SALVATION IN DESTRUCTION // AND I AM THE APOSTLE OF PAIN
Today's Document

if i look back, i am lost

ellievsbear

Origami Around
PUT YOUR BEARD IN MY MOUTH
let's talk about Bridgerton tea, my ask is open
Peter Solarz
No title available
Aqua Utopia|海の底で記憶を紡ぐ

shark vs the universe

❣ Chile in a Photography ❣
almost home
NASA
EXPECTATIONS

Kiana Khansmith
Jules of Nature
Sade Olutola
occasionally subtle
Claire Keane

blake kathryn
seen from Russia

seen from United States
seen from United States

seen from Malaysia
seen from Iraq

seen from Germany
seen from United States

seen from United States
seen from United States

seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from United States

seen from United States

seen from Malaysia

seen from Türkiye
seen from France

seen from Norway
seen from United States
seen from United States
seen from United States
@grabtherain
SALVATION IN DESTRUCTION // AND I AM THE APOSTLE OF PAIN
RICKY OLSON ✦ Motionless In White - Break The Cycle M/V
Let's Trauma Together (Steddie Fanfiction)
Summary: Eddie is pining hard for Steve after his near death experience in the Upside Down. Steve is well- pining hard for Eddie after carrying a bleeding Eddie out of the Upside down. Valentines Day rolls around and Steve shows up at Eddies door- awkwardness and all. Flirting ensues. Pining ensues. Does anything really resolve itself?
Disclaimer: There's a possibility that I turn this into something bigger on AO3- I haven't really decided. Another thing- I am very much angry that Wayne and Eddie never interact on the show so I self indulged in writing my own uncle-nephew dynamic. I am aware that the ending is ambiguous, again there might be more in the future.
CW: brief mentions of death, contemplation of life
"Eddie I will not allow you to sit and sulk in my presence today." Wayne chuckled at his nephew, a tired smile falling onto his lips. "I got three more hours before I head to work- so either cheer up or,"
"I'm gonna stop you right there!" Eddie interrupted as he jumped up from his spot on the couch. "I know you are not gonna recommend such a thing." Eddie could read his uncle like a book, and it seemed the power was mutual. It was Valentines day and Wayne knew his nephew was sulking. Sulking- yet still a ball of energy. He didn't know how Eddie did it sometimes.
"I have no idea what you're talking about Kid." Wayne teased in bemusement, taking a sip of his beer slowly. He had to admit that he had been spending too much time with Eddie since- the incident. He showed his emotions way more, teased the boy as much as he could, and he woke up early just to sit with him before work. Though Wayne wouldn't admit too much to enjoying the times together with his nephew- they avoided feelings most time. After a moment Wayne caved, "All I'm saying is- you never know if you don't try."
Eddie's face contorted into an immediate scowl- though he was entertaining Wayne just as he was entertaining Eddie. "Steve Harrington isn't something you just try Wayne." Eddie huffed out as he sat his restless body down on the couch. "Pretty sure once you're in... you're in for life." The two sat in silence for a mere two seconds before Eddie let out a gag at his own wording. "Not like that!" The two men began to laugh at one another's antics that led to this point.
Though- leave it to Wayne to bring the seriousness of a situation out. "C'mon Kid, I see him here almost every week. I don't think you have too much to worry about." Eddie, if he wasn't in a bubble, would most likely notice the tone of Wayne's voice. The tone older generations use when they know something a younger person doesn't- the wise man gruff. However, Eddie at this point was in so much denial that he barely heard Wayne after the first sentence.
"Steve is only here to pick the kids up from our DnD campaigns Wayne! He is forced to come near me!" Eddie's hands raised to play with his hair- twisting a miscellaneous curl in between his ringed fingers. Wincing at one point- cursing his calluses for catching a knot. "Plus, he is probably having a movie night with Robin today." Eddie whispered softly, his eyes dilating as he seemed to completely leave the conversation. Wayne sighed as he watched the boy he loved the most in this cruel world, the boy who survived the worst thing this world had to offer- sulk over a boy. A boy who from Wayne's knowledge, ruined Eddie in their earlier years. However, Wayne didn't bring that up. In fact, Wayne and Eddie stopped speaking soon after that- simply basking in each others presence as they watched TV. When it was time for Wayne to go, he put a weighted hand on Eddie's knee as he stood. Eddie's head lifted as if it was the heaviest thing on Earth- his lips pulling into a small smile that seemed just as weighted. With a pat on the knee and a playful head butt to the Oldman's gut as he tried to ruffle Eddie's hair- Eddie was left all alone.
Hours went by, Eddie remaining the same criss cross position on the new couch. He sat there just contemplating what had happened to him in the past year. Senior year. Dustin. All the kids. Vecna. Death. A shiver ran up Eddie's spine- seemingly snapping him into a more appropriate posture. His eyes remained completely zoned out- focusing on brand new carpet. The brand new carpet- in this brand new apartment. Gifted by some secret agency who wanted Wayne and Eddie to stay as quiet as possible about what almost killed Eddie- well what had killed Eddie. Eddie remembers showing up to graduation after being labeled officially dead by the news- he compares it to how Will might have felt. Within the comparison, he begins to think of all the fond memories he has with the kids now that he is alive. Well, as alive as his brain will let him think he is.
Suddenly a knock is heard at the front door, though it seemed as though Eddie would never react. Fifteen seconds after the sound had reverberated off the door- Eddie jumped in his upright position on the couch. Confusion finally began to settle onto his now present features- and his hands began to nervously sweat at who it could possibly be at the door. Five seconds after his reaction- there was another knock on the door. Eddie found himself self consciously counting how much time everything took to happen. Less than a millisecond after the second knock occurred, Eddie was pushing himself off the couch to make his way to the oak door. I'll be it- unwillingly- but you must give credit where credit is due. You don't deal with a secret agency once and not be terrified of them showing up again to kill you and take everything away. However, you also don't go through what Eddie did and not develop paranoia. Eddie's brain stopped counting once he was right in front of the door- it was too busy worrying about the what ifs. "I told Wayne we need a peep hole." Eddie cursed under his breath as he grasped the door handle. "If I die, I die."He thought out loud as he swung the door open into his chest- not wanting to open it all the way in case he could save himself.
"Woah woah Munson. No one's dying tonight." The voice of Steve Harrington flooded all of Eddie's sense. His eyes noticeably widening in complete shock at not only the sound but the sight in front of him. There stood Steve Harrington - all alone- with a stack of VHS tapes and a tote bag slung over his shoulder. "They say death is at its lowest on Valentines Day," Steve began to fumble with his own joke. Noticing Eddies already huge brown eyes- having grown wider in his presence. "Something about love healing and all that." His confidence disintegrated into a mere mumble as he began to shift back and forth on his heels.
"Something like that." Eddie mimicked as his eyes trailed up and down Steve's formed, still outrageously confused about what was going on. However, he had manners and half a brain to let the poor boy in. "Well Harrington, please invite yourself over to the Munson residence." Eddie had to tease the other for coming over unannounced- though he couldn't help but like it (a lot)- he knew it would look suspicious if he didn't say anything. With foe confidence pushing a smirk onto Eddie's puppy dog features, his arms pushed the door open wider for his visitor. "Though- I welcome you with open arms." Eddie began to step deeper into the apartment to make sure he gave Steve enough room to comfortably walk in without feeling hovered over. Though Eddie couldn't help but exaggerate his lean to see what was in the tote bag.
"Hey! Eyes away!" Steve said suddenly as his arm holding the tape went to cover the slight opening of the tote bag. "They are surprises for letting me invade." Steve joked as he laughed softly at his own embarrassment, he knew Eddie would notice him not calling to come over. He couldn't help it- it truly was a last minute sort of ordeal.
Eddie let out a loud snort as stuffed his hands in his jean pockets. "How do I know you aren't going to whip a nail bat out at me?" He paused for greater affect, "I've heard the stories Harrington, Dustin knows how to make man sound like a badass with a piece of wood." Eddie would inwardly cringe at his wording- taking note how that's the second innuendo he's accidentally made while talking about Steve. If Steve's cheeks were anything to go by, he definitely got the insinuation to.
"W-Well," Fuck now he was stuttering? Get it together Harrington. "You'll have to trust that my bat is way too big for this bag to handle." Now the boys were in their natural mode of "flirting without acknowledging that it was sexual pining." Perfect.
Like a switch, the boys were doubled over laughing and beginning to set the VHS tapes all over the carpet to pick the order they wanted to watch each one. Eddie had questions. In fact, he had tons of them. From- "Where's Robin?" to "What's in the bag?" and even "Do you know this is making me fall even more in love with you?". The last one was the biggest one in his mind though- it was the one he ignored the most. "Tell me Harrington, what are you really doing here?" Wow- that question wasn't one of his top three. Brain what are you doing? Though Eddie watched in interest as Steve stopped dead in his tracks- still gripping one of the tapes loosely.
Gulp. Suddenly, his grip on the poor film was tighter than before. Whether it was the genuine tone that Eddie had used- or how Eddie had stared up at him with those big eyes as he said it, Steve was locked in place. "I can't come watch a couple movies with a friend?" Steve breathed out, just wanting to get something out so Eddie wouldn't think his heart had stopped beating. In reality, it was beating faster than ever before.
Eddie wasn't going to let Steve go that easily, "You definitely can, though I believe Robin is usually the movie friend. Me? I'm the pick up the kids friend." He hadn't meant for the last part to sound so self deprecating, he clawed at some sort of distraction. "So where's Robin hiding?" He looked around jokingly, knowing that the blonde would never be able to stay hidden for this long. To be fair, neither could Eddie.
"She's not here." A frown had set itself firmly on Steve's lips- his eyebrows furrowing in concern as his embarrassment was long forgotten. It's as if his mom mode had kicked in. Though he didn't see Eddie as one of the kids- his self deprecation wasn't lost on the other man. "And you're not just a 'pick up the kids' friend. You're a 'pick up the kids and watch a movie together after' friend." Steve let himself loosen up with a joke at the end of his reassurance. He knew Eddie wasn't a kid who needed to be told how to comprehend other's interactions with him. He just sometimes need a reminder and a little joke. Steve could do that for him. Steve could always do that for him.
Eddie chuckled softly as his own posture relaxed with the reassuring message. A genuine smile pressing onto his features as he looked up at Steve through his eyelashes. The teasing game between the two was back on- "Oh? I have an after title? We've taken a few steps in our relationship since I last checked." Eddie's voice was light- yet smooth just like his movements. He and Steve had been sitting beside one another as they sorted tapes- however, between them was a reasonable 8 inches or so. With the conversation turning every which way, Eddie found himself being magnetized towards Steve to feel grounded. Or to just feel.
The two boy's eyes never met- instead they looked all over each others features before studying what the other was doing movement wise. Eddie had officially closed the 8 inches, effectively sitting his knee right on top of Steve's has he turned back towards the carpet. "So- My Blood Valentine first right?"
Joseph Quinn Drabble
It is hard to come up with a plot when you have someone's head resting against your chest, whining for you to come back to bed and not worry about what you set a goal to do. Joseph is a distraction. You've told him this plenty of times while you lean into his body- smiling against his lips that beckon you even closer. You struggle to remind yourself that closer would practically mean you crawling into his skin. Honestly, you think you've seen a Tik Tok or two about people wanting to do that with their partner. You suppose its a type of obsession. You can't even force yourself to care as you snuggle into his hair even further, your script for your upcoming show being lost in a matter of seconds. His hair, his presence, he was more important than any words on a doc. He is more important than anything in any moment. You can stress over the deadline later, or you can never worry about it again- that is what Joseph would whisper into your skin. The same skin he will later go back to bite and press into with his thumbs. The same skin he can't seem to stay away from for more than two seconds. It makes you feel special. Makes you feel seen. Used in all the right ways. It's hard to come up with a plot when you feel as though you are living any dream your brain could think of.
Theme change 😭😭 switched to dark mode and tumblr decided to reset my Calum theme so I simply made a new one
I hate working with you, by the way. (GN Reader x Jensen Ackles)
Disclaimer: Before you even read the summary, I want you guys to know that this is inspired off the gif you see above. Due to this, I will not be including anyone's partners. I love the wives that keep the SPNfam going, and I respect them deeply, so there will be no affairs or any of the sort in this work of fiction.
Summary: Y/N is new to the set of Supernatural, this being said, they have absolutely no idea how to deal with the men on set. From their constant bickering, to out right fights, to them simply looking at Y/N through the camera lens to make them laugh- Y/N is at a loss. That is until they throw the boys a taste of their own medicine, and Jensen takes a notice.
CW: Bad jokes, cursing, random author notes
"And action!" You had gotten so use to the soft yell that came before the loud ass film slate 'click'- neither seemed to bother you anymore. You could reminisce in the days in film school when the film slate was the bane of your existence. Every time it slapped down, your body would jolt and your body camera would follow, making your editing later pure hell: almost every scene. It was a habit that you surprisingly got rid of, with determination, when you were hired for the set of Supernatural. The TV show that seemingly gained success overnight, or as the most of the team jokes, it never truly got off the ground. You, however, had loved the show since you first laid your eyes on it in season one. It wasn't just the dialogue or the extremely hot actors that seemingly made everything a little more enjoyable, that got your attention. The cinematography on the show was before its time and only continued to get better as the seasons continued.
Jeff actually had mentioned that your love for the cinematography and your knowledge on the movie references was one of the reasons he hired you. Though you would explain to your parents that it was "because of [your] natural ability to lead a room."
"Lead a room my ass." You whispered under your breath as everyone on set, reset for a fifth time on this one scene. For some reason Jared, Jensen, and Misha were exceptionally happy on the set today. Usually you would bask in the glory of everyone being on the same page, but you also knew that days like these meant a big block of footage that went straight to the bloopers pile. A pile you would be tasked to file through later that night.
"Jared isn't reading his lines right." Misha pointed an accusing finger at Jared, his eyes moving to yours behind the camera. You believed it was because you were the only one not having to move- though months later you would find out the real reason. A reason that wasn't truly at your expense. The attention still threw you off guard, your face moving similarly to a blow fish. (Handsomely beautiful of course)
"Wow, stunning the new crew already Misha. Low blow for an angel." Jared called back as he returned to his marked position on the floor, a classic laugh rolling out of his mouth. Your eyes fell to him as he spoke, instinctively, your eyes moved to Jensen next. Expecting. Though, Jensen remained silent as he concentrated on perfectly fitting the 'T' mark between his feet.
"Alright everybody set?" The set director called as he held up the film slate, his eyes meeting yours. His tone sent a shiver up your spine, as his eyes seemed unreasonably cold. Was he blaming you for the boys messing around? You're an innocent soul! Holding back an eye roll, you gave the judgmental eyes a small nod. Noting his passive aggressive tone as something to rant about later.
With another clack of the board, the men were moving around set again. 'This is the one' you thought as you moved along with the three for a close up shot. Just hold your breath and this scene will be over in no time. Five more seconds- suddenly Misha eyes were turning back to meet the camera, then Jared was leaning in to make one of the oddest expressions you've seen him make. Lastly, Jensen made the long stride to get in between them- smiling so creepily at you, you held back a laugh.
"God dammit." You heard one of your coworkers mutter behind you as the set director yelled 'reset.' Now the words that would shortly fall from your mouth were not well thought out.
This is the part where you want to crawl into a hole, or where you try to manifest a different ending late at night in your bed. However, you did say it- and boy did you say it with sarcasm that reeked of 'Sassy Sam Season Two'. "I hate working with you, by the way." The quote was directly pulled from the bloopers filmed earlier that week with Misha, the tone ripped from drunk Sam calling Dean bossy, and the facial expression mocking a smolder. You hit every point. However, the eyes that stared back at you through the camera- they pierced you with a green tip.
Everyone else around you burst into unexpected, but hoped for laughter. "Hell yeah! That was good Y/N." Misha clapped your back as the judging eyes of your set director seemed to soften. It felt like the hazing of being new to the crew- just disappeared. "Jared I think they have better come backs than you." Misha's claim was bold- even you could recognize that.
Jared's face blowed like yours had earlier, "Yeah right Mish! They've got years of training with me to go through before that." The two figures stood beside you- Jared's tall ass making you have to look up, but you couldn't. Your eyes were stuck on the green ones in your camera. Did you say the wrong thing? Did he not get it? Your shoulders tensed as your eyes rose from the screen and went to meet Jensen's personally. But he wouldn't look at you. Jared seemed to have notice the stress located in your muscle. "Jensen, can you believe Y/N remembered Mish's comment earlier- better than you remember lines." The comment snapped Jensen's eyes up to yours- though they were quickly ripped away to meet Jared.
"Oh, you asshole." Jensen laughed genuinely as he strode towards Jared- head locking him as best as he could. Everyone remained in a good mood after your comment, the rest of the shoot didn't drag like it did before. You would even say that the boy's did their scenes better after all tension was gone within the crew. Like a ghost- even behind the cameras you could tell the unspoken haunted the men, but after your joke, that was gone.
Well except for with you and Jensen. The two of you had truly never spoken much, not because you were on bad terms, but specifically because he terrified you. You could easily admit, to anyone, that your crush on the actor had almost caused you to not take the job on Supernatural. I mean, how could you be expected to act normal when you watched some of the most beautiful shots- some of the most inspiring cinematography- with his face in them. From this point you had learned to separate Dean's emotion from Jensen's face, but when you caught sight of his eyes on your camera display- you couldn't break the sense that that was Jensen. Not Dean looking back through the lens. You decided to go apologize to him once his scenes were over for the day, though to make sure you weren't intruding on his personal time- you didn't wait too long after the last set. "Jensen!" You called out after setting up your camera equipment for the night.
The only lights that shown on the outdoor set were the ones in the parking lot of the cast's trailers- you would be leaving soon to head to the near by hotel you had grabbed. Your hair was thrown back by the unnecessary wind of Vancouver- your wind burn from yesterday's filming still leaving your cheeks a soft pink. Your voice cut successfully through the air, causing Jensen to pause in his walk to the makeup trailer to turn and look at you. If you had known such beautiful eyes would be looking at you so much today- you would've traded your ripped black jeans and oversized black sweater for something more....just better? Hell, if you knew Jensen would be looking at you so much today, you would've called in sick- for eternity.
"Oh- Y/N," His voice wavered in confusion- his body swiveling with the same uncertainty that he held in his face. "What's up?" It was short, clipped, and overall just made your heart pound more.
Shit- you really had pissed him off earlier hadn't you. Any other time he had spoken to the crew, their presence was met with a huge smile that met the man's eyes. You were met with an almost shy posture that made you want to disappear. "I uhm-" Oh now here you are, stuttering as you continue your cautious steps towards him. You really should've waited till you were near him to get his attention. You filled your graveled steps with purpose, "I wanted to talk about what I had said earlier. About working with you." You clarified at the end, but you knew you didn't have to because you didn't say much on the set anyway. By the end of your sentence, and the beginning of your new worries- you and Jensen were at a conversational distance. Not too close. Not too far. Close enough however, to feel Jensen's eyes trail over you as if it were someone's hands.
"Oh, well it was a good joke kid." Jensen said dismissively. Though your head tilted slightly at the clipped way he still spoke to you, as if it pained him to speak.
"Listen Jensen, if I upset you in any way, I'm truly sorry." You spoke as confidently as you could, your eyebrows scrunching together to show the pain you had from regret- a pain you thought you found in his voice. "Honestly, I just thought it would hit with everyone. Since the reference was new and all with Misha. Though, I didn't consider how rude it could sound to someone who didn't get the joke." Stop Y/N, you're rambling. "That's all my fault, especially since we aren't even that close. A joke like that could ruin career relations and obviously that's the last thing I want to happen. I mean- what if someone snuck on set and heard me say that! They would think you were horrible to employees-" What the hell are you even saying?
"Y/N," Jensen cut you off- in hopes to put you out of your own misery, perhaps? Jensen let out a soft chuckle, looking down to shuffle his feet in the same gravel you had confidently strode across to meet him. His head tilted slightly, like yours had before, "Your joke was better than half the ones me and the guys make. It landed better than almost all the ones me and the guys make." He concluded as he took a small step forward, causing your breath to hitch. Your own eyes began to wonder- in confusion and intrigue. "I wasn't hurt by it- I was..." his voice trailed off as if he was looking for the right word. "I, fucking, loved it." He finished as he locked your eyes.
Your eyebrows shot right up in total shock, no way was the Jensen Ackles complimenting you. No way were his words also giving a double meaning like a photograph's true meaning- hidden in plain sight. "Clear words please." You breathed out, your voice raspy from holding back air for so long. You truly believed the man would somehow fire you. You could read through the pixels of a photo or video, but words- they weren't your thing.
Your sentence made that bright smile you hoped for earlier- fall right on to Jensen's lips, "What I'm saying is- I liked the hell out of your joke. It made me realize something- you're someone I could get along with. Someone I'd like to learn a little more about." If you could have a translator beside you at this moment, you were sure even they would look at you stupid for not understanding the obvious flirting. To your defense, you didn't know a joke could hold so much romantic weight.
"My joke made you realize all of that?" You questioned honestly, though to make sure your teasing didn't send the actor away- you made another bold step forward. At this point, one foot was between his as your other stood beside one of his own- your face tilted slightly away. 'Still a sociable distance,' you thought as your eyes tried to trace his features.
Jensen's own breath caught in his throat, "Your joke- was the last straw of my restraint." He finished as his eyes seemed to strain like yours.
Holy balls, no way has the Jensen Ackles been having his eyes on you. Your jaw clenched as the nerves in your body built up- the confidence leaving your bones as you took a slight step back. "Well uhm- I'm glad we could have that talk," You went to say your goodbye but Jensen stopped your misery once again.
"We can talk more over drinks some time?" There was hope in those soft eyes- the eyes you had been ignoring for weeks. "Being in Vancouver for 11 years- I know a couple places." Jensen spoke as if trying to convince you- oh if only he knew that you were ready to go before he even suggested it. Though you had to act cool...or try at least.
"You know what," You paused for effect that you knew usually added confidence when seen on film- "I'd love that." You smiled softly, a smile that made your cheeks squish your eyes. If the smile didn't show your happiness, the laugh that left you at Jensen's tiny fist bump- definitely did.
How could you possibly hate working with him?
Author's Note: Honestly implementing Y/N into the Supernatural space was really hard for me, but I think I gave it my best shot. While writing this I listened to the entire Supernatural soundtrack sooooo- yeah I am crying what about it.
My most recent work is doing so well and I just want to thank everyone who has interacted with it. 😭😭 You guys have been so sweet and it truly makes me so happy!
Captain, you have nice hands (GN Captain x Engineer Mark)
Summary: You and Mark are the only ones awake on the ship- and after keeping Mark from disappearing into space, fixing life support and surviving fricken death beams, you two sit down to talk. What will the rest of this mission look like? Why is Mark staring at your hands so much?
CW: In Space With Markiplier spoilers, Blood, Fire, a Man in need of a hand hold
"Current ship status is absolutely CATASTROPHIC." No matter how hard you banged on the glass, most likely expensive technology- it wouldn't shut the hell up. Wait a second- are you flying through the air?
"Motherfuc-" you grumbled out as your knees hit the solid metal floors of the Invincible....II. Slowly standing up with a concerning amount of groans coming from your bones- you looked around as you tried to access your situation. Your suit still read the bold print of 'Captain', your gloves however, seemed to have received a huge tear in both hands. "These were my favorite pair." You whispered to yourself as you solemnly peeled the bloody leather off of your worn hands- a sudden ringing meeting your ears.
"Reviving head engineer." A calming voice stated- though you could only believe it was calm because of the computers programming. If the machine knew the absolute danger it was in- you were sure it would be screaming and running around. Similar to what you felt like doing. The voice set off something in you, your eyes tracing over to Mark's pod- the same one you had seen him step into as you did yours. Your feet carried you, seemingly with intention, over to his pod and your hands worked to open it quickly- not allowing your head engineer to fly out as you had done. Images of Mark flying and hitting the glass of the space ship clouded your mind, the sickening crack of the glass hitting your precious engineer's bones. Then, the swooshing of your head engineer being lost in space. You could never let that happen. Especially as his captain. It would be unforgivable.
"Captain?" A soft, petrified voice cut through your thoughts causing you to quickly glance down at the man you held seemingly too tightly to your chest. At the realization of your proximity, you stepped apart from Mark- good timing because the huge console in the middle of your pods caught fire. The same calm voice calling over head that life support was in need of help. You and Mark paused in your positions for a second, eyes meeting, before springing in to action. "I'll go fix O2, Captain!" Mark sputtered out as he ran off- you following him to the door before stopping short so you could grab the fire extinguisher. You sat there for a couple seconds, letting the compacted air hit the fire, you sure as hell had no actual clue how these things worked. However, this was taking too long. What if you blew up? Was Mark okay? Fixing life support should also fix the oxygen levels what if- Oh, it's done. You let out a soft sigh of relief as the fire was completely extinguished- that voice coming online to explain the success in life support. If you had a mirror, you would be sure soot covered your beautifully handsome features. You sure could feel the soot sink into the wounds on your ungloved hands- suddenly becoming self conscious. You never let anyone see your hands- not because they were ugly or anything, but you feared they didn't match you. "Captain!" A voice called out for you, causing you to turn around to meet Mark running down the hallway. "I fixed O2 easily- however, we've got a bigger problem going on in-"
Your head engineer Mark was rudely interrupted by that stupid voice, "Asteroid Defense System is....Fine." Not only did the voice interrupt Mark, but it was glitching out and being totally suspicious? Wow, what nerve this thing had. Mark seemed to be feeling the same way because his face contorted into annoyance at the voice.
"Yeah sure, sure. Trying to gaslight me or something? I almost died just walking past it!" Mark yelled out to seemingly no one, but the intercom answered. You watched in amusement as your head engineer and his own creation bickered like a married couple, your hands coming up to pick up your hat and fix your hair in exhaustion. Mark's eyes fleeted from the roof he spoke so passionately to, concentrating on you now instead. "Sorry Captain but issues in Asteroid Defense." He said in almost an empathetic tone- most likely noting the blood that streaked your forehead as you adjusted your cap but not drawing too much attention on it. You didn't need to speak to get your point across, and soon the both of you were running to Asteroid Defense room. It took one disguise, a couple of bloody wounds, and an awesome head engineer to step in before the beams of death were deterred from its creator. Mark would come out seemingly unscathed, you'd say he looked even better than when he had went in. However, your hands continued to bleed and grow increasingly sore as the two of you slid down the metal wall that was riddled with bullet holes. "Captain, what do we do now?" Mark asked you, however- you never truly knew what you were getting into when you arrived on this ship. You had a resume filled with experience and references that spoke highly of every step you took- but the invincible was like nothing you had ever tackled. You turned your heavy head to face Mark, your eyes meeting the chocolate ones you had grown to trust more and more in through out your time on this ship. Even if they had a burn of mischief in them at all times.
"We get this ship back on track. Save the colonists." Your voice croaked painfully, the soot that covered your hands and face- seemingly covering your lungs. "Most importantly we save you...and our staff." You coughed out, using your bloody hand to cover anything that came out. This mission was never about you or what your title meant as a Captain. You truly just wanted everyone that had made this ship possible- to finish their goals as researchers, staff, and engineers. Maybe you cared about one person's goal a little too much. Under the surprised eyes of Mark, struck with the sound of your voice, you realized that you would take a bullet for not only this man but the images his mind created. The storylines and people he brought into your life. Something about him felt new every time you saw him- yet familiar. "Don't look at me like that Kid." You spoke out, a puffy chuckle leaving your lips as your hooded eyelids trailed over Mark's worried features. First you had thought he was worried about your voice- however, you could see his eyes trained on your dirty, wounded hands. "Mark?" You questioned as you instinctively clenched your hands slightly- pushing them together in your lap.
Mark's head shook- a powerful notion to seemingly get him out of whatever daydream he had pushed himself into. "Sorry Captain, you have nice hands." Mark's own partially gloved hands came up to his lips. "I mean I would hold them." Mark's face contorted in what only could be labeled as embarrassment as you watched his eyes dilate for some new words. You simply watched in amusement as you watched your engineer glitch out. "You've just never had them uncovered. They look nice. I mean, solid. Well that's weird. I mean-" You couldn't say that you were necessarily getting tired of listening to Mark dig a bigger whole for himself. In fact, you relished in every second he seemed to spill more and more thoughts that had crossed his mind. However, you had to admit that you didn't want to see him implode upon himself- knowing you needed him to go through this mission with you. You did the only thing you could think to do- while still giving the man you appreciated so much, what he wanted. You slipped your hand into Mark's, entangling your fingers tightly before squeezing as a sign of comfort. Though you knew Mark couldn't feel the blood directly, you felt soft electricity run across the tops of your hand as his uncovered fingertips trailed the veins. His leather covered palm pressed comfortably into your moist, red one.
"Sorry, you looked as though your head was going to blow." Your eyes finally went back up to Mark's face- them widening as you felt as though you had only made the situation worse. At least as Mark spoke about your hands- his face only contorted and looked pained, but with your hand in his own, his cheeks had turned a bright pink that covered his nose as well. You went to move your hand away, but Mark's hand firmly pulled you back in- or you were never trying to leave his grasp anyway.
"Please, let's stay like this for a moment, Captain." Mark's voice was sincere. His face held what could only be labeled as true content with the situation at hand. Or with hands. How could you deny your most hard working staff member from pure bliss? You couldn't. So in that regard, you two stayed hand in hand, your head falling upon Mark's shoulder before his head fell onto your own. Nothing about this situation felt familiar. No images of other scenarios played in your mind. You didn't know whether you should feel worried about this, as your job as Captain was to predict the unpredictable- but this, was never in your books.
Your eyes began to feel heavier by the second, Mark's soft snores of sleep already beginning to lull you into a similar state of rest. Mid blink, something shimmery caught your eyes in front of you. Opening your eyes as wide as you could, there before you was a text box- image showing a preview of what could occur if chosen. The hand that grasped Mark's became tighter, somehow an unknown feeling filling you- your body trying to find anything it could ground itself to. "Go towards the light." You read the text inside of your head. You couldn't fully comprehend what was going on. You knew you didn't want to leave Mark, especially if he would wake up all alone- not knowing if you were alive or not. What would he do without you? He needed you like you needed him. Didn't he? You slowly moved your head out from under Mark's, using your other hand to gently set his head on your shoulder so he didn't wake. Your eyes focused on his features- the ones you found comfort in, the ones you had took note on as soon as you got there, you also looked down at your hands- tightly clenched together. Something told you that you didn't have a decision whether you left or not. Or else there would be another little box wouldn't there? With salty tears in your eyes, you squeezed his hand one more time- whispering something no one would ever truly know. You don't even know if you would remember what you said after this. Either way, you reached out with your free hand to reach into the box of glowing light- feeling the light pull you forward and the weight of Mark evaporating.
"Current ship status is absolutely CATASTROPHIC."
Dying at work
That's Embarrassing (Bo Burnham x GNReader)
Summary: You and Bo have been dating for years now and it's his 30th birthday today! You took hours to decorate the house while Bo was in the guest house working on inside, but now- you sat alone in the living room waiting to yell "Happy birthday" when he walked in. You loved him so much but.... would he ever leave that fucking guest house!
Ship: Gender neutral Reader x Bo Burnham
W: A dress is worn but I believe clothing is genderless! I don’t want to put a specific gender in this fan fiction so I’m not going to insert any smut. If anyone has any suggestion on how to better keep gender out of smut and YN writing- let me know!
You really hadn’t minded the amount of time Bo took in the guest house, since you knew he really was passionate about this new project. However, as you sat in the living room in your black velvet dress, a funny birthday hat (that you loved), and a blower thing in your mouth- you wished that tall ass man would just come in already.
You and Bo met years ago on the set of American Virgin where you struggled to keep your opinions on the stupid excuse of comedy to yourself, and Bo liked to listen to you rant. Of course, at the time he had no choice as he sat there listening to you rant to your makeup team inside the small trailer.
—------
“Jenny, you're not even listening to me right now! Women’s confidence has nothing to do with how much skin they show! I’m proud of Kiara leaving.” You stated, slightly exasperated as you continued to gently massage the cleanser into Bo’s skin. Looking down at the male in the oversized mirror, you chuckled softly- “Mr.Burnham I thought we talked about cleaning your face after shoots end?” You teased. You and Bo had gotten closer the more he sat in your chair, at this point it made you curious if he did it on purpose. In the beginning he had been assigned to your coworker Jenny, but after she was sick one day- he continuously chose your chair every time he came in. You didn’t mind it though.
“Y/N,” he groaned out slightly as his head fell back- his eyes closing as his head hit your chest. Even sitting down, you found it hard to work on him with his overarching height. “We ended late last night for that bare ass scene, I wasn’t even functional.” Bo explained, and you could only roll your eyes in response. Sadly, you did understand the incident of last night's shoot- since the makeup crew had to be there all night as well, in case anyone’s makeup wasn’t up to par.
Humming in the same whiny tone he had used with you earlier, you simply patted his cheeks and got back to work.
—------
You were thankful Bo indulged in your thoughts, even agreeing on most of them, but most of the time he would burst out laughing at your jokes and some anger you knew wasn’t as quite justifiable. You were a firecracker, but you were also terrified of any confrontation. Even you couldn’t make that make sense. However, you could assume that that side of your personality was what was stopping you from going to the guest house and pulling Bo out of it yourself.
“Maybe this was all a stupid idea any way…” You mumbled under your breath, allowing the noise maker to fall into your lap as you raised your head. You allowed your eyes to take in all the decorations; from the streamers with his name and “happy birthday” spelled out, to the balloons with his age. It didn’t feel like Bo. It felt like you. “God fucking dammit.” You grunted out as you abruptly rose from your position on the couch and made your way to the streamers. Your hands fell onto your hips as you tried to figure out a way you could get them off without a ladder, and without breaking a bone. Jump. You jumped up and felt your pointer and ring finger grab the end of the “Bo Burnham” streamer and rip it off. At the same time the streamer fell down to cover your head, you let a loud squeal leave your lips. Almost like when you say “ow” when something didn’t really hurt, it was an instinct. After realizing you weren’t in real danger, you let out a giggle as you wrapped your partner's name around your body like a sash. “Maybe this is better than them in the air.” You questioned out loud to yourself, looking down at the “sash” with a triumphant grin.
“I think I can agree on that one.” A sudden deep voice, similar to your boyfriend’s, echoed through the home. Bo, who had just walked through the front door, stood behind you at a considerable distance. He had been walking onto the porch when he heard your distressed squeal, the same squeal that dampened the sound of him entering. He watched you closely, his eyes trailing over your curves before making their way to the lettering itself. From the back, all he could read was Burnham- and all he could hear was the sound of your voice rushing to his ears. His eyes were filled with such love, but also confusion as you stayed with your back turned towards him for a few moments.
You were facing the fireplace in absolute dread, your face turned a bright red as you had been caught talking to yourself. However, you also were caught with the decorations you had been judging- still up and with one even wrapped around you. “How embarrassing.” You whined softly as your hands came to your face, the streamer falling to your feet. As soon as your hands met your cheeks, it seemed that Bo had teleported to you and was turning you around into his chest.
“Hey hey,” Bo chuckled as he tried to gently remove your hands from his view of your face- the one he adored so much. “I thought I said I loved the sash idea!” He joked to try and lighten your embarrassment, which definitely helped a little. You were able to remove your hands and let them rest on Bo’s chest, his arms snaking around your waist- though you would note that his fingers seemed to twiddle with the velvet material.
You pouted up at the male, “I know you did. But all these decorations are just-” you paused as you took another look around. “Childish.” You finished as your pout turned into a sincere frown- realizing that what you had identified as too much as your personality shining through, was just plain childishness.
Bo was quick to the draw, taking one hand off your dress to bring it to your chin. “I think it is adorable.” He spoke carefully, leaning down so he could push his forehead against yours. The action you met with gently moving up onto your tiptoes, something you always did out of habit so your lover wouldn’t put too much stress on his back. However this time, Bo would bring attention to it. “You did it all out of love. Just like you always do- even when it comes to the small things like me kissing you or even right now.” His eyes would fall down to the gap between you, motioning to your feet and their risen state. He wasn’t making it easy for you to be upset with yourself. “You are so endearing of me….God I don’t deserve it half of the time.” He began to rant but you would cut him off, all part of his plan you would later understand.
“You deserve the world. I always make sure you know that Bo.” You interrupted, your eyebrows furrowing to their stern gaze- though you knew you were not as intimidating as the 6’6 giant. The two of you got quiet, the distance between you slowly becoming very apparent, and Bo’s love for your dress also coming to attention. “Happy Birthday Bo Burnham.” You whispered softly, your eyes fluttering down towards Bo’s lips before back up to meet his blue eyes. The eyes you fell in love with. The man you fell in love with. God, you still couldn’t believe you got to be with him.
“Thank you baby. Thank you for literally everything.” Bo’s tone was small as well, like if either of you spoke above a whisper- the moment would crack and crumble. “Did I get any presents?” He questioned with a curious raise of his eyebrow. You could guess what he was alluding to, from his glance to your lips and the tips of his fingers continuing to fiddle and pinch the material of your dress- but you were just as bad as him when it came to jokes and teasing.
“Of course! I nicely wrapped them and put them on the table!” You grinned as you fell back onto your heels and went to make your way to the dining room. That was until you felt a strong arm pull you back into the enticing tension under Bo’s eyes, your breath catching in your throat. “What-” You sputtered out as you felt the back of your legs hit the brick at the bottom of the fireplace- but you were too entranced in Bo’s gaze to worry about the micro-scratches on your skin. “Did you not want your presents?” You questioned with as much sass you could muster, your eyes never leaving Bo’s as you spoke. If there was one thing you weren't shy of- it was eye contact. In fact, you thrived off of the tension it created, it was one of the many things Bo- not only loved but admired about you.
“Of course I do,” Bo started, his eyes being the first to move away from the stare off- his head falling into the curvature of your neck and shoulder. You cursed your dress for being spaghetti strapped, giving the warm Bo the room to heat up your sensitive neck. Any tension that was in your muscles, immediately dissipated and made you lean into the touch- your cheek settling down on the side of Bo’s head. His hair had gotten so long since quarantine had started, you couldn't help but nuzzle your nose into the curls with love. “But, I think I want to unwrap my lover first.” His voice was barely above a whisper and was mumbled into your shoulder, his hot breath making such a sentence even more sensual. No way were you saying no. Before you could respond, Bo had started his kisses up your neck- soft almost ghost like against the thinned skin.
“Oh Bo,” You hummed out and your mind would instantly hit you with the song he had written years ago, just a year after you met him. The image made you giggle softly, “I guess I wouldn’t mind the birthday boy having a little fun.” You whispered near his ear, pressing your own kiss to his temple and later his slightly red lobe. Was your Bo blushing? Goodness could he get any more cute? You were smiling brightly at the picture of your lover blushing before realizing that he was softly singing the “oh bo” chorus- causing the both of you to burst into laughter. No matter how lustful you two were, you could always find a way to break the tension and keep everything funny. You loved that about Bo. Nothing was ever forced, nothing was always intense, and nothing was EVER uncomfortable. You couldn’t imagine finding that anywhere else. “Stop because why did my mind immediately go there as well.” You muttered out as you took a breath in to calm your laughs, you hung your arms on Bo’s shoulders- leaning into him as he stayed in your neck.
“Because great minds think alike, my love.” Bo chuckled as well before scooping you up easily, one of his hands sitting comfortably on your side as the other helped your legs wrap around his waist. You couldn’t help but squeal in surprise again- a habit you really needed to work on. Oh wait Bo is laughing maybe you don’t need to. “What’s going on up there, Babe?” Bo questioned as he pushed his forehead against yours again, knowing it was your favorite form of affection- and secretly you made it his favorite as well.
He must’ve noticed your out of focus eyes that had been locked on his smile as he laughed, you wouldn’t give him the satisfaction of knowing he made you speechless. “Absolutely nothing. Nada!” You hollered out with a completely unconvincing tone- a bright grin settling on your own features. You hadn’t even realized the two of you began moving towards the steps of the house, your eyebrows furrowing in confusion when you tried to figure out your surroundings again. “Your face distracted me.” You mumbled with a small pout as you clung tighter to the male. No matter how strong you knew Bo was- you always had a fear of anyone picking you up, and now you were moving? It’s your nightmare.
“Sorry Babe, can’t help that I am just so handsome.” Bo replied into your cheek, pressing a reassuring kiss into the chubbiness. He knew your fear, though he wouldn’t point it out, he would hold you tighter to ease your mind. It was an unspoken thing between the two of you and you were thankful for every second of it. Soon, calming down and relaxing your grip on him- you could process the fact that he was making fun of your common response to compliments.
“Hey! That’s my saying!” You pointed out as you pulled your face out of his shoulder, your favorite hiding place in situations like this, locking your eyes with Bo’s. Well, locking them with the whites, since his eyes were focused on traveling through the hallway and to your shared bedroom.
“No,” Bo paused as he opened the bedroom door- pretending to make a contemplative face. “I believe you tend to say, ‘Just admit you’re in love with me’” He imitated you. You had to admit it was practically perfect, and word for word what you said when someone complimented you. A stupid saying you spoke so things wouldn’t get awkward. Humor was your coping mechanism! With a sneaky grin, Bo laid you down gently onto the bed- climbing on top of you as he waited for a response.
You were stunned by the new position, however you always would have a response. “Well…you aren’t wrong.” You trailed off to the end as you thought of a way to catch the male off guard like he had done to you. Got it. You bit your lip slightly before leaning up to capture Bo’s soft lips onto your own. Your plan worked effectively, a gasp leaving Bo as your lips met. After he got comfortable and began kissing back, you two could never be separated. Your fingers tangled slightly in his hair, ready to pull on any occasion as his hands grabbed needily at your hips- pulling you as close as he could from your position. You two stayed quiet, basking in the moment as your lips moved seamlessly together and your bodies grinded, slipped, and molded together.
“Where the hell did you get this?” Bo muttered moments later, breaking the kiss not only so you two could breath easily- but he wanted to trail those passionate kisses down your jaw. You laughed softly, your head falling back against the bed to allow him as much space as possible for possible markings.
You assumed he was talking about the dress, his communication skills lacking when it came to the cloudiness that filled both of your minds. “Bought it a couple years ago for the Emmys…” You blushed softly as he hit that certain spot, your hips bucking up at the sensation. “The one I couldn’t make.” You finished off in a whisper as you tried your best to not let out any noises. Bo seemed to leave it at that, mostly because now he was distracted by the fact that he had found the jackpot. You closed your eyes tightly at the new found silence, knowing this was the end of your quiet game- the beginning of Bo’s devilish ways. You were right, Bo sucking and tugging at your skin with skill and experience- leaving you in a whimpering mess under him.
--------
You two now laid entangled together, Bo tracing your arm as you played with his soft locs. After washing up in the shower, you two had kept constant contact as you both enjoyed physical touch- especially as a form of silent after care. Both of you seemed to have a bad case of heavy eyelids, but you both fought it off in hopes of being in the moment as long as possible. “I love you so so much Bo.” You whispered softly, your mind thinking back to what you were thinking while you sat in the living room just hours ago. Alone. You felt absolutely horrible for being so selfish, even if it was in your own head, you felt terrible that you wanted to rip Bo away from his work.
“I love you too Y/N.” Bo responded, his voice grounding in your crazy thoughts. “And I’m sorry to have been out in the guest house so much…I know it must be hurting you. I mean hell, it’s hurting me.” Your head had moved down slightly so you could meet Bo’s eyes as he spoke, thankfully he felt the movement and looked up to make eye contact. “I wish I could wake up everyday right next to you like usual. I wish I could stop obsessing over this stupid project and not be pushing this deadline on myself. I wish I could love on you as much as I want.” Bo’s voice had lowered into a soft cry, your eyes scrunching in concern. Bo didn’t break down often in front of you, hell not ever, but you didn’t mind comforting him as much as you could. You wanted him to know his feelings were never a burden on you, they were welcomed in this relationship. You shifted slightly so you could be closer to his face, gently lifting his head off your chest so you could hold it in your palms.
“Honey, I know you think about me in there. I actually like to think you have a sexy car poster of me in there.” Your last joke making both of you shudder slightly in laughter, your noses gently bumping together as you lean into one another. Taking in a deep breath, you continued on after the laughs died down. “Seriously, I understand completely that work is work. A deadline is a deadline whether it’s made by you or not. I also know that this is your first project in years.” You looked directly into Bo’s red eyes as you said the last sentence, making it hit as hard as you knew it felt for the other. This was a huge deal for Bo and his fans, you could never fully understand the extent this affected Bo’s mental health- but you could be there for him when he wanted to explain. That is exactly what you did when he started this project a year ago. “I’m not going to lie and say sometimes I was upset. Or selfish. I wanted you all to myself a couple hours ago, but in my heart I know you are always mine. My beautiful Bo. The one who always makes me smile and laugh my ass off. He just so happens to make the whole world feel that way too.” You spoke with a light tone, a loving smile never falling for your lips as you looked at your lover. Bo’s tears had slowly dried, his smile becoming brighter the longer you spoke. “I love you the same every time you leave this house. And even more everytime you come back through that door.” You finished your “speech”, feeling the weight you had held on your chest for the whole year- finally raise. It felt so good to let him know how you really felt.
“I don’t know what to even say..” Bo admitted sheepishly, but it didn’t affect the happiness you felt. Sometimes there was nothing to say, and you knew that. “I fucking love you so much Y/N.” He whispered before bringing you into a tight hug, burying himself into your neck again. Maybe he wasn’t just your safe place, maybe you were his as well.
“Even after totally embarrassing myself with the sash thing?” You questioned jokingly, laughing as your arms snaked around Bo’s chest, massaging his shoulder blades calmly.
“Even after the sash thing.” Bo laughed softly, “I didn’t mind seeing you with my last name on your body.” Your eyes widened slightly as you looked at the wall behind Bo, completely processing his words.
“That’s embarrassing.” You giggled before rolling around on the bed with your lover, ending the rest of the night with lots of love and passionate kisses.
Zach Stone's Last Laugh (Note)
Y'all I said it was a slow burn and there is no lie there. But I know most people love to have some action so instead of pushing this series quicker than I intended, I'm gonna start a new story! This one will still have parts added to it! However, the new story I put up will not be as drama filled and will fulfill your touch deprived imagination!
So stay on the look out! Those who love this kind of slow burn can check back in or follow along on ao3!
Thank you guys for the support! Hopefully this next story fits your needs like it did mine!
Zach Stone's Last Laugh Pt. 3
It had been a few days before either young adult found the courage to text the other, not that they were worried of texting too soon, but more worried about the awkwardness that was the two of them. While Genesis waited for either of them to grow some balls... she decided to watch a different showing of 'What'- you know what you do when you wanna relive the best moments. Thankfully, they released a version of 'What.' onto Netflix that she could watch five times a day for the rest of the week. She tended to hyperfixate sometimes.
"Popcorn. Blanket and-" Genesis jumped at the sound of her phone dinging from the couch, interrupting her listing off of 'essentials' she needed for her third viewing today. She grumbled incoherently under her breath as she made her way to her phone and grabbed it off the soft cushions of the love seat. Her phone automatically unlocked with the view of her face and she tapped into the message notification. "Hey Genesis, I'm in the city again today and was wondering if you wanted to meet up for that coffee." She read out loud in utter confusion- her face even scrunched as she continued to ignore the name of the messenger. "Who the-" Zach Stone idiot. "Holy shit!" She yelled as she almost dropped her phone from how stupid she felt. Gathering herself as quickly as she could since she knew her read receipts were on- she typed up a response she believed wasn't too eager but showed enough interest.
Genesis: 'Hey Zach! Yeah sure, my schedules all free today so I'm totally down to meet.'
As she reread the message she had sent, Genesis felt the need to facepalm herself, realizing she didn't bring up any location.
Genesis: 'There's a little coffee shop in the mid city know about. Want me to send the address?'
If Genesis was any younger, she would be worried about double texting- but even back then she didn't mind it. Hell that's how her brain worked most of the time. In short spirts, one after the other. Like these sentences.
Either way, she quickly tossed her phone down back on the couch so she could get back to what she was doing previously. Totally ignoring the fact that she might have to get ready to meet Zach, she didn't want to totally jinx the situation by putting too much thought into it- so with her text sent, she settled down into her maroon love seat and clicked play.
She was about 20 minutes into the show when it seemed that everyone in her contacts wanted to say hi. Harini was now texting her about how the meeting with Zach went, and it felt odd reading 'Bo Burnham' and knowing his real name was Zach. It wasn't unusual for her to meet people with stage names, though less common in Hollywood, she never got quite use to it when meeting music artist and now Zach. Peaking up around 10 minutes later, there was Zach on her flat screen TV, pretending to jerk off. DING. Quickly glancing down, it seemed that the same Zach decided to respond to her messages at the exact same time as well. She puffed air into her upper lip in total restraint, "You're a 24 year old professional actor Yiles- this isn't." She burst into laughter at her own self talk, covering her mouth as she doubled over. If anyone were to be watching her right now, somehow in her house, they would be thinking she was the crazy one. She was crying as she panted out, typing out the ironic situation to Harini- knowing the other would respond about how immature Genesis was. She could care less a this very moment. "Lord-" She giggled as she shakily wiped her tears, also tapping onto Zach's contact so she could tearfully read the message.
Zach: 'Sure. I can meet you before my next show tonight. See you at 2:30?'
Genesis: 'See you then!'
She was surprised she didn't have any spelling errors, since she at the same time was doing breathing exercises out of her nose. "Get a grip Gene." She groaned out loud as she stood up, playfully glaring at her TV like it was the reason she had terrible humor. "I'll get you back some day." She laughed softly again as she then strutted up the stairs and to her bedroom to get ready. As Genesis made her way up, she clicked her phone on to check the time- noting that she only had 4 hours to get ready, in her mind not enough time.
"Don't worry Genesis, you've got this."
Zach on the other hand, did not have this.
This had probably been the worst morning he had had, in a while. Besides the fact that he had another terrible panic attack after the show last night, he had found out that Amy- his girlfriend, wanted to breakup their long distance relationship. Amy was the only thing that kept him going these days, besides his dreams of fame coming true, she kept him from total insanity.
"What are you talking about Amy!? I think about you everyday, you can't just assume that I don't love you anymore..." Zach yelled into his cell phone that was held against his ear. He had locked himself into his hotel room when Amy's caller ID popped up onto his phone, considering the fact they haven't been able to call the last few nights. "Is this really about me or did you-" he paused, scared of his own words, "find someone else?" It was an old fear he had, that had kind of dissipated the longer they stayed together, but Zach would always be Zach.
"Oh shut up Zach! You've been saying that to me even before I left to work in Washington. When in reality, you have been looking at other girls since before I left for college." Amy said sternly back, since she never yelled, but it was even more deadly and scary. Confusion ran across Zach's face.
"What the hell are you-"
"You think I didn't watch the videos you made during the summer before college? Zach. Netflix made a whole documentary out of it!" Zach stayed silent, and it seemed that Amy took it as an opportunity to keep going. "Labeling me as the back up option for Christy... ignoring me when other girls were around, and now you're meeting famous actresses after your show-"
"Actresses?" Zach questioned the accusation, before slowly connecting the dots in his totally clouded brain. "Are you talking about Genesis Yiles? Amy, we met to talk strictly business." He explained simply, in the back of his mind thinking about how 'Amy simply didn't get how being famous worked'. Thoughts he had pushed down for years.
"That's the only thing you picked out of that entire thing Zach? Really? You have no excuse for anything else?" Amy was giving him the opportunity to explain the harsh words he used against her, words that simply objectified her in his own world, and made her seem like just another factor in him becoming famous. He didn't take the chance...he didn't know how. "This is why I'm breaking up with you." She whispered after a few moments of total silence from the other end of the line, "I wish you the best of luck Zach Stone." She finished choked sobs as she hung up. She sobbed into the heels of her palms, her roommate beside her gently rubbing her back in reassurance.
Zach on the other hand was alone, just like he was when he started this journey of fame. Though people always had surrounded him, seemingly with love and kindness, in Zach's mind he was lonely. Kind words meant nothing to him in the past if they hadn't been caught on camera, and now kind words meant nothing if you weren't a fan or agent. He was never able to fully change, only realize that fame wasn't what he thought. It was terrifying, made him shiver, and cry sometimes- but it still gave him the attention he believed he deserved all along. He had built his whole career off shock value, the people he met, and most importantly- his own self doubt, so he couldn't understand why Amy had to be so selfish. Yeah that's what she was, selfish. Not him. Her.
Zach now had to look through his closest for clothes that said, 'hey gorgeous actress, I am single.' At least that's what his brain told him to wear, in reality he didn't want to even go out anymore, but this was for economic gain. If Genesis could get him into a movie with her or even allow him to write jokes about her, then he could grow in popularity in seconds. "Snap out of it Zach." It was small trigger in his mind that slowly made his eyes open to the real situation. He was meeting another human to get coffee and talk work, he needed to remember who she was.
That night that they had met, Zach though not in the best mood, had a strong feeling that him and Genesis could be good friends. Not just business friends as she, he assumed, suggested without putting too much thought into- but more like actual friends. Something he needed. She could tell he was practically dying on stage, it would be safe to assume that the women could also tell that Zach at the time wasn't very enthusiastic about a random meet up- and he found that refreshing. Someone who could not only read his emotions but accommodate to them seemed perfect to befriend. "Think casual but you," He mumbled to himself as he pulled out black jeans and a plain maroon t-shirt. Sighing, he set the clothes on his hotel bed and gripped his unlocked phone tightly in his hand, looking down at it with curiosity. "Is it weird to google her-" he thought out loud and practically slapped himself at how bad that sounded. However, he would open safari and look up the young stars name anyway. He knew the basics of who she was and all the amazing films Genesis had acted in, what he didn't know was the things she was doing outside of film. Donating and advocating for women and different bodies specifically, he found it cool that she stuck within things she would most likely experience daily with her work- noticing how she didn't talk over voices but instead...amplify them. Scrolling through her twitter, it was pretty simple while her instagram contained the usual winter photo and aesthetic undertones. She was a mix of everything, he didn't know if he could technically write any good jokes about her- "stop!" He yelled inside his own head, realizing he was dipping back into that mindset he snapped out of a couple minutes ago.
"God, I need to stop being weird and just get dressed." He whispered as he placed his phone on the bedside dresser, he slipped his old clothes off and got the new ones on. Plain and simple like he was. A pop of color, which psychologist might point out to be Zach's true self- but Zach would say was to make sure he didn't look too unapproachable.
With that he sat around for another hour before being able to walk to the coffee shop Genesis had sent him, pushing away the nerves that bundled inside him as he closed his hotel room door. Of course after hearing the door click, Zach would rummage his pockets to make sure he had his key and his wallet- thanking God (or cheez-its) that they were in his back pocket. He guessed he had worked on auto-pilot, grabbing his wallet and stuffing it in his back pocket as he hurriedly had left the room. With such reassurance, he was able to calmly walk to his destination, the cold brisk air that filled New York City making his cheeks red and his nose even redder. Zach was sure at some point he would get wind burn, but he would never bring it up to anyone living here because being pestered about it would annoy him to death. The other person would think they are so funny when in reality they are suffering from state form of patriotism that made them ignorant to the world around them. His head would raise in resistance to the wind to glance at the store signs, his eyes squinting to focus in on them to make sure he wasn't passing by the small shop. "There it is." He thought as he quickly made his way to the door, one hand that was deeply tucked into his coat- coming out to grip the long handle and pull the door open easily. Hearing that sweet bell jingle instantly locked him in on the mom and pop style shop, grinning as he allowed the door close behind him.
"Welcome in! Sit anywhere you'd like young man." One of the baristas behind the counter called out, Zach could tell they had been working there for a long time- noting the worn down expression on their face. Zach simply nodded in acknowledgment and looked around the shop for the dark haired women he was meeting.
"Zach-" He heard a short, whisper call out from behind him- causing him to snap his head in that direction. It caught sight of Genesis, wearing a simple black turtle neck, long sleeve- paired with black jeans that fit nicer than Zach's own. He grinned in admiration as he stayed in his place, his body reacting to the call out in a small wave he would other wise be embarrassed of, but Genesis wave back and giggle after- made it seem worth it.
Zach Stone's Last Laugh Pt. 2
Now the two young adults sat in Zach's dressing room, it was clean besides the water bottles laying around in miscellaneous areas and a oxygen tank in the corner- Genesis assumed to make sure Zach didn't die while doing all of his songs in one fucking breath....maybe she was exaggerating. "You did amazing out there tonight, by the way." Genesis spoke softly, her legs insecurely crossing in front of her as she sat on the chair opposite of Zach on the couch. Her voice wavered in its tone due to the fact it had to cut through a thick layer of awkward tension that hung over the two. Who knew two anxiety ridden humans couldn't carry a conversation properly?
"Thank you. I'm glad you were able to enjoy it." The response was simple, with a small bitter taste lingering in Zach's mouth as he leaned into the word 'you'. He didn't mean to be coming off so rude, but something about today's show had really rubbed him raw- and particularly low in his "people battery".
"That last song...it hit way harder than you thought it would, didn't it?" Genesis mumbled out after a few seconds of letting Zach bask in his own regret of being so unprofessional. Zach's head shot up at the young woman's accusation, his eyebrows furrowed as if he was offended by such a question- when in reality he would later label it a defense mechanism.
"What are you talking about?" He questioned in an unintentionally condescending tone, "Look, I leave my show vague and pretty open to interpretation on purpose, but that's so you can reflect on yourself. Not project onto me." Again with the one breath sentences, these two really did have more in common than they would perceive. Once Zach finished his sentence, his eyes raised from the floor to meet Genesis's eyes, the eye contact making him slow his movements. His brain went blank and his hands that he used to express himself had came to a frozen position in front of his sternum. He didn't regret what he had said, he needed to say it, people were always trying to paint their views as reality- or as if what they thought was the only possible out come of what he had created. It was his. Not theirs. What he did regret however, was the person he had said it to- he was in fact doing the exact thing he had just Genesis not to do.
"I'm making an observation. At some parts, I genuinely believed you were going to break down and have a panic attack right in front of everyone." Genesis stated as if it was the most simple and obvious thing in the world, but not everyone had gotten that uncomfortable vibe like she had gotten from the show. Some had believed Zach was in his prime, every single time he was on the stage, but this performance of 'what.' was one of the hardest for him.
"I was." Zach shrugged it off, giving off the same ignorance that Genesis had to her sentence previously. "But as they say, the show must go on." He sighed out, relaxing back into the couch- feeling as though admitting he had gone through a serious incident in front of 100s of people, took a huge weight off of him.
"Didn't know you were one to dump all the beans at once." Genesis whispered mostly to herself, not knowing exactly what to say. She could explain that she understands and explain to him that, that's not good and he's ruining himself for powering through- but she wouldn't want to hear that. She's 99% sure he already is yelling that to himself in his head. "Do you do that often?" She questioned, her legs unwinding from themselves as she also relaxed a little.
"More often then I would like to admit-" Zach stopped himself when he really processed what Genesis had whispered, he knew she was mostly talking to herself- but he was also thinking it. Why was he telling this to her? Somehow, he could understand she said it just to help her cope with the awkwardness of the situation- for that he grateful. "What was your favorite song- shoot!" He said in a higher pitched tone than before, he was able to push past the spillover of anxiety and put on his small smile. It was genuine, as genuine as he could give at the time.
Nice way to change the topic, Genesis was also applauding him in her own mind. "Left brain, right brain. But prolonged eye contact really got me going in the first half." She laughed as she replied, her hand coming up to lessen the volume of her laugh as it passed her lips. That one got a nice laugh out of Zach as well, knowing the awkwardness of prolonged eye contact matched Genesis.
"Ah yes, prolonged eye contact took me hours to write. Sadly, you were not chosen to be stared at during the show." Zach said, in his mind questioning why it was sad, but he would brush it off as being because it would've been even more funny to grab his junk at a famous actress. "But again, why are you wanting to talk again." There he was, terribly segwaying again. He would have to work on that. He doesn't think it's as funny in real life as it is on the stage. He had to remind himself how exhausted he was while speaking to Genesis, if they spoke any longer he might say something and regret it. At least, that's usually how it went.
"Honestly, Harini did most of the talking with Douglass- over whatever they were thinking about doing, but I would love to be friends." Genesis tried to explain as best as she could, she really should've asked Harini what she was here to do. "I mean, not to push a friendship, but on a business level I think we could really do something. Whether it be a movie, writing something together, or just- existing and acknowledging each other once in a while." She rambled out, trying to over explain everything in order to hopefully make it sound friendly and not like the two were making a business deal- when really, that's all Genesis could do. Genesis constantly questioned every friendship she had with other celebrities, even staff members. Since they were so rooted in her career, and professionalism, she felt as if she truly didn't have any friends outside the singular person she had kept since middle school. Her twin flame. She'd think more about her later when she wasn't stressing over some white man's response.
"I think you're right." Zach said, not only to Genesis's surprise but to himself as well. He needed someway to not make it sound so...happy? "How about we talk about this some other time though." He finished, his head was about to explode from all the thinking he had done today. Everything he did seemed to be over thought, broken down, denied and then done anyway by his stupid little brain.
"Coffee! We don't have to plan a time or date right now but- I can give you my number."
"Yeah, yeah sure." Zach was moving way quicker than before. The quick change in pace didn't go unnoticed by Genesis, but she wouldn't point it out- in fact, maybe her people battery was going down a little too. "Heres my phone and then I can take yours," Zach faded out slightly as he put his hand out with his cell phone gripped loosely between his fingers. They were now having a business transaction, it was systematic, the way they switched cellphones. Typing in each others information and naming themselves in the others phone simply with "Genesis Yiles" and "Zach Stone". I mean, what else would they put right? They met about 30 minutes ago. Once they had finished filling out everything, they swapped phones again, and Genesis was standing up ready to go. Zach followed her off of the comfortable couch cushions, his eyebrows twitching as he noted the height difference between the two. "You're tall- oh. Damn, how do you walk in those." He questioned, audibly shocked at the thick heeled boots Genesis wore. He guessed he was too distracted earlier to notice the small details about Genesis's outfit- she didn't look like she came to make a business inquiry. She looked like anyone else who came to watch the show, maybe even a little underdressed compared to some of them.
"Just like you. Tall ass giant." She fired back because somehow this man was still way taller than her in these boots, she even had to crane her neck slightly to look up at him. "I should uhm, get going now before it gets too late." Genesis stated awkwardly as she checked her phone for the time. It was around 12 am, average time for ending her night especially in New York- the show ended at around 10:30, and between waiting for everyone to leave and waiting around in the waiting room. The time seemed about right to her.
Zach slowly nodded as he smiled down at what he would label, a new acquaintance. "Alright, just text me when you feel it's right to meet up, or I can text you. Whatever happens first?"
Genesis nodded in complete understanding, even popping a glistening smile at her like for the last phrase Zach used. "What happens first." She repeated with a more clarifying tone than Zach had used. "I'll see you later then." She hummed as she bowed her torso slightly, turning to make her exit from the room. As she made it closer to the door, she felt a hand hovering over lower back- seeming to just be letting her know that Zach was following her to the door. She grinned as she opened the door and turned to say good bye to Zach one more time, "holy shit- I'm Genesis by the way." She stated quickly, realizing the two hadn't even introduced themselves, though it happened often when people would just know her- she wanted to be different with Zach.
Zach looked at the girl like she had two heads. Really? They just had a whole 40 minute conversation and she's just now saying her name? However, he realized its not like he said his name or anything either. "Zach. Zach Stone." He spoke warmly, matching the smile that formed shortly after as he leaned on the door edge that swayed from the new weight. "It was nice meeting you Genesis." He declared and for once during their interaction, his genuineness showed through his words and reached the other hyper human in the conversation,
Genesis bowed her head slightly again in appreciation again before speaking out a soft "Goodbye" before making her way out of the door frame, and down the hallway. She had no clue where she was going. Just the general direction that was the backstage door, and then hopefully out the way everyone else had left the theatre. Somehow, the clueless girl had made it to the backstage door and had gotten it open, she was making her way past the killer cords that laid around- she hated them, when she realized that all the lights upfront were off. "Fuck-," she breathed out as she pulled out her phone to help her navigate safely from the stage, down the steps, and back into the stage. During this whole predicament, she was worrying over whether the doors would be locked and not let her out- the thought of it made her want to die in embarrassment before she even made it to the huge glass doors. "I swear to God, if these doors don't open I'm going to-" with a click, Genesis's mental health was saved from complete turmoil. She slid the glass door open and made sure to close it behind her with the same click it opened with- even pushing on it to make sure it didn't open because when she wasn't worrying about embarrassing herself, she was worrying about a policeman showing up at her door for some robbery occurring at the theatre. She really knew how to overthink her situation.
With that task complete, Genesis was able to make her way to her car- parked not too far from the theatre doors. This was New York City and Genesis knew that as she had her key FOB held between her middle and ring finger as a weapon, as well as her other hand neatly tucked into her purse holding the knife conveniently put there. She knew how to keep herself safe, without carrying an expensive death machine in her belt loops.
Thankfully, she made it to her car only having passed a few strangers on her way there. She would ignore the fear that someone had somehow snuck into her car while she was in the show and started up the vehicle. Still paranoid, she locked her doors and started driving right away before starting her music. Finally, she could relax and get home to her apartment- she could strip off the clothes tied now to anxiety and people, and get some sleep before tomorrow. She was mentally drained but able to see the happiness that was her situation.
Zach Stone's Last Laugh Pt. 1
Plot: Long story short, Zach Stone (Bo Burnham) became one of the most well- known comedians in the US for his unique humor mixing with singing, mostly about societal issues. During the beginning of his career he met Genesis, moved in with her- and then fell apart in her hands. Zach Stone ruins one more thing.
Warning: Foul Language, Death, Talks of ED, Fatphobic language
(I want to state that basically Bo Burnham is Zach Stone's stage name in this case so his comedy shows like 'Words.Words.Words' and 'What.' will be included using 'Bo' but Genesis will call him Zach.)
Who would've ever thought a human could put so much thought into every movement and facial expression; while still being able to remember the next piano key change in a song that didn't stop with them. If they messed up, no one would ever know, hell- no one would even care because they would simply laugh along like it was part of the show, but that's not what Zach Stone was going for. He wanted them to feel every emotion he was feeling with "We think we know you" and how to do that: was to do everything with calculated effort.
Genesis was in the crowd with eyes as wide as saucers as the electric guitar crowded her ear drums, banging on the membrane to try and give her life long damages. She loved it. Her body rumbled in its seat as she watched closely to every moment Zach's body made- then it all stopped and the anxiety, anger, and happiness that flooded off the stage came to a sudden stop. "Holy Shit -" She whispered softly, before coming to her senses and rising with the crowd in a standing ovation for 'Bo Burnham'. Genesis wasn't screaming the loudest in the crowd, she didn't know if she was even allowed to at a comedy show, but in her mind- she was one of the loudest bitches in that theatre. They all clapped for a long time, long after the audience lights had faded on, even then you could hear small whoops and hollers as audience members slowly made their way to the doors. It's like they, similar to Genesis, didn't want to leave the dopamine rush that was the 'Bo Burnham' show. Good thing Genesis didn't have to right away.
Genesis had moved towards the front of the stage once everyone had exited the theatre. She felt uncomfortable in her oversized black sweater, jeans, and her "ball stomping" boots- she knew she must've looked like some crazed fan to those who didn't know her. What she didn't realize was that, no shit people would realize they were sitting in a room with one of the most famous actresses in recent news. From her part in the Gatsby, the few Grammys under her belt, and her recent up coming appearances in dance content- the 24 year old was doing well for herself. Though, she didn't want to be seen as different, or like she was that "quirky" celebrity who dressed like anyone else who loved My Chemical Romance in 2006 (man she was 17, old hag- /j). She just-so happened- to be a celebrity who loved My Chemical Romance in 2013 and dressed like it... she just hated being pointed out for stupid things. "Ms.Yiles?" A deep voice spoke out from behind the 5'5 now 5'10 girl. She quickly turned around, maybe jumping a little, to meet the eyes of a taller male with the shirt reading staff on the front pocket. Noticing her confused and wide eyes, he continued, "I was sent by Douglass to grab y'a." The man spoke naturally now, his posture relaxing once he realized he had in fact found the right person.
"Oh! Of course, my agent Harini isn't here today but she said that was okay with Mr.Douglass." Genesis rambled before realizing that the staff member in front of her definitely didn't give two shits about what celebrity agents were talking about. "Lead the way Mister.." She trailed off, hoping he would give her a saving grace from the embarrassment that was her oversharing.
"Alan!" He finished for Genesis, a reassuring grin on his face that Genesis could only compare to what teachers give nervous students during a presentation. He was good at that.
"Alan." she repeated, "Lead the way, Sir." She spoke happily as she fixed her defensive posture- the arms she had originally wrapped around her chests, now relaxed at her sides- insecurely fiddling with the strap of her purse. She followed Alan up the stage and through the side curtains, Genesis was never a theater kid in high school- hell she didn't get into acting until college where most would say it was too late for her to decide. Either way, she was not 100% use to the look of backstage- besides the passing of it she had during band concerts...she doesn't want to hear one word out of your mouth. After a couple seconds of her almost busting her ass on the miscellaneous cords that were duct taped to the floor, they were out of the dark backstage and in the hall way of dressing rooms. Next thing Genesis knew, she was looking up at a fairly tanned man fast walking up to her and Alan in a fancy suit.
"Genesis! Ah! I'm sorry I couldn't grab you myself, but I hope Alan kept you safe." Douglass. Well at least that's what Genesis would quickly label the slightly loud man.
"Oh Alan's awesome, however I did almost die about five times in the two seconds we were back there." Genesis joked, earning a small chuckle from Alan who stood beside her- seeming like he was holding back a comment while in front of Douglass.
"Well, I've got you from here. Thank you again Alan." Douglass said dismissively as he placed a hand on Genesis' forearm. With a confused look, Genesis turned toward Alan and waved with a small smile. Mouthing a 'thank you' as she was guided away- she was given that 'teacher reassuring' smile from the man again before he went off to work. Somehow, Genesis felt like she really needed some at this moment.
"Bo's a little..how do I put this.."
"It's okay! Whatever it is, he put his all in that last song and I could feel it. Just as long as he is getting some calm down time and some water... I don't mind waiting or even meeting a different day." Genesis cut Douglass off quickly, since she knew if she didn't, she would most likely be hearing all of the beans Bo didn't want spilled. She had been there before, filming scenes that made her think of real life experiences, or answering interview questions that struck a nerve. It wasn't everyone's business what was wrong.
"Oh well-" Douglass seemed shocked from the young woman's statement, adjusting his sleeves as he tried to think of a response. "If you don't mind sitting in the lounge room for a moment-" He motioned to the door labeled 'LOUNGE'. Genesis guessed they had to many people mistaking it for something else? "I'll go talk to him for a moment." Douglass completed and soon, he had disappeared into Bo's room with a simple knock and wave. Genesis would note how rude that truly was before wondering off and into the lounge room. She began to question why she was even there. To figure out some sort of collaboration? Just say hi and totally break this guy out of his post calming ritual? Eat this amazing sausage and crackers sitting out in the lounge room? That last one was a definite bingo.
Bowing her head to a few staff sitting on the near by couch, she walked towards the plates and grabbed one- using the utensils near by to get what she pleased before nomming on her crackers and meat in peace.
"Genesis Yiles? Oh my god, what are you doing here?" A female voice interrupted Genesis' thoughts on...nothing. She just so happened to be disassociating at the time. The sudden startle made Genesis shake her head as she raised it, her eyebrows raised to show attention to whoever it was in front of her.
"I'm sorry? Oh, I came to watch Mr.Burnham's show! My agent Harini wanted me to meet Mr.Douglass after." Genesis explained to this complete and utter stranger as if they had the right to know, she'd yell at herself about it later. Something like, 'Come on Gene it's none of her business what the hell you're doing here.' She'd worry about it later.
"Oh wow! Well, I'm Angela! I work as the stylist for Bo and really I think it's awesome what you are doing for the fashion and actress scene." Angela spoke so kindly, but something in her compliment felt a little off.
"I'm not that good," Genesis laughed awkwardly as she had a feeling she knew where this was going. "I can't say I know exactly what you mean." She finished kindly, but really she wanted to see if this woman was really gonna comment on weight while Genesis ate.
"I mean- you are changing the standard for body image and inclusivity. You increased Prada sales by-"
Genesis needed to cut this woman off before she dug herself a hole, "Actually. The weight issue within modeling and the public eye has never been more of a problem. I think it's because of people in power giving back handed compliments like you just did, now if you'd excuse me. I'd love to finish digesting my crackers without you projecting your fear of beautiful bodies onto me." It was all said in one breath, but steadily. Thank god. Genesis wasn't hungry anymore, and she wouldn't force her body to eat just because of this...incident..so she left out that same obnoxiously labelled door she had walked in to about 15 minutes ago.
"Zach listen-"
"Oh shit- man my bad." Genesis mumbled out as she quickly shut the door behind her to make sure the person she hit with it was okay. Her eyebrows furrowed in worry as she bit her lip in focus- just waiting for a response. All that concentrating somehow made her blind to the fact that the person she hit with the door, was Bo fucking Burnham. The silence was loud, and it must've been what knocked Genesis into her senses. "Oh shi-"
"Nice to meet you too, Sailor." Zach spoke out, his words were slightly muddled together but Genesis figured it was because he rubbed the bridge of his nose as he said it.
"Sorry, wasn't expecting a wall to be behind the door when I was making my extravagant exit." Genesis joked back, her sass from earlier with Angela having a spillover effect into her sentence. "But seriously are you okay-" She refocused as she tried not to think about how she was having a total 'y/n' moment right now.
"I'm fine." The snap in Zach's voice was sharp, but nothing a sigh and a small fake smile couldn't fix. "Douglass told me you wanted to meet," He raised his eyebrow in a questioning gesture towards the idea- "Any clue what you needed me for?" The question was direct, and Genesis noted: a little impolite to be asking in the middle of a hall way. She brushed it off quite literally with the shrug of her broad shoulders, a small smile resting on her face.
"Thought we could have a business chat," she glanced over at Douglass before making her eyes meet Zach's again. "Without old men lingering around to pipe in." She finished as her arms came back to the defensive position she had started her Zach Stone journey in.