a close eye on the crew. None of them seemed bothered by the fact they were in deep space, but many of them had strange habits.

The commander and the Drev named Sunny spent an excessive amount of time together, or so he thought, the little doctor never relaxed, and couldn’t to save his life even when he tried. Conn, the mind reader, did his best to get attention by pissing everyone off, and the spiderlings, as he had come to know them, were constantly acting up as well.

He would need more time to get used to the crew, but it seemed as if he had his work cut out for him.

If he could hold himself together that is.

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writethelifeyouwant · 5 years

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Chapter 3: I Need A Vacation

Characters: Spencer, JJ and family, Emily, Luke, Tara, Rossi, Penelope, OFC

Word Count: 2014

Warnings: Fluff and friendship :)

Summary: I was on vacation and then I was thinking about what they would be like on vacation and then I pushed my loneliness and need for love onto Spencer and this is essentially gonna be super fluffy and probably corny and just roll with it. Am open to taking constructive criticism as well as scenario suggestions! Because I have some semblance of plot laid out but that pesky middle bit is non existent at the moment. So enjoy your fluffy team bonding on a beach with eventual Spencer love interest! This work is cross posted on AO3 and FFN.

The air here felt remarkably different from home despite only being a couple hours drive away. Spencer had been to beaches before, obviously. His work with the BAU hadn’t seen fit to spare carefree vacation goers and their beach paradises. This was the first time he had been to a beach without looking for, or at, a dead body. He had resolved, despite his apprehension about the incredibly foreign social situation he was about to be presented with, to relax on this trip. He was here with his best friends, his family really, he wanted to enjoy himself.

Reid was still in his sleep clothes, a t-shirt and his boxer shorts covered by a lightweight robe, as he leaned against the outdoor balcony railing. He sipped steadily at the cup of coffee he held cradled between his hands. The beach in front of him had a few lone joggers and dog walkers making their way up and down the coast of the bay. It was shaping up to be a peaceful morning.

In the distance, he couldn’t tell from which direction it came, he heard the delighted squeals of young children. He didn’t expect those jubilant noises to practically slam into the door of his room however.

“Uncle Spencer!” Henry and Michael’s voices echoed past the sliding glass door Reid had left open behind him. Spencer smiled as he pulled himself off his forearms and set his coffee down on his way to the hotel room door.

“Hey guys!” Spencer opened the door to JJ and her boys, who happily rushed in to his room. Spencer scooped up Michael before he ran himself into the bed-frame. The little boy giggled happily as Spencer ruffled his hair and sat him down on the bed next to his brother.

“Sorry it’s early Spence, they really wanted to get down to the beach.” JJ shrugged apologetically but smiled indulgently at her sons all the while. “It’s fine, um, let me just get dressed I guessed?” Spence ran a hand absentmindedly through his hair as he glanced around trying to mentally assemble a beach version of a go bag. He evaluated JJ’s attire and accompanying straw bag, visibly overflowing with toys, towels and sunblock. Grabbing for his duffle bag he rooted through to find the swim shorts and a t-shirt that he took into the ensuite to throw on. It felt odd to be wearing such a casual outfit outside his apartment. Spencer couldn’t remember a time he’d worn anything other than a collared shirt around his friends, except to work out under incredible amounts of duress.

Emerging from the bathroom dressed and carrying a towel, Spencer stopped short and held his arms out in a mid-shrug, silently asking for JJ’s approval of the ensemble.

“Wow Spence,” JJ nodded, thinking she could get used to this more relaxed Spencer. “Did you even own swim trunks before Garcia conned you into this trip?”

“Absolutely not,” Spencer laughed, feeling free to move around the room and collect a few things to take down to the beach with him.

“Uncle Spencer, can we go swimming now?” Henry asked, looking up from his handheld game.

“Sure can, Henry,” Spencer checked he had his room key one more time before the group went back out into the hall, the boys running ahead in their excitement.

“Henry, go put your game back in the room and get your dad, okay,” JJ called. Henry didn’t acknowledge his mom’s request but did as he was told. Moments later Will popped out into the hall, camera strung around his neck.

“You boys ready?” Will clapped his hands together once and swung Michael up into his arms. “Beach time!”

-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*

The rest of the team filtered down onto the beach, carrying towels and coffees and books, all the supplies necessary for a day of doing absolutely nothing that didn’t involve relaxation and supplementing their vitamin D intake. Garcia came bouncing down with a swimsuit splattered in a bright sunflower pattern with matching bright yellow sunglasses in the shape of stars, and a silk sunflower pinned garishly onto her sunhat.

Rossi was sporting an impressive get up comprising of matching linen shorts and loose linen button down with a hat that made him look like a Cuban mafia boss. All he was missing was his cigar. Tara and Emily came down sporting very sleek black bikinis and sunglasses, primarily intent on scouting the available eye candy. Luke brought down a soccer ball with him, kicking it aimlessly along the sand to where everyone had set up their towels and personal effects.

Spencer was lounged on a towel at the edge of the team’s group, reading through the first of his stack of books. A short distance away from him lay an abandoned towel and beach bag. The spot had been unattended since he had arrived on the beach with JJ a little while ago, and sand was slowly gathering in the crevices of the beach towel. Perched on top of the beach bag was a crisp looking paperback, clearly purchased to be this girl’s summer beach read. Curiosity piqued, Spencer leaned over casually and shifted his gaze to get a better view of the cover. “The Once and Future King” by T.H White. Nice, Spencer thought, returning to his own sci-fi compendium.

“Hey Prentiss,” Luke shouted towards Emily from the other end of the group, “wanna go?” He pointed down to the soccer ball he was tapping between his toes. Emily smirked.

“I don’t think you know what you’re asking for.”

“What, you’re not chicken are you?” Luke knew his taunt was childish but he also knew it would work.

“Loser buys the winner’s drinks tonight?” Emily rolled up from her towel, brushing the sand off her thighs as she went.

“Goal’s that way!” Luke shouted as he ran past Emily, kicking the ball further up the beach. She tore after him, the picture of focus.

JJ came jogging back up the beach, leaning down over her own bag to extract a small inflatable life vest. “Are you gonna come in the water at all Spence?” JJ laughed.

“You know, since global warming has begun to increase the temperatures in the Atlantic there’s been a proliferation of vibrio vulnificus in the bays and inlets along the Chesapeake coast.” Spencer informed her.

“Do I want to know what that is?” JJ laughed, but nervously.

“It’s a rare flesh eating bacteria,” Spencer nodded calmly. JJ looked panicked for a second before Spencer’s poker face broke and he laughed, starting to pull himself up from the sand. JJ signed with relief, realising that Spencer wasn’t actually concerned about being eaten by microorganisms. “Don’t worry, people hardly ever catch it.” Spencer started to walk down towards the water and JJ followed, shaking her head a little in stunned disbelief.

Seeing them coming, Michael toddled away from Will with his arms outstretched. “Mommy, mommy!”

“Hey munchkin,” JJ groaned as she swung the boy up into her arms. “My goodness you’re getting heavy! When did you get so big?” Michael giggled as JJ tickled around his chin, life vest still slung over her arm. Will strolled forward and gave JJ a kiss on the cheek.

“I’m gonna go lay down for a bit, good luck with this one,” he huffed, ruffling Henry’s hair.

“Did you tucker your dad out, huh?” She questioned Michael as she put him back down and walked with him back to the water’s edge, Spencer trailing behind them leisurely. “Henry, come over here and put this on!” JJ waved the life jacket above her head.

“Ugh mom do I have to?” Henry pouted but came back over to grab the jacket anyhow, his blonde hair plastered down over his eyes.

“You have to wear it if you want to go any deeper young man.”

“Fine,” Henry mumbled, blowing into the little tube that inflated the vest. The sun was hot, and getting hotter the higher it moved in the sky, which felt at odds with the fairly strong breeze that was coming off the water in the inlet. Last night it had been peaceful, with barely any visible movement beyond the foaming of the surf as it ran into the shore. Today there were waves moving diagonally across the surface of the water, crashing in on themselves a few yards before they made it to the edge of the beach. Spencer had noticed more than one small child get bowled over in a white cap that day, and understood perfectly well why JJ was insisting Henry put on a life-vest if he wanted to go any deeper than his knees.

“Are you coming Uncle Spencer?” Henry’s question broke Reid from his thoughts and he blinked down at the boy.

“Henry, I will go into the water if you answer me these riddles three,” Spencer’s eyebrows waggled in an echo of his fingers as a mischievous grin sprung across his face.

“Is one of those riddles how you got wet?” Henry asked innocently.

“What do you mean I’m not-“ Spencer spluttered in the middle of his sentence as Henry grabbed a pail from Michael and tossed a bucketload of water right in Spencer’s face.

“Oh, you are gonna get it!” Spencer ran after Henry as he cackled and ran headfirst into the ocean spray.

The waves were cresting heavily that day, spurred on by the wind that was also whipping up clouds of sand along the shore. Spencer and Henry pushed their way through the crashing water as they chased each other. JJ stayed back with Michael, letting him plod along beside her as the tide washed over his toes. From her vantage point on the beach Garcia was taking dozens of photos, smiling as Spencer lost his balance and was toppled over by a wave. “Hey, send me those will you, Penelope?” Will laughed, peaking over her shoulder.

“Sure thing, sugar,” Penelope smiled.

“Mom, I wanna go further!” Henry’s complaining shouts reached back to them.

“Henry,” JJ shook her head at him, “I already told you no, that’s far enough. I can’t even touch the bottom out there.”

“But mom-“

“I can take him out,” Spencer volunteered, pushing his sopping hair back off of his face.

“No, Spence I can’t ask you to do that.”

“No, I don’t mind.” Spencer assured her. “The water will actually be gentler if we go a little deeper, it will be mostly swells instead of waves.”

JJ still looked hesitant but the look on Henry’s face, a well-practiced mix of anger and pathetic pleading, crumpled her convictions. “Okay, but hang on to him. And Henry you listen to Spencer out there.”

“Yes mom,” Henry’s mocking tone didn’t hide his excitement effectively.

“Okay, how far do you wanna go Henry?” Spencer asked.

“Out there,” Henry pointed towards where a woman with ocean darkened hair was bobbing up and down over the swelling sea. Spencer and Henry splashed across the sand and let the waves tumble them into the deep.

Pushing out into the ocean amidst the swells was a sensation that Spencer had never experienced before. As the wind drove the sea up and down around them it felt like he was being loomed over by a wall of water but he could still feel his toes buried comfortingly in the sand. And as the water came nearer he would push gently off the ground, gripping Henry’s arm to pull him along, to float easily over the top of the surge that had seconds before threatened to engulf him. It was simultaneously relaxing and exhilarating, and he laughed. Spencer’s laugh was loud and careless and utterly without thought. It was happy.

Time was obviously passing but Spencer wasn’t inclined to measure it. In this moment he felt happier than he could remember being in years. He grabbed for Henry’s waist and hoisted him up and over the oncoming swells, holding him out so he could pretend he was a superhero, flying above the waves. However, a moment later Spencer’s oblivion was shattered as a swell began to fold early, white foam raging forward to engulf Henry and drag him from Spencer’s grasp. The wave hit Spencer square in the face and he was shoved backwards with the strength of it, spluttering and coughing while he tried to regain his footing.

It could only have been a second that his eyes were closed but when he pried them open again, fighting the sting of the saltwater as it seeped past his lids, Spencer realised he could no longer see Henry. Panic shredded his thoughts as he launched himself into the water, grasping through thee sea in front of him and praying his fingers could find what his eyes couldn’t. Behind him Spencer heard a shout, devoid of any real words. Spinning he saw, with intense relief, the bright orange of Henry’s life vest and a small head of wet blonde hair, coughing as he tried to clear the water from his throat. Holding him above the waves was a petite, tan figure with dark hair splayed across her cheeks.

#spencer #spencer reid #spencer reid fanfic #spencer x reader #dr. spencer reid #Criminal Minds #criminal minds fanfic #criminal minds fic #Matthew Gray Gubler #criminal minds; matthew gray gubler #mgg #cm au #romance #beach au #ao3 #ffn #repeat after me i need a vacation #i need a vacation

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looney-joonie · 5 years

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50 Questions Tag

I was tagged by @bts-blackpink-bitch about 10 years ago (1 week) and I am finally ready to answer them lol

1. What takes up too much of your time?

Daydreaming about fic possibilities and what I could do with my life if I had the ability to create art.

2. What makes your day better?

Two things: my fiance and laughing.

3. What’s the best thing to happen to you today?

My cat laid on top of me and purred really loud!

4. What fictional place would you like to go to?

One that I have yet to put into writing.

5. Are you good at giving advice?

It depends. I’m pretty good at it in general, but each situation is unique and anyone who takes my advice knows that I have a disclaimer stating that I am not responsible for anything that happens if my advice is applied...just as a precaution lol

6. Do you have any mental illness?

No clue.

7. Have you ever experienced sleep paralysis?

Yes and it’s terrifying!! I mean, one time I was able to make my head shake, but my fiance ignored my movement because I move in my sleep...so he thought I was asleep...

8. What musician inspired you the most?

I don’t really have just one

9. Have you ever fallen in love?

Yes

10. What’s your dream date?

My dream date is my fiance. HAHA! (It’s true..) 😂

But no, my dream date is being picked up at hotel in a big city <me wearing a very nice dress, my date wearing a tux or suit> and us going out for a ‘night on the town’. We would dine at a 5-star restaurant and then walk around downtown until we came to a romantic place. My date would then ask me to dance even there’s no music because ‘the music is in our hearts'. And then he would take me back to my room and leave me at the door with a searing kiss.

*sigh* I love my fiance, but he would ruin my dream date because he can’t keep a beat to save his life. I’m sure he’d be able to make up for it somehow 😂

11. What do others notice about you?

They tend to notice I have a huge ass. They never really mention anything else that they notice...IF they notice anything else.

12. What is an annoying habit you have?

UM - ALL OF THEM?? I mean, I have so many that it’s hard to name them. Just ask the people around me and they’ll make long lists without saying the same thing as the other. #iannoyeveryone

13. Do you still talk to your first love?

No, but that’s a good thing.

14. How many exes do you have?

Five...and yet, they never took me on a date. #losers😒

15. How many songs are in your playlist?

My largest one has over 600 songs on it...so many genres, so little time.

16. What instruments can you play?

I played the clarinet when I was in high school and the piano before that.

17. What do you have the most pictures of?

Blurry shit because my phone screen gets turned on and then I’m too lazy to delete the pictures. 😬

18. Where would you like to go before you die?

I’m not sure. I’ve always loved traveling, but have never been super passionate about just one place?

19. What is your zodiac?

Gemini

20. Do you relate to it?

Yup. I’m #twinning everyday.

21. What is happiness to you?

Happiness to me is being able to toss away all of my negative thoughts, just for a moment, and focus on something beautiful. It could be the feel of a cool breeze on a warm day. The fluffy white clouds against a light blue sky or speaking the compliments I think instead of just keeping them so myself.

Happiness is something you continuously work towards...and sometimes you have to accept that being content in the moment is the best you’ll get for now. I purposely stop to ‘smell the roses’ and enjoy the little things because everything I know and love is in a balanced state. I want to enjoy the moments I have now so that, when things have shifted and there’s the sense of unbalance, I can look back and draw on those moments. Those little moments are so important to be able to recall so that you can continue to work towards happiness in times of sadness. (Sorry for the mini...rant?)

22. Are you going through anything right now?

Yes. I won’t get too detailed, but back in February I went on emergency hiatus because my dad has CIDP (emergency hiatus post here). He hasn’t had a treatment since February, so his ability to walk and do other things has gradually become much worse. It’s not something that many people have to live with for a long time...which is why I had my happiness rant above. Plus I’ve been trying to get a better job since I graduated from college in December 2018, but practically nobody is hiring. So that’s great.

23. What’s the worst decision you ever made?

There really is no ‘worst decision’ for me. I am who I am today because of all the decisions I have made both good and bad. So, for me to point out my ‘worst decision’ would be to say I have regrets. Which I don’t because I don’t have time for ‘what ifs’ and regrets. I only have time for helping myself and others to better themselves.

24. What’s your favorite store?

Gift shops.

25. What’s your opinion on abortion?

I strongly believe in keeping my political opinions to myself.

26. Do you keep a bucket list?

Mentally, yeah. But I’m forgetful, so it’s ever-changing.

27. Do you have a favorite album?

Yes. Comedown Machine by The Strokes. I bought it because it looked cool and I love every single song.

28. What do you want for your birthday?

I really want to have a full-time job! I also want these BTS Hanahaki Series pins by Wiblash on Instagram!!

29. What are most people’s first impression of you?

People think that I cower at anyone who seems to be an authoritative figure as well as be a ‘yes-man’

30. What age do you seem according to most people?

Everyone has thought I look like I’m either younger or WAY older than I actually am. Everyone also assumes I have kids. And I mean EVERYONE. 😠

31. Where do you keep your phone while you’re sleeping?

On my nightstand to prevent an accidental fire.

32. What word do you say the most?

I say um, well, and like a lot because they make it easier to drag my sentences out when I lose my train of thought.

33. What’s the oldest age you would date?

It’s kind of..besides the point now that I’m getting married, but at one point I ‘dated’ a guy who was almost 10 years older than me. I DODGED A BULLET WITH THAT GUY!! With my experience, I probably wouldn’t pick someone more than 5 years older than me.

34. What’s the youngest age you would date?

I’ve always liked my guys to be slightly younger than me ( my fiance is about 9 months younger than me) and all my exs except the one mentioned in the above question were either the same age as me or a little younger. I wouldn’t date anyone born after 2000. Still doesn’t matter much since I’m getting married.😂

35. What job/career do most people say would suit you?

Retail. But that’s only because I’ve been in customer service so long that I have a lot of mannerisms that I have accidentally brought over into my personal life.

36. What’s your favorite music genre?

I don’t have one.

37. If you could live in any country in the world, where would it be?

TL;DWR - Too Long; Don’t Wanna Research.

38. What is your current favorite song?

Pour Some Sugar On Me by Def Leppard

39. How long have you had this blog for?

01/07/2019 1:55:37 AM (thanks @memories)

40. What are you excited for?

The BTS concert on May 12th!!!! And for my ATEEZ project 'When Life Gives You Lemonade' teaser to be revealed on May 15th!!

41. Are you a better talker or listener?

Both. Once I’m started, I can talk for hours, but I love listening to people talk too soooooo...

42. What is the last productive thing you did?

AHGJDSAKLGHJA UHHH, WORK ON MY ATEEZ PROJECT!

43. What do you want for Christmas?

DLCs for some software that I have.

44. What class do you get the best grades in?

Um...College Algebra and English were my best subjects.

45. On a scale of 1-10, how are you feeling right now?

About a 9.8?

46. What can you see yourself doing in ten years?

I can see myself being an author and a mom. 😊

47. When did you get your first heartbreak?

First grade when I...liked this boy so much that I would kiss his cheek at least once every time we had gym class. Then he changed schools... (I found out later that it wasn’t my fault and that he had a slight crush on me then)

48. What age do you want to get married?

23. My wedding is planned for right before my 28th birthday, so ya’ll see how well that panned out.

49. What career did you want to have as a child?

Author!!!

50. What do you crave right now?

MORE TIME TO WORK ON MY ATEEZ PROJECT!!!!!! Gosh...there’s just not enough time in the day..............................................😑

I’m tagging @angstchim @ughdesighhns @parkseonghwa @gothicmingi @requestfairy @mhysaunburnt @yurakwonhoseok @today-we-will-survive @supersailorjoonie once again! If ya’ll get tired of it, let me knowwwwwww......😅

#tag game #50 questions #tag #ily all

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surveys-at-your-service · 5 years

Text

Survey #206

“have you ever wished for death and prayed all night for your last breath?”

Do you always read the book before you see a movie based on a book? No. When you’re out with friends, do they ever encourage you to spend money you should be saving? 1.) I don't hang out w/ anyone now, 2.) but even when I did, they all knew I didn't make money. Is there anything you’re trying to save up money for? What? Perpetually tattoos, I want a PS4 super badly to play a novel of games I've been dying to play (SotC and Spyro trilogy remaster, I'm @ing you so hard), I need a car soon as I plan to at least try and get my license in the near future, I'd love to always have enough to immediately go to Sara's in case of an emergency, a trip to South Africa... but those are gonna take a good while to complete. I have my priorities straight for when I get a job. Have you ever watched a movie you didn’t really want to see just because a friend asked you to? Yeah. Did you end up liking the movie, anyway? There's been many cases of the above situation, so I'm sure in some instances I have. Heard any great songs for the first time lately? What songs? Hmmm, quite a number. "Radio" by Rammstein is great, and I love "bury a friend" and "bad guy" by Billie Eilish. What is your favorite urban legend? m o t h m a n and the joysey devil. Probably top two. GAH I love so many though????????????? Like Skinwalkers?????????????? And WENDIGOS????????? Have you seen all the cool shit?????????????? Do you remember the last nightmare you had? What was it? No, thankfully. Have you ever hopped on any bandwagons? HAHA. Freshman year, high school... I "liked" screamo or alternative-type bands I'd barely ever listened to or even enjoyed to fit in with the emos aldkjfalkwejr. Are you an elitist (even a little bit) when it comes to anything? What? Definitely not a complete one, but I can get pretty annoyed if in WoW we're in a heroic dungeon and people don't know the mechanics you should have already learned + read new ones that're right there in the goddamn journal laksdjfaoweir and then some people just totally ignore your advice and alskdjfwleiruwqoeif x2. Then again I've been that confused asshole in a couple raiding situations BUT LOOK they're harder and I had too much to catch up on okay. Still no excuse by WHATEVER. Have elitists on a fansite ever intimidated or talked down to you? I don't believe so. Is there anything you swear you will never do again? A few things with certainty. How late do you usually stay awake? I can literally go to bed as early as 7 to as late as 11 or rarely later. I do NOT have a schedule. Started months ago, and at first it frustrated and stressed me out quite a bit, but by now, I've just accepted it for me. Do you have pets? If so, how did you choose their names? Teddy: sister named him, but I'm sure it was the "cute as a teddy bear" type thing; Bentley: no clue; Roman: it sounded majestic, cats are majestic; Venus: pretty, and her coloration is similar to the planet; Kaiju: totally badass for an iguana that's gonna grow to be a big 'ole scaly boy; and Mitsu: I had a theme of giving my rats cutesy "M" names. Do you ever buy special treats for your pets? Occasionally. Is just being fond of something enough, or does it take more than that to be a ‘real fan’? Did a middle school student write this? If you're pretty fond of something, there you go, you're a fan. Sure, some are more intense, but that doesn't make the more casual ones not "real." What type of fabric is most comfortable for clothing? Idk, I don't pay attention. If you wear one – bras with or without a wire? Christ, without. If you wear one – are you able to find cute bras in your size? HA. No. It is RARE I'll find a cute one, and that's always only online. Make pretty ones for plus-sized women a normal find, jfc. Idk why, but I am very picky with bras. Like good fucking luck seeing me without a shirt, so like,,,, why do I bother????? What length do you like your shorts to be? UM you will NOT see me in SHORTS. Have you ever cut off jeans or other pants and made them into shorts? Perhaps Mom has when I was a kid? But I have no memory of this ever happening. Have you cut the sleeves out of T-shirts to make tank tops? I don't think so. Have you ever modified a piece of clothing and hated how it turned out? ^ What was the last disappointing movie you saw? Ah jeez, what's the last time I even watched one. Idk. What was the last disappointing book you read? And I haven't read a book in even longer. Is there anything you’re really excited about? JOB. OPPORTUNITIES. Do you ever watch compilation videos? Of what? Vines, like shit dude. I can go on massive binges. What was the last thing you rolled your eyes about? I don't recall. What would you consider the greatest song ever recorded? Why? Yeesh, that's a big thing to decide. I recently discovered "A Reason to Fight" by Disturbed though, and it is. Incredible. Just read the lyrics to refresh my mind, and yeah, goosebumps. Do you like Hellboy? If so, do you prefer the old movies or the new one? Never seen any. Favorite Disney character who isn’t royalty? Dory, probably. But man, there's too many to choose from. Last thing you purchased just for fun? *shrugs* Do you even like behind-the-scenes stuff or does it ruin the magic for you? IF I'm real into the product, I love that stuff!! I've seen like every little BTS Silent Hill thing there is, probably, multiple hours' worth. What is your favorite thing about Mac computers? They're small and lightweight. What is your favorite thing about PCs? They generally hold much more memory. What are some errands you need to run soon? I don't have "errands" yet. Have your parents ever tried to convince people there was something wrong with you, when their “diagnosis” wasn’t accurate? No. List 3 of your best memories, times you wish you could go back and repeat. In no order, just as they come to me: 1.) First hug with Sara when we met at the airport; 2.) THE LOOK ON SARA'S FACE when she saw me in her room on her birthday (probably fave memory of all time, actually); 3.) seeing meerkats for the first time at the zoo. Ohhhh or maybe the true realization I was happy without Jason. But idk, that was SUCH a gradual process where I didn't feel ecstasy in like one moment. What color was your high school graduation gown? Ew, it was this obnoxious red. The majority apparently voted for it, while I was on the navy team. Are your parents’ dreams for your life different than your own? Mom's pretty dead-set on me being a vet, but she doesn't try to push me into it or anything. I know she just wants happiness for me. I haven't got a clue about Dad. Have your dreams for your life changed? Of course. What are your dreams now? HAPPY, stable job that I thoroughly enjoy, well-off financially (I don't aim to be rich, just "safe," you could say), healthy marriage, own my own home, travel to a few places, did y'all think I was gonna forget "meet Mark???"... stuff like that. What was your dream as a child? It changed plenty of times, but my earliest goal was to be a paleontologist. Do you feel safe in your country? Sure, I guess. Safer than most places. If applicable, do you feel safe at your school? N/A Would you ever want to learn sign language? It'd be cool, sure, but it's not something I'm interested in pursuing. How many meals do you eat a day? 2-3. Sometimes just one "real" meal. Do you own any succulents? No. What color are your walls? A hideous puke green. Why. What color were the walls in the bedroom you grew up in? I don't remember at all. What was the last song you listened to on repeat? "Love Falls" by HELLYEAH. What is your favorite style (or styles) of dance? Modern. Have you ever performed a solo dance in front of a crowd? No. Have you ever sung a solo? No. Which insects are you afraid of? Most, really. Do you think it’s silly to be afraid of an insect, when it’s so tiny? It depends on the insect, of course. Even if I do know what it is and it's "safe," I'll still typically freak if it surprises me. When was the last time you had a deep conversation with someone? Hmmm. Sara, I believe? What are you waiting for? Jesus FUCKING Christ on a bike a job. What do you usually feel like doing the most at home? Stuff on the laptop. What grade were you in when you had your first crush? I don't remember... For "puppy dog love," I believe maybe the 4th grade, but I may be wrong. I'd say my first *real* crush was on a guy named Sebastian in my freshman year of high school. Shit man, did a lot go down my freshman year. I'm just reminiscing and crushes jumped between like five dudes 'til Jason won. At what age did you start experiencing sexual attraction, if any? Some time in middle school, I think? Like that's when I had my first bisexuality crisis: 6th or 7th grade. Have you ever split open a rock with a hammer, to see the glitter inside? No, but FUCK I WANNA. What type of tree do you see the most of where you live? There's a pine tree outside my window. Oh, and there's a pine tree in my back yard. Oh, what's that across the road? Woods of pine trees. Where do all birds in NC live? In pine trees. What does our air smell like? Pine trees. Where is your favorite place you’ve lived? My previous home as far as location; house itself, where I am now. It's got its issues, but it's cozy and a perfect size for just two people. What states have you lived in? Just 'ole North Carolina. Take me awaaaaaaaaaaaay- Do you wish you were someone else? Sometimes. What is your favorite thing about the month in which it is now? Literally just flowers. That's it. It. Everything else can suck a legion of dicks. Who were your best friends in high school? Hannia, Girt, Jason (if he counts), Alon, Maria... I had a few "best" ones. ^Are they still your best friends now? Girt is my closest thing to a "best friend" if you don't include my girlfriend. Do you live near the mountains? No, they're on the opposite end of the state. ;___; Do you live near a beach? We're like, two-ish hours away. What is your favorite beach that you’ve been to? Idk and idc, beaches aren't my thing. Do you collect seashells? Not seriously, but I'll keep a cool one if I find one. If you were to start a new collection, what would it be? If I was not ashamed of looking like a 23-y/o pre-teen in love with Just Bieber, I'd have more Markiplier merch than you'd fucking believe. (One of my biggest regrets in life was not buying the tasteful nudes calendar; I will eternally smite myself for being too embarrassed to have to explain why I would have that hanging above my bed rip.) If you had to pick one year and describe it as the best year of your life that you want to relive again, which year would it be? 2017 was fuckin litty titty. Is your world view the same as your parents’? In some ways with Mom, and I do know Dad and I differ on a few things. Well, if I learned more about his more political beliefs, I feel I'd probably disagree with most. What color are your glasses, if applicable? Black. Are you the person you thought you’d be when you were younger? No. Are you a confrontational person, or the peacekeeper? I'm a massive peacekeeper. I avoid confrontation like the PLAGUE. Do you like to read? Not nearly as much as I used to. Like all I ever read nowadays are RP posts as I obviously have to reply to them, but if they're long, it is common I procrastinate on reading it... ;_; Do you sleep too much or not enough? Probably too much, especially when I go to bed early. Although, I do wake up throughout the night and sometimes officially pretty early. Then some days I have a 1-2 hour nap, so that just adds to it. Who is your best friend? Sara. <3 How did you two meet? YouTube. How did you meet your current bf/gf? ^ How far away is your closest family member? Well I live with my mom, but she's at work atm. The last time you did something with BOTH of your parents was? BOY OH FUCKING BOY. My mom's the most bitter witch towards him, so even for family events, Dad usually only stops by to avoid creating a goddamn wreck, such as at birthday dinners. I think the last time they were in the same house was for my nephew's birthday half a year ago, I believe. What’s your favorite holiday? Halloween!!! Now that I have a niece and nephew who grasp the concept of Santa, Christmas is also really special to me. I don't want kids, but watching those sweethearts get so excited over their presents is magical. For me personally, the holiday has grown more and more about celebrating family, especially as we continue to branch out/go our own ways. So I guess I like the idea of Halloween better and would enjoy it more if I actually had something to do, but as far as joy goes, Christmas. Do you like pumpkin pie? I hate anything and everything pumpkin-flavored. The last time you went to the doctor, what were you there for? It was the see my psychiatrist. Do you take any medication regularly? Yeah. Is there any particular view you have on insane people? I see "insane" versus "sane" as far more of a gradient shift instead of a direct split; there're levels. I actually do legitimately think I at some juncture in the aftermath of the breakup qualified as slightly insane, yet I wasn't dangerous or entirely out of touch with reality. So if you tell me someone's actually insane, I'm going to fear them being the explosive, entirely unpredictable and loopy kind, but I know the person may be calm and somewhat stable on the outside, too. You gotta consider the severity. Do you believe in any conspiracies? 9/11 was orchestrated by the government and you cannot change my mind. I'm not totally sold on this one and lean more towards "nah" (I think), but the "we live in a simulation by a future civilization" is not that far-fetched at all if you actually look into it. It's very interesting, whether or not you're sold on it. Hell, Neil deGrasse Tyson firmly believes in it. Out of your friends, who is the funniest? Girt makes me laugh at the snap of his fingers, it seems. Anything you need to get rid of? I'm sure somewhere... Do you have any wasted talents? Animal knowledge and compassion, probably... I know I could make a fantastic rehabilitator for animals, among a plethora of other animal-related preservation and protection actions I could actively engage in. Well, I'm going back to school for zoology, but even now, I want to do more. There is a wildlife rehab place I may be able to volunteer at soon, tho! Mom's talking to a guy at work about me helping there. DAMN, livin a dream. Do you let the little things get to you? The issue could be as small as a single cell and it could still bother me. How often do you cry? Maybe once in a week, possibly longer. I don't know if you mean like really cry or just tear up/lightly cry. The latter is pretty common, but the other, not so much. Even if I want to cry, my jaw just entirely locks the hell up and I physically can't get it out. Is there anything you’re trying to prevent? I mean besides the common sense things everyone takes action to avoid, hm. I feel like there's so much, yet nothing is coming to me? Well, actually, it's usually a daily struggle to prevent at least one OCD cycle. When was the last time you were told you were cute? *shrug* When was the last time you were truly, completely happy with your life? It's been quite a while... At least over a year ago, when I began to get antsy with wanting a job and later going back to school. It just all started when I realized I was healed from the breakup and ready to move forward in life, but I wasn't. Do you miss the way things used to be between you and someone else? Multiple people. What colors has your hair been? Dirty blonde, brown, red, and purple. I've had red and purple highlights, and I naturally have blondish ones, too. I'm ready to dye it again, jfc. Most attempts are failures because my hair does NOT take color well whatsoever. It's only ever worked perfectly with the brand Splat, and my hair soaked in the dye for a LONG time before washing it out. Have you ever gotten burnt by a cigarette? No. Do you and your parents like any of the same bands/singers? We share interest in plenty of the same bands, Mom especially. Is there any food in your bedroom? What? No. Do you know anyone who has road rage? Who? MY LITTLE SISTER. Haven't seen the woman in three years, but I can promise you Jason's mom still has it to a legendary degree. How expensive is too expensive for a pair of shoes? I haven't looked for shoes in so long that I don't even know the average price. What kinds of cereal are in the cupboard? Honey Nut Cheerios, normal Cheerios I think, and we have a little bit of the chocolate chunk Special K cereal left over. It's got to be stale by now (it's not even closed fully); I need to remember to toss it. What’s the last thing you spent over $10 on? Ummm I'm not sure. Over $30? I think my tongue piercing was $40? Maybe even lower? Or slightly higher?? I don't remember. Do you know who lives three houses down from you? I think so. The one time I was locked out of my house in the snow with Teddy and I waited like a fucking hour until I broke down, absolutely freezing (I was in my pajamas, dude), and walked down the road to try and get help (I needed to call my mom, obviously, and I didn't have my phone), I believe it was the third neighbor who answered. Turned out being a retired deputy who was super intimidating yet kind at the same time; he let Teddy and me stay in his house (mind you, Teddy is incontinent and didn't have his diaper on, which I warned him about) while Mom was on her way home. He gave me a jacket and some water, even when I said I was fine, but you could tell he wasn't totally sure about trusting this random, sobbing girl at his door because he asked me a thousand questions about my story and quizzed if I really did live in this area. Obviously a good cop, but after a day like that, I was just terrified of an old man who appeared a bit gruff. But thankfully Mom got there to save the day and I am forever grateful for that guy. WOW what a story for a simple question. Is there a bulletin board in your room? No. Is your mom a big health freak or your dad? Or neither? "Health freak" seems a bit extreme for both of them, but Mom is more concerned about health in general. Do you know anyone who wants to be the president one day? No. What kinds of chips are in the cupboards? We just have tortilla chips, I think. I try to keep snacks out of the house to avoid temptation, and who eats plain tortilla chips. Do you have your mom's or dad's hair? Mom's. What’s the first thing you see when you walk into your bedroom? Most would probably notice my Nightmare Before Christmas poster first, being as big as it is and on the wall opposite the entrance. Do you prefer the truth, even if it’s harsh? YES. I NEED to know this kinda stuff, even if the truth is really hard to hear. Do you have any friends who have naturally red hair? I don't think so. Have you ever cried when a teacher retired? I think I did when my very first band teacher did. EVERYONE loved him. Like, the entire school. Does your kitchen look like it was designed in a completely different decade? No? When’s the last time you wore heels? Great question. Probably not since my sister's wedding in '16. Do you have your mom’s or dad’s eyes? My grampa's on Mom's side. What’s the best date movie? Probably a rom com? Have your parents ever been out of the country? No. How many pairs of jeans, all together, are in your house? Zero. Do you swear and yell while playing video games? I'll swear under my breath or seethe in frustration, but I never yell. Is there any alcohol in the fridge? No. Has a best friend ever ditched you for a girlfriend/boyfriend? Pretty much. Whenever she starts dating a guy, she dips, and whenever/if ever we talk, she rambles absolutely endlessly about him. Do you know anyone who has grossly skinny eyebrows? I couldn't possibly care less about how your eyebrows look. Do your pets chase after bugs? Roman and Bentley sure do. Bentley is a Professional Fly Moncher, specifically. When’s the last time you were so excited you couldn’t sleep? Why? Uhhh good question. Probs the night before Sara got here for my b-day. What is your mom’s favorite movie? Hm, good question! I'd ask her, but I don't want her to ask me why I am lmao. What TV family reminds you of your own family? Probably none. Did you ever really believe that the stork brought babies? No. I don't remember what I thought, but I know it wasn't that. Do you have any relatives who really spoil you? No, I think? Well Dad gives my sisters and me way too much money for Christmas and always tells us to ask him if we need anything, but I pretty much never ask him for said things, so I don't know the extent he'd go. Are there any drawers in your house that are just filled with junk? Pretty much. Is the last person you spoke to in love? That's my mom, so I doubt that with all I know. Do you know anyone who has security cameras in their house? I don't believe so. What was the last movie to make you cry? I think the last was Coco. Moana may have made me tear up, but I can't remember... Has anyone you know ever pulled the fire alarm in school, joking around? Not to my memory. What time do you usually go to sleep at sleepovers, if ever? I haven't been to a sleepover in God knows how long. Who was the main character in the last book you read? Alice Liddell. Who are the last people you saw kiss? Via YouTube, Jeffree and his boyfriend. Irl, I don't know. Have you ever posted a fan fiction on a website? No. Do you ever fantasize about your future wedding? Who’s the bride/groom? Not very much. Like I've had brief daydreams about it, sure, but it's not something that's on my mind a lot. Still got a long time before that happens. What was the last unpleasant thing to wake you up? My cat not knowing how to keep his mouth shut. Would you rather look at clouds or stars? Stars. Well, it depends; stars if we're in a completely isolated area where you can see them crystal clear or the clouds are boring, but otherwise, clouds if their design and colors are cool. Do you have any relatives who are expecting a baby really soon? No. Do you ever wonder what the opposite sex do at sleepovers? No. When you get married, who will be the maid of honor/best man? My mom, no questions asked. When’s the last time you broke plans? Why? I wasn't feeling well. I was supposed to see my VR coach that day. Have you ever been in a wedding? What were you? Yes, my sister's. I was a bridesmaid. It was an absolutely awful experience because I was hot as fuck, it was triggering as HELL with me still grieving Jason, and I felt positively hideous in a dress when I was at such a horrible weight. I wish so dearly I could redo that day; I fell like I put a serious damper on my sister's big day. Would you feel safer with an alarm system or security cameras? Hm, depends on the scenario... I guess an alarm system? Like security cameras will show a murderer climbing through my window, but they're not gonna wake me up to save my ass. Does it matter to you what kind of shampoo you use? So long it smells nice, isn't watery, and doesn't only add oil to my hair, I don't care much. Has a stray dog ever tried to bite you? No. When riding a bus, do you prefer to sit in front, in the back, or in the middle? Hm... idk. When I took the bus home with Jason, we always sat in the back, and that's really the only time I took a bus regularly. I think otherwise, I'd prefer the middle, closer to the front? I think I usually did that on occasions like band competitions and such. Have you ever been on a cross-country train ride? No. Are you normally a person to tell people off? No, that's rare. Is there any TV show that ended that you wish hadn’t? Meerkat Manor. Though I would hope they'd lessen down on the false story-telling. Stick to the true KMP events. When you feel stressed, do you take things out on the wrong people? Sometimes. Do you even wear any jeans other than skinny anymore? I don't wear jeans period. What did you talk about at lunch today with your friends? N/A Are you sensitive to caffeine? Definitely not. My system's too used to it, probably. How do you usually get around? Mom drives me. I'm 23. :^) Which languages do you wish you could speak fluently in? German. Have you ever been accused of being too clingy? SURPRISINGLY no, at least to my memory. Do you like Vitamin Water? Never tried, don't want to. What was the last thing you took a picture of? Dad and me on his birthday. Do you know anyone that uses Sprint as their phone carrier? Idk. Well, I think. When you go to McDonalds, what drink do you usually get? Coke. Do you have a Kindle or iPad or neither? Neither. Would you rather read or write? Write. When was the last time someone took a picture of you? Sometime during Bobby's visit literally days ago. I already forgot who took it... and who else was in it lmao. Do you own a pair of slippers? Yeah, two. A meerkat pair and then a far less extra pair that're closer to socks. I think they have cats on them? I got them for Christmas I think and haven't worn or seen them much. Would you rather see Taylor Swift or Carrie Underwood in concert? Not a fan of either, but Carrie Underwood is more tolerable and even has a couple songs I enjoy. Name something negative that you hate about yourself: I'll jump to a conclusion within .02 seconds of something negative happening. Or not even "negative" or something that's purely in my head. Is your house currently hot, cold or just right? The house itself is fine, and my room is just right because I have my fan on. Is there a Dead End road near where you live? I can't think of one off the top of my head, but it's likely, really. There's lots of those here. Growing up, did you see your cousins often? No. We live many states away on both parents' sides. Where was your first job at? GameStop. Who are you tired of seeing in the news a lot? (Celebrities) It's been like two days and I'm over seeing the James Charles/Tati drama everywhere. You can't be interested in the YouTube community without being drowned in that shit right now somehow someway on any YT-coverage page and YouTube itself. Have you ever had to call and complain about a product you bought? I personally haven't. Would you date someone who’s shorter than you? I very openly and severely judge you if fucking height means that much to you. Do you mind being the third wheel? Not really, no. I'd only feel uncomfortable if they were getting pretty intimate. Has a kiss ever made you weak in the knees? Um I didn't know that was actually a thing so no. Do you feel comfortable buying condoms? Never been in that position. Have you ever dated two people at once? No. Have you ever been tested for STDs? No. Well wait, that time I gave blood I probably was just out of safety protocol. Have you ever run into your ex with his/her new sweetie? No. Have you ever felt guilty after doing something sexual? When I was in that "wait does this break the abstinence rule" phase, yeah. God was I technical. Have you ever had a condom break during sex? N/A Do your parents know if you’re having sex? Well considering I'm with a girl and she lives states away, that answer's obvious. Do you eat chips or crackers more? Chips. Would you rather be a singer or a dancer? A dancer. Would you rather be a musician or a painter? A painter, maybe? If I could play the electric guitar, though... idk. What social media sites do you visit the most? Facebook. What did you hair look like in high school? Long, thick as fuck, brown (or dyed black) with some sort of highlight, and it was split to the left with the hair swooped over my right eye. Basically "I want the emo swoop but my hair is too fucking thick to obey hairspray." :^) Which dollar store do you shop at? Depends on what's closest, usually. We rarely ever stop at one unless it's for candy to bring into the movie theater, seriously lol. I think usually Dollar General? Do you prefer candy corn or conversation hearts? WE DON'T KNOW EITHER. Skeletons or scarecrows? s k e l l y b o y s Has anyone ever given you the silent treatment? Yep. What’s the weirdest thing you’ve ever had in your mouth? I learned on that day I hate giving blowjobs. Has anyone ever threatened you with a knife? No, thankfully. (If you’re a girl) Has anyone ever called you ‘shortie’ instead of girl? BOY I would fucking cackle. I hate that word. No. Do you ever watch The Simpsons? No. Have you ever sent an embarrassing moment of yours into a mag to be printed? OH MY GOD I remember that!!! But no. What IS your most embarrassing moment? Too lazy to go through the novel of 'em to pick the worst. Do you think you’re more cute or sexy? You assume I find myself either. Do you own any mini skirts? I don't own any skirts period. Do you draw little hearts and stuff with eyeliner next to your eyes? No. What’s the most expensive thing you’ve ever lost? Idk. Has your mom ever lied to you? I'm sure she has before. Do you have a deep voice? For a girl, yeah. When’s the last time someone made breakfast for you? *shrugs* Exclusively for me, probably never. Do you do something new with your hair practically every day? No, it's the same everyday. When someone knocks on the door, who do you think it is? Delivery guy. Has anyone ever licked your foot? Ew no. Do you play games with boys/girls, like ‘hard to get’? I'm not 15. Has a guy ever quoted a romantic Shakespeare line to you? No, and I'm glad, as I'd cringe into another realm. Is there a Sonic where you live? Yes, I LIVE- Do you smile with your teeth? Usually. I look less high, at least. What did you eat for lunch today? A pb&j. What do you like on your pizza? Pepperoni, jalapenos, or meat lovers. What is in the back seat of your car right now? I don't own a personal car. Mom has a a load of stuff in the back of hers, at least I think... That's super rare, but she's been so ungodly busy idk if she's had time to clean it out. I haven't paid attention so can't recall. What was the last thing you threw up? Idr. Menthol or regular cigarettes? I don't smoke and never have, so idk. What is your favorite episode of Friends? I don't watch it, and I haven't seen many episodes at all if for whatever reason I was in a room and it was on. Does anyone have any blackmail on you? No. Have you been to a strip club? No. What’s the last sporting event you watched? Hell if I remember. It had to either be my 16th birthday when Jason's family was all together watching the Super Bowl, or a hockey game with my dad. Last person’s house you were in? Besides my own, my sister's. Who is the last person you sent a message to on Facebook? Nicole. Ever go to camp? No. Were you an honor roll student in school? Yeah. Do you have a tan? HA no. How old do you want to be when you have kids? I don't want kids. Are you someone’s best friend? Yeah. Favorite gemstone? Dragon's breath opal. Do you go in at a fast food place or just hit the drive thru? Drive thru, almost always. Does your first memory involve your dad? No. When was the last time you went swimming? Last summer at the beach. Holy fuck the water was so perfect. Has your luggage ever gotten lost? No. Have you ever thought it would be cool to smash a guitar? No. Like... just why. Do you ever get flu shots? No.

#survey #quiz #questions #random

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themarchblessing · 6 years

Text

DULCE VIDA

SABRINA

Grabbing the scissors I sat down on the floor of the nursery cutting into these packages. I ordered some more stuff for the baby last week and it’s finally arrived so I’m super pumped to see all of her clothes in person.

My nausea had subsided greatly meaning I don’t have morning or evening sickness as often but the feeling is still lingering around. Now it’s more so certain smells that really bring me to my knees versus adjusting to a new baby. We got our house set up on the outskirts of Brooklyn which means that Izaiah technically should be going to a new school but Brian and Ravyn both play a big part in why he’s still at the same school. Izaiah had an amazing summer. Corey and I tried our best to get his travel bug going and I think we did an okay job. The further along I became in my pregnancy it made certain trips difficult to bear but I pushed through for our son.

Corey’s parents, Hassan and Carla, even came to visit a couple of times during the summer months. They also took Zay on vacations without Corey and I but that’s alright. I was happy to see Zay bond and interact with his other grandparents. They are all so smitten with each other.

Corey finished putting together his gallery which is by far the coolest I’ve ever seen. He really did his thing with the designing and I swear it’s the cutest thing to see him in his zone when he’s there. Since we relocated he had to close down his two smallest labs and put in a decent sized one in his gallery. I had never been to his other laboratories but when he finished with this space I got to see everything and I was so amazed. Brian helped him out a great deal which was stress off of Corey’s back and music to my ears.

Speaking of my handsome fiancée I wonder when he’s coming home with our baby boy.

“Aw this is such a cute onesie..” I gushed holding up the soft outfit in the air. Most of what I ordered from Childsplay Clothing is little t-shirts, pants with booties attaches to them, baby crewnecks, and simple shit like that. I’m putting my best door forward to be more prepared for when my daughter arrives than how I was with Izaiah. Saying that in relevance to their clothing. Placing the opened boxes aside I set the clothes I’ve taken out and grouped them together by color and style.

“Mom!” I heard Izaiah yell out suddenly.

“Nursery!” I called, opening up another box to see what’s inside here. “Oh this is what you’re coming home in baby girl. No question.” I smiled in certainty loving how soft this two piece set is. The top and pants are cream with a lavender block of color around the wrists and ankles.

Footsteps coming closer earned my attention to see Izaiah walking in the door holding what I take is food. The closer he walked I felt my stomach growl at the confirming smell that my baby got me food. I kid you not, being eight and a half months pregnant has made me eat so much. I crave food all the time and I get it all the time. When daddy isn’t here I spend so much time in the kitchen cooking for myself. And to think I slowed down on time in the kitchen when that’s all I ever did with my mother growing up. But to be honest I take full advantage of Corey being such a good cook. He loves it and so do Zay and I. I do try to give him breaks sometimes so he doesn’t get sick of it.

“Hi baby, how was school today?” Placing more of the clothes in the piles I kissed Zay’s cheek, making room for him to sit with me.

“It was alright. We got you food.” Zay set the bag down away from the clothes taking out what looks a sandwich and then he pulled out what appears to be soup. Oh my boys know me so well. The first four months of my pregnancy were a battle. Constant nausea, dizzy spells and a lot of napping! But once I made it to 28 weeks, I was able to move throughout the day without feeling so out of control. The foods I’m eating nowadays have a lot to do with the morning sickness. I try to eat very light and very simple. Every meal I consume has ten ingredients or less that won’t possibly upset my stomach, per my decision. “What did you do all day mom?” Izaiah removed his sneakers and joined me in opening up the remainder of the boxes.

Unwrapping the sandwich and not wasting any time digging into it, I stretched out my legs. “Well after I did the laundry, cleaned up the entire house, took a bath, and made like twenty pancakes, I didn’t do much else. This stuff came to the house finally so I’ve been working on this.” I explained, finishing one half of my sandwich.

Izaiah shook his head in silence probably at the fact that I ate this turkey sandwich so fast. I must admit I did demolish this pretty quickly and while talking. “Where’s your dad?” Eating the other half I thought about if I wanted to eat the soup as well but decided not to.

“He’s downstairs. Want me to get him?” Zay began to stand but I ushered him to sit back down. He and I continued to open up the mail. With his help I managed to get the baby’s room in order to completion. Corey and I finished decorating due to how excited we are to meet this little girl of ours. The only thing that I hadn’t gotten around to until today was organizing her clothes.

Once we finished I helped him with his homework. Night fell and that’s when the hunger struck. Corey was downstairs in the kitchen, per usual, Izaiah was getting cleaned up in the bathroom. I got my shower in for the night and just as I was leaving our ensuite to go and change I felt myself step in something wet. Stopping in my tracks I looked down at my feet seeing liquid running down the side of my leg.

There’s no pain but I don’t understand why my water is breaking. I made an advance to move but I felt paralyzed. By the grace of god I looked up to see Izaiah staring at me with his t-shirt halfway on.

“What’s wrong, mom?” He walked closer as he situate his shirt on his body.

“I think my water just broke. I want to sit down but I can’t move. Please help me.” I begged. I reached for his hand. Zay held onto my hand and walked me back into the room over to the bed.

“Sit down.” He ushered. I twinged with pain doubling over. My hand caught the bed spread in time so I had some leverage to keep me from falling.

“Go get..” I breathed not able to get the words out. My mind is racing and my heart is doing the same. I’m not expected to have this baby for another two or so weeks but the pain that’s now hitting me is unbearable.

“Dad, I know.” Izaiah helped me sit down then he bolted for the door. “Dad!” He shouted descending the steps loudly. I can’t hear if Corey is responding. “Come upstairs, mom’s water broke!” Just then I heard something crash and both of the boys running.

I managed to get to the closet and get out a pair of shorts and a bralette. With some strength I changed into this simple outfit.

“Bri?” Hearing Corey’s voice I walked into the bedroom and stood by the bed. He rushed over to me guiding me to sit down. “Your water broke this early? What does that mean?”

“I don’t know. I’m not due for another two weeks. I started having contractions though, heavy ones. They faded so I don’t know if these are the warning or the real thing.” I explained looking up at him.

Going to the ER is the route we decided to go with. Zay was getting dressed, Corey pulled out the hospital bags and loaded up the car. I threw on a flannel not bothering to button up. It gets hotter by the second, the contractions came back and drew closer together every few minutes. Maybe I am gonna have this baby early.

“Sabrina?” Corey called out in distress. I met him in the hallway carrying my small duffel bag on my arm. “You ready?” He asked. The stress in his face is making me feel bad. Of course I didn’t plan to have my water break this soon but what’s done is done. We prepared for the birth last month together with my doctor but not this soon.

Setting my bag down I wrapped my arms around him hoping to decrease his anxiety. “Breathe Corey, everything is gonna be fine.” Funny how I’m encouraging him to relax when I’m the one about to have a baby. He laughed at my tactics and hugged me back. The warmth of his hug and the security I feel helped to ease my mind. I’m seriously so blessed to have such a great guy like Corey. I feel like I say this so much but it’s only the truth.

“I love you Sabrina, I love you so much for everything.” He muttered, rubbing my back underneath the shirt. His lips on my neck soothed me all the more.

Smiling at his will to keep me at peace I told him I loved him back. We left the house in a hurry. Izaiah was holding my hand from the backseat and rubbing my right shoulder to help take some of the pain away. I practiced the slow breathing techniques I was shown in my classes the whole ride to the emergency room. Eventually I rolled my window all the way down to bring in more fresh, cool air. When we arrived at the doors Corey came around to help out.

“Zay stay with your mom.” He said handing the small bag to him. Corey went off to move the car while Zay and I walked into the hospital. The strongest urge to cry hit me full force almost bringing me to my knees. “Mommy!” I heard him distress. For a minute I didn’t feel him holding me anymore. But when I looked up I saw him wheeling over a chair for me to sit in.

I sat down still uncomfortable in my own skin as I began to go realize that I’m definitely having this baby tonight. I’m still not prepared for this mentally but clearly my daughter is ready to come out and give us her grand introduction. Zay pushed me over to the counter where a nurse seemed to writing or typing or something.

“Miss? My mom needs her doctor.” Zay approached the counter making his presence known boldly. The woman stood up and took one glance at me before paging someone. Corey met up with us and took over pushing me towards a room that the nurse directed us to.

Everyone and everything moved so quickly. The only person that seemed to move slow enough for me to keep up with was myself. Corey was talking to a different nurse most likely asking about why my water broke so soon. Izaiah was trying to help me get comfortable in this hospital bed. Time seemed to speed up too. A man walked in wearing a doctor's uniform. He gave me a run down on what he was about to do. I fumbled with my necklace listening to him tell me that I’m fully dilated and I’ve got to have to my baby right now or else.

Another man walked in dressed the same holding what looked like the shot for an epidural. The second he was in reaching distance of me I snatched the shot from his hands and snapped it in half. Launching it across the room away from my boys I glared at the doctor. “Do not come near me with any drugs. Don’t!” I warned, pointing my finger at him. The strength I possess right now is unmatchable by anyone. I’m not in the mood to be messed with or pissed off.

A hand gripping my wrist scared me. I jumped when I turned to see it was just Corey. I switched up my voice quick. “Please don’t let them give me drugs Corey. I don’t want any.”

Corey kissed my forehead gently, “I won’t.” He promised sincerely.

“No matter what?” I challenged.

“No matter what.” He nodded.

“Okay Sabrina it’s time.” My doctor walked in making me feel relieved that I don’t have the men in here helping me to deliver my baby. She and two other nurses in the room worked in a pace that was easy to monitor. I can’t handle fast paced movement. Not at a time like this. Izaiah was sitting in the chair waiting on standby in case he was needed paying close attention. Corey was dressed in the traditional gown keeping a tight hold on my hand.

You can guess what happened next right?

***fast forward ----- two months***

Rinsing the suds off of me I followed through with my hair, braiding it back out of my way. Peering to my right through the window I sighed just watching the small waves get picked up by the wind. The water transitioned into bigger waves that crashed against the shore violently. The sight made me gleam. I can’t believe I get to wake up to a view like this every single day now. Hearing that familiar hiccup I looked to my left grinning at my baby chew on her own fingers. Her eyesight bounced off of everything in the room before finding me. Ending my shower I filled up the tub with warm water that would satisfy me and not burn her skin.

I used her baby wash as bubble maker and added in the oil my doctor said was safe to be on her skin. Bringing Elle into the tub with me I laid her against my chest and washed her back using the sponge Corey just got for her. Because I had changed her right before I got in the shower and I’ve learned her routine I knew she wouldn’t go again for a while. After I got her backside I pushed my legs up to wash the rest of her. The look of surprise on her cute little face filled with me so much laughter. I guess she didn’t expect to get off my shoulder so soon.

“You are so funny, my love. Just like your brother and definitely just like your papa.” I snickered. The day after we brought Elle home from the hospital Corey had movers come and pick up the furniture from the house. I had no clue what was going on but I got the picture when he, Ravyn and Brian began packing up our personals. At the time we still hadn’t decided on whether or not we wanted to move. But Corey being the sneak that he is, had a plan all ready to go. I still hadn’t decided on where I wanted to go and Zay didn’t care either way. To my surprise Corey bought us a beautiful home on a slight hill along the coast of Panama. Punta Paitilla to be exact. We love it here!

The weather is beyond perfect and better than California. The views are spectacular, the air is so fresh, the amount of vegetation is unbelievable and the coziness of this city is wonderful. Not to mention the economy is at its peak. Corey and I owning our first home together with our beautiful babies has had me on cloud nine ever since we signed the papers. Our realtor was amazing too. She really worked with us to get a fair price and that made me so happy. Izaiah is in love with the new house as well. He loves being so close to the beach. He’s made friends with just about every kid who lives within a mile from us, in our area. He actually enjoys going to school these days.

Corey is working from home in the basement on some days. He wanted to be closer to us. I stopped working altogether since Elle is so young and she needs me around the clock. Being a stay at home mom isn’t all that bad. With Corey being here most of the time I get the extra help from him more than I anticipated. And I get to play house on a constant loop with my man which helps to add to my happiness.

Elle is such a sweet and quiet baby. She’s much quieter than her brother was way back when but she favors him in character. The bond that she has with her brother and father make me cry happy tears. Corey and Zay are in total infatuation with Elle, as am I. When we first settled back in New York Corey was petrified to be alone with Elle because he feared he wasn’t prepared for a newborn. Every time I would try and leave the room he would beg me to stick around or he would just follow me. Every single time. Bathroom trips included. His explanation for wanting me around so much in the beginning is because he didn’t want her to get hurt on his watch. I did everything that I could to ensure him that nothing would happen to her if they were alone but he was so paranoid.

That faded and now two months later he’s a lot more at ease with not always having me there. He still prefers to be in my line of vision which is perfectly fine. And me? Well I don’t have the words or the time to tell anyone how much I like being a new mommy again. I didn’t realize how much I missed the baby stage until I had my daughter. It’s a pleasure getting help from my boys when I have to change Elle, bathe her or just spend time with her. They enjoy doing those simple tasks alongside me to learn what it is that I do with her.

Placing Elle back on my chest I laid my palm flat on her back to hold her still. She was gazing out the window just like I was. Everyday we do the same thing. Our morning routine is simple yet very relaxing. I wake up when Elle wakes up. And since she sleeps by our bed I know when it’s time to get the day started. I go through my own morning routine at the sink while she sits on the bean bag. After that I get in the shower, get out and draw a bath for her and I. Once she’s all clean we sit in the tub admiring our view. At times she might get hungry while we were in the bathtub and other times she won’t. I have yet to force her into eating. I wait until she’s ready, no matter where I’m at.

“My sweet baby.” I murmured. Kissing the top of her head repeatedly I crossed my legs. Shortly after I heard movement downstairs I drained the bath of water, getting out to dry off. Setting her down on the towel spread across the bed I wiped her down and put a cloth diaper on to start off today with.

“Lori..” I heard Corey coming down the hall.

“In here babe..” I said, retreating to the bathroom to grab the lotion for her and the one for myself. Going back to finish Elle off I saw Corey backing into the room. He had a tray in his hand covered with a beautiful spread of I’m guessing my first meal of the day. Shaking my head promptly and grinning from ear to ear I sat down turning Elle over on her stomach to lotion her back and legs.

Corey sat the tray down and took over what I started. He instructed me to dry off so I could go on and eat before my food gets cold. I did as he said without any argument.

“Where’s Zay at?” I said in between forkfuls of pancakes.

“Outside with them boys from up the street. They came down here and knocked on the door asking if he could come out this morning. How was your bath? You miss me?”

Catching his hint and his side eye I playfully, softly kicked him. “You play too much,” I chuckled. “Yeah I missed you. Where’ve you been all morning? You usually stay up here until we go in the bathroom.”

Corey silently begged for some of my food so after he got that he took Elle into the closet. “I had to finish boxing up that stuff for my mom. I sent it off so I’m hoping she’ll have it by next week. She needs it by Thursday. What you want to wear today baby?” He asked from inside the closet.

“Doesn’t matter. I don’t really have anywhere to go. Oh no wait, we have to go to the market. I need to get a few things for dinner this weekend. Brian and Carli are still coming right?” Picking up my mug I began slowly sipping down my tea careful not to burn my tongue like I always manage to do so at some point during breakfast.

Corey appears with a my sandals, a white tank top dress and a sweater draped over his arm. “Yeah they’ll be here Friday afternoon. I think they come in at like two or three.” He explained while laying my clothes out for me.

“We have to call and make sure that bed is gonna be here by tomorrow. Or else they’ll be sleeping on the floor. Here..” sliding the tray over to him so he could finish my omelets like he nevers passes on I stood up and finished getting myself ready.

“It’s coming tomorrow. I already talked to the dude this morning. How do you smell so good after baths with mommy?” Turning over my shoulder to see him goofing off with Elle I lotioned myself down.

Afternoon came quickly. Izaiah stayed behind with his friends while we hit the market to finish gathering supplies for our big weekend. Since moving here, our friends and family have been begging to fly out and visit. Now that our house is all set up we planned the visit and did a round of calling to our loved ones. Our parents, Brian and his girl are coming to stay with us. We’ve got the space which is great because I would’ve been sad if we couldn’t accommodate our company.

We came back to the house, I fed the baby and rocked her to sleep. Corey and I squeezed in two rounds of love making that we got to fully enjoy. We didn’t have to rush this time and that’s what made it all that it was. Fucking fantastic. I was even blessed with the opportunity to lay up under my husband once we were done.

Instead of waiting for Elle to walk to have a big wedding we had a small ceremony with her and Zay. However we did agree that once Elle is a little older we would do it all over again and have our family and friends there. His reason for wanting to marry me so quickly was due to not wanting to hide my new ring any longer. And that thing is jaw dropping gorgeous. I wear the proposal ring on my right hand and my wedding ring in its rightful place. They’re special enough to wear together all of the time.

“I like being married.” Gushing over the details of our miniature wedding I kicked my feet up on the table. If we stay here for a long time I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of this view from our backyard.

Throwing an arm behind my back Corey leaned away from me taking countless pictures of myself and Elle who was doing absolutely nothing. All she can do is look around regardless of her not understanding where she is.

“You mean as in being married to me or just in general?” He quipped with a little attitude. A sly smirk spread over my face tempting me to feed into his reach for me to tell how I feel about him.

“Both. I never put any thought into marriage. Like whatsoever before you came along and popped the question which took me by complete surprise by the way.” Raking my nails through her hair I squeezed my arm around her just a tad.

“I mean..what can I say? I was tryna keep up with you and your spontaneous ass. You never once shown yourself to be the predictable type Lori. But nah then again I’ve taking you by surprise our entire lives. Always felt like you deserved that and more.” Playing back the first time confession I looked next door seeing Izaiah play some unknown game with the kids who live in that house. “Would you believe me if I said I was nervous to ask you and on your birthday for that matter? A huge part of me thought you were gonna say no before I even came up to the room. No one knew about me wanting to propose so I didn’t have anyone to give me that last minute push so I just went for it.”

“That would’ve been one hell of a turn down.” Corey and I had a rich laugh. He, just like I, were no doubt reminiscing over that night but with a different outcome. “Where do you think we’d be if we never hooked up at Brian’s party?” I asked seriously. Not once have I let it cross my mind on where I’d be in life without my husband. I never wanted to until now. We’re settled and comfortable in our life and our marriage so I think it’s safe to speak on this. Turning to my right I swiped my thumb over his cheek. I swear I have the sexiest man in the whole world. When I think about who Corey’s father is I get all weird inside. Only because I feel like I just complimented Hassan in ways I shouldn’t.

But if we’re being honest here, Hassan passed his looks down to his only son.

“To be honest with you baby, I don’t know. I don’t want to know where I’d be without all this.” In reference to everything he’s speaking of Corey outstretched his free arm.

“Only God knows. I like being with you. I thought it would be just a little weird with us being a couple. Take out the sex. I’m talking about everything else that comes with a relationship. A long time ago I pondered on what it would be like to be Corey Howard’s girlfriend and once it actually happened I was just like..” pausing to look at our baby I took her off of my chest to find her once again nibbling on her fingers. She smiled at me, those deep set impressions of dimples in her cheeks are a sight to see. She’s such a beautiful little baby. A perfect mix of Corey and I. For a two month old she’s smart and a surely a charmer to everyone she meets.

“She wouldn’t be as perfect as she is if it wasn’t for you. You know that right, baby?” Corey moved in closer to me palming the one side of my face to kiss all over the side he was closest to. The tickling sensation of his wet kisses made me squirm.

“Touché papa, touché.” Laying my head on Corey’s shoulder I passed Elle to him since she was eyeing him heavily. Anytime her daddy comes around Elle forgets about anyone else but Corey. “Clearly she thinks you’re just as handsome as I do.” Holding her hand I closed my eyes to soak up this moment. There was a pause and then I came to realize something. “I’m glad you made that switch.”

“Where did that come from?” Corey threw an arm around my shoulder keeping me snug and warm.

Opening my eyes back up I checked on Izaiah smiling to see him full of joy. He must have felt someone staring at him so when he turned to make eye contact with me he waved. I waved back seeing him and his friends go inside the house.

Focusing on Elle I cuffed her sleeves so she wouldn’t chew on them. “I really don’t know. Just thinking about all that we’ve gone through together, expanding our family and seeing how great of a father you are touches me in a way I can’t explain.” I have to confess. For a long time I was so mad about what happened. Overtime is when I learned to appreciate Corey on a different level.

In full confession, I wouldn’t be where I am in life nor would I be this happy if we never drunkenly hooked up last year. I also wouldn’t have my little girl. In the end that switch changed Corey’s life for the better and it surely did for mine.

#the march blessing #short story

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katherinethedork · 6 years

Text

Telle Pt.2 (Peter Parker x female!reader)

Part 1! Part 3! Part 4! Part 5!

Masterlist

Word Count/ Warnings: 2k+, swearing, injuries, a fight scene, and Peter Parker being adorable.

Summary: Peter figured out that you’re in love with him. Some guys mess up your whole day at school.

A/N: Oh ho ho! Another one! I’m so excited for your guys’ reaction. I’m sosososososos sorry about this being way late. Also holy shit you guys! Part one got so many notes and I was so surprised, knowing that this is my second fic I’ve ever written! You guys are amazing! I love you guys and hope you enjoy!

⚠️DISCLAIMER⚠️: If you want to be added to the taglist please please PLEASE send me an ask or a message! I will most likely not see it if you just comment! Thank you and good night.

*********

What the fuck did Y/N just say Peter thought to himself. No way. No way, no way, no way.

Peter was on the other side of your building trying to finally catch his breath after that situation when he heard:

“God, I fucking love that boy.”.

It can’t be you who said that. No. He knew that voice. It was definitely Y/N. It couldn’t have been him who she was talking about. But who else would it be? There it was. That swelling feeling in Peter’s heart and everywhere else. He felt like he wanted to do a backflip but also throw up. He knew your secret. You liked him, of course he liked you too, but you loved him. Wait hold on, back it up. Y/N said she loved me Peter thought to himself. Again, his heart swelled. He almost lost his grip and fell into the alleyway below at this realization.

Peter heard your window slam shut and he knew that was the time to actually leave.

Oh boy does he have a story for Ned, and oh boy is he going to have a sleepless night.

*********

You woke up from your almost sleepless night bright and early. You turned in your bed to face your ceiling. Your light was off but you could still see the white roof glaring at you. You slowly sit up, rubbing the sleep out of your eyes and situate yourself. You teleport with little to no thinking to your dresser. This was not a thing that, immediately after you had gotten your powers you knew how to do. Oh no. Not at all.

You started off not even knowing that you had teleportation powers. You were practicing your telekinesis powers one day and got so frustrated that you randomly teleported three times in a row, just pushing you forward a couple feet. This, of course, was a dizzying event which you threw up a little in your mouth after. After you were done steadying yourself and drinking water to try and calm your churning stomach you realized, holy shit I can teleport. After that you had been trying to practice your telekinesis, along with teaching yourself how to teleport. This was not an easy feat, but somehow, you persevered. You did once, break a lamp and cut yourself, but that wasn’t the big picture. You pull your clothes out with a couple flicks of the wrist, using your telekinesis. You slid on your clothes for today and stared at your closet for a moment. You threw open the doors and grabbed the neatly folded set of black and white clothes. You stared at the silky fabric and decided what you were doing next.

*********

“Ned! NED!” Peter shouted at Ned with all the panic spewing out.

“What, what! Peter you can’t do this to me, you texted me at like one a.m. saying, and I QUOTE, ‘NED. 911. EMERGENCY. MEET ME OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL HALF AN HOUR EARLY.’. And then you wouldn’t explain to me what happened. So why in the name of god Peter, am I here.” Ned says, surprisingly only the slightest trace of annoyance in his voice, he was just mainly excited for Peter to say whatever he was going to say next.

“Okay okay,” Peter says, panting from basically running all the way here, ”Y/N loves me”

“What.” Ned says in the most dead pan voice.

Peter takes a deep breath and slows down, “Y/N loves me.”

“What. No way. You have to be shitting me. After all this time she said it to you? Like to your face, like she said it to your face?” Ned says with the most shocked face, repeating that last part.

“No she didn’t say it to my face, I heard her say it when I was on the side of her building and she didn’t close her window.... when she said that.” Peter said starting to lead Ned over to the school, since they still had to go to their lockers.

“How does that even work?” Ned was just so confused about this whole situation.

“I stuck onto the wall next to her window to catch a breath and she just said that.” Peter said opening a door into the corridor that had his and Ned’s lockers in it.

“Wait, you can stick onto things?” Ned says, amazed.

“Yes Ned, that’s how you figured out I was Spider-Man, I was on the ceiling.” Peter recites, whisper-yelling.

“Oh yeah.” Ned remembers.

****

You shove your suit into your backpack just in case. You need a place to store it away from your family anyways.

This is no normal suit however, this is your super suit that you have been working on since— well since about a month ago. It was a extremely cheap version of Peter’s Spider-Man suit. He had let you see it when you asked him and you studied what it was made of. The closest thing that could come nowhere close to his suit was spandex.

It was a one piece black and white suit that came down to your ankles in spandex. It wasn’t the most comfortable but it worked. It also wasn’t the most flattering, but again, it worked. You had sewed it to look like a black ‘T’ that flows into your black pants. The sleeves and every area that wasn’t the pants or the ‘T’ was white. You paired it things that looked like go-go boots but without the heel. They were white with a black diamond shape that stretched all the way from the top of the boot to the beginning of your foot. All that went along with a eye mask thing like they have in ‘The Incredibles’. You had used your powers to form it to your face magically. Now it doesn’t fall off.

You shoved all of this in your backpack and it magically fit. With all of your other things already packed, you left your apartment and made your way to Midtown High, thirty minutes early.

You left this early so you could stop at your favorite cafe to have a short break in the sweet smelling place. There, you could rest your brain and have a cup of cocoa. Or coffee. Whichever you were feeling that day.

You took a little bit longer than expected getting to the cafe, probably because you were daydreaming about Peter Parker, but nonetheless, you were getting a to go cup.

You walked over to Midtown and were greeted with the sight of Peter Parker and Ned Leeds walking into the doors as you walked on campus. You prepared to avoid them while you unloaded a few books, trying not to show your suit in the bottom of your backpack.

You pushed open the school doors leading to your locker. It just so happens that you locker was only separated by a column of bricks, so you hoped to dear god that he wasn’t there or doesn’t notice you.

Strike one, Peter is at his locker with Ned. Hopefully Ned was going to distract him. You kept your head down and opened your locker and quickly shoved a couple notebooks in and your backpack, almost dropping your eye mask on the floor. You slammed your locker shut and kept your other items in your hands. You had planned after school to put your suit under the lockers with your powers after learning in your free time that there was an empty space underneath them.

You walked over to Ned and Peter with a growing smile on your face.

“Hi Pete, Hi Ned!” You say smiling at them, no trace of you having a secret in your locker left on your face.

You clearly had startled them. Or at least just Peter.

“Oh he-hey Y/N!” Peter says with his I’m-not-hiding-something face.

“What’s up?” You say, not pointing out the fact that you can tell that he’s hiding something.

Then you three start talking about the little things before the first bell rings and you all depart away from each other to go to the first couple periods you didn’t have with either of them.

Then you got to third period, which was AP Chemistry. You had this class with all of the crew including MJ. In this class you just so happened to be lab partners with him. He had been the best lab partner you ever had, because he actually worked and helped you if you needed any. You, for some reason, were just not getting what was going on that day and Peter explained it perfectly so you got everything that was going on and maybe a bit more. He was constantly checking if you were getting everything, making sure that you felt comfortable. He was just all around adorable with those brown puppy eyes.

After all that cuteness, you left to go to fourth period. Everything was fine until halfway through the period. You had gone to the bathroom and were making your way back to the classroom when you heard the intercom come on and say,

“Lockdown, lockdown. This is not a drill. There is are intruders on campus with firearms. Lockdown, lockdown. This is not a drill.”

That was strange they usually don’t say what was the cause but then again it was probably someone from the office saying it.

You see a girl run into her classroom and slam the door. You stood there frozen thinking what to do. Well it’s now or never, you think, starting to run to your locker which was just down the hall. You look around seeing all the windows into the classrooms are closed up. You throw your hands at your locker opening it as fast as you can. You rip out your backpack and throw out the couple of books that were on top of your suit. You tear your suit out of the bottom of your backpack. You find a corner out of the way of eyesight and cameras and throw off your shirt and jeans. You then try to put on your suit and eyemask on as fast as you can, almost pulling a muscle in the process. You then run back to your locker, grab your backpack, and throw your clothes in it while slamming your locker shut. You throw your backpack in a place that can’t be seen and run to where you hear footsteps and quiet chatter.

You stop at the corner before the people and peek around. They are heading the opposite way of you and have a lot of guns and weapons. Your heart speeds up tenfold and you take a deep breath. Then you notice a certain Spiderling on the ceiling above you.

“Pet- shit.” You say under your breath, honestly thankful that he’s here because you have no idea what you are doing.

“Hey! Spiderling!” You whisper yell to him. Shit, you think, I’m the only one that calls him in hat he’s gonna know who I am... Oh well. He’s going to see my face anyways.

He looks down and visibly almost falls off the ceiling. Squinting at you and then his spider eyes widen to almost their full shape.

“Y-Y/N?” Peter whispers, slowly dropping himself to the floor.

“Okay look there’s a thing called a secret identity, you would be one to know about it.” You say, putting your hands on your hips.

“Oh sorry!” He says putting a hand on his suited neck, “well we don’t have much time, I’m not going to ask what you can do except, can you tread lightly and can you hold them down?”

“Treading lightly and holding people are my specialty actually,” You say preparing yourself for the thing that was about to happen, “why are you putting this on me? I’ve never done this before? You’re gonna help right?”

“Okay I haven’t really done the whole ‘I’m going to help another superhero’ thing either, and no I’m not going to leave you, you hold them down and I’ll web them for the police,” Peter replies

“Okay, okay, okay,” you say taking some deep breaths.

“You got this, just distract them for a bit and then if they shoot... improv, I guess?” He says.

You take a deep breath. Here we go.

You silently teleport over about ten feet behind the gang of ruffians with guns.

“Hello boys!” You say putting yourself into your best ‘I’m a showgirl’ pose, also noticing you are sounding a bit like Harley Quinn, “whatcha doin’?”

The group jumps around, shaken by what’s just happened. Surprisingly, not trying to shoot at you.

“You’re not here to hurt anyone are you? Just here because you went to the wrong place? You guys look dumb enough to go to a school instead of a bank.” You say playfully. You notice Peter crawling on the ceiling out of sight ready to strike at the right moment. You notice, and feel, your hands and eyes radiating with a purplish color glow, as your powers start to flow through your veins. The purple acting like smoke, flowing up, and dissipating into the air.

Then in the next milisecond, the man who was front most, pulled his trigger. You reacted quick enough to stop it with your telekinesis mid-air. You let go and watched the bullet drop and bounce on the ground.

“Oh honey, you should not have done that.” You say, ending the sentence with a deeper and sharper tone.

You grab his gun with your telekinesis and throw it behind you.

****

Holy shit that was hot, Peter thinks. He watches as you teleport two feet in front of the group and kick the first guy straight in the face with all the might you have.

Oh my god. Peter stares at The upside down world that was you kicking this gang’s ass.

He loved it so much. He loved you so much.

****

Oh my god ow. I need to work out more, you think kicking the next man in the crotch, sending him onto the floor in immense pain. You just had to get them all on the floor at once, hold them down with your telekinesis, and get Peter to web them to the floor.

You punched another in the face and kicked him I’m the chest, sending him stumbling backwards, tripping on another one of the thugs. You had put three on the floor so far and were getting the last one. You decided to make a fool of him a bit.

You kicked him in the gut, knocking the wind out of him, and forcing him to stumble backwards. You teleported to the side and behind him as he stumbled back, and you tripped him. He fell on the guy that you kicked in the crotch, and as he was falling he elbowed crotch guy in the crotch a second time.

“Nope, nope, nope, nope, nope,” you say as the second guy you beat up tried to get up.

You use your telekinesis to hold all of them down at the same time.

“P-peter?” You say as you struggle a bit to keep them down as you haven’t held people in your powers, or this amount of stuff.

****

“O-oh sorry,” Peter says snapping out of his trance that was focused on you. He just couldn’t understand how you had kept this side that was so.... badass. You hadn’t ever fought anyone, let alone a gang of thugs... and ones with guns! You were beautiful. Even through the sweating (and subtle swearing), grunting, and kicking other men in the balls, he thought you were utterly beautiful. More gorgeous than ever before. His crush on you just got twenty times bigger. And you had powers! Why did you keep them from him. Oh well Peter had to web some bad guys.

****

Still struggling to keep the thugs under your grasp, Peter sets himself on the linoleum floor. He walks over to you, his normal kinda confident walk, but sped up. I must’ve looked so stupid and ugly while fighting them. I mean, I’m sweating. That’s not attractive... I think. Peter, oh my god can you not always look so hot.

“I can web through that right?” Peter points at the purple glow radiating off of the pool of bad guys on the floor. He pulls off his mask trying to get a better look at the glow. Oh my god, his mask hair is the best.

“Y-yeah it’s just like a mist, but no-not liquid,” you stutter out. Still struggling. Oh my god hurry up.

Peter drops his mask and webs all of the criminals’ hands, feet, and mouths. The struggle getting lighter as you let go of each ruffian as he webs them.As he webs the last one you physically collapse to the floor and just lay there a second before sitting up.

Peter laughs, “You okay?”

“Yeah, I’ve just never done anything like that before. I mean like I’ve never fought anyone or had to use that much of my powers before,” you say, feeling the glow drain out of your eyes and hands and recede back into your body. You take a extremely deep breath and let it out slowly. You get up and turn your body, fully facing Peter. You let the huge smile you were holding back flow freely out. Peter returns it fully, along with pink crawling up his neck and onto his face. Your smile recedes as you notice a sharp pain in your side, as Peter beats you looking at what exactly it was.

“Oh my god! Y/N!” He says as he runs over to you, “A bullet must have grazed you. We need to get you to Tony.”

“Ow! Shit!” You say as you realize what Peter just said, “Wait hold on, Tony as in Tony Stark?!”

“Yes he can help you with out is having to go to the hospital.” He says, slightly panicking.

“Why can’t we go to the hospital. It seems perfectly safe there,” You say watching the blood start to pour out of your side, you trying to stifle it with your hands.

“They ask questions there and we can’t deal with that if we’re superheroes,” Peter says calmly, “Can I pick you up?”

“Yes, but why can’t I just teleport both of us?” You question.

“Because my guess is that would make you bleed more, and you could be seen,” Peter says, taking you into his arm as and noting that you didn’t even protest to him picking you up, “Hold on love.” Crap why did I say love, he thinks, oh well she’s not protesting.

You both swing off towards Tony’s lab as the police arrive impossibly late.

Tags: @one-big-dreamer @jadepc @popluckbih @fandomygirl @stillmissingnewt @killmemonger @marvel-lous-marvel @t-hollandd @peterparkerwho @shurienough @spider-mendes @yohoyohoafandomlifeforme @qtest-trash @skymoonandstardust

#peter parker reader insert #peter parker x reader #peter parker x you #peter parker #spiderman #spiderman x reader #spiderman x you #spiderman imagine #peter parker imagine #spiderman reader insert #peter parker dating #spiderman homecoming #spiderman dating #x reader #Telle pt 2 #Telle #reader insert #telekinesis

91 notes · View notes

bregjetokorea · 4 years

Text

4. Final Preparations

Visa Application

January 13th, 2020

Bo-Jenna and I went to the Korean embassy in The Hague today, to apply for the D2-6 visa; a super tiring experience but that’s mostly due to NS and our stupid selves. I wonder if we can actually manage to survive in Seoul, we are such a great duo. Anyways, we left really early in the morning (still dark outside) and we eventually arrived at the embassy at 14:30!!! It was suuuuper busy. Mainly fellow students who were there for the same purpose. We had to wait really long. The consulate building was a tiny shoebox, Korean news was playing on the telly and a big picture of President Moon Jae-In was being displayed on the wall. The waiting wasn’t bad at all as we met a couple of girls traveling to Seoul as well. All of them are going to different universities. Hanyang, Sunkyunkwan, Dankook, Konkuk. No surprise, because our home uni is the only Dutch school that Myongji partners with.

Bo-Jenna and I both were stressed out the entire way to the consulate because we “might have forgotten to bring something”. Everything was fine, though. Imagine what it’s gonna be like when we’re actually packing our suitcases.

Anyways, some practical info; documents we needed to bring were:

The acceptance packet issued by Myongji;

Filled-in visa application form + passport picture;

Passport + copy;

Home university enrollment (< 3 months issuance);

Proof of financial stability (enough to cover personal funds on the certificate of admission).

They told us to come back January 21st (in 8 days).

Flight = booked

January 18th, 2020

Bo-Jenna and I booked our flights today. Actually, I think we should have done this earlier, and I would definitely advise you to buy your tickets much earlier than we did. But honestly, we were recommended to buy our tickets after the university acceptance and visa application. We don’t have our visa yet, but tickets were getting more and more expensive really fast (especially if you keep track of it via skyscanner alerts) and seats are running out (only 3 left on our flight waaaa). If we booked flexible tickets much earlier we would probably have saved a lot of money. Anyways, we did buy return tickets with limited flexibility to save money, especially because we are going home in the summer season so one-way tickets would SO expensive. We added 1.5 weeks of leisure time (lol) after our classes are over to leave some room for traveling if we won’t be able to do so during the semester. We are arriving on February 26th with one transfer in Helsinki. There is no way back anymore now.

Sum minor preps

January 20th, 2020

I got back my signed learning agreement from Myongji today, but courses are still subject to change, so I won’t share my courses yet until they are definitive. I also applied for a grant for public transportation as I won’t be using my public transportation card in the Netherlands. And I’m assuming I probably will be using my T-Money card (티머니카드) extensively so the extra money is very much welcomed. Yes. Planning on getting a card with a cute Kakao character design. Or maybe print a custom one at Hongdae station. I’m so excited for that lmao. Next to that, my dad and I contacted our assurance brokerage asking for a tender for the new insurances I need (travel, third party liability etc.).

Visa pick-up

January 24th, 2020

Today Bo-Jenna and I went to Scheveningen again to pick up our visa. This time everything went pretty effortlessly and we were only inside for like 5 minutes. On our way to the Hague, Bo-Jenna gave me a cute ass gift: a bullet journal to document our Korea journey, with a cute ass note on the first page!! She got herself one as well, so cute. It’s funny too because in my first post on here I wrote that I will just keep this blog without having something physical to document in, but now that she got me a notebook I am suddenly motivated to write in it and especially to document together!! I feel like it’s less of a ‘must’ thing to do now that I am keeping this blog, and I think I am going to use to journal she gave me more as a personal thoughts / scrapbooky thingy. We’ll see. I’m going to put it to good use.

After we were done at the embassy, Bo-Jenna and I went to Scheveningen beach and had a drink. Right after, my sister joined us and we went for Korean Barbecue in the city. It was a first time for me. And it was good. Only it wasn’t that good when I came home, because I :) threw :) up :) a :) lot :). A LOT. Sorry if it’s a bit TMI but honestly I’m glad I found this out while still at home. I’m pretty sure it was the seafood. I now know what type of foods to avoid in Seoul.

Finances and epidemics

January 25th, 2020

Today I got some practical things done. First, I ordered an insurance packet which includes insurance for a longer stay abroad: travel, emergencies, health care, liability etc. Then, and I found this out by chance, I ordered a new debit card because mine expires in June. Normally in the Netherlands, you get a new card sent to your home, but I will be away when it expires so I’m glad I found out about this now. Then, I ordered a credit card. Which a friend of mine told me is necessary to have. To at least have a MasterCard available in case I won’t be able to pay with my regular card. And it’s good to have sorted this out early on as well because it’s hard to get one if you’re a student with limited incomes.

And the last, but really important and somewhat scary thing: the new coronavirus stemming from Wuhan, China. It’s some scary shit because it’s a new strain corona that has not been previously identified in humans and it’s spreading SO fast according to the WHO. I’m not sure to what extent I should worry about it. I’m trying to do some readings about it and see if there’s any measures I should take in terms of safety. I do know that many of the incoming exchange students are actually from China, so I am wondering how this might affect our program.

Corona virus: a pain in the ass?

January 29th, 2020

Just now, we received an alarming email regarding the recent outbreak of the new coronavirus. Myongji officials are monitoring it closely as the health and safety of their students (obviously) is their first priority. They told us to book flights which do not include transit in and out of mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau. So, about this, we don’t have to worry (but unfortunately, many others in the exchange program do).

BUT. What is stressing me out is, they also told us that, as more is being learned about the virus every day, we MAY be faced with a situation where they have to cancel the entire study abroad program for us. Of course, I do understand this as it is a global epidemic to which they should respond seriously, but it doesn’t alter the fact that this is the most stressful situation for me as we are supposed to leave in less than a month. We have done so much preparations... pls.... And the thing is, there are hardly any options for us left if we won’t be able to go anymore. I can’t transfer to a different foreign university anymore because most programs have started or will start soon. Also, by the time we hear from Myongji the programs in the Netherlands have started as well. I’ll really have to check with my university and insurance company as soon as possible.

Kpop took me

January 30th, 2020

No it’s not that dramatic (yet). What happened is, my credit card came in today and I got so excited I entered the raffle for BTS MAP OF THE SOUL TOUR in Seoul. I had to buy a frickkking army memership kit for it so I better got those tixxx. I also heard today BTS is coming to Rotterdam in July right after we come back, so that’s my backup plan. But going in Seoul is so much more fun and a unique experience. The only bummer is that you can only enter the raffle for just yourself and yourself only, so if Bo-Jenna wants to go we won’t be going together, as we can’t choose seats and not even the date. If anyone’s interested, my raffle choices are:

April 11th (Sat.) P seat 18:30 (KST)

April 18th (Sat.) P seat 18:30 (KST)

April 11th (Sat.) R seat 18:30 (KST)

Watch me winning tickets but not being able to go because of corona.

Preparing for a Plan B

January 31th, 2020

I checked with my insurance brokerage about a possible cancellation insurance and they will get back to me asap. What I found out is that the travel insurance I got covers cancellation when travel advise changes, so I’m not sure if that includes when it’s just my university that decides whether it is not safe to travel. So annoying. Furthermore, I was on the phone with at least 3 people from my university department about a plan B. Bo-Jenna has been busy with it as well, so my home uni already knew about the problem we’re facing. Anyways, apparently, my Year 3 coordinator told me she can enrol me in an ‘acceleration program’ as an alternative minor. I’m not entirely sure what it entails, but what I do know is that this is a minor in the Netherlands that would still allow me to travel abroad for a couple of weeks, so I would still be able to get that ‘abroad experience’, just not the one I want. But honestly, I don’t want to think about this option at all. I just want to go to Korea :( But my hopes haven’t faded. Myongji asked us to send them our flight information, so that means they are still really concerned with all the planning.

Radio Silence

February 3rd, 2020

I’m getting so nervous honestly. I have been talking with so many people going to do exchange programs at different unis in Seoul and, from what I heard; Yonsei is cancelling orientation and field trips, SNU is cancelling orientation, Sogang even pushes back their academic schedules. Korean gov apparently advises schools to not organize any large group events. No university has made a final decision on whether to cancel the entire program yet, but at least they are quite transparent about it. Myongji isn’t. It’s freaking me out. We are supposed to leave in 3 weeks!!

Certificate of Admission

February 4th, 2020

I received an email that our certificates of admission had finally arrived at our faculty’s office and that we could come and pick them up. So I decided to go to my home university really early in the morning. I honestly took so long for them to arrive, I don’t really understand why because Myongji said they would ship them using the fastest shipping method possible. The documents really were the same as the copies they send us, plus they included some practical information on dates and regulations. At school I met with my international officer and she told me that Myongji isn’t sending her emails and information regarding this situation at all. She asked me to keep her updated. It’s super weird.

Self-Quarantine

February 6th, 2020

Brace yourselves for a lot of shitty news. First of all, I wasn’t selected as a winner for the BTS concert raffle. So sad. Then the more shitty news; we got informed that Myongji will continue the exchange program. However, for everyone’s safety, they want us to sign an agreement with a coronavirus prevention guideline, and if we don't agree, they are not able to accept our admission. The agreement basically says we have to SELF-QUARANTINE for a period of 14 days. Those who applied for on-campus dorms must be able to prove that, at the time of our move-in, a minimum of 14 days has elapsed since our arrival in Korea. Also, only those who can prove that the minimum 14 days have elapsed since their arrival in Korea can take classes. We have to visit a local district office to be issued an official travel history document to prove such.

So, what this means for us is that we must isolate ourselves for 14 days since the date of our arrival in Korea, and minimize going out of our alternative place of residence (that we still have to find).

So what we did is, Bo-Jenna and I immediately contacted our home university. I have been busy with it all day. At last, I spoke to my Year 3 coordinator on the phone and she is trying to get Myongji to be a little more lenient towards us non-risk students. There are literally zero cases in the Netherlands so far.

At the doctor’s AGAIN

February 10th, 2020

Yes. Again. But this time to get a health statement. My Year 3 coordinator asked me to get one so that they can send it as proof to Myongji to show to we show no signs over fever or coughing or whatever the symptoms of the novel corona virus may be. Even my doc thinks it’s all a bit dramatic, but we gotta do what we gotta do. He also told me he ordered face masks because the are running out EVERYWHERE, so I can go pick them up right before I leave.

Also, today I created a group chat with Bo-Jenna and the two other girls from the Netherlands who also need to look for a place to stay during those 14 days. We decide to get an Airbnb together to cut down the costs. Because my home university told me that they are not being able to give us any financial support.

Different starting date

February 12th, 2020

So I just saw, totally by chance, that Myongji is pushing back their starting date by two weeks. I already assumed this would be happening as literally all the universities in Seoul do this. But it’s so weird, because I find out while casually browsing instagram and saw a post about it only written in Korean. There are no statements in English about it and we didn’t hear anything (yet) from the international officer at Myongji. I’m guessing they will inform us, but it’s so weeeeird. I’m honestly fine with it as it means that we won’t be missing classes during our quarantine period, but I’m REALLY hoping they aren’t pushing back the ending date as well. That either means we won’t have any time left to explore the city right before we leave or we even might have to change our flights. Please pray with me.

Quarantine in Hongdae

February 14th, 2020

Today we booked our Airbnb. We found some decent place in the middle of Hongdae, super close to Hongik Univ station. Myongji recommended us to stay in either Hongdae or Sinchon, which I think is a bit weird because these areas are the most crowded areas of Seoul. But we were looking at places in Hongdae regardless as this is the student hot-spot of Seoul and really easy to travel from/to. Our place is a space with 2 bedrooms, a common room and a bathroom. It will do for those 2 weeks. Also, the host seems really nice. I’m guessing Myongji will send someone to check on us a couple of times during those 2 weeks. That’s probably why they recommended Hongdae and Sinchon to us, it’s quite close. But it sucks balls. We are not allowed to go out, only for getting absolute necessities. It’s so sad because we are in Hongdae, there’s so much to do. I guess it will be 14 days full of watching Netflix and playing Stardew Valley.

New game new name

February 15th, 2020

So, this is something I have been thinking of for quite some time now. My name, Bregje, really won’t do in Korea. It’s just unpronounceable. Quite some time ago, my Korean friend Jiwon really encouraged me to get a Korean name. I always thought it was considered not done or weird as hell for foreigners to do that and it might be really, I don’t trust him sometimes (만약 오빠 이 글을 읽고, 미안해 ㅋㅋㅋ). I even used to think my name somehow works when I transcribe it to sound somewhat the same, but I guess it doesn’t. Anyways, we discussed it some more and he suggested I go for 나현 (na-hyun) but I think that just doesn’t sound…. right. 현정 (hyun-jung) was another option but ???? feels too Kboo if I do that so I figured I have to just go by an easy international name. I took it super seriously. Yesterday I did some consulting on Reddit and decided the name ‘Becky’ (베키) works best and meets all my personal criteria. I am still debating whether I am actually going to introduce myself like this, as it feels super odd for me to do that, but it will definitely cause less confusion and frustration on my part.

Saying goodbye

February 22nd

I feel totally weirded out for some reason. The past few days I have been so stressed out. Maybe because I only finished my internship yesterday. But honestly, this corona thing is spreading like wildfire and it's scaring the shit out of me especially since a weird ass cult has been involved including a so called super spreader. Luckily, the infected area is mostly around Daegu so our program hasn't been cancelled (but the Yeungnam program has, I'm so sorry guys). I am not scared of the virus but about a sudden cancellation of the semester AFTER our arrival. But I should stop stressing.

But in better news, today I had my "goodbye party". Most of my friends were there and we had a chill afternoon of talking and they got me cute gifts and I feel so sad for leaving them. Thank you guys if you're reading this!! <3

Packing my bags

February 24th

Honestly I think packing my bags wasn't that stressful (my mom might think differently). Everything barely fit in my checked bag and my carry on exceeds the weight limit but let's just pray they aren't actually weighing our bags.

I'm so excited to go but also I feel a bit divided because we can't undertake any activity for the next two weeks. I'm sure me and the girls will have a great time regardless but this is not how I was picturing my study abroad to start off. Tomorrow I have to wake up early (5am) to go to Amsterdam airport!!

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smashbuddies · 7 years

Text

Part Nine: Side Quest

Ding-dong!

Daniel groaned, and buried his face into his pillow, just barely awake. Maybe that was just his imagination. So he could just peacefully drift back to sleep and...

Ding-dong! Ding-ding-ding-ding!

“Oh my fucking god!”

It took all his effort, but he dragged himself out of bed, eyelids still heavy. The one day he wanted to sleep in, and some goddamn, piss-brained, piece of shit fuckhead had to abuse his poor doorbell and his ears. Well, he was going to give the fucker a piece of his mind.

He stomped down to the door, fists clenched at his side, and swung it open, ready to yell. But he instantly deflated as soon as he saw who it was.

Snail.

They looked pretty miffed for a second, before staring at him like they didn’t even recognize who he was. After a short moment, they blinked, and intelligently said, “Uhhh, are you another weird clone?”

Daniel promptly slammed the door in their face.

He was such a fucking idiot. At the very least he should’ve gotten dressed, but no, he had to be a fucking hot-head and answer the door in his goddamn pajamas with his messed up hair. There was no way he could live this down. They’d seen him at something other than his best, and that was unacceptable.

Maybe he could pretend it never happened.

So he went back upstairs and made himself look half-presentable. At the very least, put on a nice suit and brushed out his hair. Then he made his way back to the door, and thankfully, Snail was still there.

Unfortunately, his rash decision to change just made the situation even worse.

“What the fuck was that?” they asked, glaring at him with their arms crossed. “I show up early for once and you slam the door on me?”

His face grew hot. “I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

“Uh-huh, so you’re trying to tell me that wasn’t you that answered the door looking like you just woke up?” Their outrage melted away into something much, much worse. They gave him that stupid Grin he hated and said, “You look pretty cute with bedhead.”

“That wasn’t me,” he immediately responded with, even though he knew it was a terrible lie. “It was Daniyal.”

“Really,” they said, as if asking if he was really going to stick with that. “Daniyal?”

Just then, Daniyal popped in from the kitchen. “Did someone say my name?”

Daniel turned and gave him a very pointed look. One that said you better say the right thing. “You answered the door a minute ago, didn’t you?”

Daniyal frowned. “No? Why?”

That son of a bitch.

“Don’t you have somewhere to be?” Daniel suddenly asked, teeth clenched. God, he could throttle that bumfuck bastard. “Like with Andy?”

“Right, yes! I made some soup for them, I really hope they like it.” Daniyal ducked back into kitchen for a split-second before emerging with a sealed container. After squeezing his way out the door, he said, “I’ll be back later!”

As soon as he was gone, Snail gave Daniel a look. “So, you wanna go for a different lie, or do you wanna admit that you wear Mario pajamas to bed?”

“Alright, fine!” he snapped harshly, face as red as could be. “Look, I didn’t think you’d be coming over so early. Sue me.”

“Well, you always get pissed when I show up later than noon,” they said bluntly as they brushed past him. “I thought I’d be a good boyfriend for once and show up nice and early. Didn’t think you'd be taking a page from my book today.”

Daniel huffed and carelessly slammed the door shut. “I had a rough night.”

They gave him a cocky look from over their shoulder and teased, “Couldn’t stop thinking about me?”

“Uh-huh, sure,” he answered. Better to stroke their ego a bit than tell the truth. Then he noticed the backpack slung over their shoulder, and raised an eyebrow at them. “What’s that?”

They carefully set it on the couch and took a seat. “My laptop and tablet. I said I’d show you some of my art sometime, so…”

Right. He'd almost forgotten about that. Hell, that date happened, what? A couple weeks ago? Give or take a day or two? He remembered being excited about seeing their art. And that in turn kick-started the memory of him wanting to show them Sonic and Knuckles.

“Yeah, that sounds nice, actually,” he said with an earnest smile. “I have something to show you too, let me go get it real quick.”

He barely made it up three steps before he heard Snail call out, “You should change back into your pajamas while you’re up there.”

“What?” he bit out, backtracking just so he could glare at them. “Why the hell would I do that?”

They rolled their eyes. “Because you don’t need to be so formal inside your own damn house. Besides, I have to see you slip into something more comfortable eventually. So why not now?”

“You’re not wearing pajamas,” he pointed out, ignoring the ambiguously intentional innuendo. But really, if they had shown up in their sleepwear, he would’ve been pretty miffed, so his argument was weak.

“Well, that’s because I know how to dress like a normal person,” they readily countered, and oddly, their comment kind of hurt. “You don’t have to try and impress me. We’re dating, and we’ve already fucked a whole bunch. Just relax for once.”

Daniel stood there for a moment, on hand gripping the banister tightly. Normal, what would their punk ass know about normal? He’d show them.

A little while later, he came back down the stairs with his beloved Sega Genesis in hand. He heard Snail’s little hitch of breath, but pointedly ignored it in favor of getting everything set up. Plug in wires, make sure everything’s sitting steady and all. And maybe he bent over a bit, just to show off his ass a bit. It still looked nice, and he knew it

Dusting off his hands, he brought the controller with him as he plopped himself down on the couch and pretended like Snail’s bewildered stare didn't exist.

“Do you you wanna play first?”

“You actually own a t-shirt?” they asked, eyes not-so subtly raking him over. “And jeans?”

“Of course I do,” he muttered, playing up his bitterness just a bit with a side-glare. “I can dress normal.”

“You sure can,” they agreed. Then they leaned over and began to press quick, heated kisses to his neck. “You can also rile me up pretty good. Don't think I didn't notice what you were doing.”

A pleasant shiver ran through him, but he shoved the controller against them and said, “I was getting everything ready. So we can have a nice time playing a game together.”

They huffed and swiped the controller from him. “Not my fault you have a nice ass.”

After selecting Sonic, they stared at the TV for a solid few seconds, as if waiting for something to happen. Daniel huffed, and crossed his arms, already getting fed up with the wait.

“Well? Are you gonna play, or what?”

“Huh?” They blinked, and with a little testing, then realized that they sure as hell could move around. “Oh, I was kinda expecting a cutscene or something. You know, how games usually start so you don’t get lost.”

“It’s a Sonic game,” he argued, sitting back and watching them meander through the first zone. “Your only goal is to get rings, collect chaos emeralds, and go.”

“Well, I don't even know where I am!”

“Angel Island.”

“Okay, well, why am I collecting the fucking chaos emeralds again? You'd think Sonic would be able to hold onto the damn things.”

“Does it matter? Just shut up and play the damn game.”

Suddenly, the controller found itself in his hands as Snail huffed out, “You’re the video game expert here, you play it!”

“Fine!”

Not surprisingly, they spent more time griping than actually getting through the level. But that was fine. Daniel thankfully knew it like the back of his hand, and quickly found his way to the first bonus stage. Not his favorite, but he got through it just fine. Especially since the really important part was coming up soon.

Get the blue spheres!

From there, pure instinct took over. Right, right, right, right, get the rings, go straight, jump, left, left, left, left. For a moment he was taken back to when he was just fifteen years old, playing this game for the first time after school.

He just barely registered Snail speaking.

“Holy shit, you’re really in the zone right now, huh?”

“Hm?” Snapping out of his daze a bit, he managed to answer, “Oh, yeah. I’ve played this game a lot. Not usually on it’s own like this, but…”

Snail shifted. “On it’s own? The hell does that mean?”

“There’s a way to combine the cartridge with the one for Sonic 3.” Despite being engrossed in what he was doing, he liked answering their question and educating them. “Some sort of lock-on thing. I think it also works with Sonic 2.”

“What’s the point in doing that?”

Things followed a pattern from there. Snail would ask questions about some aspect of the game, and Daniel would answer while half-zoned out. He couldn’t see their face, obviously, but he could hear as each word from their mouth became more enthusiastic and interested than the last. Time seemed meaningless, and it just kinda slipped away. The only thing even showing its passage was each stage that Daniel cleared.

It was really nice to just relax with Snail like this for once.

Soon, he was at the last stage, flying through space as Super Sonic while Snail cheered him on. Their encouragements fueled him, and his heart stopped every time he crashed into something. C’mon, he was so close, he couldn’t fail now! Not in front of Snail!

Time stopped. He’d done it. The Master Emerald was saved, and he could relax. While the final cinematic played, he let out a deep sigh and set the controller down. The biggest grin slipped onto his face as a wave of joy washed over him. There was almost nothing more satisfying than beating a game.

“That was something,” Snail said, tone unreadable. But there was a smile on their face, so that had to be good, right? “I can’t believe how fast you went through all that.”

He shrugged in an attempt to play humble, but it didn’t work out so well. “I mean, that’s what Sonic’s about right?” After a second, his smile turned a bit more sheepish. “Sorry you didn’t get to play though.”

They waved him off. “I liked watching you, don’t worry about it. Besides, you’re really cute when you’re all into it.”

That certainly made him blush. To distract himself, he offered the controller to them, “There’s still Knuckles’ route if you wanna play.”

“As nice as that sounds, I think I’m kinda, uh, gamed out,” they said right before pulling their laptop from the backpack. “I wanna show you my art now, if you don’t mind.”

Honestly, he’d never thought about how digital artists did their thing. So when Snail showed him all the pieces they’ve done for different clients- or even just for fun- he was kind of blown away. There were all sorts of things, and they were all pleasing to the eye. Really, it was almost hard to believe that Snail could do all this.

��So people just pay you to draw for them?” he asked while they scrolled through their folder. “How does that work?”

“Well, they tell me what they want me to do and I give them a price. It’s not, like, and hourly wage kinda thing,” they answered, a small frown on their face. “It kinda sucks, but you know. Not nearly as much as it did when I first started off.”

He only nodded, not knowing what to say.

After a moment, they huffed. “Want me to draw you something real quick?”

It took him a second to register what they had asked. “Uh, are you sure? You usually get paid for that.”

They snorted and opened up some program on their laptop. “Well, you just spent two hours talking nerd at me, which you usually get paid for. Besides, I just need to warm up a bit. Won't be some big thing.”

His eyes glanced over to that TV, where the credits were just ending. “Alright, well, mind drawing Sonic?”

The look they gave him was almost taunting. “You really are a nerd.”

“Shut up.”

Seeing them draw was definitely a new experience. The tablet was certainly something strange to behold. His brain couldn't quite handle the disconnect between their swooping hand motions and the curves appearing on the screen. Almost as if it was some kind of black magic. Or maybe he was just old.

As if.

It surprised him when part of the way through, they pulled a picture of Sonic up. “What’s that for?”

“Reference,” they answered, eyebrows furrowed together with focus. “Can't pull him outta my ass. Besides, I need to get the right colors.”

“Right, right.”

Like he knew. Hell, the last time he seriously drew anything was when he was eight years old doing Inky for all of his school art projects. Since then it’d just been doodles in the margins of notes, tests, and then scripts.

While they worked, he asked the occasional question. Why are they redrawing over their old lines? How do they get the right colors? Thankfully, they didn't find it annoying and readily answered him just as he did for them earlier.

Eventually, he found himself leaned against them, eyes half-drooped while they colored. For once, he didn't feel all that on edge. Like he could just breath and be without anything coming in and ruining that.

“And… Done!”

He blinked several times. Sure enough, there was a smirking Sonic giving him a thumbs up right before his eyes.

“Cute,” he mumbled, sitting up and stretching to wake himself a bit. “I like it.”

“Good, good,” they said as they set the laptop on the coffee table, their voice having a bit of a sly edge to it. Hooking their arm around his waist, they continued, “You know, I think I've changed my mind. I do need a little payment for that drawing.”

Since he wasn’t a dumbass, he quickly caught onto their little game. But he’d play coy anyway, just for the hell of it.

“Oh yeah?” he asked, glancing over at them with a neutral look. “Name your price.”

They leaned in close, cheeks just a tad pink, and said, “A kiss.”

Wow. To think, this was the same person that would easily pin him down and tell him how hard they were gonna fuck his brains out. Getting flustered over demanding a simple kiss. It was so contradictory, yet so them.

Letting out a deep sigh, as if this was the most demanding task they could ever ask of him, he said, “Well, I guess I could do that for you. Since you did a pretty okay job.”

For a second, they looked offended, but he shut them up before they could get a word out by planting a sweet kiss right on their lips. With a low hum they reciprocated it, pulling him close so the two of them were flush against each other. The warmth and closeness had him wishing that little moment could last forever. Sadly, like every other good thing, it had to come to an end.

“Guess that’ll cover it,” Snail teased, eyes alit with joy. “Next time, though, don’t be a dick before you pay me.”

“Duly noted.”

A long moment passed where they just sat there, almost entwined with each other. Daniel could feel the slow rhythm of their breathing. Despite the sun still being high in the sky, he felt cozy enough to fall asleep right then and there. But an urge to say something hit him. So he did.

“Thanks for coming over,” he half-whispered. His heart pounded the word vulnerable into his chest. And he sure as hell was. “I like just hanging out like this. It’s nice.”

“Please, I come over all the time, you don’t need to thank me,” they said, sounding half-asleep. “Just keep getting me snacks and it’s all good.”

Prick. Still, that wasn’t too big of a demand. If they could keep having moments like this, then he wouldn’t complain.

Three little words filled his mouth with sweetness. Instead of letting them fly free, he swallowed them down. Was it too soon? He didn’t know. But that wasn’t a risk he was willing to take.

#smash buddies #pt9 #snailbitch #fic

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vintageladylemondrop · 7 years

Text

The Vanishing of Ladybug and Chat Noir - Chapter 1

Hiya,

So I’m super pleased to present the first chapter of this fic , it’s an idea I’ve had floating around for awhile. I will continue to write and see where the story goes. I don’t write much but I’ve felt really inspired lately. Side Notes - I’ve marked there texts with (A) for Adrien and (M) for Marinette so you can tell whose texted who. This fic is rated T for now.

-Enjoy

Chapter 1 - Disappearance and Discovery

(Setting - Marinettes bedroom)

“Marinette , I’m going to go away for a little while” Tikki said softly.“ I don’t have much time to explain, but I’m being called to join the other kwamis. Your battle earlier has generated something unusual.”

Marinette began to retrace today’s battle in her head. Tikki wasn’t kidding , it definitely wasn’t everyday that Hawkmoth materialized in front of her and Chat Noir. The fight had been the usual akuma banter. Someone down on their luck was always being taken advantage of in Paris.

Well… at least the fight had been typical until Hawkmoth appeared. Chat had brashly rushed over to Hawkmoth without thinking it through. A formidable force had emerged from Chat Noir’s Baton as it clashed with Hawkmoth’s Staff . She recalled that the strength of it’s light had made tears well up in her eyes. Hawkmoth managed to getaway because Chat could get so excitable at times. She was still kind of upset with him for rushing in like that without thinking it through.

“Tikki…I don’t understand?” Marinette questioned, Tikki continued “ When something as powerful as today’s battle happens , it can cause a kind of shockwave.” Tikki paused for a moment and began to fade a little in Marinette’s palm. “A new kwami is going to be born , and it needs energy. We kwamis all share a universal energy , so we must retreat into our miraculous to conserve energy so the new kwami can be born…” Tikki began to yawn “ You won’t be able to transform, but but your still ladybug…you must remember that…” “ Tikki… How long are you going to be gone? How am I supposed to be ladybug without you.” Marinette mumbled as the little red figure began to dissapear from her palm “Marinette have a little more faith in yourself … you are ladybug… just remember ….” Tikki continued to ramble, but her voice trailed off. Marinette looked at her empty palm in silence. Tikki was gone.

(Setting - Adrien’s Bedroom)

Adrien knew he had really screwed it up this time. He knew he had caused everything to go wrong today. He had charged against Hawkmoth despite his better judgement. “How pitiful of a kitten you are” Hawkmoth’s voice rang in his head. Adrien had gotten so angry and… and now Plagg was gone.

Adrien leaned against the tall window in his room and looked out at the Parisian sky, and let out a sigh. What had happened to him earlier? He couldn’t remember much , maybe Ladybug could fill in the details. “I am sure Ladybug is never going to let me live this one down” he grumbled under his breath.“That is if I ever get to see her again.”

Plagg hadn’t been too good with the details of why he had to retreat into the miraculous, but he thought he understood the gist of it. Though his kwami had neglected to tell him when he might be coming back. How long did creating a kwami take anyway? He didn’t know. Heck Plagg was how many thousands of years old? Did that mean that it could take a really long time?

Thousands of questions rolled around in his mind as he crawled into his bed. He thought about when he would get to see Ladybug again since he couldn’t leave on a whim anymore. He was stuck in his daily routine until Plagg decided to come back. What would he say to her when he did see her, after all this was his fault. Adrien started to swim in his thoughts.

(Setting - A couple of months ago during a night patrol)

Ladybug was perched over the railing. She looked over at her Partner. Chat stepped closer to her, he felt something was off with his Lady tonight. “Chat… Is it just me or have the attacks lately been pretty rough” she asked. After a moment Chat responded. “I mean it’s not anything you and I can’t handle my Lady… Besides aren’t - ” Chat was cutoff by Ladybug. “ I mean what if … If one us gets our miraculous taken or … worse one of us gets hospitalized! what are we supposed to do then Chat?!” Ladybug questioned. Chat leaned closer to her. “I won’t let that happen.” he paused for a moment and looked Ladybug in the eyes “ I swear.” he said softly.

(Setting - Presently in Adrien’s Bedroom)

His thoughts had drifted to that night, even though he had tried to ease her worries, she continued to protest until the both of them had agreed on a back up plan. The plan being that if any kind of emergency were to occur, they needed to be able to find each other. They had traded envelopes with each other, that contained enough information so they could find each other if necessary.

That particular envelope was tucked away in one of his closet drawers. He had been tempted so many times to open it, but he couldn’t bring himself to betray the trust he and Ladybug had as partners… But was this something she would consider an emergency? It’s not like one of them was hurt, and his kwami being gone most likely meant that Hawkmoth’s kwami had also for the moment disappeared … meaning Hawkmoth would also be benched for awhile.

No, if he thought about it she definitely wouldn’t consider this to be an emergency. He was sure about that. He had started to doze off when his phone buzzed on the night stand. He picked up his phone and was immediately bombarded with the light in his eyes. A text popped up and it read

(M)-What the heck were you thinking today! You were so reckless.

He squinted at the light and read the name above the message. Marinette-Dupain Cheng.

(Setting - Half an hour earlier in Marinette’s Bedroom)

Was this an emergency… Marinette pondered. Well, No not really… but the kwamis had dissapeared, and Tikki had said all of them… But wait did that mean Hawkmoth couldn’t fight ethier? She didn’t know, she really hoped Hawkmoth wasn’t able to akumatize the citizens of Paris. That could be a big problem since she was out of commission and couldn’t really cleanse the akumas right now. Tikki was right, she needed to remember she was still Ladybug with or without her suit. She knew this could be her chance to catch Hawkmoth or at least figure out where he was hiding.

She started to mumble to herself in the dark “Maybe I should get in contact with Chat… but I don’t know.” She really wasn’t sure if now was what she would consider an emergency, but maybe with Hawkmoth out of commission, she could try and find him while he was powerless. She was probably going to need that silly cats help. “Oh Tikki what would you do in my situation?” She tried to imagine what her little red kwami might say in this situation, but that only proved to confuse Marinette even more.

Marinette climbed into her bed but was restless, she was Ladybug! She couldn’t just sit there and wait for Tikki to comeback she had to act while her enemy was weak. “That’s it!” She whispered to herself “ I’m opening the envelope.”

Marinette rose from her bed and fumbled her way over to her dresser, turned on a light and pulled the letter from the back of her drawer. She sat down on her bed, took a gulp of air and carefully opened the envelope. In it was a small piece of notebook paper, it read - for my Lady, scrawled below that was a phone number.

She quickly input the number into her phone and saved it as a contact under the name CN. Wait… how late was it? 1:26AM. Would he even be awake at this hour? She soon decided that didn’t matter since he would see it in the morning anyway. She quickly sent the new contact a text. It read,

(M)- What the heck were you thinking today! You were so reckless.

She was still mad at him for earlier, though she had come to realization that the kwamis disappearance wasn’t Chats fault. She had been a bit harsh with him earlier, but something had felt wrong with him today. She decided to crawl into her bed. Marinette had almost fallen asleep only to be woken by a ding. She groaned and went to grab her phone, she had a reply from Chat.

(A)- Why are you texting me so late? Are you okay?

She got irritated with him, of course she wasn’t okay! She fumbled with her phone and replied

(M)- Of course I’m not okay! My kwami disappeared after our battle with Hawkmoth today. What did you think I wouldn’t be mad?

It took a few minutes for Marinette to receive a response from Chat. She assumed it was because she had given him an earful after this afternoons battle.

(A) - I know I was reckless today. I’m sorry I didn’t mean for this to happen My lady. If it makes you feel any better my kwami is also gone.

(M)- I know this wasn’t an emergency but I just felt like we can still make use of our current situation. We also don’t know how long our kwamis are going to be gone.

(A)- It’s alright I thought about opening my envelope as well. What kind of plan did you have.

(M)- I have a plan, but it’s going to be easier to explain in person. We are going to have to meet in person.

Marinette paused for a moment unsure if she had made the right decision.

(M)-Is that alright with you, after all it’s our identities on the line.

(A)- It would be my puurrleasure my lady.

(M)- Okay, it’s late so save the cat puns for tommorow

(A)- goodnight.

(M)- night.

Marinette yawned, plugged in her phone, slid into bed and wondered what she had gotten herself into.

(Setting - Adrien’s Bedroom the next morning)

Tap! tap! tap!, Adrien was awoken to the sound of a knock in his door, he heard Natalie on the other side “Adrien your going to be late for lessons if you don’t get up soon” He shouted back “Okay I’m getting up now” He felt like a mess, he hadn’t slept much, because Ladybug had texted him… Well okay it wasn’t just that. He had discovered last night that Marinette was Ladybug. That had come as such a relief to Adrien because it was someone he knew, and a friend no less.

He could work with this. It was Marinette, the most likable girl in his grade. He loved Ladybug and he had sworn that if he ever figured out who she was, he would tell her how he felt…but for now he wasn’t going to push that on Marinette. After his conversation last night, he got the feeling that Marinette didn’t know he was Chat and he wasn’t exactly on good terms with his lady at the moment. His mind buzzed with thoughts of seeing Marinette at school. He couldn’t stop smiling ear to ear on the drive to school.

(Setting- Dupain-Cheng Bakery)

“Ugghhh” Marinette groaned as she rolled out of her bed. She had stayed up late texting that stupid cat. She was drawn toward the smell of fresh bread baking downstairs “Food” she mumbled. Marinette hadn’t even bothered to get dressed before going downstairs.

She sat down at the table and her mother brought her something to eat. “Marinette?…did you stay up late last night” her mother asked. “No Maman I just had trouble sleepinhmph” Marinette replied with a mouthful of food in her mouth. Wait what had she done last night? When she remembered she had texted Chat, she choked on her drink. She started to cough , and it took a moment for her to calm down. “Are you sure your alright dear?” Her mother questioned. Marinette answered “Yes I promise I’m alright Maman”. Marinette was nervous about everything. What if an akuma shows up? What if Chat doesn’t like me? What if Tikki never comes back? All these questions plagued Marinette throughout the morning. Her mother continued to poke and prod her with more questions until Marinette shoved off to school.

(Setting - At the school)

Marinette had barely managed to scoot into her seat before the bell went off , Adrien had taken notice of this. Her being Ladybug really made sense, from her constant absences to her bluebell eyes. How did he not see all the connections before now. Adrien thought maybe this was because he had always put her on this podium. Well to be fair Ladybug was amazing. He always saw Ladybug as someone he could never reach… even though he was Chat Noir he still felt so apart from Ladybug. Marinette was sitting right in front of Adrien but she still felt so far away from him , but he was more than glad to be next to her, because he felt much closer to her than before.

#miraculous ladybug #the tales of ladybug and cat noir #ladynoir #adrinette #marichat #ladrien #marinette cheng #adrien agreste

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zhumeimv · 5 years

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Is Marvel Really Making Captain America 4?

Date: 2019-10-16 14:00:06

[aoa id=’0′][dn_wp_yt_youtube_source type=”101″ id=”sEltESvGTGs”][/aoa]

Thumbnail image by heavenlykaos →

Hold onto your hats, true believers the Marvel rumor mill has cranked out a doozy.

According to We Got This Covered, anonymous sources close to Marvel Studios have claimed that a fourth Captain America picture is in development one which will star Anthony Mackie, as…

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pisati · 5 years

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these last few days feel like a blur. it’s hard to believe it all went by so fast. usually it feels like my days drag on, but if I didn’t know I just went to a music festival I would’ve guessed it never happened. if that makes sense.

it somehow didn’t register that other people would also be traveling for the july 4th weekend, so it took me about 3 hours to get to johnstown, rather than the usual 2 and a half. I got to A’s house, we brought in the girl rats and the bags I’d need for the night, plus the food that needed to be refrigerated, and settled down for a minute. we took the rats’ cages outside and hosed them down, scrubbed between the bars and the platforms (and I’m glad he helped with that awful cage I have that I’ve been using for the fosters; I don’t think it’s been cleaned that thoroughly since 2016). I was told another of our friends would be coming over and staying the night, because he has a big SUV with a tow hitch and we needed to bring a trailer with a bunch of firewood. so that friend came over, we went and did some grocery shopping, then we ordered takeout for dinner. the place where they were going to get wings took a really long time because of an order backlog so they gave the guys 10 extra wings and we all just went inside so they could have a beer at the bar while they waited.

I was inside getting ready for bed around 11pm while they were outside trying to fix up the tow hitch, when A came inside looking kind of defeated. he asked if I’d be down for a walmart trip, because the hitch that he had had a ball that was the wrong size fo the friend’s car, plus it was rusted pretty bad and wouldn’t come out of the hitch itself. so we drove the 20 minutes out to walmart, waited in an ungodly long line for that hour to check out, drove the 20 minutes back... and then A came back inside after a few minutes looking like he was about to cry. the bolt on the new ball was too big to screw into the hitch. he kept complaining like why can’t people just make things universal and like I get it but god am I so sick of hearing him complain about things that can’t be changed for 20 straight minutes

the next morning we went to the Uhaul store and got a ball that was the right size, with the right size bolt, and then got back and got the trailer hooked up. got packed, headed out. I took my car and we followed our friend. we had to take a pretty big detour, about an hour and a half, out to some other town in the middle of nowhere, because our friend was supposed to pick up this girl to go to the festival. we get to the town, she’s not there. he’d talked to her earlier or something, telling us she wouldn’t be home til very late, but he hadn’t heard from her all morning. we waited around at a gas station while he tried to call her; nothing. apparently there was a family emergency; we ended up not picking her up. it was another hour out to the farm from there, and my GPS led us down some back roads rather than the highway, and one side of the trailer collapsed inwards because the roads were so damn bumpy. we lost a good bit of firewood and A’s dad’s shovel, but we didn’t realize it until we got to the farm because I was in front that time.

so we got to the farm in one piece, thankfully. A was annoying the hell out of me because he wanted to be there By 1 PM when the gates opened, and we were already running late because of that girl. not that late, of course, we maybe made it by 1:30. but he kept looking at the minutes left on my GPS and groaning and I told him if he was going to keep complaining I’d intentionally go slower. we got the early passes, we were already there before most other people, and T and his wife got in even earlier because they opened the gates early, and there was nobody there, besides a few people who’d already managed to claim one of our friends’ usual spots along our treeline.

setting up was hard. I picked a spot that hadn’t been claimed yet, with a minimal slope which was nice, considering there pretty much aren’t any camping spots on the farm that aren’t at a slant. got everything out of my car once I got the tent set up, and that took a lot of work. by myself, of course; A was busy setting up his own camp and trying to figure out what the fuck happened to the trailer. it was humid and decently hot, and I was sweating like nothing else, but I got everything set up. managed to let a lot of bugs into my tent though; I learned very quickly to zip up the door quick before going in or out. I had a cot this year, and a tent big enough to stand up in, which ended up being really nice. almost everyone seemed to upgrade their tent situation this year; T and his wife bought a massive, probably 10-person tent and had a queen-sized cot with an inflatable mattress (so she described it to me), A had his huge 6-person tent that he and I had shared my first farm jam, Tom and his girlfriend had a big.. 6-8 person tent? with two queen mattresses... I was glad we all fit everything and still had plenty of space. the thing about tent sizes is that they describe it in terms of room for people sleeping shoulder-to-shoulder, basically. my tent was labeled a 6-person tent but would have been comfortable for 2, very cozy with 3. I was glad to have the space. my bags took up the back wall and the right side, and I put my cot on the left. mom also had this little outdoor folding table that came in super handy as a nightstand. I put a rag rug down for a little insulation, and put a foam pad and a blanket on my cot, sleeping bag on top. it ended up being pretty comfortable, despite how narrow the cot is. I like to sleep on my stomach, so I spent a lot of time with one thigh squished into one pole and the opposite knee pressed into the other pole. still, I got way better sleep than I was anticipating.

day 1 was uneventful. early pass people were still moving in most of the day, and music wasn’t supposed to start til the next day. I can’t remember if a group went down to the watering hole that day. there’s a creek that runs at the base of the hill on the opposite side of the farm, and in one place there’s a deep watering hole that’s at the bottom of two concrete tubes; I guess they’re drainage for mountain runoff. I went down to the watering hole my first year; sat on top of one of the drainage spouts and watched friends explore while they were on mushrooms. that was also where I slipped on a rock and bruised the shit out of my thigh that year. I did want to go to the watering hole at some point this year, but it ended up not happening.

two friends and I were joking about the rain, but one of the two mentioned he’d brought a 12x24′ tarp and we tried to reason out how and where we could string it up in the trees in the event of rain. 2ish hours later, we managed to hang it in a pathway across one of the friend’s tents, and it ended just before mine. it was a lot of work to get it up there but it paid off.

my anxiety did kick a little bit the first night, but it let up by the morning. I remember being up til about 1am the first night; there were some jam bands playing at the barn and our friend Tom had brought his trombone and went and joined them, which was fun to watch. but everyone was pretty tired and one by one we all went to bed. I probably woke up around 8, had to pee, heard T’s wife get up.. I’m pretty sure we sat around the fire and waited for more people to wake up. I made a little breakfast (butter on an everything bagel, toasted over the fire. made it so soft, it was great), and eventually more people gathered. A helped me set up my hammock the evening before, so I think it was hanging up in our little hammock city (just a grouping of trees in our camp that’s inconvenient for setting up tents but perfect for stringing up hammocks). at some point, since it was starting out as a lazy day, a few people ended up in hammocks. I think we were waiting for the non-early-pass folks to move in and set up camp before we did anything. I wrapped some stones for necklaces and planned to sell them, but ended up not going ahead with that. I told A I’d wanted to go for a walk, because I’d just been sitting around most of the day, and asked when he’d want to. he wasn’t sure. but later a group wanted to go down to the watering hole, so I grabbed up my hammock, as did a few other people, and we waited to go. except it started raining. the tarp we’d strung up was really helpful; we got all the camp chairs under the tarp and waited it out. it wasn’t a heavy rain and it didn’t last long, so normal activity resumed after a bit. I don’t remember if anyone went down to the watering hole that day. the ‘more exciting’ bands were supposed to take the stage saturday, but there was no one I was dying to see. our friend Alec was part of one band, they’d invited him on for a set, so of course we had to go watch. one of the bigger bands Saturday, Starship Mantis, who played during the bonfire lighting (a coveted spot) also had Alec play with them for at least one song, and shouted him out, which was pretty cool.

friday night ended up setting the tone for the rest of the festival. I’d already been feeling kind of discouraged because of something I noticed was slowly becoming the norm for my visits now: I’d show up, people would say hey, give me a hug, then proceed to ignore me completely until it was goodbye time. I’d try to speak up, I’d get talked over or ignored or interrupted. T hardly even looked at me the entire festival; hardly acknowledged my existence save for the maybe once or twice he wanted an answer to a question or something. I swear A was leaving me on read except in person, somehow. I’d say something and nobody would react or respond in any way. I’m not sure if that’s because I’m really just not that funny or what; I know I’ve been borderline socially isolated for the last 5 years now but goddamn. have my people skills really gotten that bad? anyway, they’ve encouraged me for years to try, to put myself out there, to speak up, and here I was trying, and I was getting completely ignored in favor of others. I know I haven’t been around much, but like. shit, man. I only get to see my friends 2, maybe 3 times a year now, and they can’t even be bothered? something about that really fuckin bites.

later friday night, A and T wanted to go walking to other camps to see who all was around. I asked if I could go with them, because I’d been sitting around all day and just wanted to walk. they said okay, and we set off. both of them walked ahead of me and ignored anything I said. we got to the first camp, not far from ours, and talked to some people there. T may have known one of them, I don’t know. they kind of stopped in front of me while we were going in; I had to step around A just to not be in the background standing around like some nobody. the guys we talked to were pretty nice. one asked me a lot of questions about my situation, once he asked where we were from and I said DC area. when the guys were getting ready to leave, dude I was talking to asked my name and shook my hand, held on to it for a bit longer than I was expecting. told me good luck with everything, genuinely. I was all “you too..?” because I wasn’t sure how to react to that. I glanced over at A who was watching this exchange and saw a look on his face I understood but don’t know how to describe. dude let go of my hand and I saw him look back up at me from where he was sitting. suddenly very self-conscious.

we left that camp, but I’d said something else and they ignored me again. walked on ahead, up a hill towards another camp where there was no one. they were about to continue up the hill, again ahead of me, when I decided I had enough. I stopped, said “I’m just gonna go back”, and they looked at me. A said, “back to camp?” I said yeah as I’d already started walking. nothing. no questions, just, okay. I did go back to camp, but sat in my tent for a few minutes trying not to cry, trying to decide what to do since it was only maybe 10pm by that point. I decided to grab up my lantern and walk back to that first camp we went to; maybe the other guys would actually entertain my company. but when I got there they were gone, and I didn’t know who the two people were that were there. awkward. I went back to camp, got into my pajamas, crawled into bed. not sure how the rest of my night went. I may or may not have been asleep around midnight, may have read a little bit before bed. it was nice having those LED string lights in the tent.

saturday morning I woke up early, but managed to fall back asleep and wake up at 8:30 ish. got up, grabbed bananas and another bagel for breakast, went up to the fire, and T’s wife was the only one there, I think. I said good morning to her, went about my business. didn’t say anything for the rest of the morning. I was still pretty upset about the night before. I just sat in my camp chair while more people gathered, ate... maybe one or two people asked me a yes/no question that I could nod an answer to, but aside from that I spoke maybe 3-4 words all morning. I went and got my crochet after sitting around staring at the ground for a bit, worked on a row. watched as T and A and a decent size group took mushrooms and decided to grab up hammocks and go down to the watering hole. I was waiting for any one of them to ask if I wanted to join; nothing. hardly even a glance. I’m sure they could tell I was in a foul mood and didn’t want to deal with me, but, like... I wasn’t about to get up and join them without being invited. I knew full well that if I tagged along I’d be walking behind all of them, listening to them talk, stringing up my hammock in the woods maybe near theirs, and lying there quietly by myself. I’d rather have stayed up at camp and feel alone while being alone, rather than feeling alone surrounded by people I consider friends. after they left I felt like I was about to cry again. just... nothing. not even a glance. nobody even cared that I hadn’t said a word all day. I got up and went back to my tent and let it out. sat there and read a book for a while, but decided to go back up to the fire after so long because it was a nice day and I didn’t want to just spend it sitting in a tent. there was nothing to do, though. I may have grabbed some snacks, shared some, talked a little.

there’s one friend who moved out to colorado for a teaching job, and he’s in about the same boat as I am as far as interacting with our friends. they hardly said much to him either. he was around longer than I was, of course, and even lived with T and A at one point (pretty sure that was the summer I transferred; I remember visiting briefly and staying with T, and he’d mentioned something about Richie’s couch; the couch he was sleeping on for the summer, I guess). he was nice enough to talk to me; I’m sure he noticed I was upset.

at one point I remember hearing that another thunderstorm was rolling in and would be there around 3pm. it was hard to believe, since the day had been so beautiful, but I knew the forecast was calling for it all weekend. I decided a bit too late to just go walking by myself. I put a water bottle, sunglasses, and my phone in my purse, and set out. I ended up going down the path that my friend Mere and I went down last year that led to a clearing by the creek. as I was going down the hill, though, I noticed it started to get muddy. the sky was already darkening, and I knew if I got to the bottom I wouldn’t be getting back up; the mud was slippery and it was a very steep hill. so I turned back. unfortunately it was too late. by the time I got most of the way back up the hill, I felt raindrops. crossing the top of the hill, it started pouring. there’s a pathway for cars to get to other campsites that passes that camp we stopped at the night before, and the pathway is literally always muddy. it was even muddy last year when it was sunny the whole weekend. it was a swamp during that downpour. I managed to make it back to camp, and saw a group of friends (sans those who went to the watering hole) huddled under the big tarp. they’d rescued most of the camp chairs, except some random girl’s chair, and mine. T has this 15-year-old camp chair that’s beat to hell and is about to fall apart and someone rescued that piece of garbage, but not mine. cool. I was already drenched, so I just walked over, got my chair, and brought it under the tarp with the others. not that it helped much.

once the rain let up a bit, I went to my tent and shut myself in. stripped off all my clothes, since I was soaked all the way through. I was pretty sad too; I’d planned for my saturday outfit to be the nicest since it’s the peak night for the festival, but I ruined it. thankfully everything else in my tent stayed perfectly dry (save for a tiny leak near the door, but that was easily mopped up with paper towels), so I just dumped my wet clothes in a pile on the floor near the door and grabbed up dry underwear, warm leggings, and a sweater. brushed out my soaking hair, toweled it off, tied it up, and crawled into bed to warm up. it was really nice just lying there listening to the rain and being warm and dry.

it didn’t sound like the rain had stopped, but since I heard voices by the fire I figured it was probably more drips off the trees than anything. I pulled on the rain jacket I bought and my rain boots and headed out. everyone was sliding around in the mud, some opted to go barefoot. we were standing around, some sitting because their camp chairs were spared, and talking about plans for the evening. Starship Mantis was supposed to start at 8:30, and the bonfire was supposed to be lit about then too. so it was just a matter of waiting until it was okay to go. I think that guy from one of Alec’s bands, the one I very nearly hooked up with last year, dropped by to say hi to Alec and Tom. they were talking for a bit, I think he recognized me, but neither of us said anything. soon enough he was gone again.

a few of us set up a table underneath the big tarp, and I brought a deck of cards, and a few friends played kings while I watched. I didn’t feel like also playing, because there’s a lot of rules and it’s a drinking game (though I’ve played it with water before), but they included me on some of the things the cards called for. like never have I ever; I actually kind of like that one because there’s so many things I’ve never done that most people have, so I can usually knock a point off for everyone. for my first one I said “never have I ever eaten a burrito” and I’m pretty sure someone yelled, lmao. not a lie, I haven’t. second one I wanted to say “never have I ever dated anyone”, but I’m pretty sure T still considers me an ex, so I amended it to “never have I ever dated anyone longer than a month”. T heard that and went “wait. you and [boy I lost my v-card to] weren’t dating??” and I said no; that was the truth. hard to believe, given the weird history we had, but nope. if I’ve dated anyone for any amount of time, T was it. and I don’t even count that anymore.

Tom’s girlfriend is super nice, and she and I talked a bit this farm jam. she brought face and body paint and helped some people with their makeup, I’d brought temp tattoos that came with an order I placed years ago and had never used (they were urban outfitters tats and had some cool designs), and I had roll-on body glitter I bought a few months ago specifically for farm jam. the tattoos were cute; Emily and I found black and pink tear drops on the sheet and did matching eye tats, T’s wife picked the rainbow and put it on her cheek, the friend we’d driven up with put an eye on his forehead and a rose on the top of his hand, Emily put a cat with a top hat and a bowtie on her wrist and a black cat on the other, I had a little banner that said “your mom” that I put on my upper arm, Tom took one tiny little anchor and put it on his upper arm (like a comically tiny muscle tat), and A took a tiny pentagram and put it on the top side of one finger. my banner is still on my arm, lmao.

all of that may or may not have been friday night instead of saturday. because saturday I just remember waiting by the fire, and then soon enough it was time to go to the barn. I put some glitter on my cheeks under my eyes (I’d covered my arms friday night, I think, but it wipes off pretty easily), brought my flower crown, and went with the group that was leaving.

it happened again. nobody said anything to me or even looked at me. we were standing around waiting for Starship to set up, some people went closer to the barn once they did... I was standing by T’s wife who needed a chair due to being 7 months pregnant, then T came back from wherever he was and stood between us, knelt down and talked to her, blah blah. we listened to Starship for a while, but really I was just waiting for the fire. I can’t say I’m the biggest fan of Starship’s music. they got the fire going pretty late and we moved up the hill to watch. it starts with people throwing a lot of paper onto this massive wood pile, and then they start lighting it. the whole thing goes up in a matter of minutes. a group went up the hill with me, but they took their places closer to the pile. I went to the edge because I don’t like being close when it gets so hot, and it does get hot. nobody followed. I think Richie saw and was debating joining me, but also opted not to. either way, I waited til it was mostly up in flames, then walked back to camp alone. I was still in a godawful mood. I grabbed 4 slices of cheese out of my cooler and brought them back to my tent; made two cheese sandwiches with the bread I brought, got into my pajamas, and sat in bed to eat and read. I was probably asleep before midnight. didn’t even bother going back to the barn, but most people were up til they stopped the late-night sets around 4:30. I heard them come back to camp because they were talking so damn loud. nobody noticed I was gone, seems like. guess they thought I was just being my “usual”.

I woke up sunday morning probably around 6:30. I know I woke up earlier, but I managed to fall back asleep again. some people were already up, starting to pack up. sunday morning is everyone’s least favorite. we all have to tear down camp and clean up and it’s just miserable; even more so for the people that get really fucked up saturday night. so after a quick breakfast of a banana and a granola bar, I started packing up too. it was even worse than setting up because of the mud; I couldn’t go into my tent with my shoes on but I needed to go in and out to get stuff. I’m really glad I brought a shoe tray to put my muddy shoes on, because I used that as a platform to stand on inside the tent without having to take off my muddy boots. at one point I felt like I might pass out so A helped me move the rest of the stuff to my car; thankfully I did get most of it. after a while we said our goodbyes and headed out. T came over to give me a hug, his wife did too. just the hellos and goodbyes.

I talked to A a little in the car. right before we left and on the way out I guess he decided to acknowledge my existence and talk to me again. I was trying to nudge around the topic of why I was in such a foul mood half the festival so he’d bring it up, but he never did. closest I got was saying I didn’t know if I wanted to go next year, but the way the conversation turned it sounded like I was just uncomfortable because I didn’t know half the people in our camp; a lot of the strangers were either friends with T or another friend, Brad. I didn’t tell him I’ve got no plans to visit for festivus or new years either, now.

when we got back to johnstown we both took showers (god it is so nice to use a real bathroom after using a bucket and a camp shower all weekend), and then cooked up two boxes of mac & cheese for lunch. sat around for a little before I decided I should go. I also forgot about end-of-july-4th-weekend traffic, and ended up losing about an hour to just sitting. for no reason. no accidents, just people being fucking morons. it was about an hour from brookville to johnstown, then another 3-3.5 hours home from there. I went and picked up fitzie after I cleaned up all my muddy shit (with my brother’s help), and I really think I pushed it because today was a serious crash day. mom snapped at me earlier because I didn’t move my stuff I’d set out on the deck to dry into the garage, since she emailed me this morning to do it as it was pouring down rain, but I didn’t have the energy to argue with her. “it only takes all of 10 minutes, I don’t see what’s so hard...” “yeah, okay.” yeah, all of 10 minutes, between succumbing for 2 hours to my first crash of the day after folding laundry (not even putting it away; just folding. I almost couldn’t get myself off the floor and into bed), cleaning out two large and very smelly rat cages after I woke up, staving off another crash... I figured it’d stop raining and the stuff would dry out eventually. not sure what the big deal was. I didn’t have the energy to take things from the deck in multiple trips down the stairs and into the garage, where mom parks her car. I didn’t even have the energy to read most of the tumblr posts I scrolled through today. but there was no explaining that to her. she’ll never understand how shitty my energy levels are.

I got a lot of bug bites this weekend. a ton of mosquito bites, which I’ve started reacting strongly to, and probably a spider bite on my neck near my collarbone. I got a bunch of mosquito bites on the tops of my feet probably friday night, because I woke up needing to scratch them a lot. probably let some fucker in at some point in the night and it had a little feast. the bites on my legs turned into welts, and I think one even bruised a little. hopefully no tick bites, but even if I did get one... I’ve already had Lyme disease, what more can they do to me?

I’m just tired. I don’t feel like my friends don’t still care about me, or that they dislike me (I don’t think?), but I did get this gutting feeling that they wouldn’t miss me at all if I weren’t there. they might have even had a better time without me. must’ve been saturday I had another mood dip, just lying in my tent crying. feeling completely unwanted, unloveable (because what do I even have to offer? I don’t even eat burritos, fuck’s sake. I don’t do anything ‘fun’, I don’t like a lot of things most people like... what place do I even have in this world? who would ever want this?), just.. not enjoying the feeling that my friends wouldn’t care if I weren’t even there. I still care about them a ton. I realized I’d been thinking “I just want to go home” since friday night, and I was already decided on skipping new years and festivus this year. I’m so tired of dealing with this. after A managed to get back on speaking terms with me, now he’s being insensitive again. I’m tired of the back and forth. I’d rather be at home and be alone because I choose to be, not be surrounded by people I care about and be made to feel alone. I think Richie noticed I’d been crying, once I’d decided my face was at least presentable and had gone back out to the fire. I couldn’t hide the sniffles from the stuffy nose, and he turned and talked to me a little. asked me about my traveling this week. sometimes you just need that. someone to ask you things and talk to you, even if they don’t really care about the answers. I was really grateful to have that.

anyways. gotta get up early. I’m about to have a miserable day tomorrow, and I’ve got so much to do.

#farm jam rambles

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ruralurbanite · 5 years

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Should you let your hen brood and hatch chicken eggs?

I’ll never forget waking up on an early October morning to hear the undeniable sound of new life unbound—PEEP PEEP PEEP! I was shaking like a leaf with excitement. Our Easter Egger hen Lucille 2 (from the show Arrested Development, also we already had a Lucille, so it was perfect!) had turned broody. Very broody. She had taken up residence in the E-Coop: our mildly embarrassing term for the emergency coop

which, by the way, all poultry keepers should have one OR MORE. Purchase or build an extra, usually smaller sized, enclosure for the INEVITABLE times you will have to separate one of your chickens for a host of reasons.

She was the new member of the flock and my mate Joseph and I thought “Let Her Stay”:

She can catch a break from those savages(the rest of the gang)

This is a natural process

Our financial situation, our schedule, and our backyard chicken situation were all such that the addition of 2 more birds would not be a problem.

A lot of time went by. It seemed much longer than the standard 28 days of incubation an egg goes through. We had to keep feed and water containers right up to her face as she refused to leave the nest box. We were growing concerned. We thought she was killing herself to sit on unfertilized eggs. We were THIS CLOSE to aborting the mission—no pun intended. Of the three eggs she sat on, two were born. My heart sang at the site!

Of the two bitties born, one was the offspring of Lucille II the Easter Egger, and one was from a different hen. I don’t know if there is data about chicken mothers knowing their chicks, but the Cuckooed Maran hen was trying to get in the coop that morning—so maybe the other baby was hers?

Lucille II was the perfect mother, the perfect broody hen. Puffing her chest at us, HISSING at us, striking to bite us if we tested her patience to its limit. The two little birds grew up adorably with their mother. Not a single health problem, thank you world. It was so adorable to watch them eating together, the babies all clumsy.

So far, the journey was perfect. Magical, Educational, Fun. Then things took a turn…when the two little babies grew up and into cockerels. Our male to female ratio was finally tipped the wrong way AKA too many males.

Cockerel: An Adolescent Male Chicken. A male baby chick grows up to be a cockerel. This is before he is a sexually matured adult, at which point, he becomes a rooster.

The rooster to hen ratio should be, at a minimum, 1:4. This rule is especially stringent for backyard chicken families. (if you don’t live on a good amount of land, where the chickens can spread out, the stakes get higher, the probability for bad outcomes goes up)

The Turning Point

The cockerel brothers became nuisances, then they became straight up terrorists. They drew blood on people. They made every single simple chore, like feeding the birds, a daunting obstacle course that no one wanted to participate in. They were radical. I couldn’t ever figure out why—and i am usually awesome at that; animal behavior as well as hardcore deductive reasoning/analyzing/diagnosing. Joseph and I wondered if perhaps, since they were raised by their chicken mother, and not a human: is that what made them so adverse to human interaction? Did they encounter a trauma that we knew nothing about?

***If any of you have any ideas or input, about why these two chickens grew up to be vicious to humans; I’d love to hear from you, I’d appreciate it so much, as this has perplexed me for years***

I will hold on to any animal for any reason, and even I knew that these birds HAD to find a new home…a place where they could be the bad-ass roosters they wanted to be. We were lucky. We knew several people that had chickens, and a couple of them had land. The rooster bros went with Tony; a man who had his sh*t together, had a genuine passion for chickens specifically, and checked off all the requirements for adding two new males to a flock. Before Joseph befriended Tony, I had the cockerel/rooster brothers on Craigslist, for quite a while. A lot of people have roosters on Craigslist. It sucks. Unwanted roosters, rooster being given away for free. Its a serious issue with not a lot of answers—unless you’re willing and able to cull members of your flock. I am not. Many are not. (I cant imagine the cognitive dissonance, or total lack of understanding of every generation before us, if they saw us desperately trying to home roosters for free because we couldn’t keep them as pets/property dwellers. WOW, ey?)

If the birds would have been hens, i bet we would have kept them. It really sucked, i WANTED to keep them; especially because they were the offspring of the birds i loved so dearly. But they really were monsters. I held out for as long as i could. Good News is that they were on Cloud 9 at Tony’s Place! Yaaaay!

Before they were born, i hadn’t even THOUGHT of “making” more birds through breeding. Then i thought about breeding! And how awesome it would be to either make our own hybrid with chosen qualities, or how fun it would be to have mutt chickens that would eventually show some amazing plumage, pattern and color! But, i respect and hope to one day participate in the ALBC, or American Livestock Breeds Conservatory, so much, that I’d quite likely not do the mutt thing, and get registered with a breed on the list in need, and keep it going. I also realized how cool it would be to keep our “poultry operation” going—especially if we were going to get serious with it—without having to purchase more birds. This would keep the farm much more biosecure.

Biosecurity is one of the most important aspects of a farm, there are criteria for being approved, and its main goal is to prevent the spread of diseases. If you do ever purchase chickens, try to get them from a NPIP certified hatchery or farm.

Sorry I got a little off track.

In conclusion: NO DONT DO IT.

Joseph and I thought we were in a place in which we could take on two more birds no problem. No one would have expected the outcome; of two psycho-killer birds—BUT EITHER WAY, WE WERE WRONG. It was super fun to watch them grow up but…

If you do not live on acreaege, large land, or if you have no escape route in case events take a turn; i DO NOT suggest that you let your hen sit on her own eggs.

I have so much more to say…Perhaps another day :-)

Extremely Important & Educational:

ALBC—Now The LC—The Livestock Conservatory

https://livestockconservancy.org/ and https://livestockconservancy.org/index.php/heritage/internal/poultry-breeds

They’re involved in keeping breeds and heritage breeds from becoming extinct. They have one of the best OUTREACH programs I’ve ever seen and their RESOURCES are endless and Top-Notch. They’ve been part of my guidance since day one.

THANK YOU ALBC

#baby chicks #Chickens #backyard chickens #hatching eggs #hens #chickens #backyard chicks

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dorothydelgadillo · 5 years

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You Need to Stop Working While Attending Marketing Conferences (a "Because I Care" Intervention)

It was 2014. I was so excited to go to my first INBOUND, but by my second morning in Boston, I was already miserable.

Before the sessions even started, I knew I was going to be missing at least one of my scheduled talks -- probably two -- and would likely need to work through some of them in the afternoon.

I spent those three days constantly trolling for open outlets, empty seats, and spots in Club INBOUND, because I still had to work.

While I try to come across as a confident, professional, Totally Put Together™ adult as much as possible, I was completely stressed out during that week.

When I finally boarded my train back home to Maryland that Friday, I felt somewhat inspired and marginally excited by the little that I was able to learn.

But this tiny Carrie Bradshaw that lives in my brain couldn't help but wonder:

"Was going to INBOUND really worth that level of pain and anxiety?"

Of course it wasn't.

But it was also my fault. And if you relate to that story, I regret to inform you that it's your fault, too.

You see, working at conferences is probably one of the most insidious issues we marketers are terrible at addressing.

We're downright impressive in our utter refusal to discuss it openly and honestly.

We accept it as a given. Like having to eat vegetables or pay taxes. We put on this big show about how we're not allowed to be happy at conferences; instead, we must always be a slave to our masters.

So, we pack our bags with a sigh and resign ourselves to yet another conference we'll never totally commit to being present for.

My suitcase for #INBOUND17; not pictured --socks, scattered hopes and dreams.

That couldn't be further from the truth. We're acting like victims about a situation totally within our control.

So, today, I'm breaking the silence. Together, we're going to rip off the band-aid and have a real talk about how you can take control of your own marketing conference experiences.

Because if your inbox is anything like mine -- chock-a-block full of conference announcements, early bird ticket specials, and calls for speakers -- you know the time to start planning is now.

You Need to Set Expectations with Clients Early & Start Planning Right Now

"So, I'm going to be at a conference next week, and I'm going to need to reschedule and/or cancel some of our check-ins."

Please don't ever do that.

If you know you're going to a conference, let your clients know as soon as possible. "I know it's May, but I wanted us to look ahead to November, as I now know I'll be attending XYZ conference."

Clients don't like being surprised. Clients do like knowing you're always planning, working ahead, and thinking about their needs.

When you have these conversations -- you may decide to wait until closer to the event to hash out the tactical plan, even though you let them know early about your absence -- you need to be very clear about a couple of things:

How much you will (or won't) be working during your time at the conference; and

How reachable you will (or won't) be during your time at the conference.

Obviously, you know your clients and your workload best, but my recommendation is that you set boundaries with clients, instead of letting them tell you how much you will or won't be working during that week.

"But, Liz. I'm special. My industry is different. My company is unique. My clients are needier than anyone else's on the planet."

You know what? You're probably right.

However, in my experience, there are two guiding principles that work for every single type of organization -- B2B, B2C, B2G, nonprofits, food trucks, higher education, puppeteers -- in these expectation-setting conversations.

First, be upfront and let them know you'll have limited access to phone and email, but provide them with either backup contacts or assurances that you'll be checking your emails and voicemails periodically, in case there are emergencies.

Second, make an action plan everyone agrees to and work ahead, so you don't have to do work during the week of your conference -- and, more importantly, no one expects you to. Don't put big due dates in that timeframe, and don't commit to meetings or strategy sessions.

"But I Work In-House & Don't Have Clients"

Even though you don't have a portfolio of clients to manage, you need to prepare in advance and set boundaries with the people you work with and for.

Heck, if you're still in the process of getting approval to attend a conference like INBOUND or IMPACT Live, include a plan as part of your pitch goes into detail (with timelines) about how you'll work ahead.

That way you not only increase your odds of getting that conference opportunity approved because you're such a great planner and team player, you also have set the expectation in advance that you do not intend to work at the same velocity.

👋 Also, howdy, neighbor. I don't have clients either. I work in-house for IMPACT. But guess what?

I only got to have this moment where I danced (aggressively) and sang (loudly) along to "Greased Lightning" with Ann Handley in the balcony during at break at IMPACT Live last year because I planned in advance.

Far in advance.

Otherwise, I would have been in some corner downstairs, editing, publishing, and hating life. Because our articles, newsletters, and podcasts do not publish themselves.

Be Honest with Yourself & Stick to Your Guns

No matter how much future-proofing you do with clients or coworkers, you need to make peace with two unimpeachable truths:

I have never gone to a conference where I haven't had to spend some time doing work. Neither will you.

Your clients and your boss aren't your biggest barriers to being present at a conference -- you are.

So, before you board the plane, train, or automobile destined for your conference, you need to have a very serious conversation with yourself about your boundaries.

Here's how I do it.

At least two months in advance, I take a sheet of paper and divide it into four columns with the following category headings:

LOL, Absolutely Not

The Rulebreakers

Where I Am Weak

The Show Must Go On

"LOL, Absolutely Not"

In this category, list the projects, assignments, and clients you will absolutely not be working on during your conference.

This list is the hill you will die on, your line in the sand, or whatever metaphor you want to apply. Once you have this list in-hand, immediately work through it and make a plan to either get ahead on those projects or talk to those clients.

This is your most important and time sensitive to-do list. So, create it as soon as possible, and then get to work immediately on putting your mind at ease with plans and boundary-setting conversations.

"The Rulebreakers"

No matter how many boundaries you put in place or look-ahead conversations you have, you know there are those people who will not listen. They will still call and email and smoke signal and send carrier pigeons to your hotel.

Like the clients who text my husband at 4 a.m. on a Sunday at least once a month or email him on Christmas Eve about something asinine that could have waited until Monday morning or, you know, a day that isn't a holiday.

(I have elaborate revenge fantasies about these people. I'm also aware I have issues.)

So, make a list of those people. Then... what's next is up to you.

You can either accept that some folks are going to be reaching out to you while you're gone -- and sometimes for good reason, especially if they reside in the C-suite of your organization -- or you can have some heart-to-hearts.

For those you decide to talk to, to set those extra super-duper boundaries, you may want to put an emergency contact in place. You know, someone they can talk to in your absence.

And for those you do decide to grant a pass to -- either because of their position or the fact that they don't listen -- one word of warning.

This list of exceptions should be extremely short. Mine is only five people long -- and two of them are Tony Danza and the Pope, because I'm Italian.

That's the level of exclusivity we should be dealing with here.

If everyone is a VIP, no one is a VIP. Capiche?

"Where I Am Weak"

Now, list out those projects or tasks you cannot let go of -- you know the ones I'm talking about.

No one is bothering you about them, but you can't stop tinkering, offering advice, or checking in on these tasks. In fact, the only one creating urgency around them is you. In your brain. To yourself.

You monster.

Once you have your list of weaknesses, do two things:

First, find people to take over as many of those tasks as possible. There's a good chance you won't be able to do this for everything, but this is that moment where you need to let go.

"But, but, I'm the only one who can do this."

Lies! That's not true, and you know it!

Moreover, no organization should run that way.

As terrible as it sounds, you need to work yourself out of a job and not be the only one who can do something.

We all want to feel needed and indispensable to our teams, but you need to be able to step away from what you do for work -- no matter how big or small -- for your own sanity. You can't always be on.

So, stop volunteering or holding on, and start delegating.

And if you're still saying, "Liz, I am the exception to this rule," and you're not a CEO or startup founder, you have larger issues you need to address.

You need a friend, a priest, a dirty martini that's heavy on the olives and also a good listener... I cannot help you.

Second, find someone who will yell at you when they see you creeping.

What I mean by that is, someone who will say to you, "You are not supposed to be doing that. You said you wouldn't be doing that. DUDE, stop what you're doing right now."

They can be with you at the conference or back at your home office. It doesn't matter. This level of intervention works well face-to-face and from afar.

In case you're wondering, Jessie-Lee is that person for me.

"Why are you on Slack?"

"You're supposed to be off."

"I appreciate you, but go away."

"Put that laptop down, or so help me..."

"I see what you're doing -- stop it."

She says these things to me. A lot.

Here are Jessie-Lee and I hanging at #INBOUND17.

Your person also needs to do this. It's the most necessary kind of tough love, and I would not make it through conferences without her verbal shakedowns.

So, go get you a Jessie-Lee. Not mine, of course.

"The Show Must Go On"

Look, some things are still going to need to happen. A phone call here. An email there. Some important items that will require your attention at some point, or at least periodic check-ins.

So, make your list of people, projects, and priorities that must continue with your input (predicted or unexpected) while you're at your conference.

Much like the "you get a pass" exceptions on your Rulebreakers list, this should be short. But be aware that it will (usually) scale with your position or tier within an organization.

For instance, if you're a director, VP, or C-level executive, you know there's no way you can just take a vacation from your business 100% at a work conference. That's not reality.

But that's also why you made the other three columns on your list.

You will have room for these interludes if you've done a good job of drawing your lines in the sand and being clear about what can be delegated, planned for in advance, or pushed off until later.

The shows in this category can only go on without you losing your mind if you've made room for them.

If you don't make the room, you'll go crazy. And you'll have no one to be mad at except yourself.

Don't Waste Your Investment in Yourself

You know what sucks? Spending so much time pitching how valuable a conference or event will be to your career and your company, only to fritter away that investment with poor planning and a lack of self-discipline.

It blows my mind how many times I watch marketers remain a slave to their calendars and their laptops while at a conference, when they could have avoided it entirely.

They'll physically put their body in a room for a session, but spend the whole time writing up an email newsletter or scheduling social posts they put off doing before they left. Sometimes for multiple sessions!

They'll miss mind-blowing keynotes, because they have to take that one call from a client they failed to set clear expectations with far enough ahead of time -- now they're stuck being available, because otherwise they'll fail that client and cause larger issues down the road.

Then those very same marketers will turn around and say, "Yeah, that conference just wasn't worth it."

No. The conference was worth it, but you did yourself a disservice. You set yourself up to be in a position where you could not be present.

I know this from experience. I've been that marketer.

Don't be like Liz from #INBOUND14.

The only thing standing between you and remarkable, career-shaping, life-changing conference experiences where you get to learn and explore and network and get inspired is you.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to start making my plans for IMPACT Live.

(I know myself. If I don't start planning for Q3 in Q1, I've already lost the battle.)

from Web Developers World https://www.impactbnd.com/blog/stop-working-at-marketing-conferences-tips

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taneyhana · 5 years

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Why I Kissed You || Alyssa & Taney || August 2016

Alyssa comes over to try on some of Taney’s clothes as she packs up her place at Oceanside to move into Lucas, wanting to get rid of as much as possible. Things heat up in between outfits and Taney lures Alyssa into her bed.

Taney: Taney maneuvered through boxes to answer the door. She knew Alyssa was coming, so she put on a black lace bralette and tiny denim shorts. "Hey gorgeous!" Taney greeted her and pulled her in. "I don't even know how it happened. I guess I got less worried about buying clothes when I won Ink Masters. Anyways, I know you've got similar style to me so try on some things, take as much as you want. Seriously, I'm naked 90% of the time."

Alyssa peeked her head in and looked at the sea of boxes. Definitely the right place. She smiled and waved. "Hey thanks for inviting me." She followed Taney as she pulled her in. Alyssa liked Taney, she had an edge to her, but she was still nice to Alyssa. "Uh well.. which ones are you keeping? I don't want to take anything that you still want."

Taney: "The stuff I need I already chucked into a suitcase. You're good to try on and take whatever's up here." Taney led her up to the loft part of the apartment that she'd used as the bedroom. "There's the closet and dresser, and the basket over here has clean laundry I never folded." She pointed as she talked and flopped onto the bed. "What's new with you, gorgeous? Have you been going to Flex Appeal without me?"

Alyssa nodded and looked around the apartment. She glanced around the room at the different things she was pointing out. There seemed to be a lot that would work for her. "Without you? No not really. I didn't sign up for a membership.. just sort of mooching off of yours" She laughed lightly as she picked up a shirt from the basket, holding it up to her frame. "I got a new job" She bounced on her toes unable to hide the excitement she felt just mentioning a new job.

Taney: smiled and laughed, "Mooch away, pretty lady, I enjoy your company!" Taney waved for her to try the shirt on. "Congratulations! Tell me about the new job!"

Alyssa was not shy about her body. She had been a stripper in the past, amongst other jobs. Most of the time in the apartment she wore a t-shirt and underwear. Cavin didn't seem bothered by it so she kept it that way. Taking off her shirt, she revealed her bare skin. Alyssa rarely wore a bra. The one she had was in the wash anyway. "Well, it's at the hospital.." She pulled the shirt down over her head. "And it is in the Community Outreach program. So I am super excited about that"

Taney: Taney had seen plenty of Alyssa at yoga, she knew the lines her body could make and the way she moved. Taney had also always been vocal in her compliments when she thought someone was attractive. She watched the shirt go over her friend's head and thought about those toned muscles while she listened to her talk, "CC West? They do amazing things there. I get free child care there for Wednesday without compromising her learning if I would've put her in a posh one. What does Community Outreach entail?"

Alyssa looked for a mirror and upon finding one looked at herself in the shirt. It looked good on her. It didn't fight too tight, but it wasn't massive. Besides, she was in no position to turn down clothes. "Yeah I am so excited to start working there. Free child care? Oh I have heard that's a big deal. Girls I used to work with really struggled with child care." She grabbed a pair of black jeans, and held them up. they were a little short and Alyssa knew if she tried to fit her butt into the jeans they would be even shorter. Still, she would try them on and possibly cut them off into shorts. Alyssa pulled down her manly cargo-esque shorts. "Well it's just doing things that are helpful. So doing things for the homeless, or trauma victims or big tragedies. Things like that" Stepping out of her shorts, she pulled the jeans up over her pale purple thong. Wiggling her hips to try to fit them over her thighs, she jumped and they slipped on.

Taney: "It is a big deal since rent in Los Angeles costs so much. Her father and I would have split the cost if there was any, but luckily we won't have to. I don't want to split or share anything thing with that guy." She laughed and rolled off the bed, slipping into the closet to grab one of the large hemp bags she took with her when she went grocery shopping. She nodded, "Is that putting you under Boyce? I know he handles emergency response stuff." She watched her butt wiggle into the jeans. "If the jeans aren't fitting right it's probably because you'd got such a better butt than me. There are skirts and dresses, too... some might even be good for the new j-o-b."

Alyssa rolled her eyes at the mention of rent in Los Angeles. "Don't even get me started. I checked prices when I first got here and I wanted to cry. Luckily, Cavin is the nicest person on this earth and lets me stay with him as long as I take care of the place." She turned and looked at Taney when she mentioned her ex. "Yeah, my ex was pretty bad too." She smiled having yet another thing in common with her. "Yeah I'm under Boyce. I don't know him too well but he seems nice." She laughed at the mention of her butt. "I have the huge Greek thighs that make pants impossible. I will definitely take a look at the dresses though. I need to look more professional." She slid the pants back down wondering if she should take them or not.

Taney: Wednesday's father did the same thing. I was living in a Super 8 hotel when I first moved to Los Angeles and I had a decent amount of money but not enough for a first and last month's deposit." Taney shrugged, she may be afraid of Mav but she still loved him...even though she knew it was unrequited and toxic. "Boyce is awesome, very funny and nice." Taney folded the pants and tucked them in the bag. "Who knows, maybe the yoga will lean out those sexy Greek thighs. I like 'em how they are though." She giggled and playfully flicked Alyssa's leg. "There are heels and flats in the closet too. I wear size 6."

Alyssa nodded thinking it would have been nice to have been in a hotel for a while. Luckily her shelter streak didn't last too long here. "Well at least you are here and away from him right?" She smiled hearing about her new coworker. "That's awesome. I can't wait to get started. I hope I do okay." She laughed at the thought of her thighs ever getting smaller. "That's pretty much impossible. They stay this size no matter what." Alyssa started laughing when she was offered shoes. Looking down at her severely worn tennis shoes she wiggled her toes. "Yeah I am a size nine."

Taney: She nodded, "Yeah, but it's still stressful being homeless. Lucas won't let me end up on the street, but I don't want to impose too long." Taney smiled a little, Alyssa was right, anywhere was better than back at her ex's house. "When are you starting?" Taney popped off the bed and moved to the small top left drawer of her dresser. It was supposed to be for jewelry but as she'd packed she chucked bits and bobs she found. She pulled out a gift card for DSW and another for target and flopped back on the bed, tucking them in the hemp bag. "Damn, I'll probably have to post them on the network then. I'm sure you'll find a nice pair of black heels and black flats for the new job. I vote heels though because you have to show of all of this." Taney smirked and gestured to Alyssa's ass and legs.

Alyssa looked down still unwilling to tell people what her living situation had been previous to Cavin. "That's nice of Lucas." She shrugged and looked back at Taney "I think Monday. Or that's what I would assume. Some paperwork might still need to be ironed out." She took off her shirt and flipped through the dresses. There were so many, but Alyssa did not want to be greedy. "Heels I can do. I can walk in heels like nobody's business." She was used to heels from her stripping days. She laughed when Taney gestured to her ass. Wiggling her butt playfully, she grinned and turned back towards the dresses, searching through them. Trying to find the perfect first day outfit.

Taney: Taney saw a lot of her self in Alyssa and it made her appreciate where she was. It also made her happy that Micah was helping people like Alyssa, but Taney kept these thoughts to herself. Instead, she watched Alyssa flip through the dresses. “Try them all on. I packed what I’m keeping and it’ll be a pain in the ass to lug them to a donation place. Seriously, most of them are work appropriate with some tights and a cardigan. Do you have stockings, a garter belt, and all that?”

Alyssa turned and looked at all the dresses. She of course didn't need all of them. She'd rather see that some get donated. She glanced at taney pure confusion written on her face. "What is a garter belt?" She picked a simple black dress off the hanger and held it up. "Think this one will look okay?"

Taney: With a smile Taney popped into the closet where she’d left lingerie she’d not packed, a lot of which still had tags. Her sex life happened to entail the destruction of lingerie with more frequency than even she cared to admit. So she rifled through and turned up with new things. She set it all on the bed and approached Alyssa slowly. “May I dress you up and show you? The dress will look lovely over it all, I promise.”

Alyssa looked at all of the lacy, silky things laid out on the bed. It reminded her of her days as a stripper. But even then, nothing she owned was that nice. Tracing her fingertips over the material, she couldn't help but imagine what it would feel like on and if she'd look good. 'Okay.. sure" She smiled but kept her eyes on the lingerie she already started to want.

Taney: Taney was slow and careful with her movements. As much of a stereotype as it may have been, women were truly a harder read than men. What she new about Alyssa always surprised her and she knew that they were similar and some ways, her quietness at times and the maturity and expressions on her face made Taney think there was even more they had in common that had yet to be revealed. So, as her finger slipped underneath the fabric touching Alyssa’s skin, she let her fingers spread wide, enjoying her warm skin rather than pressing her lips to the exposed flesh. Alyssa’s eyes were on the lingerie and Taney’s were on hers. Taney softly turned her friend at the hips so that her bare body faced the mirror. She took the time to explain how it worked, why it worked, and the perfect lines and styles for Alyssa’s body type. Taney’s fingers drew those lines across Alyssa’s skin and when she was done, wound up and wanting to taste her she kissed Alyssa’s shoulder before resting her chin here. Looking in the mirror Taney locked eyes with Alyssa, trying to read how she felt about being touched, kissed, and doted on by another woman. “You are so absolutely beautiful, Alyssa.” With a dreamy sigh she laid on the bed next to the lingerie. She had made the first move, now Alyssa would have to choose, put on the lingerie and the dress or take the kiss and put a temporary pause on the closet raid.

Alyssa watched as Taney traced her fingertips across her skin. She listened carefully to everything Taney said, being drawn in naturally by Taney's magnetism. Taney kissing her shoulder like that sent shivers through her body. This wasn't like when she worked at the club. The girls all played, but were all rolling on something or another. It was just a side effect. This was real. Taney's comment and her interest. Alyssa naturally turned and watched as Taney went back to the bed. Like a bug drawn to the light, Alyssa followed without hesitation. Climbing on the bed, she flung one leg over Taney, straddling her. "You're beautiful too." Her hands moved down and tucked under Taney's shirt.

Taney: It was a pleasant surprise to see Alyssa taking the initiative. When Alyssa’s hands wandered up her shirt she let her own wander up the girl’s arms until the made it to her neck, pulling the girl down to her for a kiss. Taney let her fingers tangle in the soft brown hair as her lips parted and her tongue tasted. It was always exciting to find someone new to take in. Alyssa had always been high on her mental list of people to play with and now that it was happening she took her time to drink her in. When Taney’s green eyes opened there was a cat-like grin on her face. She rolled Alyssa over and rocked her hips into the young woman. “I’d like to play with you, if you want.” Taney was, as per usual, in the mood. Kissing was one thing, but she wouldn’t move forward without the okay. As she waited her hands pawed at the exposed bits of Alyssa’s flesh, tickling her gently.

#closed #image deletion repost

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