#ok the first song i thought of turned out to be from the 80s and the second one turned out to be from the noughties but i think i rallied!!

[pmitchell]

getting the hang of it. (pt. 1) | jake “hangman” seresin x reader 

warnings: A sexual harassment scene, please tread carefully. MORE ANGST! I swear writing angst with Hangman is just fun, there’s a slight fluffy scene on this one, but the next one will have even more!

pairings: Jake “Hangman” Seresin x reader

word count: 2,539 (9 minutes reading time)

author’s notes: I’m proud of the title ok :) hahaha. Anyway, reader is Penny Benjamin’s younger sister; biological, adopted, half-sibling, you’re free to choose! 

EDIT: Part two is right here!

Your sister had warned you about the pilots who were regulars at her bar; do not engage in anything with them, and if one asked you to get on a plane with them, say no. Right off the bat, you already knew which ones are trouble. The guy that looked like a Malibu Ken doll was called Hangman; his friend Coyote was the cute and nice one, but seemed to be in the habit of hanging out with the wrong crowd; and then there’s Rooster. To quote your sister, Penny, he’s the sweet and damaged one.

There’s a table at the Hard Deck right by the jukebox that basically had your name on it; everybody knew that’s where you would always sit and for some reason there was an unwritten rule that only you and your invited guests can sit around there. The first day of TOPGUN training for the new recruits and Hangman was already leaning over the jukebox, putting in a quarter and picking an uptempo love song from the 80s.

“God, I love this song!” He said, looking at you. “Don’t you?”

You looked up from your book and shrugged, “I’m more of a Frank Sinatra kind of girl,” you said over the noise.

He acknowledged your answer with a slow nod, “Hangman,” he offered his hand to shake yours. 

“That’s unfortunate,” you shook his hand, pretending like Penny hadn’t already briefed you that the pilots would always introduce themselves with callsigns, just like your father did. 

“It’s my callsign,” he explained.

“Ah,” you nodded, going back to reading your book without introducing yourself or entertaining the fact that he was a pilot.

“Why are you reading at a bar?” He asked.

“I’m waiting for a friend, and generally when people see the book, they leave me alone,” you answered, hinting that he should do so as well.

Hangman pursed his lips, his ego clearly hurt by your rejection since he was used to having girls fawn all over him. “Duly noted, Ma’am,” he nodded out of respect. “I will leave you alone,” he said.

“Thank you,” you nodded in return.

“Are you following me?” Hangman suddenly asked while you were tending the bar one night.

“Excuse me?” You asked as you wiped down the beer glasses you had just rinsed.

“I thought you said you wanted me to leave you alone, and yet here you are at my favorite bar,” he smirked.

You shook your head, amazed how he could just twist and turn things to fit his little scenario.

“I think I should be the one saying that to you since this is my sister’s bar?” You raised an eyebrow.

Hangman raised an eyebrow to mirror yours. “Penny’s your sister?” He asked.

“Mhm,” you nodded. “So you be careful now, because one wrong step and I have the authority to ring that bell,” you looked over at the bell right above your head, and so did he.

Over the next few weeks, Hangman would continue to try and talk to you. Sometimes you’d help Penny at the bar when you’ve got nothing better to do, or just hangout there with your friends and he would be absolutely relentless. Asking Penny about you or even trying to woo your friend into giving him your number. You’d fall for his charms if you noticed how he could be just the worst bully at times.

Some college kids were learning how to play pool at the table, and he’d intimidate them enough into giving it up. Sometimes he’d even bully the other pilots, which you thought should be breaking some kind of bro code at the Navy. 

Hangman even bullied your date into dumping you right before your second date. He saw him pick you up at the bar and he had been fuming out of his ears all night, especially when your date led you out to the patio where he gave you a kiss and promised to meet you again next weekend. When next weekend rolled around, you waited for him at the bar, but he was a no show.

“Hangman told him to never come back,” Jimmy said, handing you a glass of beer.

“What?” You asked, incredulous.

“Young man was here half an hour ago, but then Hangman told him you weren’t interested and that he shouldn’t come back. So he left,” Jimmy shrugged, going away to the other patrons.

You turned to the pool tables where Hangman was bent over, lining his stick with the cue ball, and marched towards him. He looked up just in time to see you with smoke coming out of your ears.

“What is your problem?” You asked, keeping your voice level even if you wanted to slap that smug smile off his face so badly.

“I don’t follow,” he shrugged.

“You just can’t stand it, can you? You can’t take the fact that I refuse to fall head over heels for you and worship the ground you walk on, so now you make it a point to just vex me?” You called him out right in front of the other pilots.

Hangman was truly taken aback, never been called out in front everyone like this before. He tried to speak, but he truly could not think of any justifications for his action other than seeing you with someone else made him utterly jealous.

“You know what? If you hadn’t been such a jerk, you might have had a slight chance, but that is long gone now,” you said, turning back on your heels and grabbing your purse to head out. Disappointed and annoyed that you had gotten all dressed up and cute for nothing because of him.

Right as you were about to walk out the door, Penny rang the bell and looked at Hangman pointedly. First time in the history of The Hard Deck, a Navy pilot was going to have to buy rounds for everybody. The man sighed, mood ruined and completely defeated as everybody cheered. Your visits to The Hard Deck lowered after that, and if you did visit, you made it a point to stay far away from him. If you happened to be helping Penny tend the bar, he would not be the one ordering.

People say there is a thin line between love and hate. It was not the case for you. You strongly hated the man who thinks he was better than everyone else and that he can get away with anything. For him, however, the line was a little bit blurry. Ever since you confronted him and his ego was bruised, he had been living in denial; he didn’t know how to deal his feelings for you. So, like most babies and teenagers, he lashed out and decided that if you hated him, then he hated you too.

You remembered watching Hangman celebrate graduating TOPGUN with the rest of the pilots and that he had been at the top of his class. You helped Penny carry their beers and food out to the patio; you could feel his eyes on you, but you refused to look up to meet them. Setting the cartons of cold beer and a platter of seafood on the table, you went back inside and that was the last you saw of him.

That was until today. Wearing a blue satin dress that hugged your wonderful figure, you stopped by The Hard Deck for some drinks. You sat on one of the bar stools and pulled your hair up, fanning yourself at the heat and humidity even if your dress was revealing plenty.

“You’re back early,” Penny said, looking at her watch that said 8PM. How was the wedding?” Penny asked, handing you a cold bottle of beer that you immediately pressed to your neck, relieved to finally feel something cold against your skin.

“Horrible,” you said, taking a gulp. “There was nothing to eat over there. Oh, and her ex showed up and interrupted the best man’s speech during the reception,” you explained, taking another gulp.

“No way,” Penny chuckled, taking a rag and wiping the table off a little.

“That’s not the worst part. His ex showed up at the ceremony and said “I object!” during the whole “speak now or forever hold your peace” thing,” you stated.

Penny gasped. “Oh my God, I would’ve loved to see that!”

You chuckled, but then gasped again as you felt the heat creeping up on you. “It is like a thousand degrees in here!” You exclaimed, pulling your hair up again and fanning yourself. Penny ducked down to look for a piece of paper you could use as a fan, and your eyes caught something–or rather, someone–familiar approaching the bar.

“Penny, my dear,” he called out. Penny stood straight back up. Oh, you could not mistake that voice. “Four beers, please,” he asked.

“Coming right up,” she said, and finally moved out of the way so he could clearly see you and you could clearly see him.

Two years since the last time you met and he looked somewhat more mature, especially when he wasn’t wearing his Navy uniforms. You wondered if you should say hi or at least smile, but Penny came back with four beers and handed it to him before you could figure it out. He smiled sweetly at her, and just before he turned around completely, he took a glance at you. You weren’t sure if he was smiling at you as well.

“What the heck?” You leaned in close to your sister, slightly bent over the bar.

“They came back yesterday, called to do something about a top secret mission,” Penny filled you in.

“And you only thought to mention this to me now?” You raised a brow, putting on an offended face.

“The naval base is literally right there. They’re bound to come back sooner or later,” Penny said.

“And since when are you so chummy?” You asked again, referring to the way he called your sister ‘dear’.

“I always liked him,” she shrugged as if it was no big deal. “He never did anything to offend me because he doesn’t want to get on the other end of the bell again,” she pointed out with a classic Penny Benjamin smirk.

“Traitor,” you declared.

Your sister laughed as she handed a bottle of beer to another patron. “Come on, (Y/N), that was two years ago. How long are you going to still hate him over a date you don’t even know was going to work out?”

“If the date wasn’t going to work out, who was he to say anything? At least let me figure that out on my own since, I don’t know, it was my date,” you rambled on.

“Okay, calm down,” your sister said because other patrons standing around you were looking at you now. “Why don’t you head out the back and I’ll get you some dinner?” Penny offered.

“Fine,” you grumbled, taking your purse and beer off the bar stool before you squeezed your way through the crowd to the patio.

As soon as the cool breeze hit your skin, you sighed in relief. You gathered your hair into a bun and found a clip in your purse to hold it in place as you leaned on the railing. You couldn’t exactly see the ocean waves, but you could hear it crashing to the shore.

“Got stood up?” A voice called out. When you looked back you saw a man older than you standing in the doorway, his hand holding a bottle of beer. His hair was unkempt, his beard looked like there are crumbs of potato chips in it, and from the flush of his skin, you knew he was drunk.

“No, just came to check on my sister. I’m headed home soon,” you told him, hoping it was dismissive enough that he becomes discouraged.

You could hear the thump of his boots on the wooden patio approaching you, however, making you sigh. He stood right next to you, hand circling your waist and pulling you close. You could feel your heart beating against your chest, your palms sweaty and your fingertips cold as you twisted yourself out of his hands.

“Oh come on, you don’t have to play hard to get,” the man smirked. His hand moved again, this time grabbing your ass. You could feel your heart plunge to your stomach.

“Stop it!” You shouted, shoving his hand away. You could see that it did not discourage him, and when he moved forward again, your arm swung and punched him square in the nose. Your own action took you by surprise, not sure where you had found the courage to do that.

The man bent over, holding his nose. “You bitch!” He screamed.

The pain of your knuckles coming in contact with his nose shot right through every nerve in your body and you gasped in pain, holding your knuckle with your left hand to soothe the pain. Suddenly, the man grabbed you by your arms as he glared at you, a hint blood trickling down his nose. You tried to kick him away, but his firm grip pulled you flush against his body, immobilizing you. You could smell the alcohol on him and it made you wince in disgust.

“Hey!” Hangman appeared at the door, immediately shoving the guy away. The man toppled to the ground just as the other pilots came to your aid. Hangman shielded you from him and stared the man, who now looked shorter as he cowered, down.

“Apologize to the lady,” Hangman said, gripping the man by his collars. “Apologize!” He barked, jerking the limp man.

“S-sorry! Sorry!” He shouted, looking more scared of Hangman than actually feeling remorse.

Hangman shoved him away and turned to you while his friends restrained him and escorted him out. He gently placed a hand on your arm and you flinched a little until you saw that it was him and he guided you to sit down on one of the chairs.

“You’re hopped up on adrenaline,” the man said, kneeling right in front of you. He took off his jacket and draped it over your shoulders, leaving him in a white t-shirt. You didn’t realize that you were shivering until you felt the warmth on your skin. Hangman looked at your hand, red and raw after punching the man so hard.

Penny came running. “Oh my God, are you okay?” She asked, squatting down right next to Hangman right in front of you.

You couldn’t find the words to answer her but you nodded slowly.

“She’s in shock,” Hangman said. “She should go home and put some ice on that hand,” he said to your sister.

Penny looked back at the bar and then at you, realizing that she was understaffed tonight, but you were far more important than a few angry patrons. She brushed your hair back, “Okay, I’ll-uh, I’ll tell Jimmy to close down early. Let’s get you home, okay?”

“No, no, don’t do that,” you shook your head, not wanting your sister close down the bar at 8 PM when it was just starting to get busy.

“I’ll take her home,” Hangman offered.

taglist: @dindjarinneedsahug @thespeeder​ @nothing2113 @hazelgirl355 @lgg5989 @bellamy1998

part two will be up shortly!

#jake seresin x reader #jake hangman seresin x reader #jake seresin fanfic #hangman x reader #hangman top gun #hangman seresin x reader #jake hangman seresin #top gun fanfic #hangman seresin fanfic

[sickmachete]

Shuffle your favorite playlist and post the first five songs that come up. Then copy/paste this ask to your favorite mutuals. 💌💛

um also maria addition: i did a below the cut where i spoke abt my relationship with each song so. if u wanna do that too... encouraged. i care. i wanna know. and i LOVE U👉👈 (pls dont feel heartbroken that im copy n pasting this part to a few of our mutuals too. i just love u guys sm ok) (kissing u elena kissing uuuuu)

MARIANARA SAUCE!!!!!!!! HELLO!!!!!!!!! there were so many songs on my playlist that i wanted to add but i stuck to the rules of the game 🫡

goo goo muck by the cramps

gay thoughts by the growlers

ghostbusters by ray parker jr.

the waves have come by chelsea wolfe

strong reflection by mars red sky

goo goo muck — the cramps: i owned 3 cramps t shirts from middle school to highschool (then i moved and lost em...i gotta find them again...): 1 was just black & white, 1 was black white & hot ass pink, and 1 was bright fucking yellow. all featuring that weird skeleton zombie man from the band's "bad music for bad people" album cover. i loved each and every one of those damn shirts. oh and every time i got my period id wear one of my cramps shirts to school. no idea if anyone actually caught on but it sparked a lot of joy in kid me LOL. the band itself is very grungy and reminds me sm of my childhood going to shitty backyard concerts

gay thoughts — the growlers: the growlers was one of the first bands i ever saw at a real concert, and it was one of the strangest grimiest experiences of my childhood. it took place inside this huge ornate theatre with barely any crowd. everyone was high, the singer kept leaving the stage in the middle of songs/during guitar solos to take a piss bc he kept drinking beers throughout the performance, there were boob shaped lamps lighting up the back stage. my sister was friends with one of the guitarists. and afterwards we got THE best sushi of my LIFE in THE most sketchy ass looking hole-in-the-wall restaurant. truly was just a huge vibe overall and one of the only fond memories i have with that sister. (also this song has the most ridiculous story ever?? questioning man keeps running off to gay drag shows and cheating on his girlfriend with men and it turns out his girlfriend's been using the time he's gone to ALSO cheat on him. but with women. queer4queer solidarity??? the yt video's great)

ghostbusters — ray parker jr.: ok yknow what. i keep trying to watch this movie and getting fucking bored midway through but my GOD does this song fuck. every halloween like clockwork i start blasting ghostbusters and the pure fucking euphoria it brings me is unparalleled. so i guess im not surprised i have it saved on one of my most listened to playlists SDGHJKFD

the waves have come — chelsea wolfe: different vibe than the previous songs and also i feel like i keep finding excuses to talk about this song but my fucking god it is just. so so very dear to me. i think it's genuinely held the number one spot for my most repeats on spotify for like. a DECADE. something about it dude i cant explain it. life changing. heartbreaking. like getting lost in a brutal storm at sea

strong reflection — mars red sky: dude that intro riff. bro... need i say more. low grungy riffs are EVERYTHINGGG if it isnt growling whats the POINT!!!!!!! this song feels like a cargo boat thats slowly rocking in an ocean made of smoke and tar. but also it's in the vacuum of space. and you're tripping balls

none of my super ridiculous cheesey 80s/90s songs got picked which is super fucked up... but oh well... next time maybe 🫶

#asks #music #marianara sauce #TY FOR THE ASK BELOVED #SORRY MY MUSIC TASTE IS..............................THE WAY IT IS

[my-shields-are-down]

Karaoke #2 - Because Tim loves 80s Classic New Wave

“OK OK OK! Thank you Luna and Wade for that weird but really excellent version of “Islands in the Stream” by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton! Tim - you have a very… um… eclectic list of songs for our singers to choose from, did you make it this random on purpose?” Angela asks of the tipsy and relaxed birthday boy. “Why don’t you come up on stage for the Grand Finale?”

The MidWilshire crew + friends had packed the karaoke/burger joint on Sunset and had basically taken it over for Tim’s surprise birthday celebration.

For the past three weeks, Nyla, Lucy and Angela had been asking Tim’s friends and family about his favorite songs. Rachel, Isobel and Genny had come through with most of the songs on the diverse song list. But it was Tim himself who provided the last two songs of the evening, the ones that Lucy heard him sing in the shower or when he was cooking and cleaning - when he thought he was alone.

Everyone by now knew that Lucy was a phenomenal singer, so Angela waited a few minutes for everyone to refresh their drink, come back inside, or take a last minute bio break. Angela told the crowd her favorite Tim birthday story from when they were rookies and had to arrest the second largest pumpkin farmer for smuggling cocaine in his pumpkins at the County Fair and then had to break up a pie fight that broke out during the pie eating contest. Their shops had smelled of blueberries and pumpkin for weeks.

Backstage, Lucy was once again thanking her very special guest star for coming out for this party and going over the timing of her entrance during the first song and then discussing the harmonies Lucy would sing during the second song. Once they had it figured out, Lucy waved to Angela who came back to check on Lucy and was immediately star-struck by her guest. Lucy laughed and told Angela this is what happens when you delegate - you miss out on some kick-ass connections.

Thankfully, Angela pulled herself together and walked back onstage. She asked for the lights to be dimmed and turned to Tim and said, “happy birthday. Please welcome to the stage - The newly minted Lucy Bradford!”

Lucy stepped on stage and waved to the crowd, then leaned down and kissed her husband and said to him, “because you love classic 80s new wave, this one’s for you.”

The synthesizer began to play and the older members of the crowd who knew either the original version or the more recent remake started cheering and clapping. Tim’s eyes lock on Lucy as he beginsto sing along…

“funny how I find myself, in love with you

If I could buy my reasoning, I'd pay to lose, one half won't do

I've asked myself, how much do you, commit yourself?

It's my life, don't you forget, It's my life, it never ends (it never ends)”

During the very brief interlude before the second verse starts, Lucy turns to the audience and says, “Please welcome to the stage, my new best friend, Mrs…..”

+++++++++++

By total random chance, one of the cases Lucy had helped crack several months ago had closed and the evidence from an upstart “bling ring” where celebrity pooches were having their diamond encrusted accessories stolen needed to be returned to the animal owners. Her second to last return after listening to Harrison Ford regale her and Aaron with baby beagle stories from the set of the last Indiana Jones movie, was to the woman standing next to her on stage. Her blonde labracorgidoodle mutt had a four carat collar returned and she and Lucy hit it off instantly, probably because the dog loved Lucy on sight. When the woman asked to be called if there was any thing she could ever do, Lucy immediately thought of this night 11 months later. Lucy had checked with Wade, IA and HR to make sure she wasn’t going to be accused of accepting kickbacks or anything and got the all clear.

+++++++++

Lucy turns to the audience and says, “Please welcome to the stage, my new best friend, Mrs. Blake Shelton, Gwen Stefani!” The crowd roars and Tim’s jaw drops to the floor of the stage.

He swivels on his bar stool so fast his Burger King crown almost falls off - and there before him in motocross pants, red checkered vans and a black/red “No Doubt” T-shirt stands the only woman he would ever consider leaving his wife for. Tim’s face morphs into a dreamy, yet bashful smile and his cheeks turn pink as Gwen leans over and kisses his cheek before stepping around him to finish singing It’s My Life - the version she and her band No Doubt made famous in 2003 - 20 years after the original version by Talk Talk burst onto radios everywhere.

Once done, Gwen leads the crowd in a rousing version of “Happy Birthday” to Tim who smiles and hugs Lucy close to him. Then Lucy nods to Gwen who says, “I hear this is your favorite song, so I dedicate it to you from Lucy.”

As the opening notes of “Don’t Speak” begin to play, Tim begins to cry. He’s overwhelmed with emotions watching his favorite singer, sing his favorite song with his absolute favorite person. Their voices blending beautifully during the song’s melancholic verses and chorus. He realizes this whole restaurant is full of people who love him (well they love Gwen right now) but they love him too. He never imagined a life with this much joy and love before Lucy came around. If this moment is a glimpse of his future with Lucy? He’ll take it and then some. He pulls Lucy close as the song ends and nods to Gwen. He nuzzles Lucy’s neck and whispers “best birthday ever.”

#chenford #tim bradford #lucy chen #the rookie #tim x lucy #i love them #ask andrea #one word gets you one shot #version 2 = karaoke #i'm in chenford withdrawal #things that are awesome #is the hiatus over yet #andrea writes #talk talk #bryan ferry #no doubt #gwen stefani #I met gwen stefani in san diego at a garage band contest

[fuckyeahvanhalen86-95]

Imagine working with both Sammy Hagar and David Lee Roth during the most turbulent time in Van Halen history. Jesse Harms doesn't have to imagine it. He lived it and oh, the stories he has to tell.

Harms was a guest on the RetroZest podcast to talk about his stellar five-decade career, which included a stint as keyboardist and background vocalist for Sammy Hagar from 1982 to 1985. Harms was a full-time member of Hagar's band when his 1984 album VOA reached the top 40 on Billboard and went platinum thanks in big part to the single "I Can't Drive 55".

With the success of VOA, Harms career was in high gear. Then Hagar suddenly and unexpectedly punched the breaks. He was the new lead singer of Van Halen while Harms, guitarist Gary Phil, bassist Bill Church and drummer David Lauser were out of work.

"He just dumped us" Harms told host Curtis Lanclos. "I read his book Red. Everything in there where I was actually present didn't happen that way. There was a lot of fabrication. I think he said he paid us or whatever, but he basically just dumped us. I had just bought a house. After the VOA tour, l'd saved all my money up and bought a house there because we were supposed to do another leg of that tour in Europe and Japan but then he got the thing with Van Halen."

Despite the career hit, Harms said he was still optimistic. He certainly couldn't blame Hagar for taking the Van Halen gig and, besides, this gave him the chance to further his own career.

"From my standpoint, I had done things before Sammy," Harms said. "Sammy wasn't gonna be my whole career, I knew that. There were things I wanted to do so I just looked at it like, 'OK, well I'm just gonna learn how to do something else now.' I really wanted to work on songwriting and improving that way and so my attitude with him was, 'Hey good for you. Go ahead and do that and I'm just gonna do something else.' He actually gave me the keys to his house when he went down to LA to work with Van Halen and spent, oh, I don't know, maybe six, eight months writing songs and trying to get a record deal."

Although Harms' record deal didn't pan out right away, he was offered a gig, but not just any gig. He got a call from producer Ted Templeman, who had worked with Harms as producer of the VOA album. Templeman was now producing David Lee Roth's first solo album Eat 'Em and Smile and, as with Roth, wanted to bring in the best musicians around. Harms took the offer and would end up being credited with playing keyboards on the #12 US Rock single "Goin' Crazy."

"That was the best band ever worked with," said Harms. "Steve Vai. Billy Sheehan. Gregg Bissonette was an unbelievable drummer! Those guys were the A Team. They were the best rock players worked with throughout my whole career."

Harms said Roth offered Harms the job as ful-time member of the band but he wouldn't be performing with the band on stage, at least not right away. Harms told Roth he needed a day to think about it.

"He never talked to me again after that! Never talked to me again," said Harms. "He was insulted! It was like, 'You turned down David Lee Roth?!' So that's how it went down but I have really fond memories of Dave, he was a fantastic guy. Really interesting, super good condition. It was a fun experience."

As far as what Hagar thought of his friend and former bandmate now working with his number one rival David Lee Roth? Well, that didn't go over so well.

Harms said, "One of the deals when [recorded on Eat 'Em and Smile] was that they instructed me, 'You can't tell Sammy that you're doing this.' Sammy and were still talking. Sammy and were actually really good friends even though things kinda turned sour towards the end over money [but] we were really good friends. We hung out, we played tennis, we did everything together. We were still [talking often] on the phone when he was in Van Halen. He was calling me up and couldn't tell him that was working with David Lee Roth in the studio. But he found out. And then he called me up and he was mad at me! For moving on and getting a good [job], he should have been happy. It's like, 'Wow! That's a great gig!'"

Eventually things cooled down with Harms and Hagar and the two would work together again, this time on Hagar's 1987 album I Never Said Goodbye featuring Eddie Van Halen on bass. Harms played keyboards on the entire album and co-wrote the track "Back Into You."

"It was great hanging out with Eddie, who was a super sweet guy," said Harms. "Everything about it was really fun."

After stints with Eddie Money [Harms wrote Money's top ten single "Walk On Water"], REO Speedwagon and the McAuley Schenker Group, Harms once again teamed up with Hagar as keyboardist/co-writer beginning with 1997's Marching To Mars. He returned for Red Voodoo (1999), Ten 13 (2000) and Not 4 Sale (2002).

In 2003, Harms was a member of Hagar's touring band for the highly publicized "Heavyweights of Rock" tour, featuring Sammy Hagar and David Lee Roth as co-headliners. Not surprisingly, the Sammy/Dave drama returned, and Harms was there witness it all. You can hear those stories and more from Harms on the RetroZest podcast below:

Jesse Harms, who released his first solo album Best Of What I Got in 2004, recently released the 6-CD set All Sides. It includes material featuring Harms on lead vocals, plus collaborative work with several artists including Sammy Hagar, Kevin Cronin, Robin McAuley, John Waite and Gina Schock.

#post van halen #eddie van halen #sammy hagar #david lee roth #eat 'em and smile #i never said goodbye #2022 #vhnd #van halen news desk #RetroZest podcast #Jesse Harms #spotify #video #youtube #i can't drive 55 #Goin' Crazy #Back Into You

[jmdbjk]

Yo

Psst. It’s me:

Name: Yo mama. Not really. But if I told you, I’d have to kill you. Just kidding. You can call me jmdbjk. Or Ferg. Ferg works too.  

Sign: Aquarius. (sings very off-key: ...it’s the dawning of the age of Aquarius..) Not now though. We are way past the dawn of that age. That was actually back in 1970 or whatever year that song came out ... 1969... so now we may be getting to the late afternoon of Aquarius. Or maybe we’re already in next week of Aquarius...who knows. BUT!! the opening lyric IS: “When the MOON is in the Seventh House” ...so there’s that. 

Time: 6:54 p.m. when I began typing this. Let’s see how long it takes for me to finish. I can be long-winded...

Birfday: February 13. Yes, I share the magic number. 

Favorite band/artist: Duh... but before BTS it was a very eclectic mix. Seventies, 80′s, disco, rock, classic rock, alt rock, country, pop, dance, you name it, I have it. From Aerosmith and Alan Jackson to Yes and ZZ Top. 

Last movie: hmmm... hmmm.   (thinks) ... (looks at my netflix saved list, nothing there)... hmm.. (looks at my Apple tv saved list)... OHH!! it was ISLE OF DOGS!!! damn, that was 3 or 4 years ago. An animated movie set in Japan, follows a boy's odyssey in search of his lost dog. It was pretty good in an artsy fartsy, quirky way. I don’t watch movies often. Obviously once every 4 years or longer. 

Last show: Run BTS Telepathy Pt. 1. Before that it was the episode of Our Blues with Jimin’s song With You. I don’t watch television either. Ever. Except that one episode of Our Blues. 

When you created this blog: I think I created it in August of 2021 so it’s been a year. My first post was Oct. 15, 2021. 

What you post: The pandemonium in my head. Whatever is on my mind. I write as a way to get rid of the excess that’s constantly swirling in my brain. And since last summer, my brain has been obsessed with BTS and Jimin, Jungkook and everything surrounding them. Actually, on the outside, I am very calm. But I love words and I like to write and I have a lot to say to no one in particular. HOWEVER! I am also a very very good listener. 

Other blogs: Long forgotten but also served a similar purpose as an outlet for me to express whatever was going on at the time.

Followers: 479. How on earth? Thank you for visiting my little space I created here! I do appreciate you all. Except you...YOU! you Kookie hater, go away. It’s ok, I blocked you so there, I did you a favor. 

Do you get asks: Yes, some of them are actually asks. 

Average hours of sleep: 6. Can function on 5 hours until late afternoon then its downhill from there. My  eyeballs prefer 8 hours but for some reason the rest of my body/brain says nope, too bad.  

Instruments: of creativity. I use instruments of creativity...pencil, brush, filters, words, fonts, colors, all digital of course.

What I’m wearing: oh, dang, I should have changed clothes before sitting down. I am wearing what I wore to work, a pair of skinny black pants and a dark teal t-shirt. With the appropriate undergarments. Barefooted because I kicked off my black leather platform sandals across the room. 

Dream job: Well, actually, I already worked at a few of my dream jobs... retail advertising was my first job out of college so I was exposed to a lot of upscale fashion and whatnot. It was a mixture of fashion illustration and photography. That was a fun job. Then I worked in creative services at a television station where I produced tv commercials. That was fun too. I won awards at that job. I have also worked for another tv production company and traveled a lot. The traveling was fun. Another dream job was working at the biggest ad agency in my city. It turned out to not be quite as fun as I thought it would. It was a good experience (that’s what we say when we are finally free from toxic workplaces but trying to remain positive). Now I am a graphic designer/art director/digital communications manager/video producing jackoff of all trades at a very large non-profit. 

Dream trip: Seoul. Period. I have traveled a lot. When I was young we lived in Canada, Australia, Singapore. I’ve been to 21 states including Hawaii. Multiple times. I’ve visited Japan and the Bahamas. Lived many years in Texas but now Louisiana is my home.

Favorite song: currently its Daydream by J-Hope. But my playlist for fitness walking is: Outro: Ego, Outro: Wings, Trivia: Just Dance, Daydream, Boy With Luv (feat. Halsey), Run BTS (the song), Dope, Boyz with Fun, Dynamite (queen), War of Hormone (don’t judge me). The beats are very crucial to keep up a fast pace. My “just listening for fun” playlist includes Mic Drop (Steve Aoki remix), My Universe (SUGA’s remix only), Airplane Pt. 2, IDOL, Serendipity, Euphoria, Trivia: Seesaw, Magic Shop, Love Maze, Make It Right, HOME, Mikrokosmos, Cypher 4, Baepsae, Daechwita, Base Line, Bad Decisions, Left and Right and others. 

Sidenote: I saw on twitter where Sungwoon will be going to do his military service on Sept. 5 and I almost started crying at work. He was crying on his V Live and I had to turn it off. I don’t even know what he was saying. So when it is the BTS members time to go I am going to be a hot mess. 

Thanks @onthecuterside for the tag! Now it’s your turn if you haven’t already been tagged: @shellbells-things, @wingzie, @ejassy​

It is now 8:23 p.m.  

And here is a present for everyone...a phone wallpaper I quickly made today because I only had four things going on at once so I had a few minutes to spare and because I needed to see these two every time I picked up my phone to look at my Tumblr notices:

#getting to know bloggers #yep this is me #bts chapter 2 #memories 2021 coming in hot so shits about to hit the fan

[thegeminisage]

ive done a terrible thing and accidentally turned on gloom hands for the map. i was only doing korok seeds/wells/caves/other bosses - i wanted shrines and hands to be a surprise, so i was just turning shrines on and off now and then to make sure i wasnt walking past any. but then i turned on hads to see how many there were and there's two in the next place im going for my korok seeds (crenel region). i would have rather not known :(

ugh man my compendium is SOOO empty...i miss the camera being on the first-person view. having it as an ability is so clunky! if i wanna 100% this i really gotta get on that bc no way do i or will i ever have the rupees to buy my way to victory

i looove btw, if i havent said. that if you kill an enemy while gliding/skydiving, you get the drops anyway. like they just appear in your inventory. VERY good

five bomb flowers in this chest! i appreciate it, but i almost have more bombs than arrows. (80-something arrows, 60-something bombs.) i got used to living without them. im a muddlebud girl now

ah i see. mining.

a well with nothing in it...there's gotta be more to it. haha it's the moor garrison ruins well so. that's a little joke. anyway im googling

okay, apparently google doesn't know shit either? surely there is something else here........

i guess not :/ bet i'll have to come back later...

WAIT I FOUND. STEPS THAT GO UNDERGROUND BUT THERE'S BARS HERE AAAA LET ME INNNNN

lmao the wall in the well is cracked can i actually bomb it?

answer: no

OH....................................

i thought ascending thru the ceiling would just take me back topside, but the well room was under this underground room! so i got in! ooough that dopamine. puzzle SOLVED all on my own!!!!

theres a treasure chest in one of these rooms, but the map tells me it's another fucking shield so im giving it a pass. i got the trick, thats what matters

shrine BELOW me? girl wtf

if i have to go back in that mining cave i just went thru.

ugh i checked and i DOOOO how did i miss it!!!

i DIED getting over there >:(

UGH and the enemies are back cuz of a blood moon :( i wasted 2 muddlebuds to NOT fight these guys...

i wish the totk fight music was better. i mean don't get me wrong, it's fine, but because of the way the soundtrack works the 3 songs i hear most often are the fight music, the shrine music, and the ambient bg music, which sometimes changes when in a snowy/high/watery area. i hear the fight music more than any other song and it gets stuck in my head CONSTANTLY and while much of this game's soundtrack is mindblowing and incredible, the fight music Is Not. it's simply not good enough for the song i'm listening to the fucking most. i'm already tired of hearing it and i'm only (checks) 95 hours into this game. ugh

>:( i'm mad that i probably won't be able to 100% it before i hit 100 hours...i wanted my whole hero's path on record...

anyway i found the shrine. finally.

NOT MORE OF THIS EVENTIDE SHIT

ugh i'm just gonna do it. honestly why couldn't they have just refined it to one island instead of microdosing us.......

COOL...there's a battle talus just patrolling back and forth along the road here!!

oh, a big tower fell over here...idr that from botw but i think it was in the trailers! neat

ok, i'm getting close to the area where the hands spawn :( i turned them back on on my map cuz im scared :(

oh man. so they spawn in these stumps full of water right...i can literally see those. they are so close to me. if i didn't Know i'd wander right in, unsuspecting...this is why i had that turned off. it's better not to know!!! than this anxiety!!!!!

what if i just...make them pop and then despawn them...

i can't do it. i can't. that is a TRAP i can see it's a trap those are high sides there's water like no fucking way. no way

GOD fuck a like like made a noise and i jumped out of my skin. the way the hands can scare you when you arent around AAAAAAAAAAAA

rauru settlement ruins...an innocuous reference to the ocarina of time sage in botw, but now...

i still have a few seeds left to get there and i know what i said about not doing shit today but i do actually have to do shit today. rip!

#personal #loz blogging #totk lb #totk spoilers

[redsunsetxiii]

**Please do not repost without credit** [TRANS] 2022.08.31 SONE NOTE LIVE vol 39 with Hyoyeon

Staff: We had you create a party room with decorations this time! Please share what room decorations you were particular about and what was difficult.

Hyoyeon: I tried decorating while imagining SONE JAPAN coming into the room that I personally decorated and enjoying [the party] together! I decorated while thinking, “SONE JAPAN’s preferences would be like this.” Also, since it’s a party I thought to make it fancy! I used various decorations like dolphin balloons and ice cream balloons. And I wanted it to be colorful so that anyone would see that it was a party, so I tried to show cuteness by using pink colored tablecloths, tableware, and forks, etc.♡ Staff: You also tried making resin art! Please share what you were particular about and your favorite points. Hyoyeon: Before making them, I was concerned about the timing of when this would be given as a present, but when I heard it was for August of this year, I thought of the concept of “Summer!” I thought it’d be nice to have white beaches and the sea with an image to stay cool in the hot summer. I think it turned out cute with the inclusion of white and blue! I’m usually an active person, but making something with detailed work with my hands is very enjoyable. Today’s hands-on experience was the most detailed work among the other experiences I’ve tried until now. I held my breath when adding the beads. (laughs) Also, I was very busy because I wanted to show everyone how cute I was making it, so I worked with the camera in mind! (laughs) Staff: If you were to give your resin art a score on workmanship, what score would you give it? Please also share why! Hyoyeon: It’s my first time making it, but I think I made it well so 9.2 points out of 10! There’s probably parts that are lacking if a professional saw it, so I left off 0.8 points (laughs). I’m embarrassed to say it myself, but I really like how it turned out! There’s nothing that I don’t like! I was uneasy while making it, thinking “is this OK?”, but when I see how it turned out, I think it’s quite good. And also, hydrangeas are flowers that have an image of not really being suitable for ikebana (Japanese flower arrangement), but it was surprising that it made the outer side of the box less empty. I made it more carefully since it’s a present♪ Staff: This project’s concept was a party by the members to commemorate their 15th anniversary. If you were to host your party, what kind of party would you like to have? Also, who would you invite? Hyoyeon: I want to have a party concept of playing a medley of SNSD songs that suit a party. We have a song that’s called “PARTY”, and it would be nice to edit those songs a little shorter and make a medley of them. I would like to invite the fans there. Isn’t 15 years a long time? I believe that we have spent some time together up until now, so we can have deeper conversations. If it was a party with the other members, I wonder what would be nice? A special concept would be great. All the members like Disney, so wearing princess dresses would also be nice (laughs). Retro is popular recently, so wearing 80~90s clothing in our own style would be fun, too. Also, SNSD songs have had various concepts up until now. A party where everyone would wear outfits from songs such as “Into The New World” and “THE BOYS” seems interesting! Wonder if it’d be hectic (laughs). Staff: Please share your recent happenings. Hyoyeon: I released my first mini album in May! Fans all over the world have asked me, “Just when will you release an album?”, but it’s finally out! You’ve already listened to it a lot, right? (laughs) Thank you♡ SNSD is also having our 15th anniversary and we were worried about what we could give to all the fans, but as expected we thought that only an album [would be best]. I hope you all like it! We are also preparing performances and a reality show to line up with it, so I wonder if it’ll be out in August? Look forward to it ^^ Staff: This SONE NOTE LIVE will be released in August. Summer is the season for increased skin troubles with the strong sunlight, but please share if you have any recommended skincare that you do in summer. Hyoyeon: Sunscreen above all! There’s really no point in applying a large amount [in one time]. It must be applied frequently to the point of thinking “[is this] enough?” I apply once every four hours. Sunscreen should not be used sparingly (laughs). I recommend applying it not only on your face, but anywhere that is exposed to the sun, such as your arms. Staff: There are various events during the summer, but is there anything that you always do in the summer? Hyoyeon: In the summer, I always go to the beach. I’m not a big fan of saltwater, but I love walking on sandy beaches. I feel like I’m doing something that’s appropriate for summer vacation when I step on sand. I’ve been to Thailand before, but I definitely want to try going to the Water Festival happening in Korea this year. Staff: SNSD will celebrate their 15th anniversary this year! Please share any memorable episodes when thinking back on your debut! Hyoyeon: There’s so many that it’s hard to pick. However, like I thought, memories on tour are the most memorable. The Japan tours were fun to the point where it was work, but in a good way, it didn’t feel like work at all. We enjoyed the food from each place and were able to directly talk to the fans in each area…Everyone responded well and it was so exciting! Staff: A message for the members that walked together with you for 15 years, please! Hyoyeon: People always tell me, how it is very difficult to continue for so long, that it’s miraculous. The members and I actively communicate with one another so there hasn’t been huge problems, and I believe that is the secret to our longevity. “Everyone! Thank you for staying with me for so long! Let's keep having fun like we always have!” Staff: A message for SONE JAPAN, please. Hyoyeon: I haven’t been able to see you in person for so long. However, I finally can! I’m excited that SMTOWN has been announced. I always receive your support from far away, and I always say “I want to see you!”, but I’m very happy to finally see you all! Let’s meet a lot from now on! ♡

Translation by RedSunsetXIII source: SONE JAPAN website **Please do not repost without credit**

#sone note live #sone japan #snsd hyoyeon #HyoYeon #snsd trans

[automatictrashwolf]

TLOU HBO Episode 1 thoughts: (I swear this is actually episode 1 )

Ok, so starting in the way past with some scientists discussing pandemics, 1 specificly proposing the idea behind the cortacepts virus.

"So if that happens?" "We lose."

Ok, we are with Sarah right before the outbreak, this is where I had first thought it would start.

Radio gives us the first hint at the outbreak.

Aww, the watch. Why does Sarah have a knife?

Oh shit! Old lady is turning!

Dog knows something is up

I wonder if this is one of the movies they talked about Joel liking in part 2

The dog came to get Sarah, she should not be going outside. Poor boy dosn't want to go back to his infected owners. He ran away, at least he has a chance on his own. I'm just going to imagine he and some other pets lived happily ever after in the wild.

Oh shit, Sarah found her neighbors, I wish she hadn't seen this. Eww why are the fungi coming out of her mouth like that?

Why are they running but he told a random neighbour to hide in their house?

I always hate the bit where they leave the family on the side of the road

We are splitting up from tommy real early

And she is gone.

I'm surprised how nicely FEDRA treated the infected little boy, I think they went about it all the right way. I expected them to shoot him outside the gate.

Oh shit, public hanging

Aww, Elli is all locked up. Hm, fake name, guess she hasn't spoken to Marline yet

Joel and Tess share bed, guess their relationship is less implied than in the game

Marline time. Ok, so she does know

Aww, Ellie is really attached to her knife

I see, Ellie dosnt know who Marline is, but she recognises the knife, so she knows who Ellie is

"You my fucking mum or something?" Do I look like your mum?" "No you do not"

I think in the game they already knew eachother, based on how they talked about her on Left Behind

The overgrown infected stuck to the wall looks VERY overgrown. Tess says it wasn't there last time she was there, how quickly do they grow?

I love how angry and defensive early Ellie is, before she warms up to Joel. And Bella imbodies it perfectly.

In the rain sneaking past FEDRA, this is making me want to play part 2 again

I'm guessing the song is an 80s song, meaning trouble

The screams of infected over the music and rain, so good

Final thoughts

I loved it

The casting choice for Marline was perfect, she looks just like her

Bella is fantastic at Ellie and Pedro is great at Joel

I love Ellie being so attached to her knife cuz its all that she has of her mum, but I suppose I only know that cuz I acidentlt watched the last episode first

#hbo the last of us #hbo tlou #tlou

[bubblegumbi0tch]

The Workout

Trainer iwa x reader

Why do you continue to do this to yourself?" Your best friend asked from beside you.

"What do you mean? I'm going to the gym." You said, laughing as she pulled up to your gym.

"Yeah exactly, we could be getting ready to go out right now, you know?" She said, giving you puppy dog eyes.

"You mean we could be getting all dressed up to go out with your boyfriend while I'll awkwardly be the third wheel?" You corrected, opening the car door.

"You make a fair point." She laughed. "Besides, I think I know why you come here now." She said, looking out her windscreen.

"And why is that?" You said, hopping out of the car but bending down so you could still talk to her.

"Him." She stated, pointing at the man in the doorway of the gym.

"Oh yeah, that's my trainer, Iwaizumi." You winked at her before shutting the door and walking over to him.

You greeted  

 and went inside to put your stuff away before going into the weights room to see Iwaizumi.

"I thought you weren't going to show up; it's almost eight," Iwaizumi said as you walked over to him.

"I was debating whether or not to show up. My friend was tempting me with a night out of drinking instead of a night of aching muscles." You laughed while drinking some water. "And you chose me. I'm touched, Y/N." Iwaizumi said, smiling wide, placing his hand on your shoulder.

"Yeah, well, I'm just hoping you can go easy on me tonight." You replied. "Not exactly; we're going to do a more intense workout tonight." He said, moving closer to you.

"Yay." You sighed, pushing him back and heading towards the pull-up bars.

You and Iwaizumi worked out for about 80 minutes when you finally decided that you needed a break.

"Why are you stopping?" Iwaizumi said, catching his breath.

"You weren't joking when you said this was going to be more intense than our other sessions Iwaizumi." 

You said, collapsing onto the ground. Iwaizumi just stared and snickered at you. "You're mean Iwaizumi, I don't think I can move." You breathed, looking at the ceiling.

"Here." Iwaizumi said, sitting beside you to give you some water. "Tonight's workout wasn't even that intense. It's like a walk in the park." He said, suddenly making you choke on your water.

"Are you insane a walk in the park?" You asked, shocked. "Not even Satan wouldn't have made me do anything that you've made me do tonight." You said, grabbing onto Iwaizumi's shoulder.

"That's a tiny overreaction (y/n)." Iwaizumi laughed, following you out of the room.

"No, you're wrong. I'm one thousand percent certain that right now I'm a ghost, and my corpse is back in there." You said, pointing to the room, trying to conceal your smile.

"Oh really (y/n)?" He asked as you stood outside the women's changing rooms. You nodded, and he shook his head. "So I take it we're done for tonight." He said as he looked around the empty gym.

You two usually worked out late when the gym was basically empty, you didn't like to work out in front of many people, and he preferred to just focus on you.

"Don't expect to see me for a month; I need to relax." You laughed, opening the changing room door.

"Good. That means no more late nights." Iwaizumi laughed; you pushed him slightly, not finding his joke funny. "Are you going to belong? I have to lock up." Izumi smiled sweetly at you.

"I'm going to take my time ok. I need to wash all this sweat off me".You said, smiling sweetly back at him.

"I happen to think it looks great on you." Iwazumisaid winking. "You're the only one that gets to see me like this." You said, winking back before going into the changing room.

Once you grabbed your bag from your locker, you undressed and put a towel around your body. You headed to the shower, making sure it was warm enough for you.

All you wanted to do was have a bath when you get home, but you couldn't wait that long feeling as gross as you do.

While you were in the shower, Iwazumi went back into the room you two were working out in. He packed some things away and noticed your sports jacket that you took off because you were too hot.

He picked it up so he could give it to you when your phone fell out of the pocket, the screen lit up, and a message from your best friend appeared. Actually, a few did.

F/N: Hey, what time are you finishing? Do you want me to pick you up?

F/N: I'm assuming by your lack of response, you're still working out.

F/N: Or is handsome taking you home? God, he's gorgeous.

F/N: Your workout can't be keeping you this busy.

F/N: Or is he keeping you busy?

F/N: Are you two doing it? You can tell me. You know I won't judge; you know sex is classed as work out.

F/N: You're a terrible friend for not replying. I'm just going to have to assume you're banging him. Call me later. I want some details later.

Iwaizumi laughed to himself after briefly looking at the messages and decided to go and give it to you.

He knocked on the changing room door and didn't get a reply, so he just assumed you were either changing or in the shower; he quietly opened the door and walked into the room.

He saw your bag lying out with your workout clothes next to it and placed your phone on them. As he went to leave, he heard you singing softly in the shower.

"You know (y/n) I like the song when the actual artist sings it," Iwaizumi said, startling you. 

"Iwaizumi, what the hell are you doing?" You shouted, looking around.

"Don't worry, I'm not staring (y/n)." He said, calming you slightly, not that it helped in any way.

"I meant what the hell are you doing in here." You said sternly.

"I was giving you your phone." He stated. "Do you want a lift home?" He asked out of the blue.

"Yes, please, after I've gotten dressed." You said as you started to turn the shower off.

"Clothing isn't optional." He said, and you could practically see his smirk.

"I'll follow your lead." You said, smirking to yourself as you grabbed the towel. You didn't hear Iwaizumi's reply, but you did hear some shuffling.

A few moments later, you saw a silhouette come through the steamed room.

"Iwaizumi, what are you doing?" You asked, walking towards him. You both stopped a few centimeters from each other, and Iwaizumi lifted his hand, turning the shower on.

Having a shower." He stated obviously.

"But I-Iwaizumi, this is the women's locker room." You said, trying to keep your eyes on him and nowhere else.

"You're the only woman in here, and you don't seem to mind." He said, whispering. You stared at him, trying to decide what to do. "Your towel is wet. You should probably get a clean one." He said lowly. You nodded in agreement and went to walk around him. "Later, though." He said, pulling you towards him.

You’re lips crashed in an instant; you didn't know whether to kiss back or pull away. No warnings were going off in your head, so you kissed him back. Your hands went to his neck, one of his went to your back, the other your front when he untied the towel from your body, letting it fall to the floor.

You both pulled away, staring at each other with intensity. You moved forward, putting your hands back around his neck, pulling him to your level where you kissed him. One of his went to the back of your head, the other your ass as he squeezed roughly.

Iwaizumi smacked your ass, making you moan, giving his tongue a perfect chance to explore your mouth.

You stayed like this for a while, your wet naked bodies tangled up, hair sticking everywhere, tongues battling for dominance, hands now wondering every inch of each other. You loved every second, and so was he.

Both of Iwaizumi 's hands found their way to your ass as he squeezed tightly; you jumped up, wrapping your legs around his waist, one hand in his hair, the other on his face as you pulled him close into the kiss.

He spun you around so your back was against the wall; his kisses moved to your jaw and neck as he made his way to your breast.

He pulled the nipple with his teeth before sucking on it. He removed his mouth and blew gently; the feeling of the cool air on your erect numb felt terrific against the steam-filled room. He did this to your other nipple, then all over your torso. Sucking on the skin then blowing.

His face was level with yours once again, and you continued to kiss some more.

Izumi's hands still rested on your plump ass; he moved one hand under you. So he could access where you needed him; he played with your clit first, rubbing it gently before taking two fingers and entering them inside you.

You moaned, pulling away from his lips and arching your back as he continued to move in and out of your core; your legs tightened around his waist, and he moved his other hand to the wall beside you while he continued with his other hand.

You were close, the warm feeling starting up in your stomach, but you knew you weren't there yet. Iwaizumi then added another finger, going even harder and deeper, showing no sign of slowing down.

His movements were destroying you, but he wasn't done as he started to rub his calloused thumb against your clit, determination, and lust in his eyes as he stared deeply into yours.

"Iwaizumi ." You moaned, getting closer. His moves were now quickening. "Iwaizumi !" You moaned even louder, his actions getting deeper. "Iwa-oh my god!" You screamed, shuddering beneath him.

He held you tight, still keeping his fingers within you as you rode out your high; your mouth was open as he started to pepper kisses all over your face.

"Woah." You said, catching your breath looking at him.

"We're not done yet (y/n); this is part of your workout." He said, taking his fingers out of you and putting them in his mouth. He tasted you, his eyes still on you; he slowly took his fingers out of his mouth and pulled you into a deep kiss, it was gentler, but you could still feel the need in it.

He removed his hand from the back of your head and put it under you, this time grabbing his rigid member and rubbing the tip against you. He looked at you for reassurance as you nodded your head, and he slowly entered you; you started to sink down on him, so you were meeting him halfway.

Iwaizumi stilled, waiting for you to adjust; when you had, he placed one hand on your back, the other on the wall beside your head and pulled back, slowly moving around in.

He kept at this pace for a while until you started to moan; he then moved faster, moaning as well.

Your moans got louder as his hips snapped faster, going deeper.

Iwaizumi moved you from the wall, carefully placing you onto the floor as he filled you again;. However, the ground was slippery; it didn't seem to bother him as he began pounding into you again.

He found your g-spot and decided to not leave it as he continued at the same pace and depth, being sure to hit it every time.

As he continued this, your moans turned to screams that then became deep breaths as you could no longer make a noise.

Your back arched, and Iwaizumi moved down to put your nipple in his mouth once again. You pulled on his hair as one of his hands moved between you both so he could rub your clit.

He hit deeper and deeper, and you were starting to feel your second orgasm of the night.

With each hit came a new feeling of euphoria. You started to clench around him; your nails found his back making sure to mark it as he continued to pleasure you.

Iwaizumi lifted his head from your breast, and he captured your lips in his silencing you as you came; soon after you came, he came as well, slowing his movements but not completely stopping, not until your breathing was restored.

When you both could breathe adequately, Iwaizumi got up and helped you up too. You both stood under the shower and cleaned yourselves up. Iwaizumi turned to help you because you were sore, then he guided you over to your clothes.

You got changed into some clean joggers and a hoodie, and he changed into what he was wearing earlier.

"That was some workout." You said, trying to break the silence.

"Yeah." Iwaizumi chuckled, staring at you. "We could do that instead if you want to." He suggested walking over to you so he could help tie your shoes.

"It's way better than what you had me doing earlier." You laughed as you filled your bag.

"Tell me about it." He said, getting up from tying your shoe. "Do you still need a lift home?" He asked.

"Yes, please." You smiled. He smiled back, placing an arm over your shoulder as you both walked out of the changing room.

Requests are open ᡕᠵ᠊ᡃ່࡚ࠢ࠘ ⸝່ࠡࠣ᠊߯᠆ࠣ࠘ᡁࠣ࠘᠊᠊ࠢ࠘𐡏⊹ ♥︎

#haikyuu smut #haikyuu x reader #haikyuu imagines #hq x reader #request are open #hq smut #haikyuu!! #hq thirst #hq x y/n #haikyuu x y/n #iwazumi imagines #haikyuu iwazumi #iwazumi hajime #iwazumi x reader #iwaizumi smut #hq iwaizumi #haikyuu fanfiction #iwa chan #iwa #iwazumi scenarios #iwazumi x y/n

[edie-baby]

mr & mrs | liam lawson x reader

Summary: You and Liam were teammates at Hitech for 2021. You had the biggest crush on him, but you were sure he didn't see you as anything more than a little sister. But oh, how a few basic questions could uncover the truth between you.

Warnings: swearing, and I think that's it?

When you walked into work in the Hitech Grand Prix building this morning, you didn’t expect to be playing the fucking newlywed game with your crush. And if you’re being honest with yourself, crush is a light way to put it. You were head over heels for your F2 teammate and best friend, Liam Lawson. There was just something about the New Zealander that always had your heart racing, your legs buckling, and your stomach dropping.

So when you were directed into the garage for a ‘different background’ from other videos you had done with Liam, your stomach lurched. Here this gorgeous man was, in all his Kiwi glory, hair waxed back but falling out of place, jeans hugging the toned curves of his legs and ass and giving you a glorious view of his bulge, and the fucking blue sweater. The same blue sweater he had worn the last time the two of you did a video that had reduced you to a stuttering mess when you first saw him.

But now it is worse. So, so much worse. He was standing in a garage. Around cars, and tyres, and grease, and all of the inanimate objects you found so sinfully appealing, and he was just right in the middle of it looking like that. You just about turned around and walked right back out.

“Mighty Mouse! There you are. I was starting to think I’d have to be the brains and beauty of the operation.” Liam called once he spotted you, and suddenly you remembered why you had never tried making a move on him. He treated you like a little sister. Nicknames like ‘kiddo’ and ‘mighty mouse’ were a regular occurrence, and they never failed to make you squirm.

“Well, you struggle to be anything but the brawn, and I think I’m even starting to overtake you there.” You teased, pushing yourself to stay casual, platonic, familial. There was so much opportunity to flirt with him, but the few times you had tried were brushed off, so you had given up many moons ago.

“Ouch Princess, that hurts.” Liam mocked, his hand cradling his chest and you couldn’t help but wonder how it would be to fall asleep against his chest, curled up after a rough night of-

“Who’re you calling princess, princess?” You shot back, cutting your thoughts off before they continued developing and became an issue. Liam laughed, his arm slung around your shoulder while the two of you walked over to the team that were in charge of running your activity for the afternoon.

“Ok, I don’t know if you guys have heard of it, but this game is called Mr and Mrs, one of you will have a whiteboard and wear headphones while the other tries to guess what the answers to the questions you’re writing down are. Make sense? Ok, great, let’s do an intro and go from there.” One of the guys explained quickly, and you began having flashbacks to an awful 80s game show called The Newlywed Game, and blushed profusely. Having you and Liam in a video titled ‘Mr & Mrs’ was sure to get the fans going, and you couldn’t blame Hitech’s PR plan.

You and Liam settled into the wheely chairs from the office next door, Liam positioning himself in frame of the camera and fixing his stupidly perfect hair when you came barreling toward him with your chair, legs tucked up high so you didn’t cop a chair arm to the knee. Liam screeched when you finally hit him, almost toppling off the chair in surprise while you spun slowly, laughing freely as you did so.

Liam looked over at you, your head thrown back in carefree laughter, the yellow sundress that covered your body made you look radiant, and he was sure he had never seen a sight so beautiful before. Your laughter calmed down, and as you looked over at him, he couldn’t help but send you a lovestruck smile, his eyes dopey with admiration. You blushed slightly, laughing as the team asked if you could do the intro again, but actually introduce what you were doing.

Liam slid out of the frame, and you followed his movements as you could tell a fierce battle was about to commence. Kicking off the ground with force, you tucked your legs up onto the chair again, spinning into Liam so fast, you couldn’t actually see his face before you crashed into him. The two of you exploded in laughter again, laughter and smiles were common between you, and Hitech’s Instagram was full of photos and videos of you and Liam smiling at each other, or doubled over in laughter, clutching onto each other.

“Hi, I’m Liam Lawson, and this is Y/N, we drive for Hitech in Formula 2.” Liam began once you had slowed down your laughter. He kept a firm grip on the arm of your chair, holding you close and still, as your chair really liked spinning around.

“And we’re here to play Mr & Mrs, another game in our long series championship to see who the better teammate is.” You finished, gesturing to yourself subtly, but Liam caught it and pushed your chair away jokingly. As much as you loved the man and wished you could be more, you wouldn’t give up this relationship you have with him for something that might work.

MR & MRS | EDIE-BABY

“Liam, what is Y/N’s favourite colour?” The same guy from before asked, one who Liam still didn’t recognise due to the facemask and hat he was wearing. Nevertheless, he held up a whiteboard where the question was scribbled in messy writing, three multiple choice answers written waiting for not only Liam’s, but also your answer. You had airpods in your ears, connected to the blaring music playing from one of the Hitech employees’ laptops, a whiteboard in your hand that you quickly scribbled out an answer to.

Liam looked over at you, holding the whiteboard to your chest protectively so he wouldn’t cheat, but there was really no way that he could.

“It’s not an answer listed here, but her favourite colour is a light brown. She always says it calms her down because it reminds her of a cafe she went to once back home.” Liam spoke, watching you as he answered. You didn’t hear a word he was saying, bopping your head along to the 2000s hits pumping through the earphones. Liam pulled one of them out, his head nodding over to the camera while you proudly turned the board around, thinking you had gotten one over on Liam.

“My favourite colour is light brown, because it reminds me of the Brew Cafe in my hometown, and it brings a really nostalgic and calm feeling.” You stated, watching the faces of the employees morph from business to shock. You looked over at Liam, who had a smug smile on his face while he listened to your answer.

“There’s no way you could have known that!” You protested, glaring accusingly at the dirty blonde. He laughed in response, and you couldn’t have felt happier in any given moment. Not even the top step of the podium could compare to the warmth spreading in your chest. Little did you know, Liam was feeling the exact same way.

“Y/N earphones back in, Liam your next question. What is Y/N’s favourite song at the moment?” The same guy asked, yet this time there were no multiple choice answers. Liam’s eyes widened, turning to look at you to think of any songs he had heard blasting from your speakers or earphones recently, or something that you had ranted excitedly to him about. He spoke to himself, mumbling about artists and songs he could remember falling from your lips. You twirled a piece of hair around your finger, thinking about the answer to the question, when suddenly it hit him.

He had to wait a few moments as you were slowly writing down your answer, still not 100% sure of yourself. It was only after you had taken an earphone out that you jumped, furiously rubbing out the answer on the whiteboard and writing a new one, looking much more satisfied with the new answer. The team counted down, and as Liam spoke, you almost dropped the whiteboard.

“Feeling Something Bad by Ellise. She’ll start singing it randomly when she concentrates, which is usually a giveaway to what songs she's been listening to recently.” Liam said his answer so confidently that it made you feel as though you were inferior because he knew your favourite song and it took you a decent minute to think of it. Liam got another point as he had gotten two of your answers right, and you were starting to feel competitive.

“Alright Liam, who does Y/N get along with best in the F2 paddock? Oscar Piastri, Dan Ticktum, or you?”

“Oh, oh. Well, she hangs out with Oscar a lot, but I don’t know if she would say they get along better than we do? Like, she’s closer with Oscar but we get along best, if that makes sense? I don’t think it does. I’m gonna say Oscar because I don’t want to be rejected, but I really hope I’m wrong and that she says me.” Liam rambled, finally deciding on Oscar, and when you were told to turn your board around, Liam’s heart sank a little. You had written Oscar, and as you began trying to defend yourself, Liam waved it off and laughed to hide the disappointment in his eyes, but you could see it clear as day. You tried to move on like he did, to keep playing the game like you didn’t hurt her best friend and crush.

You began trying to cheer the Kiwi up, dancing along to the songs playing, and occasionally belting out the chorus. He was laughing along, finally joining you to sing when you were screaming the lyrics to Promiscuous, dancing all around the garage and trying to pull him up around with you. While you were dancing with some of the employees off camera, being recorded for Instagram, Liam was still in frame of the main camera, a fond smile on his face, and anyone who had looked at him could see that he was completely and utterly whipped for you, but you were too caught up in Nelly Furtado to see it yourself.

It was your turn to answer questions now, passing Liam the whiteboard that had a little love note written on it.

I’m going to crush you.

You wrote, and Liam thought it was adorable how competitive you got in trivial games like this, but it always made him try even harder just to give you some semblance of a battle.

“Y/N! How old was Liam when he started karting?” The guy you had begun to think was not an actual Hitech employee asked. The three ages to choose from scribbled on the whiteboard. You studied them for a moment, and could see Liam in the corner of your eye writing out his own answer.

“He was seven, because I remember him telling me that there’s regulations in New Zealand that you can’t race go-karts competitively until you’re seven and then won the race.” You explained, remembering the story he had told you easily, it was one of your favourites, purely because of the joy on Liam’s face when he recounted it.

He turned the board around, showing the exact answer you had given, and he gave you a cheeky smile in response to your silent gloating about getting a point. There was nothing cuter in his eyes than you getting so worked up about a game.

“What is Liam’s pre-race superstition?” Before the board with the question and possible answers came up, your mouth blurted out the answer you already knew all too well.

“He gets in the car from the left.” You practically yelled, and Liam looked at you with wide eyes, not hearing your words but seeing the excitement at knowing the answer.

“How did you know that?” One of the Hitech PR asked as her main priority was to stir up more rumours about the two of you, as it was always good for the team’s press.

“Because I’m just as superstitious about getting in from the right side, so when he found out, he asked the team if we could switch around how our cars are placed in the garage so that we could meet in the middle, do our little ritual, and then get in the car from there.” You explained, watching as Liam wrote down his answer with no idea of the words you were saying.

When Liam turned the board around, he explained the exact same story you had, and you giggled when he finished, showing off a proud smile before putting the pieces together that you had already run the same spiel.

“It’s quite cute that the two of you explain things using basically the same words.” That same PR lady stated. And you almost rolled your eyes, almost. But you caught Liam blushing slightly, and a small, stupid part of you began jumping up and down, because not only did someone think your relationship with Liam was cute, but he blushed at that.

“It happens when you spend so much time with someone. I’ve started picking up Kiwi slang, and he’s learning some of my slang. You don’t realise it until you say something to someone when he’s not there and they’ve got no idea what I mean. It’s so normal for Liam to always be by my side, and me by his that when I’m with other people it feels weird.” You started on a ramble, something you were known for. And then just would… not… fucking… stop. The press officer looked satisfied, but as you had finally gotten your mouth to stop moving, you were scared to look over at Liam.

“Whenever she’s not within arm’s reach, I feel like I’m missing something.” Liam spoke quietly, and you gulped as you heard his words. The man was going to kill you, surely. This little production crew didn’t give a shit about your blossoming romance though, as they hurried you through to the next questions. You and Liam barely looked at eachother, your answers shorter and much more vague than they were before. You just wanted to get out of this chair and go freak out in an empty office somewhere.

“Well, the winner of this round is Liam, which means he has officially overtaken Y/N in the Hitech championship. How do you guys feel about this one?” The producers asked. You would usually have felt a bit of a blow to your chest finding out you had been beaten in two ways, but you truly couldn’t think of anything except your proximity to Liam.

“I think we found out a lot, and I’m glad to finally be ahead in the championship. I think it’s the only time I’ll ever be able to beat Mighty Mouse in anything.” Liam chuckled, reverting back to your ‘little sister’ nickname because he felt like the distance would help him process his emotions.

“Hey, you already beat me in height, age, and supercar experience, you gotta let me have something.” You whined, you looked over at Liam with a pout and puppy eyes, unintentionally making his heart pound out of his chest.

“Well you’re the cuter one of the team, and you’re a hell of a lot smarter than me, so I’d say you’re winning enough. Plus you’re higher up in the drivers standings than me.” Liam replied, leaning closer to stare into your eyes, barely two inches between your faces, you blinked slowly, afraid that any sudden movements would scare him away.

His large hand reached up, tucking a stray piece of hair behind your ear, then coming to rest at the side of your neck, his thumb resting on your jaw.

“I don’t think you realise what you do to me.” You mumbled, leaning forward very slightly to nudge your nose against Liam’s. His breath hitched, eyes boring into your soul in a way that made you freeze.

“It can’t be any worse than what you do to me. Looking as beautiful as you do, all I want to do is hold you, keep you close, show you off to the world, and I want to call you mine. I want to take you home and show you around my hometown, I want to introduce you to my parents, to take you to parties with my friends, I want to curl up in your apartment watching Harry Potter movies, and I want to dance around the kitchen with you at 2 in the morning making pancakes. I want to live my life with you.” Liam confessed, and for a few moments, you felt as though you couldn’t breathe.

You lurched forward, balling your fists up in that stupid blue sweater and pulling him closer. Liam’s eyes closed instinctively as your lips met, the coconut lip balm you applied before you came into the office was shared on your tongues, Liam’s exploring your mouth with vigor. You had never imagined him to be this passionate, this intense. But you had no complaints, his hands tugging you forward until you fell onto his lap, legs slotting in beside his own to straddle him on the wheely chair.

You broke away for a moment to catch your breath, eyes surveying every square inch of Liam’s face to commit it to memory. He truly was a gorgeous man, and you hoped you would get to see him like this many more times to come. He caught the look in your eyes and dove back into your lips, his teeth capturing your bottom lip in a bruising grip, a whimper escaping your lips before someone clearing their throat interrupted you.

“I guess we have everything we need for the video. Thanks you two.”

#Liam lawson #Liam lawson fanfic #Liam lawson x reader #Liam lawson imagine #Liam lawson fanfiction #f2 2021 #formula 2 #hitech gp #f2 fanfic

[hyunjilicious]

A/n: this request is from my secondary blog. I made a post asking for ideas and concepts, but I decided I'd better post them here!! The call is still open tho!! Send me stuff! I'm not sleeping tonight so let's talk!!

Summary: kinda what the request says, but I was a bit off.. sorry. Shoot me an ask in case you didn't like this one and I'll write it again! 1.1K

As the years passed and reality was becoming so much harder to ignore, you had to come face to face with the fact that no matter how much you lied to yourself, you couldn't keep avenging forever. The first step you took - and probably the most difficult one, was moving out. You found yourself a cozy studio apartment to call home, and despite not missing any missions, it still felt tremendously better to know you had a life outside of the compound.

But it was hard. The days were lonely and nights even more so. You busied yourself, making up stupid excuses for missing out on movie nights and coffee dates with whichever colleague decided to approach you. You'd only see them on the field, and even though it hurt to some extent, it was what you needed. 

This rhythm didn't last too long, though. About two weeks after you moved, in the middle of the night, a loud knock at the front door woke you up. It turned out to be Bucky, who just like you, expressed his need to break out of the tedious routine and heavy atmosphere at the compound, and since he didn't have anywhere to go, he counted on you to provide him with a safe space to gather himself. And you were more than happy to.

That time, he stayed over for two days, and then he returned to his home. But then another two weeks passed and he was back. And two nights at your place turned into three, and 2 weeks at the compound turned into one. Before you knew it, you were cohabiting in what was probably the most peaceful manner you considered possible. 

And then it was just a matter of time until you'd get your own missions - just you and Bucky, working towards a common pace that kept you both safe and grounded. It didn't feel like work anymore, and soon, he didn't feel like just a friend anymore either. 

Weeks passed and this was the new normal. You shared an apartment and were partners on and off the field, even if none of you had the guts to word it yet. And everyone accepted it too, and in the end, the time had come for a small get together. For the sake of it all, you invited the rest of the avengers over to drink and have a good time, and it was probably the best time you had with them in years. Some time away did you more than just good.

But now it was 3am, and you and Bucky were left to deal with the aftermath of the small gathering that had actually never been just that. Soon after Thor walked through the door, the atmosphere turned hazardous and what you had there was no longer a chill night in, it was a full blown party, that right now, you were nowhere in the mood to clean after.

"What are you doing?" you laughed as you felt a weight on your shoulder, realising seconds after that it was Bucky's forehead.

"Let's finish cleaning up tomorrow" he whined, before straightening his back.

He reached forward and turned the water off, lazily wrapping his arms around your body and tucking his face in the crook of your neck.

"I can finish up here. Go to sleep" you offered, mistaking his demour for fatigue.

"No" was all Bucky said before pulling you back and turning you around in his hold. He held you tightly against his chest, silence settling around the two of you.

The playlist that had been playing during the party was long forgotten, his music library now on shuffle. There was a slow 80s song filling up the room, its soft beat and relaxing jazz line accentuating the cozy atmosphere that had settled around your apartment.

"You ok?" you mumbled, trailing your still wet and covered in dish soap fingers across his jawline. 

Bucky looked up at you with a droopy smile on his lips. His eyes were hooded, more closed than open, but their color was so vibrant, holding more life in them than you ever seen before.

"I'm good" he nodded before hesitatingly going in for a kiss on your forehead.

You couldn't help but giggle to yourself, ears ringing as butterflies took over your whole body. You were lost and had no idea how to act. This wasn't a version of him you knew. 

When his hands dropped from your back to your waist, holding you steadily in front of him, you bowed your head, too shy to look at him anymore.

"Don't like dancing?" he asked. He didn't sound hurt, more like amused, and ready to drop the action in case you expressed that that was what you wanted.

"I do, I do" you shook your head and clumsily placed your hand on his shoulders, allowing him to guide you. What you were doing wasn't dancing, no one could call it that, but it was sweet and intimate. The way he held you close, his eyes full of admiration watching closely every change in your expression as he carefully guided you to follow him. All you did was spin in small circles around the kitchen at a ridiculously slow pace.

The floor was a mess, salsa sauce and spilled wine everywhere, but you kept going, caught under his spell.

You never thought about it before, but the love that was so undeniably plastered on his features was proof of the goodness that had been hidden inside his heart for so many decades. He was finally happy, you could see that. But still, he was holding back.

With your heart all the way up in the back of your throat, you wiped your palm against your jeans and then brought it up to his cheek. Bucky instantly leaned into your touch, his eyes fluttering close as a smile spread across his lips.

"Tell me" you whispered.

"Tell you what?" 

"There's something on your mind" you cleared. The little specks of fear in the blue of his eyes were confirmation of that. "You can tell me"

"I love you" Bucky confessed much faster than you expected.

You never thought you'd actually hear those words again, but they didn't surprise you. It wasn't out of nowhere. He had shown you how much he cared about you time and time again, he never worded it before, but he hadn't hidden it either. 

And when your lips finally pressed again his, a new wave of life washed over you. Years of pent up emotion dripped from his tongue onto yours as you molded your bodies together, gathering each other as close as possible. Your eyes watered, but no tears fell. You were overwhelmed in the best kind of way, your chest full and your heart, finally calm.

It was not clear who pulled away first, but immediately after, you pushed yourself up on your tiptoes, your lips against his cheek as your fingers curled into the material of his shirt. "And I love you"

-

I'm always open to more ideas!! Hmu!!

#bucky barnes #bucky x reader #bucky barnes x reader #bucky barnes imagine #bucky barnes fluff #bucky barnes blurb #bucky barnes fanfiction

[natromanxoff]

Queen live at Forest National in Brussels, Belgium - August 24, 1984

Some parts of the Hammer To Fall promo video were filmed during this show - the camera was filming the audience reactions during TYMD, Radio Ga Ga and Hammer To Fall. On the next day 20 fans from the Dutch fan club were invited to come again to the filming of the promo video.

At the gig, the band asked the audience to return the following day for the shoot. However, most likely assuming it was all a joke, the vast majority stayed away; in fact only a dozen fans turned up. Undeterred, the shoot went ahead anyway, with the band's performance that day interspersed with footage shot the previous night.

(x)

This is the first show of The Works tour.

According to the July '89 issue of Record Collector, Queen ran through about 40 songs during rehearsals. This list of songs rehearsed that didn't end up in the setlist comes from someone who worked on the tour:

Great King Rat (longer version), Brighton Rock (full song), I'm In Love With My Car, Sweet Lady, White Man, We Will Rock You (fast), Play The Game, Need Your Loving Tonight, Put Out The Fire, Las Palabras de Amor, Life Is Real (both Freddie solo piano and Freddie/Brian acoustic duet versions)

The keyboardist for this tour (and also the '86 Magic tour) is session musician Spike Edney. He would also lend some vocals to many songs and play rhythm guitar in Hammer To Fall. He and Roger Taylor would form a band called "The Cross" in 1987 which spawned three albums, and he would return to Queen in the 21st century to play on the tours with Paul Rodgers and Adam Lambert.

Spike was recruited in a very informal way by a Queen associate. He went to Munich for their first rehearsal in early August, wound up partying for most of the first night, and missed the first day's rehearsal. It later transpired that everyone else had. He recalls, "The next day, we all managed to get to it eventually, to the first rehearsal, and all the gear was set up. The stage was huge, and I thought "Oh well, here we go then" and we got to the first song , and what I'd forgotten was that they hadn't actually played together for two years. So they said, OK, let's try one of the new songs, I think it was Radio Ga Ga, and we started playing it, and course, I knew it, I'd been studying it for weeks. You know, 1,2,3,4 and we start and we get about a minute into the song and the whole thing collapses. And they all look at each other, you know, very sheepishly, and they say, "Anyone know how it goes?" and I say "well, actually, I know. I know how it goes" and they said "Ah". And so I started showing them the chords and everything and Fred looked at me and said "You don't know the words, do you?" and "Well, yeah I do actually" so then they all came round the piano and we spent the whole day just going through songs, and I thought, "I'm gonna be all right here, this'll be OK"!"

The show started very late, as the band were still doing soundcheck when they were supposed to go on. Apparently over the previous week there were few occasions when all four band members actually showed up for rehearsal. Many songs (likely those listed above) never made the setlist, and soundcheck was an extensive cramming session, particularly for the older material that they hadn't played in years.

Roger Taylor later reflected that this European tour was one of his favourites, and many fans cite the early Works setlist as their favourite ever played by the band. Three medleys are now played, two of which have revived many old songs: Killer Queen, Seven Seas Of Rhye, Keep Yourself Alive, Liar, Stone Cold Crazy and Great King Rat. Staying Power from Hot Space returns to the set, as does Sheer Heart Attack from News Of The World. Only half of Staying Power is played, and it runs into Dragon Attack, followed by an improvisation running into a more compact version of Now I'm Here compared to previous tours.

Many people who attended shows on this tour recall Queen having a very heavy sound, especially on songs like Liar and Stone Cold Crazy. By 1984 they had gained a reputation as being one of the best live rock acts in the business.

Six songs from The Works are performed each night, and the introduction tape is from the album track "Machines". After the heavy G chords are heard on the tape twice, the band walk on stage in the darkness to play the chords the third time, which leads into the brand new "Tear It Up". This is yet another effective opening to a Queen show, something they would perfect time and time again.

I Want To Break Free is performed each night in 1984-85 as the first encore, with Freddie coming on stage sporting a pair of huge plastic breasts under a pink shirt. Part way through the song, he would remove the breasts and twirl them around for a while before finally throwing them into the audience. Some souvenir! As a result of this gag, Another One Bites The Dust has been moved from the encore to be earlier in the set.

This tour showcases an incredible lighting rig and an overall setup mimics the movie Metropolis, from which scenes were used for the promo video of Radio Ga Ga last year. The huge wheels behind the stage (modelled after the ones on The Works album cover) rotate at mostly random times - usually because they are turned manually by various crew members such as Roger's tech Chris "Crystal" Taylor whenever they have a free moment (Freddie Mercury's assistant Peter Freestone told the tale in 2021):

“Yeah, I mean Rio was… amazing. The feeling from that crowd… you know, something like 350,000 people. Oh, you can’t beat that. And when you’re flying in a helicopter over that crowd, it was stunning. But the thing is, I know this sounds really, really stupid but [laughs]… one thing I will always, always remember from that tour was, remember, in the back of the stage you had these wheels that turned every now and then, not constantly but just every now and then. That was because there was… the guy looking after Roger’s drums and me who actually turned those wheels. And there was no set cue or anything that, “Oh, it has to start on this bar, on this song.” No, it was when he wasn’t doing anything and I wasn’t doing anything, we’d say “Ok, let’s go and do it.” And we turned the wheels for a couple of minutes and then left them alone. He had then to do something for Roger and I would just sit there like I always did. And then you’d go back and you’d turn the wheels, like a hamster. We were like hamsters…”

However, a crew member who worked on the tour recalls otherwise: "I do know local crew members were used on the UK shows and certainly (a number of) European gigs. The other thing is that Radio Ga Ga had a set piece with the cogs and lighting, using low ambient lighting and strobes to emphasise mechanical motion of the cogs during the instrumental break. Would Roger Taylor be happy with no one covering him/his kit during a show? Possibly Peter Freestone is remembering production rehearsals when any spare bodies might have been asked to operate the cogs?"

During vocal improvisations on this tour, Freddie would often include bits of "Foolin' Around" and "Living On My Own" from his pending first solo album, which he had been working on during this period.

Freddie now plays a Telecaster for Crazy Little Thing Called Love. It would remain like this through the Magic tour.

The band no longer bring a gong with them on the road. Roger now does a cymbal roll at the end of Bohemian Rhapsody.

A fan recalls hearing the band running through Tear It Up whilst queuing up to enter the venue.

Freddie's voice is in superb shape for this show, but it will quickly weaken as the tour progresses. As incredible as Freddie Mercury was, he certainly did not take care of his voice at times, especially in the mid-80s. After a couple years of heavy smoking, Freddie's voice now sounds a lot deeper and raspier overall.

Before It's A Hard Life, Freddie says, "I think tonight we're gonna do songs from just about every album that we've ever made. You heard some very early stuff from the first album. Right now I think we're gonna do something very new, and we'll see what you think of it."

Freddie does a vocal exchange with the audience before Staying Power, singing "Get Down Make Love" and "Gimme Some Lovin" a few times. The band would improvise bits of the latter a couple times in 1986.

This is the only show on the entire Works tour where Roger plays regular acoustic drums on Another One Bites The Dust (before which Freddie teases the audience with a bit of Mustapha). For the rest of the tour, he'd play electronic drums. He'd also integrate the electronic drum kit into a few other songs, like at the beginning of Hammer To Fall, where one might argue that his sounds don't appropriately complement the guitar to create the intense, heavy sound.

The band sound very tight on this opening night of the tour, with the only exception being the rough transition from Stone Cold Crazy to Great King Rat. The keyboard and guitar solos are integrated together for the first few shows of the tour, during which Brian plays a few bits from Machines. Spike Edney uses his vocoder (a Roland VP-330) for the "machines" and "back to humans" lines heard throughout the tour during this spot (he would use his vocoder for the "radio" lines in Radio Ga Ga as well). After this segment, Brian then gets a few minutes to play on his own as usual.

Parts of the promo video for Hammer To Fall were filmed during this show. Claims from some (even official) sources state that Freddie invited the audience back for (what would actually be "additional") filming the following day aren't true. Here is all that Freddie had to say before the song: "This next song we're gonna use in our next video. So everybody just go mad and maybe later you'll see one of you guys inside the video one day. Oh, just go crazy, take your clothes off. It's called Hammer To Fall." After the song, he simply says, "Good night, you guys!" as that was the last song of the set.

Here is a fan's recollection: "On the night of the gig, there was a camera mounted on an arm that would swing over the front rows of the audience during a few songs. These audience shots were taken during Tie Your Mother Down, Radio Ga Ga, and Hammer To Fall itself. I guess they also had a camera up in the box at the back of the hall [as there are a few shots of both the audience and the band]. I don't remember any cameras onstage during the gig - just the one mounted on the arm."

The Dutch fan club invited only about twenty of its members to attend the video shoot the next day. They were instructed by a roadie to sit quietly on a chair and not to move or approach the band members. After a few hours, Brian came over and had a chat with them, checking to see if they were enjoying themselves and if they were hungry. He then promptly ordered them some take-out!

A minute of Tie Your Mother Down from this show was later broadcast on the Belgian TV station "RTBF" (x) (x). An audience-shot video allegedly exists as well, containing five songs.

After years of speculation, the existence of more footage from this show was proven when bits of it were included in the promo video for Let Me In Your Heart Again in 2014. About 30 seconds of Somebody To Love (largely crowd shots) were seen. There is, however, no accompanying audio. (x)

The first photo is from the autumn 1984 Queen fan club magazine. Brian is seen with a watchful eye over the proceedings. Tour manager Gerry Stickells and his wife are also in the shot.

Pics 2 through 6 were submitted by Alessio Rizzitelli, and the seventh pic was taken by Dave Matkin.

(x)

#queen #queen band #roger taylor #freddie mercury #brian may #john deacon #queen concerts

[g0ldengubler]

chapter one~one wild night

(*gif made by recsbylotte*)

A/N: I'm so sorry this chapter is so long, but I had to get everything down, I was having too much fun with this concept. Also, please give a listen to the song Nauseous here so you get the full idea of where this story will go and if you like the song, check out Zubin's other songs as well! Highly suggest the song "Backseat" which also has Fantasy Camp! Ok, enjoy :)

Category: Smut

CW: light-ish smut, fingering, alcohol, weed (please smoke responsibly!)

Word Count: 3985

before you read | next chapter

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"Great job everyone!" said Aaron Hotchner to his team.

Everyone in the BAU team gave a small round of applause on their jet, but yours was a bit louder than the rest. This was your first case and you worked so hard to solve it with the team to prove that you deserve to be with them. You wanted this job since you were a little girl. Jason Gideon was holding a class on the basics of profiling with his partner, David Rossi, and you and your dad went because you both loved watching 80's crime and law shows like "Murder, She Wrote" and "Matlock", and from the way your eyes would be glued to the tv, he knew that you wanted to be someone like Jessica Fletcher and her friends at Cabot Cove.

At one point, Gideon asked a question and you answered it right away, which took both of them back a bit, including your dad and everyone else in the room. A ten year old girl, understanding what was being said and not getting scared of the pictures that were shown. You were sure some of them thought of you crazy, but your dad was proud.

After the class, THE Jason Gideon and THE David Rossi came up to the two of you to talk. You were totally fangirling a bit because the two people you looked up to wanted to say how shocked but also kind of happy that someone so young was fascinated with this subject. Rossi told you several years later when you went to one of his book signings, that once you were old enough to give him a call and he'd set some things up to get you into the academy, and that's exactly what happened when you turned 21.

Because of your love of solving crime, you worked hard in school. So much so you were one of the top students. College was no different, and Rossi seemed to notice. He kept tabs on you from time to time to see how you were doing after you emailed him about doing well in high school and your first year of college. During your second year, Rossi asked if you could come to the BAU and talk with him and his coworker, Aaron, who was the team leader. They both agreed that you were incredible in your studies and saw a lot of potential in you. Your dream was starting to come true after accepting their invitation to the academy, and you could feel butterflies in your stomach.

Now you were 25, and Hotch had officially welcomed you to the team. As the ride back continued, you remembered how your first day went, even though it was only a few days ago. You met the team, and right away, you befriended the only one closer to your age, Dr.Spencer Reid. You remembered seeing his long hair and cardigan kind of melting together as he sat down at the round table and gave you a small wave. You didn't have many friends growing up, but he reminded you of your only friend back home, but that almost brought you to tears straight away, making you snap out of your daydreams.

You get up to have a glass of water. As your pouring, someone scares you from behind.

"Hey, Y/N!" A man's voice said.

You jumped which made you spill some water all over the place. "Spencer!"

"I am so sorry!" He chuckles as you both grabbed some paper towel to clean the counter, laughing at the incident.

You both go back to your seats, which were right next to each other on the couch. After meeting Spencer on your first day, Rossi told you that you two would get along perfectly. And you did. It made you feel comfortable right away and you pulling a...well, you, you were stuck to him like glue as a safety net. You used to think it was something every newbie did on their first day; try to find someone who you click with and stick with them until you got the ropes. Apparently, that was something people found annoying, and had you fired the first two jobs you got. With Spencer, however, he didn't mind it, which made you feel unsure but happy at the same time.

You and Spencer talked about the similarities you had and laughed at all the nerdy jokes you were making. At one point, another member of the team, Derek Morgan, had to throw a pillow at Spencer because he was laughing so loud and he was trying to sleep, which made even Hotch (who you guessed never even cracked a smile before) laugh a little bit.

"Boys, behave," Jj joked, not even looking up, "Or daddy's going to send you to your rooms when we get home."

"Ok, pLEASE don't say "daddy" ever again unless your at home." said Emily Prentiss, which made everyone laugh even harder.

You could tell that this team was more than just coworkers getting the job done, they were a family. And YOU were invited into this family. This was a feeling you always wanted: friends acting like a family.

30 Minutes Later

Finally you were back at the BAU. The case was stressful, and the flight back kinda made you tired, but your excitement and happiness were taking over rapidly. You usually fought those feelings because you felt emotions differently than others, and it always annoyed the people around you. Tonight was different, so you cut yourself some slack for once.

As you head back to your desks, Hotch spoke. "You guys deserve a break after that case. The heads of the BAU are giving us one month off. Get some rest and enjoy your vacation. Garcia invited us all to her place to celebrate but sadly Rossi and I are going to have to pass tonight. Jack has a big game tomorrow and I don't think the parents would be too pleased if their kid's coaches were hungover."

On cue, Penelope Garcia runs in with her bags. "Oh we're gonna have fun-to-night!"

"What exactly are we doing?" asked Emily.

"It's a surprise silly, but yes there will be alcohol of course." She then turns to you, walking up to go to elevator arm in arm.

"Y/N," she says, rambling to you how the team usually celebrates and what the plan was as you make your way to the elevator, "ok usually we'd go to our favorite restaurant or club or go to rossi's when we can but tonight I really want to celebrate the success on your first case!"

"Aww, Garcia!" you said as Morgan pressed the button, "Your so sweet. Thank you guys, seriously."

"Trust me, Y/N, this night is going to be one of the best nights ever!"

At Garcia’s Morgan sets the alcohol on the counter as everyone settles in. You sit on the couch with Spencer and Emily, getting a good look of Garcia's apartment. Purple walls with shiny (plastic) jewl's, cat toys filled most of the corners. Just as you saw the toys, a black cat jumps onto your lap making you jump a little.

"Aww, Sergio!" said Emily, "Thank you again Garcia for watching him for me while I go on cases."

"Are you kidding me? He's become a lovely roommate at the Garcia Gardens!" says Garcia as she brings over some bottles and glasses. She sets them down and begins to pour the Vodka shots.

"Garcia 'Gardens"? Jj asked.

"They both have G's, I don't know it seemed to work." They both laugh.

Morgan helps Garcia pass out the shots, getting ready for a toast. Everyone stands up, holding theirs shots a few inches away from their face.

"I would like to make a toast," said Garcia, "not just for the success of this case and because we have a month off, but to Y/N. She has done wonders this week, and I am so happy and grateful that you are now apart of our little family. To Y/N!"

"To Y/N!" Everyone cheered as they clinked their shot glasses.

You thought you were about to cry. You've never felt this much love in a room ever.

Everyone took their shots and sat back down. You look over at Spencer and laugh at the face he makes.

"God, I usually don't drink Vodka but that was an experience." he says.

"Oh c'mon," you said, "already gonna pussy out?"

"Now those were fighting words, Pretty Boy!" Morgan chuckled.

"Is that a challenge?" Spencer asks.

"Ok, I'm taking the shot glasses away because I know Spencer can get competitive and I don't want you to get sick." Garcia grabs the glasses from everyone's hand and walks to the kitchen, everyone giving a little whine about it.

"So what was that surprise you had for us?" you ask Garcia.

She walks in her room to grab something and came back with it behind her back.

"Before I say anything," she began, "I'm not forcing anyone to do anything they don't want to do and if no one wants to it's not a big deal."

Garcia takes her hands from behind her back to show what looked like vape pens. "Nicotine?" Emily asked.

"Noooo nonono," said Garcia, "That stuff is not good for anyone. They're weed...pens..." Garcia got quiet. You could understand why she got nervous, who knew if this would happen or not.

"Baby girl," said Morgan, "You are the last person I'd think of for this."

"Her parents were hippies, Morgan!" says Emily.

"Good point." He said.

"But now the question is, how?" you said.

"Well yeah, my parents were hippies. Both of my parents did before they got pregnant with me, but my dad would smoke when I was a kid. He would always do it before bed so he could actually fall asleep. He had horrible insomnia which he gave to me. A couple of months back, I couldn't sleep for the life of me. Nothing was wrong either for it to happen, but nothing could get me to fall asleep or if it did I acted the next day like I got up on the wrong side of the bed. So, I went to a doctor and got my green card and I've had peaceful nights of rest since. I thought, since we don't have to go into work for awhile, why not have some fun for one night?"

Everyone looked at each other, unsure but also kind of wanting to.

"This wouldn't be a problem with work, right?" asked Jj.

"Oh god, no, if we only do it tonight it'd be out of our system by then." said Reid.

Everyone was shocked hearing that coming from his mouth. "What? I had to do a research paper on the study of cannabis use in college."

You wanted to be the first to agree, but then you worried that it would be a bad look on you, the newbie.

"I'll give it a shot," said Emily, "It's only for one night and we have a lot more time off than we usually get, why the hell not?"

Slowly, everyone else agreed, including Spencer, who no one in the room thought in a million years he would. Garcia passes out the pens to everyone and told them how to use it. She said if we liked it, we could keep them for only certain situations where you absolutely needed it.

We all start taking 3 hits, which was the amount she said to take first. She explained how one time she took too many hits at once and greened out really bad.

Garcia turns on some music and we all sit around, drinking the very special drinks she made for us. The girls had vodka cocktails while the guys had whiskey. After a few minutes, you can start feeling it. Your body begins to tingle and your eyes started feeling heavy.

"How ya feeling, kid?" Morgan asks after several minutes. Spencer just sat there, looking at the ice cubes in his drink.

"Honestly, I've never felt this before. I don't know what I feel but it's nothing bad."

You giggle at his answer. It wasn't funny, and you knew that. Maybe you were giggling because seeing Spencer high was adorable.

"Ope, we have a giggler!" said Emily, but your giggling made everyone else giggle with you.

"Boy genius, you are too adorable!" said Garcia, who was sitting on Morgan's lap, her head on his shoulder.

You take more hits as the night goes on. At one point you had to stop because you were really baked. You've smoked before, so you knew your limit. You look over at Spencer again, but this time he was really sinked in the couch, looking up at the ceiling. What could that big brain be thinking in that now empty skull?

You were about to ask him but Garcia got up and grabbed an empty vodka bottle. "Who wants to play truth or dare?"

Everyone said they were in, except for Jj, who was already passed out in her chair.

"Damn, gone already?" Spencer says.

"You owe me five bucks tomorrow, Y/N" said Morgan. Earlier, you bet Morgan that Jj would stay up because he said she wouldn't. She tried her hardest, but sadly Morgan won. You move your head to Spencer's lap. You felt very cuddly for some reason, and Spencer was right next to you. He flinched a little, but then after a minute he started playing with your hair.

Garcia puts the empty bottle on the table and spins it. It lands on Emily. "Truth." she says.

"Have you ever made out with a girl?" asked Garcia.

"Are you kidding? Of course I have," she got quiet then murmured, "And I loved it."

"I knew it!" said Garcia.

Emily spins and it lands on Morgan. "Dare."

"I dare you to give Garcia a kiss! No making out, just a peck on the lips."

It happened, their banter had finally caught up with them. Derek and Penelope go in for the peck and once so they blushed.

Spencer was still playing with his hair. You looked up at him and saw something in his eye. Not literally, but there was something going on in his head. His eyes sparkled underneath the apartment lights. His mind must've been running all over the place thinking of something trippy, or maybe he suddenly wasn't thinking at all, letting his mind wonder to thoughts he never thought of before. The bottle was rarely spun to either of you, so you decided to talk softly.

"What are you thinking about, Spence?" you ask.

"I'm thinking about everything and nothing at once," he said, "It's hard to explain, like I'm thinking of things I wouldn't normally. Or at least not on a daily basis."

"What is tha-"

"Y/N! Truth or Dare?" said Garcia

"Umm...dare." you slurred. Were you really that fucked up right now?

Garcia thought for a moment, then as she looked at the two of you, a light bulb lit up in her head. "I dare you to take Spencer to my room, shut the door, and make out for 10 minutes!"

"10?!"

"What, are we still in high school?" you ask sarcastically.

"Be glad I didn't suggest 7 minutes in heaven. Poor boy is just so innocent!"

"Can you even get up, Pretty Boy?" Morgan asks as you lift your head from his lap and start to get up.

Spencer takes another vodka shot and a few more hits of his pen before getting up. After gaining his balance back, you take his hand and walk him to the bedroom. He shuts the door behind him and goes to lay on the bed. Arms stretched out on either side of him, he went back to staring at the ceiling.

"Wanna tell me what you're thinking about now?" you asked.

He said nothing. You then lay next to him, doing exactly what he was doing. Garcia had put glow in the dark stars all over the ceiling. They looked brighter than they would've have been to you. Your blurry vision made your tingles more intense as the lights played with your eyes. It was almost really trippy, but you felt so good.

"I've never felt like this before and usually we put people away because of weed, but for some reason, I feel at peace with everything.

"I'm sure if you got your green card, Hotch would be more understanding towards it. If not, Penelope would've been kicked off the team."

He placed his hand softly on your thigh. Spencer, you thought to yourself, she didn't say it was 7 minutes in heaven.

"We don't have to do this if you don't want to," you said, "We can just ramble about anything and tell them we did."

He then gets on top of you, holding your wrists down to the bed. "No, I want to. Unless you don't want to, but this is what I've been thinking about when I was playing with your hair."

You nod your head. You knew what he meant because you were thinking the exact same thing at that same time. When you met him, you didn't think of him in that way. But once everything kicked in that night, you felt yourself slipping into that 'what if'. You thought he was cute when he was giggling at you, and the way his fingers were in your hair, it was like you'd known each other for years.

Spencer's lips were quickly on yours. It felt like heaven, like he had done this before. You kiss him back, indulging in the sweet bliss. It was your time to return the favor, as you run your fingers through his hair. You were into guys with long hair, and Spencer seemed to fit the bill. But in no way were you catching feelings for him. He'll probably not remember this night at all, so why get your hopes up when he's doing this for the dare.

Suddenly, you felt his right grip let go of your wrist and slowly began to go down your body. It made you feel heat from the bottom of your stomach. You haven't felt like this in a long time, needing for someone's touch. You felt ready though, ready for that feeling again. The feeling of letting go and go forward in lust. He stopped, however, letting you know that he was asking if you wanted to continue without breaking away from your lips. You nod and a small quiet moan left your muffled lips, letting him know it was ok.

His hand continued to go down your body, feeling every curve he could. His fingers gently graced your tits and it sent shivers up your spine. Soon enough, you felt his fingers lightly rub the fabric that stood between him and your slit. His touch was so feather like you thought he was teasing you just to get you all worked up.

"I've hardly done anything to you and you're already so wet for me." He said through the kiss. You were shocked how his tone changed from sweet and innocent to dark and low. It kind of turned you on. Somehow, you went from being dared to just make out to what felt like was going into 7 minutes in heaven, except not in a closet.

He then continued to rub the fabric is circles as he broke the kiss. With the moon being your only source of light, you see the hunger in his eyes. He wants you and he wants you bad. He smiles as he moves the fabric over to the side and sticks his middle finger inside you, making you gasp at the entrance. His grin grew bigger as he really felt how wet you really were.

He sticks another finger in there and you let out a moan that you were trying to be soft about, but you were louder than you wanted to be. Spencer quickly covered your mouth with his hand, continuing to pleasure you. "Be quiet, angel," He whispered in your ear, "You don't want the others to know what we're doing, do you?" You shook your head. "Good girl, now tell me when you're close. I want you to cum all over my fingers."

You never thought of Spencer as the dominate type. He seemed so to himself and sweet. You thought he'd be more submissive. Maybe it was his cross faded brain talking, but this side of Spencer made you want more of him. You wanted so much more than his fingers. Your thoughts clouded you as you were reaching your climax.

"Spencer I'm close. I'm so close!" You quietly moaned.

"Hold it, angel. I want you to beg for me."

You couldn't hold it in anymore. "Please let me cum, PLEASE!" You begged.

"Cum for me, angel."

At that, you felt your whole body tense up and almost screamed at the pleasure, but knew to just whisper it and breathe heavily. He laughed with a bit of a growl, feeling you on all over his fingers. He was enjoying this, and you could tell by the tent in his pants. You wondered if you were going to help him out with that as your breathing began to go back to it's normal pattern. He gets off of you as the timer went off, and he stuck his fingers in his mouth, tasting yourself.

"Ok lovebirds, time's up!" you heard Morgan say.

You sit up from the bed as Spencer sat next to you. "We'll be right out!" You said, "Holy shit, Spence. I didn't think you had this side to you."

"Everyone does," he said, "I know I pull off this small and meak kind of person, but they don't know what I think about when I'm at home. Even sometimes at work when I'm stressed on a case. I'll just give myself a breather and let my mind wonder. I even-"

He stopped himself in his tracks, taking back what he was originally going to say. He stood up, pulling you up with him. Your faces were then really close together. "Now, tonight I won't have you touch me. We'll save that for another day ok?" You nod again. "What are you going to do about 'that'?" Pointing to the tent.

"I'm gonna take care of it in the bathroom. Now, we don't tell anyone about this. Especially Garcia."

"Yeah, it'd be a bit weird if she found out that you fingered me on her bed."

"Well that, and the fact that she can't keep a secret to herself for the life of her."

"Good to know." you said.

You did as planned and walked out, going your different ways. You headed back to the living room and joined the rest of your coworkers. You sat there and took more hits and more shots, hoping to pass out. You couldn't help but want to let your thoughts wonder on its own.

#spencer reid smut #spencer reid #dr spencer reid smut #dr spencer reid #matthew gray gubler #mgg #criminal minds #criminal minds smut #criminal minds fanfiction #spencer reid fanfic #spencer reid fan fiction #spencer x reader #spencer reid x reader #fan fiction #spencer reid fic #dr reid #spencer x y/n #spencer reid x y/n

[heyitssmiller]

Frosted Windowpanes: Part One

The Christmas Fic is here! Featuring Logan the lumberjack, Leo who owns a diner, and Finn who was just trying to have a quiet, uneventful holiday (lol). This was supposed to be a oneshot, but y’all know I’m too long-winded for that, so it looks like we’ll be having at least one more part for this story!

@donttouchmycarrots Thank you so much for proofreading/encouraging/being such a wonderful, wonderful friend. I don’t think I’d still be writing without you and iloveyouiloveyouiloveyou 

@lumosinlove​ Again, thank you for such wonderful characters! And for creating such a wonderful, welcoming fandom! I never thought I’d post my writing where people could read it, but then I met y’all and here we are! You guys are amazing! Happy Holidays, everyone! <3

Part Two is now up!

.

It's that time of year When the world falls in love Every song you hear seems to say

- The Christmas Waltz

.

Piercing, bitter cold greeted Logan as he stepped outside for the first time that day. The kind of cold that made the entire body tense up and the breath hitch. It was a quiet early morning, with a stillness that only freshly-fallen snow could bring. Logan took a second to pull his toque further down over his head as he grabbed the chainsaw by the door before heading out to the truck, passing the sign with red, clean lettering that read Tremblay’s Christmas Trees.

“Took you long enough, sleeping beauty.” His sister, Noelle, teased from the driver’s seat of the beat-up truck that barely started most mornings.

“It’s too early for this.” He grumbled back, sliding into the passenger’s seat as the truck reluctantly spluttered to a start.

“The faster we get done out here, the faster we can go deal with customers.”

“That’s not exactly helping.”

Noelle laughed as she drove back into one of the fields, parking the truck at the far end. “Come on, it’s not that bad. They ask to buy a tree, you help them pick one out, take their money, and strap it to their car. Easy.”

They got out of the truck, grabbed the chainsaw from the back, and headed towards their first tagged tree. Logan grabbed the tree around its trunk to stabilize it while Noelle powered up the chainsaw, putting their conversation on hold. She crouched down to start cutting the base of the tree trunk, creating a notch before starting the back cut. Logan waited until the tree felt unstable before giving the tree a gentle push in the right direction and removing his hands. The tree hit the ground with a thud.

Noelle took that as her cue to continue their conversation. “Don’t pretend to be all grumpy and stoic. I know you like some of our regulars.”

“Some being the key word here.” He replied, grabbing the tree trunk again and beginning to drag it to the truck. Noelle just gave him a look that clearly said I see right through you but didn’t comment as she looked for the next tagged tree.

Logan heaved the Christmas tree into the bed of the truck and shoved it into one corner; he could probably fit one more tree alongside it before he started stacking them. He stood up straight, turning his head to watch the sun rise and peek over the tops of the trees, bringing rays of light and warmth with it.

Leo basked in the warmth coming from the oven as he took out a fresh batch of croissants, a welcome reprieve from the weather outside. He quickly put the next tray of pastries into the oven and transferred the baked croissants onto a plate, where he let them cool just a little before drizzling them with honey. He hummed along to the Christmas music playing on the radio as he worked on getting the diner ready to open in a few hours. He started the gumbo, red beans and rice, and jambalaya, letting them simmer on the stove before whipping up his fried chicken batter and breading so that it was ready whenever he needed it. Next was the cornbread, which was made from scratch and poured into muffin tins to create the perfect individual servings. Coffee was brewed, quiches were placed in the display window, waffle batter was whipped up and sitting in a bowl on the counter.

Leo was arranging croissants into a basket when the back door opened, letting all the cold air in and a small flurry of snow with it.

“Good morning!” Nate called as he came around the corner, shedding his coat and hat. Leo honestly wasn’t sure what he’d do without Nate. Running his own diner was hard – it was even harder when he’d moved to a different country, not knowing anyone there, and kept afloat with barely anything but his optimism and his confidence in his cooking. Nate was the first person he’d hired when business actually picked up, and he’d been there ever since. He had a real knack for cooking and managed to make every person that walked through their doors feel welcomed.

“Headed out to the farm?” Nate asked when he saw the basket of croissants and the large thermos Leo was filling with coffee.

“Yeah.” Leo said, grabbing coffee creamer and sugar and shoving them into his coat pocket after he slipped it on. “You don’t mind, do you?”

“Nah, I can hold down the fort while you’re gone.”

Leo smiled as he grabbed his hat. “Thanks. There’s croissants in the oven, but they’ll be done as soon as that timer goes off! I’ll be right back, ok?”

Nate gave him a look. “No you won’t.”

“No, I won’t.” Leo agreed with a laugh. “But I’ll be back before morning rush.” He said as he braced himself and opened the door to be greeted by the frigid Canadian winter.

Even after a year and a half, he had a feeling he’d never get used to this weather.

He made a beeline for his car, quickly getting behind the wheel and cranking the heat as high as it would go. He put the car in drive and slowly pulled out onto the road, keeping a firm grip on the wheel and his eyes on the road. He knew he was probably causing a traffic build-up behind him, which made Leo feel a little guilty. He’d driven through hurricanes countless times, but snow? Black ice? He was absolutely terrified of that. So he took his time, eventually turning off the main road and driving until he reached a sign with red lettering and a Christmas tree lot. There were handmade wreaths and garlands, and white Christmas lights strung up over the rows of trees for sale.

Leo put the car in park and grabbed his stuff, breath hitching as he faced the cold winds again. Marius, the head of the Tremblay family, was at the checkout counter, writing something down on a pad of paper. Once he looked up and saw Leo, he smiled broadly. “Hey, Nut!”

“Good morning.” Leo replied, raising the basket and thermos in his hands. “I come bearing gifts. Coffee and croissants.”

“You know you don’t have to do that.” Marius said as he gave Leo a stern look. “I’m sure you’ve got other things to do.”

Leo shrugged, opening the basket and offering them to the man. “I like doing this. Y’all work hard and have ridiculously long hours. And you work in this weather. I feel like you could use a little warmth.”

“You and your southern manners.” He grabbed a croissant anyways, taking a big bite. “Your favorite’s still out there bringing some trees in.” He said, motioning to one of the groves to the left. Leo could faintly hear the sound of a chainsaw in the distance.

“I don’t have favorites,” Leo protested as he set the thermos and croissants down on the table, even though it was clearly a bald-faced lie. He thought of evergreen eyes and a gorgeous laugh and a smile that left him breathless. He blamed the redness of his cheeks and ears on the cold. “I like all of you equally.”

“Right.” Marius said, dragging out the vowel. He was smiling, though. “He’s lucky to have a friend like you, you know.”

Leo had to force his smile to remain steadfast. Friend. That was all this was ever going to be, no matter how much his heart yearned for something more. He needed to learn to be content with that – it wasn’t fair to Logan otherwise, or to himself for that matter. He could be a good friend and leave it at that. It was still better than not knowing him at all.

“I think I’m the lucky one.” He said, only then remembering the sugar and coffee creamers in his coat pocket. He fished them out and set them on the counter next to the thermos. “I do have to get going, though. I’ve got the breakfast rush to deal with.”

Marius waved him off playfully, grabbing another croissant. “Go on, then. I’ll try to save some for the rest of them.”

Leo laughed at his antics, breath clouding in the air. “I’m holding you to that.”

Marius watched him get in his car and drive off very slowly with a chuckle. Damn southerners. He looked down at the coffee creamers and sugar, knowing Logan was the only one in the family that used them, and started speculating.

He heard the rumbling of the truck as it came in, the back loaded to the brim with trees. Noelle and Logan’s bickering could be heard before the truck’s engine got turned off, which was saying something. Marius grabbed a cup and filled it with coffee. He was going to need it.

“I mean, come on. Back to the Future is clearly the superior 80s movie. It’s definitely better than Top Gun.”

Logan closed his door, staring at his sister with a combination of horror and disbelief. “How dare you. Those aren’t even in the same genre!”

Noelle looked over at Marius right as she was about to start her counterargument and spotted the pastries and coffee. She grinned and abandoned Logan at the back of the truck in order to beat him to the food. One croissant was immediately shoved into her mouth as she grabbed another and then reached for a coffee cup one-handed. Marius snorted and grabbed it from her, filling it with steaming coffee.

She groaned. “Lolo, your friend needs to stop by more often. Fuck, this is good. If I wasn’t in a committed relationship already, I’d ask him to marry me.”

“Please don’t call me that.” Logan said gruffly, but his words were betrayed by a smile. He looked down at the pastries, eyes soft and smile dopy.

Marius knew that look. More importantly, he knew his son. And everything fit together like pieces of a puzzle.

“Maybe Logan should ask, instead.” He teased, although a part of him was completely genuine.

Logan choked on his first bite of croissant.

.

“Finn!” June shouted as soon as she flung the door open, throwing herself into his arms. Finn laughed and hugged her back. Two seconds into his visit and he knew this was going to be the best way to spend the week before Christmas. He hadn’t seen June since they graduated college and, even though they kept in touch, it wasn’t the same.

“Four years is way too long.” He said as she let go. “Let’s not go that long without seeing each other again, ok?”

“Deal.” She replied, grabbing his bag for him and leading the way inside. The apartment was warm and cozy and lived in – there were books on the coffee table and a large pile of mail on the counter and a few stray dishes in the sink.

Finn loved it.

Heather, June’s fiancée, smiled in greeting and stuck her hand out to shake. “You must be Finn.”

He had originally thought it might be a little bit awkward, meeting his ex-girlfriend’s fiancée, but Heather seemed kind and welcoming and unperturbed about the whole thing. He shook her hand and returned the smile. “Heather. I’ve heard a lot about you.”

“Oh god.” She laughed, shooting June a look. June just winked and leaned over to check whatever food was in the oven.

“All good things.” Finn promised, letting Heather lead him to the guest room. It was as happy and welcoming as the rest of the apartment. As soon as they were out of earshot, he continued, “I’m really happy for you guys. She’s happier than I've ever seen her.”

“So am I.” Heather said wistfully as Finn set his bag down. “Bathroom’s through that door if you need it.”

“Thanks.”

When he rejoined the group in the living room, he noticed something: a distinct lack of Christmas decorations. June used to love decorating her college dorm room for the holidays – she went all out with little things she bought at the Dollar Tree and a miniature Christmas tree from Walmart. They used to get the tree together every year. It was strange that she hadn’t continued the tradition.

“No tree?” He asked June, surprised. She shrugged and scooted over on the couch to make room for all three of them.

“Haven’t had the time. I’ve been so busy at work and Heather’s been traveling for conferences. It’s not the same when you have to decorate by yourself.”

Finn hummed understandingly. He knew the feeling. “Why don’t we go get one now? Do you think some places are still open this late?”

Heather and June looked at each other, seeming to have a telepathic conversation. Finn watched on in amusement as they communicated with raised eyebrows and narrowed eyes and shrugs until they apparently made up their minds.

“Tremblay’s is probably still open. They’ve got the best trees, anyways.” June explained, turning to look at Finn. “But I’ve got to stay here and make sure our dinner doesn’t burn.”

“And I’ve got to stay here and supervise June while she uses the oven.” Heather added. Finn laughed, remembering too many times June had burned herself while using the rickety old oven from the 1970s that still lived on in their dorm building.

“Yeah, that sounds about right.” Finn teased and ruffled June’s hair. She just rolled her eyes and didn’t even bother trying to smooth it out again. Ruffling hair was one of Finn’s main ways of showing affection – she knew it would just get messed up again. Finn fished his phone out of his pocket and pulled up his navigation app. “I can go get the tree, if you want. You said the place was called Tremblay’s?”

“Finn, you really don’t have to-”

“No, I want to!” He cut in, standing up from the couch to grab his coat. “I didn’t bring presents for you guys because I’m so bad at gift-giving, so this can be my Christmas present.”

Heather hesitated. “Are you sure you don’t mind?” She asked, glancing at June again. “We can always go out and get a tree tomorrow.”

“It’s fine. I’ll be back soon, and with a tree!” Finn said as he reached the door, turned to give a cheery salute, and headed out to his car.

After a frankly terrifying drive through narrow back roads and potential ice hazards, Finn followed his app to a little tree farm off of the main road. There weren’t many cars there, thankfully, and it still looked open. The rows of white lights hanging above the trees were all lit and glowing, snow was falling at a slow, sleepy pace. It looked perfect, like something out of a dream.

And that was before Finn saw him.

The man working the front counter.

Finn raked his gaze over the man and swooned. Wavy brown hair, bright eyes, shoulders and arms so broad and built that it seemed like they were about to rip the plaid shirt he was wearing. With a nametag that stated Logan, he seemed like a rugged, Canadian, lumberjack dreamboat. Finn swallowed, making his way to the counter and the absolute vision behind it while he focused on not tripping over his own two feet.

“Hi,” Finn managed, trying not to get lost in evergreen eyes. “I’d like to buy a tree, please.”

“What type of tree would you like?”

Oh, the accent.

Finn was screwed.

“Uh…” Finn trailed off, looking at Logan and struggling to find words. “A Christmas tree?”

“Spruce, pine, or fir?” When Finn’s expression turned more confused, Logan smiled in exasperated, awed delight. Who drove all this way for a tree and had no clue what they were looking for? Most people at least had some idea. But not this one, apparently. Those big, Bambi eyes were lost and absolutely adorable.

“Do you have a size you’re looking for?” Logan asked, receiving a more perplexed look.

This was too funny. “Do you know anything about what kind of tree you want?”

“A pretty one? But not too expensive. Or too tall. Or heavy – I’ve got to get it up a huge flight of stairs.”

Logan couldn’t hold back the laughter any longer. He leaned forwards against the counter and laughed, eyes squeezing shut and shoulders shaking. Finn watched with a smile of his own, taking in the way his eyes crinkled at the corners and the contagious nature of his laugh. He felt like this – this right here – was the only thing he wanted to do for the next several hours, especially if he was the reason for the laughter. He thought of that song he could never remember the name of but heard a lot on Tiktok that said, “oh no, I think I’m catching feelings” and never related to a song more in his entire life.

“Ok,” Logan said when he’d finally caught his breath. “Ok, I’m going to pick one out for you, how’s that sound…?”

“Finn.” The redhead supplied with a laugh of his own. “And please. I have no clue what I’m doing.”

“Clearly.” Logan stepped around the counter and led him towards a group of trees. “These are Douglas Firs. They last a long time, smell great, and they don’t take a lot of trimming or maintenance. They’re also pretty cheap since they’re so common.”

Finn looked from the trees to another group of trees a little ways off. “They all look the same.”

“Who’s the expert here?” Logan teased, shooting him a look over his shoulder as he walked from one tree to the next. Finn trailed after him eagerly, watching calloused, muscular hands trail along the needles of the trees.

“We can go look at the Fraser Firs, if you want, but I really think one of these is your best bet.” Logan continued, stopping in front of a mid-sized tree. “How about this one?”

Finn looked at it, then back at Logan. “What do you think? Since I clearly don’t know anything about trees.” That drew another smile from Logan, which made Finn vow to himself to make the brunet smile like that again.

Logan dragged the tree out from the rest of the group and looked it over. “I think it’s a good one. Good shape, healthy. I sure know how to pick ‘em, eh?”

Eh. How adorably Canadian.

“Sounds good. It’s not even for me, so my input doesn’t really matter a whole lot.”

Logan sent him a confused look. “So you went out at nine o’clock at night to get a Christmas tree, and it’s not for you?”

“I don’t even live in this country.”

“What?”

“I’m visiting friends that live here, and they’ve been traveling or too busy to decorate like they normally do, so I decided I’d get the ball rolling and find them a Christmas tree.” Finn shrugged, shoving his hands into his pockets.

Not only was he stunning, he was thoughtful to boot.

Logan clearly had a type.

“That’s nice of you.” He removed the tree from its stand and started lugging it to the counter, watching the redhead trail behind him yet again out of the corner of his eye. When he reached his destination, he set the tree down and found Finn staring at him with a look of awe on his face. He bit back a smile. “How long are you staying?”

Finn was silent for a second, as if in a trance, then snapped out of it with a little shake of his head. “Huh?”

That smile he was holding back broke through. “How long are you staying in town?”

“Oh. Just for the week, then I’m off to spend Christmas with my family back home in New York.”

“A New Yorker, huh?” Logan asked as he bagged the tree up, attempting to do the accent and making Finn laugh. “This must be quite the change of pace for you.”

“You have no idea.”

Finn’s stomach growled, making his eyes widen and his cheeks burn in embarrassment. It must’ve been loud enough for Logan to hear because he turned back around to face Finn and quirked an eyebrow. “Hungry?” He asked, then told Finn the price of the tree. Finn handed his card over.

“Yeah. Haven’t had dinner yet.”

“I, uh, I know a place.” Logan said, playing with Finn’s credit card before meeting his eyes and quickly adding, “If you’re interested. I haven’t had dinner either.”

Finn grinned, not even trying to hide his excitement. The only thing he’d wanted when he left June and Heather’s apartment was a tree. Now he had a potential date with this gorgeous, witty guy? Yes please. “Yeah?”

Logan shared his smile, leaning forward against the counter and looking up at him through dark, dark eyelashes. Finn’s heart fluttered. “Yeah. Sounds fun to me.”

“Great.” Finn said, unsure of what else to say and suddenly feeling a little awkward. Was he supposed to wait for him to finish his shift? Were they driving together? Where was this restaurant?

He needed to text June.

Shit. She had been making dinner when he left. But he’d already agreed to dinner with Logan. But it would be so rude to not spend time with his hosts. But he would regret it for the rest of his life if he didn’t go on this date.

He pulled out his phone as Logan ran his card through the system to text June.

To June: Sooooo there might be a change of plans. Some hot guy is my acting tour guide for the night and I won’t be making it home for dinner. But I promise I have a tree and I will be back eventually.

It only took June a few seconds to respond.

From June: Damn. You go, Finn.

He laughed under his breath, then pocketed his phone. When he looked up, Logan was looking at him and holding his card out. Finn grabbed it and shoved it into his wallet, which he pocketed. “Ready to go?” Logan asked, grabbing the trunk of the tree and preparing to drag it again. “I can drive, if you want. We’ll strap the tree to the top of your car and then head out.”

“Works for me. Do you need help with that?” Finn motioned to the tree. Not that he minded the view – quite the contrary – but he felt bad not doing anything.

“Want to grab the netting towards the top? We can carry it instead of dragging it.”

Finn grabbed the netting and followed Logan’s lead as they both lifted the tree and started carrying it out to Finn’s car, Finn giving directions as they went. Getting the tree to the top of the rental car was a struggle, but they managed and strapped it down.

They hurried to Logan’s car and shut out the cold as quickly as they could. Logan started the rickety old pickup truck that smelled strongly of Christmas trees and took off down the road at a much faster pace than Finn would ever dare to drive these roads.

“I have a feeling you’re going to love this place.” Logan said as he turned right onto the main road, accelerating a bit more. “Pretty much everyone does. It’s not very Canadian, but you can’t beat the food.”

“What defines a restaurant as Canadian?” Finn mused, looking over at the driver. “Maple syrup? Poutine?”

“Watch it.” There was no heat in Logan’s voice, so Finn didn’t take it to heart. They slowed down and pulled into a parking lot of a diner simply called Leo’s. The outside looked a little rundown, which made Finn a little apprehensive, but the windows were all fogged up from the temperature difference between inside and outside, which was always promising.

Logan turned the car off and shot Finn an excited grin. “Ready?”

Finn couldn’t tell if he was excited for dinner with him or just the food. Hopefully it was both.

The inside of the diner was… eclectic. The walls were a faint yellow, but there were splashes of deep purple, green, and gold in the decorations on the walls. Mardis Gras, Finn realized as he spotted some masks hanging on the wall. The food smelled amazing – warm and spicy and savory. Behind the baked goods on display counter stood a young kid with a cleaning spray and a rag, wiping down the counters. He looked up at the bell that signaled the door opening and instantly recognized Logan. He sent them a smile before turning his head and shouting towards the direction of the kitchen, “Leo!”

There was a loud clang, followed by a muffled curse. “Be there in a jiffy!”

Finn looked to Logan in confusion. “Was that a southern accent? Like American south?”

“Leo.” Was all Logan said, a happy smile on his face.

“You guys can go ahead and sit down,” The kid at the counter said. “I’ll bring some menus.”

“Thanks, Nate.” Logan led the way towards a booth in the front corner of the dining area and sat down facing the door. Finn sat opposite him, accepting a menu with thanks. The menu consisted of southern U.S. staples – biscuits and gravy, grits, red beans and rice, fried chicken, etouffee, jambalaya, po’boys, fried catfish, cornbread, the list went on.

“So is this guy from Louisiana?”

Logan wasn’t even looking at the menu, he was watching every nuance of Finn’s expressions as he took everything in. “New Orleans, born and raised.”

“How the hell did he end up here?”

“He had an uncle who owned this place and left it to Leo when he died. Originally he was just going to fix it up and sell it before going back home, but two months led to a year and he’s still here. Doesn’t seem to be planning on going anywhere else for a while, either.” Logan suddenly perked up, looking at something over Finn’s shoulder. “Here he comes.”

Finn swiveled in his seat and stopped dead in his tracks.

Tall.

They were both greeted by a dimpled smile as Leo approached their table, flour or powdered sugar – Finn wasn’t sure which one – all over his apron and a dusting of it in his fluffy blond hair.

“Hey, Logan. See you’ve brought company!” His accent dragged sweet and slow like molasses, so very out of place this far north. But it was refreshing, like a breath of fresh air or the sun coming out from behind the clouds after a week of rain. As he got closer, Finn realized what he’d thought to be flour in his hair was actually a gray streak. And wow, were his eyes blue.

How was everyone here so attractive?

“Finn, meet Leo. Leo, this is Finn.” Logan said, smile never leaving his face as he looked between the two. “He’s new here.”

Leo arched an eyebrow. “And you brought him here?”

“You do have the best pie in town.”

That got another sunny smile from Leo. “Damn right I do. But dinner first. Can’t go on spoilin’ your dinner with pie.” Those blue eyes turned to Finn, causing his breath to hitch just a little. “What’ll you have, sugar?”

Finn simply wasn’t going to survive this night. Was this a dream? That would explain all the attractive guys – the probabilities of something like this happening in real life were slim to none. He pinched his arm harshly. Not a dream.

What the fuck?

Finn realized he still hadn’t answered and was just staring at the blond. He cleared his throat and quickly averted his gaze to the menu, not really reading anything but grateful for something else to look at besides the two guys in front of him. “Um… what would you recommend?” He finally asked, grateful that he could get his vocal cords to actually work.

Leo hummed, thinking about it. “Personally I really like the muffuletta, if you’re looking for a sandwich. Definitely the gumbo if you’re in the mood for soup. I do make a mean fried catfish, too.”

Finn wasn’t sure what exactly a muffuletta was, but he ordered it. Logan got his usual, whatever that meant. Leo wrote down their orders and gave them one last smile before retreating to the kitchen. They both watched him go, then Finn whipped back around to face Logan.

“Is he real?”

Logan just laughed, leaning back in his seat. Finn panicked for half a second, terrified that what he’d said was the worst possible thought to voice on what was potentially a first date. But Logan didn’t seem to mind. He just looked back at the kitchen with a soft smile Finn hadn’t seen before.

“You know, I ask myself that a lot.” He said quietly, as if he hadn’t meant to say it out loud. And Finn finally understood.

He was in love with Leo.

The sound of a record scratching filled Finn’s head.

Wait.

That didn’t make any sense… because Finn was ninety-five percent sure that Logan had been flirting with him all night.

Hadn’t he?

They made small talk while they waited for their food, and Logan was pleasantly surprised at how… easy it was. He normally didn’t like small talk and didn’t share personal stories with strangers, but here Finn was, pulling stories out of him that he normally wouldn’t share on a first date.

Was this a date? Logan couldn’t decide if he wanted it to be one or not. One hand, this was definitely the most fun he’d had in weeks. On the other hand, Leo. He sent a glance towards the kitchen window before focusing back on Finn’s story about one of the parties he and June went to back in college. There was lots of alcohol, mattresses, and a roof involved. Finn’s storytelling included a myriad of different expressions, all of which Logan found endearing. The wrinkle of his nose when he talked about drunk frat boy antics, the way he got all soft whenever he talked about June, the laughter lines around his eyes when he told a funny anecdote.

How was it possible to be so cute and yet so hot at the same time?

And how had he met two guys who fit into both of those categories?

Nate brought their food out while Logan was in the middle of a story about the time he’d found a squirrel in one of their trees and got attacked when he tried to relocate the thing when Nate came back with the food. Finn had the muffuletta, which was apparently meat and cheese and some sort of olive spread or something – Finn had no idea, but it looked and smelled amazing. Logan had a bowl of red beans and rice in front of him, but he was waiting to see Finn’s reaction to the food before starting his own.

Finn took a bite of the sandwich, then his eyes widened almost comically. “Oh my god.”

“I know.” Logan said, getting a spoonful of red beans and rice.

“Where has this been all my life?”

“Just wait until you try the pie.”

Finn didn’t speak again, he just ate. The food clearly took precedence over any possible conversations. Logan couldn’t help but agree. Finn ate like a man who hadn’t seen food in a week, finishing the sandwich in record time. He leaned back in his seat when he was done, letting out a happy, content sigh. “Holy shit. Is everything on the menu that good?”

“Pretty much.”

“And he hasn’t been on the Food Network yet?”

Logan grinned. “Not that I’m aware of.”

“We should tell them to get up here and try this food.”

“Y’all, I don’t have time for the Food Network.” Finn jumped a little as Leo reappeared with two slices of pie. “I appreciate it, though. You liked it, huh?”

Finn looked up at him. “I kind of want to come back every day I’m here.” And he meant it. He wouldn’t be coming back just for the food, though.

“Well, I definitely won’t stop you.” Leo said with a dimpled smile. Finn barely held in a dreamy sigh.

Dimples.

“Why don’t you join us?” Finn asked, scooting over to make room for the blond. But Leo just shook his head with a rueful smile.

“I wish I could, but I’ve got twelve pies that need to be made.”

“Twelve?” Finn asked in mild horror. “When do you sleep?”

“The chocolate crème pies are in high demand, especially around the holidays. But it’s fine, I don’t mind it. I’m just glad I've got business.” Leo seemed to be ignoring the sleep question, which was never a good sign.

“You look tired.” Logan noted, face muddled with concern.

Leo laughed softly, but didn’t seem to take offense. “Thanks a lot, darlin’.”

Logan broke eye contact and pushed the residual whipped cream around on his plate. Finn hadn’t even realized he’d started eating, but he quickly followed suit and fuck, was that good.

“I just meant you need to take care of yourself, that’s all.” Logan mumbled into his plate without looking up, almost as if he was afraid to see the cook’s response.

“Says the guy who works even longer hours than I do.” Leo teased, causing Logan to roll his eyes.

“That’s because it’s almost Christmas and I work at a Christmas tree farm. It’s only temporary. We’ll be back to normal by the end of the week.”

“Well, good. You deserve to sleep in for once.” Leo said, taking a step back towards the kitchen. “But I really do have to go. Those pies won’t make themselves.”

“Do you want help?” Finn asked hopefully, He honestly couldn’t think of a better way to spend the night than baking with these two. Being given instructions in a thick southern drawl, helping Logan make pie filling, trading stories (and maybe kisses) while they waited for the pies to be done.

But Leo quickly dashed his dreams. “That’s sweet, honey, but I think I’ll be faster on my own. I’ve got a system that makes it pretty efficient. And I don’t give out my recipes to just anyone, you know.”

Oh, but I’d love to be someone to you.

Logan also looked disappointed. “We should get going, then. Don’t want to keep distracting you.”

“At least you’re a welcome distraction.” Leo said with a wink before he turned and disappeared into the kitchen. He let the door close behind him before backing up to lean against it, tilting his head back to rest against the wood and closing his eyes. The happy façade dropped in an instant.

Because Logan was out there, on a date with a guy. A handsome, kind, funny guy who would have absolutely no trouble sweeping Logan off his feet.

And that guy wasn’t Leo.

.

Finn flopped dramatically onto the couch back at June’s apartment, muffling a scream into a poor, unsuspecting pillow. June looked up from her book with a laugh. “Well hello to you, too.”

“I’m in love.”

“Oh?” Heather asked from her spot cuddled up next to June.

Finn turned his head sideways to open one eye and look at the two of them. “With a lumberjack and a cook.”

“Ah,” June said knowingly as she dog-eared the page she was on and closed the book. “Beware the lumberjacks. They’re known to be irresistible. Alright then, which Tremblay was it?”

Finn cocked his head. “What?”

Heather smiled as June tilted her head back and let her run her fingers through dark brown curls. They were so cute it was almost sickening. “There’s four of them: three sisters and a brother. Which one did you fall for?”

Finn couldn’t have held back the smile that crossed his face even if he tried. “Logan.”

June groaned. “I get it. Holy shit, those eyes.”

“I know.”

“I didn’t know he cooked, though.”

“No, the cook was another guy.” Finn sighed as he twisted to lay on his back and stare wistfully up at the ceiling. “Leo.”

“The southern one with the diner?”

“That’s the one.”

“Damn, O’Hara. You do know-”

“They’re head-over-heels in love with each other? Yeah, I got that.” Finn stretched his legs out to rest on June’s lap. “But I’m also pretty sure that was a date. And that Logan was flirting with me.” He sighed again, covering his eyes with his arm. “I’m doomed.”

“Always so dramatic.” June teased. “Just date both of them.”

Finn froze, his mind going completely blank. “What?”

“Date both of them.” She repeated, unfazed. “Polyamorous relationships are a thing, you know. Who says you can’t date both of them?”

Finn moved his arm away from his face to stare at her. “Huh.” He finally said, mind kicking back into gear. That sounded… perfect, actually. Only a few hitches. Did Leo even like him? They’d barely talked to each other. Finn could see Logan being ok with the whole dating two people thing, seeing that he was flirting with both of them, but what would Leo think? And the other hitch. “I’m only for a week, though.”

“Then you’d better act fast, lover boy.”

“I’ve got a question.” Heather piped up.

Finn looked at her and raised an eyebrow, waiting for her to ask her question.

“Where’s the tree?”

He could probably see it from their front window if he bothered to stand up, still strapped to his rental car. “Shit.”

#lumosinlove #o'knutzy #finn o'hara #logan tremblay #leo knut #christmas au #frosted windowpanes