MARLEY ROSE 🎤 TWENTY-TWO Making music, making memories, and making way too many cups of tea ☕. Home again in Lima and leaning into the little things that bring joy! Songwriting, live music, reading late into the night, and trying not to burn the cookies when I bake. Kittens, puppies, & Julie Andrews, always. ✨
Hey, I’m Marley! ✨ Yep, that Marley Rose. I'm back in Lima after a few years in Los Angeles trying to make it in music (spoiler: the big city and I didn’t totally vibe, but I came back with plenty of stories and a few songs worth keeping). These days you can find me hanging around the local studio, scribbling lyrics in every notebook I own, or humming to myself in the grocery store like I forgot other people exist. I’m kind of obsessed with the way music can make you feel seen when nothing else does.
Outside of that, I’m a sucker for good books, late-night baking experiments, and cute animals.
𝒑𝒆𝒏𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒃𝒚 ─────── riley, 30+, she/her, cst
This writer IS NOT open to sharing discord for discussion (only because I don't use it~ gives me major anxiety lol).
This writer prefers TEXT / DASH / F2F THREADS (ALL of them - but shorter options are nice after a long day!) for interaction.
Hi there! I have been writing Marley for probably about ten years now, so a year or two after she popped up on Glee. I love that Marley is a genuinely compassionate, good person. Many times shows try to drum up that character as boring, but I adore how Marley grew stronger as a character and proved that she wasn't just a doormat, but someone that just needed a little nudge and confidence. I prefer to plot on Tumblr via DM, as I don't use Discord. (Been there and it wasn't for me.) I am good for plotting in depth or just coming up with a connection idea and winging it. We can chat and see where it goes if you prefer!
BASIC INFO
• FULL NAME — Marley Evangeline Rose.
• ETYMOLOGY — MARLEY. From Old English mearth (marten, a small animal similar to a weasel) and lēah (woodland or clearing). & ROSE. English, derived directly from the flower.
• NICKNAMES — Marls, Mars.
• GENDER & PRONOUNS — Cis-female, She/Her.
• SEXUAL & ROMANTIC ORIENTATION — Heterosexual, Heteroromantic.
• D.O.B. | AGE — February 21, Twenty-two.
• ZODIAC SIGN — Pisces.
• PLACE OF BIRTH — Lima, Ohio.
• PREVIOUS RESIDENCE — Lima, LA (during college).
• PREVIOUS EDUCATION — BFA at CalArts.
• PREVIOUS OCCUPATION — Singer / Songwriter in LA.
• CURRENT OCCUPATION — Record Producer at Vocal Stim.
• ETHNICITY — Caucasian.
• NATIONALITY — American.
• PARENTS — Millie Rose, Father (Unknown).
• SIBLINGS | BIRTH ORDER — Only child, but will soon have some step-siblings!
• OFFSPRING — No children.
• PETS — Not yet, but Marley would love to have a couple of cats, or a cat & dog buddy duo.
• HOW WOULD THEY DESCRIBE THEMSELVES: Marley would probably describe herself as creative, thoughtful, and sensitive, with a tendency to drift into daydreams. She knows she’s a people-pleaser and often bends to avoid conflict, but she views that as being kind rather than weak. Physically, she would say she’s “pretty average”. Maybe a little on the softer side, with brown hair (or sometimes blonde as she likes to change depending on her mood / the season - one of the few experiments in LA that went well!) that never quite does what she wants, and a style that’s simple, comfortable, and cozy more than trendy. She’d admit she doesn’t always stand out in a crowd, but she takes quiet pride in being someone who listens, notices, and cares deeply. She used to hate her freckles, but has grown to love them and finds it funny that they're probably one of the few trendy things about her (Hello, they even make freckle pens now!)
• HOW DO OTHERS SEE THEM: Marley imagines others see her as shy, timid, or even a little naïve (and at times, that's accurate). She assumes people think she fades into the background and is the nice girl who doesn’t make waves. She worries they see her as weak for avoiding confrontation, or forgettable compared to louder, more confident personalities. At the same time, she hopes people notice her gentleness, her willingness to help, and her quiet resilience even when she doubts herself.
• WHAT DOES YOUR CHARACTER WANT TO DO WITH THEIR LIFE: Marley wants to create a life where music is still at the center, but in a way that feels authentic and safe instead of exploitative. After her burnout and the bad contract that nearly made her hate her own passion, she wants to reclaim music on her own terms; through songwriting, performing small sets, and working in spaces that let her grow without being controlled. More than anything, she wants stability, connection, and a place where she feels like she truly belongs. Music is her anchor, but family and a sense of home are what keep her moving forward.
STYLE & AESTHETIC
• soft indie, thrifted finds, mismatched mugs, journals filled with lyrics, twinkle lights, chunky knit sweaters, cinnamon rolls cooling on the counter, record players & playlists, chipped nail polish, acoustic guitars, rain on windows, gentle messiness, houseplants named after musicians, sepia-toned polaroids, mismatched socks, layered jewelry, vintage concert tees under cardigans
• PINTEREST/CAARD FOR CHARACTER HERE
• PLAYLIST FOR CHARACTER HERE — TBA.
CURRENT PLOTS & CONNECTIONS
Since she just recently moved back, Marley is currently living with her mom, fiancé, and his kids. However, as soon as she has enough money saved up she plans on getting her own place close by.
She’s landed work at Vocal Stim, helping produce and record tracks for up-and-coming artists while quietly writing her own songs again on the side.
Since she can’t quite shake the pull of performing, Marley is also hoping to pick up part-time sets at Luxe Stay. After her experiences in LA she prefers smaller stages where she can sing without losing herself.
Marley is looking forward to having a bigger family and siblings, and although she wasn't initially eager to return, she's quickly realized Lima is where she belongs. At least for now.
CONNECTIONS (ideas: neighbors, co-workers, a confidante, a best friend / ride or die, childhood friend, book club friends, enemy to friend, former friends, role model, gym buddy... all the friends!)
Blaine Anderson — Friend, Neighbor, Personal Cheerleaders for each other & Music Bonding Buddies.
Rachel Berry —
Quinn Fabray —
Finn Hudson — Acquaintances through their moms' friendship.
Kurt Hummel — Best Friend, Childhood Neighbor & Sewing Club Buddies.
Santana Lopez — Protective Older Sister / Gal Pal & Occasional Couch Crasher.
"that top's too cute to stain." kurt hums, giving marley's outfit of the day his stamp of approval. sure, maybe he would have styled parts of it a little differently, but, for her, it worked, and it was certainly much nicer than a lot of the 'looks' he'd been seeing recently around town. "please." he waves off her warning, not at all bothered by the possibility of being stuck at the shop late with marley and her family. "this hardly counts as work. spending time with my best friend, looking at pretty dresses and finding the perfect one? it's my dream afternoon. i've got all the time in the world for it." the job could be taxing at times, sure, but the roses were the kindest people he'd ever met, and he was certain that even millie's version of a bridezilla would still be an angel.
"uh... no, not really, nothing new to report. dad's doing better, slowly but surely." not really an answer about himself, technically, but work and his dad had pretty much been his entire life lately. "what about you? any chance i'll be helping to find another bridal gown for the rose family anytime soon?"
"That means the most coming from you. I was hoping you'd like it. When I go shopping, my motto is always 'what would Kurt pick?'" One positive about being back in Lima meant there were less people to criticize her style. As well as no fear that her clothes casualties might end up in a tabloid. "Well I'm glad that we could be a part of it then. It's a very special day - one that I'm not sure my mom never thought would happen. So getting to have one of the most special people be a part of it makes me wanna cry. Happy tears, of course."
Marley caught on right away that Kurt directed the conversation to his dad instead of himself. She had a hunch that he would. "I'm really glad that he is. I can't imagine the toll it's taking on him. And you," she added softly. "You know I'm not letting you off the hook so easily," Marley warned playfully, her words breaking as a bout of laughter tipped her head back. "Hah! That's a good one, Kurt. If only. Pretty sure there has to be someone interested before I'll be looking for a wedding dress. But, how about you? Any prospects? What have you been doing besides watching over Papa Hummel?"
i'll do my best. i haven't been this excited for a wedding since harry and meghan's.
huh. i guess you're right. i never realized that before, maybe he and i have more in common than i thought.
deal. i plan on sharing a lot of desserts with you while i'm here - and not just because i have to find somewhere to satisfy my sweet tooth, but because we have a lot of catching up to do.
Honest to god, Santana was easily rolling up to the Rose residence, gym bag of clothes and necessities in one hand, her free hand ready and poised by the door for the first knock. It’s a fleeting moment of second guessing if she should even be doing this. Knowing now that Millie Rose was engaged and they were living with the guy involved now, it could be a full house with no room for visitors.
Intruding in on other peoples life was not something Santana usually minded doing. It was her personal love language, just shoving herself into peoples spaces to make sure they knew of her existence. How she wasn’t going anywhere until they told her otherwise. It was how she showed up for people, and it wasn’t about to change anytime soon.
But she was also avoiding her own personal life. Not wanting to hear another lecture on what she planned on doing with her life and to not toss it away from her father. Feeling like a disappointment may not have been a new feeling, and her skin could be seen as thick as leather, but her father always had that way of making Santana feel so small. Like an insect ready to be squashed underfoot without a second thought.
Don’t be ridiculous, Marley and Millie adore you. And what’s not to adore? You’re hilarious and gorgeous, don’t back out now. Her mind practically scoffs, the persona of Snixx shoving the temporary self-doubt to the side.
Marley's offer for Santana to crash at their place any time had been genuine. Millie had run it by the rest of the family and no one had qualms about a new addition popping in and out. She was always welcome. As someone who had grown up an only child, Marley had always looked up to Santana as if she was an older sister. It only made sense for her to come by whenever she pleased. More the merrier was the new Rose family motto.
A knock at the door pulled Marley from the book she had been reading, although her mind was all over the place, so the words on the pages were mostly forgotten the second she set it down. Pulling the door open to reveal Santana filled Marley with warm fuzzies, and she didn't hesitate to step aside and let her in.
"I'm so glad you're here!" Marley practically gushed, for it felt like forever since she had caught up with Santana in person. She had always been envious of her friend's strength and presence. Santana Lopez was no one to be toyed with. But she also knew that deep down inside there was a lot more buried that she didn't share with everyone.
"But first, there's a hug tax." Without warning, Marley drew Santana into a hug before she could protest. "Are you hungry? Thirsty? Or want a tour first?" She rambled elatedly, like a child having her first slumber party. "Put your bags down and make yourself at home. We were thinking about ordering pizza, if that sounds good to you?"
Thank you Marley, and definitely the same to you. Right? They're one of the wonders of the world, I'm convinced of it. Sometimes I dream about them. That's true, so we need to fix that here soon, okay? Oh legendary... yeah, I wouldn't go that far and I'm pretty sure anyone else who's met me would agree with me. Thank you so much though!
Awesome then, I'm usually not that hard to spot. But okay, you got yourself a deal then.
You're welcome! Should Lima have like a giant one greeting everyone at the Welcome to Lima sign? Because that would be kind of awesome. Sounds like sweet dreams to me! Or... savory, anyway. Yeah, I'd like that. My mom is always going on about what a shame it is that we haven't. That's not what I've heard. I think you're just being humble, Hudson. Anytime!
Guess what? You owe me a coffee. Like, not joking. I embarrassed myself in front of a stranger, so, thanks for that lol.
Hey there you go, plus something to just make them feel a little more like a one of a kind for you too. Oh cool, you're back at home for now then. I know how that goes, I'm staying at mom and Burt's place too for now. I bet it must be, I've seen a couple of ads for rent and it's still high enough here though. Hopefully you'll be able to figure something out then!
You're welcome Marley. I haven't been back too long honestly, and sometimes gossip takes a bit. No way, she is? That's awesome, congratulations to her then1 Now I get why you've come back, although a little surprised you're making it long term. I haven't decided to be honest, at least not strongly enough to make any plans yet but I'll be here for a while at least.
I did put up twinkle lights, so that's some improvement. It also helps keep the basement from being so darn dark. Are you? That actually makes me feel a little better, to know I'm not the only one in this boat. How does it feel being back with them again? Yeah, I agree. It's going to be a little bit before I can afford one and not have to worry about living paycheck to paycheck, that's for sure. Thank you! I hope you can too.
Well I'm also not exactly one to seek it out, either. But welcome back! Yes she is! Thank you! Honestly, I hadn't decided if I wanted to until getting back, but LA is just not my scene. I see. I'm sure everyone is thrilled that you're going to hang around, at least for a bit. You know your mom is a bridesmaid, right?
thank you! i'm so glad to hear that! i can imagine it must be quite an adjustment for you, but i'm glad that it's a positive kind of chaos. i've... been better, to be honest, but i'm okay. better now that i'm here. and while i've been here a lot, this is my first time actually living in lima, so i'm not sure what exactly qualifies as upscale here. but it's not too bad! and that's such a sweet offer, thank you! most of the heavy lifting is done, so it's just a matter of unpacking now. i really appreciate it, though!
oh, definitely put up those twinkle lights! they always make a place feel like home. and please let me know if you need help finding them, or if i can help you with anything else. i wouldn't mind a distraction from staring at my own half-empty boxes. any chance you're free tomorrow for that coffee?
You're welcome! It definitely is. At the most, it's only been my mom and I, but I'm kind of loving the extra company. Most of the time. Upscale and Lima doesn't often go hand in hand, but I'm glad you don't think it's too shabby. You've been better? I'm sorry, B. If you want to unload or anything, I'm all ears, I promise! You're welcome, of course! My mom also said she was planning on making some muffins or something to bring over to welcome you into town. Do you have any flavor preferences?
Guess what?? I did! I think so too. They needed new batteries, but now the basement is all aglow. Thank you, Blaine! I'm sure my space could always use a second opinion, if you want. And in fact, I am! Wanna meet up?
well, i'm glad to hear that at least one of us is sleeping well and that you're finally getting the rest you deserve! it sounds like it was long overdue. i’m sure i'll adjust soon enough. my brain's just gotten a little too used to all the city noise, i think. thank you, though, marley. and i heard the wonderful news from your mom today — i'm so happy for her! and i still can't believe we're neighbors! please know that my door's always open for you too.
you would make a really good director, actually, you know? you're... talking about me, right? do you really think so? i'd be lying if i said i haven't considered it.
you've definitely got a point there. i have this theory that she doesn't sleep at all and just lives on whatever she puts into those massive protein shakes that keeps her awake. so she probably has plenty of time in her day to do exactly that.
Thank you, Blaine! I hope you can catch up on yours soon too. I understand that; it must be like white noise for you. If you'd like, I can try and get my future step-siblings to make some extra racket in the backyard, if that would help. They're pretty lively. Thank you so much! I'm just so thrilled that she's happy. I hope you know you're invited! I know, I love it! Thank you, that means a lot. I may be taking you up on that often.
That's sweet of you to say, Blaine. I'm not so sure though. I think those kids would try and step all over me. I'm not the doormat I once was, but I'm not exactly the most formidable, either. Absolutely, I am! I think you should more than consider it. You would be so wonderful, Blaine!
Maybe we need to find out what her secret is to them, because I would love to have that kind of energy.
If you're not using it now, you're probably not gonna need it later. Like I know I need my nunchucks so I didn't even pack them away. You don't have dirty business anyways, right? So you're probably all clear. They're probably like Marley's chill, we're glad she's back. I mean, whoever started it was onto something, and handsome as hell. But yeah, pretty sure there's some truth to that rumor.
Not too happy about the weather beginning to change cause that means I gotta have more of an excuse to wear shirts. How 'bout you?
I have heard that before, so maybe this will be a test to see what I can or can't live without. Puck, what are you using those things for? Are you secretly a Ninja Turtle?? I promise I won't tell. Oh no, definitely not. At least nothing anyone would care about. Aw, thank you. Not sure I've ever been called chill, but I'll take it! And I'll also take your word for that-- it sounds like you know what you're talking about.
I think I'm the opposite! I love sweater weather. And cozy blankets. Maybe it's just a nice change from the California sunshine. I'm good though, thank you. Enjoying being back more than I thought. I definitely missed my mom. What have you been up to?
open to: @heartstringsmarley
date: thursday, september 4th
location: swift scoop ice cream parlor
"ooh- careful. left side, starting to drip." kurt points to marley's cone, warning her before the ice cream can melt onto her hand -- or worse, her clothes. "appointment's set up, by the way. all good to go on tuesday." so far, kurt had enjoyed his new job about as much as he could, but he was definitely looking forward to this consultation far more than any of the rest, taking time during slower moments at the shop to look through some of the options in the back, trying to pick out some that felt like they'd be mrs. rose approved. "i put you guys as the last one of the day, so if we have to run a little late, there won't be any scheduling conflicts. "
"Oh gosh, thank you!" Marley chirped, catching the dribble of butter pecan ice cream with her tongue. One of the few times she actually splurged on a shirt and she chose to wear it while getting ice cream? Not her finest move. Excitement bubbled within about this dress consultation; there was no one Marley trusted more in the entire world than her best friend with such an important project. "Thank you so much, Kurt. It seriously means the world to me, and to my mom as well. She was thrilled when I told her you offered to help. That sounds perfect. Just don't let us keep you too late if you have more work to do," Marley insisted warmly, almost bouncing on her toes. "I may need help with my dress too, but the bride comes first." Delicately she bit into the waffle cone, and tried not to make a giant mess. "Besides work, how are you feeling about things lately? Anything new to share?"
next week should be good. i'll look over the schedule when i head in for my shift tomorrow and confirm once i see what's available. done and done. i already have a few in mind from what i remember seeing in the back.
get what from him? i don't usually hear that, to be honest. most people say i got everything from my mom. at least, those who knew her do. sounds like a plan, miss rose. double scoops on me.
Perfect! I know you're going to make her special day absolutely beautiful.
Your inability to quit. You have the same tenacity he does. Well, perhaps that's true, but you definitely are alike with him on this. Okay, but next time it's on me then!
Not judge too much? Me? I don't know where you could've gotten the idea that I judge at all. -- okay yeah I do. But I can promise I'll keep the commentary on the packrattiness of it all to a minimum. I know it seems like a difficult feat, but I can do it.
Perhaps it's just the whole thing of being here right as fall is hitting that made me choose now to come back, settle a bit, get all my swans in a row as they say. I will give Ohio the whole picturesque thing being pretty good around this time of year.
Mama Rose is getting married?! Fuck yeah! About time she hooks a man. He better be worth her time and energy. I can pull my Lima Heights days outta my back pocket if need be at any point. I'll definitely be swinging by to tell her that myself.
Oh, me either. I must have been thinking of someone else! Thank you, I appreciate it. I believe you can do anything you set your mind to!
Swans? I've always heard ducks. But you're definitely more graceful than me, so a swan suits you better. It really is. Much better than California anyway. It will be nice to experience a true Autumn again.
She is! Just had to wait for a good one to come along. Which is incredibly rare. He honestly seems like it. I get good vibes from him and the rest of his family. One thing is for sure-- he didn't marry for money! Thank you, Tana. I will keep that in mind, and I know she'll be thrilled to see you!
i could be open to settling for a tie. you're definitely my toughest competition.
i'm sure. i'll start pulling options today, so i'll be ready when she is. do you know if there was any particular style she's interested in?
definitely not. thank you, it really means a lot to me. and to him, even if he might not show it. maybe it'd be best if we meet up somewhere else for treats, though? the man has gained some sort of superhuman ability to sense anything delicious the moment it enters the house. it's as impressive as it is frustrating.
Aww, shucks. Thanks, Kurt. I will happily accept a tie!
Thank you, you're the best! Do you think maybe next week or weekend would work? Whatever day is best for you. I know she said she wanted a vintage feel. Most likely with sleeves. Other than that, I don't think she's very picky.
You get that from him, you know. You're welcome, Kurt! We all appreciate things differently; I understand. Happy to help however I can! That's probably for the best. I don't really want to tease or tempt him. Maybe we can go to Swift Scoop soon and get some ice cream? I've been vying to go since I got back.
This has always been one of Marley’s go-to karaoke songs, but it feels especially fitting now. After leaving behind the chaos of Los Angeles and returning to Lima, she can’t help but connect with the song’s theme of feeling untethered and searching for a sense of belonging. Singing it now isn’t just about hitting the notes; it’s her way of quietly admitting she’s still a little lost, but also hopeful that coming home will help her rediscover who she really is.
Hard to believe how long ago graduation was, the last time I really felt like I was home. But a few weeks back here, and it's slowly starting to feel like that again. The garlic knots from Breadstix helps with that a little bit. And seeing that some of you have come home too, might just help a little bit too.
The road less travelled wasn't quite as long as I expected it to be, but that's okay. Hope to get the chance to catch up in person with you guys soon, I'll be the tall one at the Lima Bean trying to figure out what comes next.
I'm glad you're feeling back at home, Finn. Those garlic knots work wonders! I missed them too. I think it's funny how we've run around in the same circles, but because of school year difference I still haven't met you? But there's lots to hear about the legendary Finn Hudson. So, welcome back!
I'll keep my eyes peeled for the super tall guy at the Lima Bean. And if I speak to him and it's not you, you owe me a coffee.
is anyone else having a hard time getting used to how quiet ohio is? i knew that moving back would be a bit of a culture shock, but i wasn't expecting that, of all things, the quiet would be what keeps me up at night. thankfully, central lima isn't as bad as westerville, where i spent my first two weeks back, but it's not exactly new york city either. fingers crossed the ambient sounds app i just downloaded does the trick tonight.
on another note, i also have two very important questions. actually, make that three, because first and foremost, i'd like to ask how everyone's doing! how have you been? what have you guys been up to? and has anyone else heard the rumour that the new directions apparently don't have a glee club director right now? asking for a friend...
and while we're on the topic of mckinley — does anyone know if coach sylvester still has time in her now apparently very busy schedule to teach aerobics? i hate to admit it, but i kind of liked those classes.
... anyway, thanks for coming to my ted talk. i promise i'll be more concise once i actually sleep and don't need an ungodly amount of caffeine anymore.
Definitely not me. It's different from LA for sure, but in the best way. I've slept like a baby since I got back. Of course, I was basically an insomniac in California. I'm sorry that you're struggling to sleep though, Blaine. I hope the app works! Feel free to stop by anytime you'd like though. I'm currently sharing with my mom and our soon-to-be Brady Bunch, so it's pretty lively here!
I have not heard that about the director, but ooh, tea! You know, I may know someone that would be an excellent person to fill that roll... wink wink, nudge nudge. (And no, I don't mean me.)
I would be shocked if she doesn't still teach it. I can't imagine her giving up a chance to bark orders at anyone.
