Music

#BLOGTOBER Day 11- MLW Halloween Themed Shorts Collection

michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

Over the past 5 years I’ve had this blog, I have written a number of Shorts/Story Series. And within those, there are a few that come to mind during this time of year. Two are more horror based, one is more romantic based. I usually write drama/mystery/romance So the horror was a fun segway to try. 

Cloaked in the Night

cloaked-in-the-nightThis is a story I wrote inspired by a walk home, where I saw a creepy skeleton decoration. And the idea of it coming to life, hit me and this story was born. I think everyone has felt that fear of walking home alone, late at night. Everything around you suddenly feels eerie. 

Summary: For this young character, well she was just running out to grab some ice cream one night…

*Read HERE

The Halloween Party

halloween-party

Summary: This one is more on the romantic side. Jared has always had a thing for his best friend Maddie. When she recently gets her heart broken just before her favorite holiday, she decides it’s time for some changes. And Jared finally decides it’s time to confess his feelings for her…will Jared get the girl he’s always dreamed of or will Maddie’s ex get in the way? 

*Read HERE

RED THIRST
red thirstThis story was super weird! LOL. I honestly don’t know where it came from. I knew I wanted to write something scary and it just kind of snowballed into this freakshow of a story. But I wanted it to be different. It become this sexy, scary story [hence the parental advisory stamp!] and even when I read it back I feel like it’s nothing like I would typically write. So I definitely stepped out of my comfort zone for this one. But hey ,we have to do that sometimes, right?

Summary: What was supposed to be a fun night out with friends turns into Clara’s worst nightmare as she encounters a handsome bartender named Christian. And the color red takes on a whole new meaning.  

*Read HERE

 

ENJOY!

Maybe I’ll have a new Fall/Halloween inspired story coming soon!

*I do not take credit for any images used in my edits.*

-<3-

#BLOGTOBER Day 8- It’s October again…

michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

In my quest to keep this blog thing going for the entire month of October, I sought out some Halloween playlist inspiration and somewhere along the line, the lyric “It’s October again, leaves are coming down…” slipped into my memory.

And I realized how perfectly it lined up. 

The lyric is from a song called “Let Me Fall” performed by Haley James Scott on One Tree Hill. [Haley was portrayed by real life singer/songwriter Bethany Joy Lenz.]

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The lyrics: 

“Let Me Fall”

It’s October again
The leaves are coming down
One more year’s come and gone
And nothing’s changed at all

Wasn’t I supposed to be someone
To face the things that I’ve been running from

Let me feel
I don’t care if I break down
Let me fall
Even if I hit the ground
And if I cry a little, die a little
At least I know I lived
Just a little

I’ve become much too good
At being vincible
I’m an expert at play it safe
And keep it cool

But I swear
This isn’t who I meant to be
I refuse to let my life roll over me

I wanna be somebody
Who can face the things that I’ve been running from

Let me feel
I don’t care if I break down
Let me fall
Even if I hit the ground
And if I cry a little, die a little
At least I know I lived

It’s October again
Leaves are coming down
One more year’s come and gone
And nothing’s changed at all

 

***

 

I feel like this song is really hitting home for me, right now. All the feels in the world. I can relate, Haley, I get you girl! 

 

I wonder is Joy wrote this song herself for the show?

 

Watch the performance below featured in episode 2×07 titled

“Let The Reigns Go Loose” 

Episode Backstory: In this episode Haley conquers her stage fright and performs at TRIC’s opening night. 

 

Soak in those fall vibes…

*I do not take credit for any images, lyrics, or video clips used.*

 

-<3-

 

Alexz Johnson.

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Many of you may not know Alexz Johnson, but allow me to introduce you to her, she is an incredible talent.

Disney kids may recognize her from a Disney show- So Weird. Where as a young girl she played a character who dealt with strange almost supernatural occurrences. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKzRRGNiBaI

But when I hear her name a different show comes to mind- Instant Star.

Her red hair and punk rock style was EVERYTHING! And Even when she went blonde, I still thought she was the coolest thing! I always wanted her star ring! haha

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Instant Star was a Canadian television program which aired from September 15, 2004 to June 26, 2008- 4 seasons. The series starred Alexz Johnson as adolescent music competition winner Jude Harrison. The show chronicles Harrison’s experience in the recording industry whilst focusing on character development. The program began to air on CTV in Canada prior to being picked up by Viacom-owned teen network channel The N, now TeenNick, in the United States. The show became the second most popular program on The N with Degrassi: The Next Generation, a Canadian show also produced by Schuyler and Stohn, ranking as most popular.          -Wikipedia 

Show Summary: At age 15, Jude Harrison (played by Alexz Johnson) won a national singer/songwriter talent search. With the overnight fame and the recording contract came some tough decisions. Now she’s more mature but still struggling with success and her often-problematic love life which just so happens to include balancing love trysts between her best friend Jamie- who’s had a crush on her for years, an asshole of a R&B singer Shay, and her older yet so gorgeous producer and former Boyz Attack boy band member Tom “Tommy Q” Quincy played by Tim Rozon.

Tommy was the one who takes up most of her time, and whom I “shipped” her with before shipping was even a thing. Tommy was 22 and Jude turned 16 in Season 1 putting him about 6 years older than Jude. But somehow they just had such a connection that you just forgive the inappropriate age gap- Age ain’t nothing but a number when it comes to these two. And you end up rooting for them. It’s super fun to watch the spunky teen give Tommy’s laid back (at times jealous) nature a run for his money. They have so many adorable moments in the studio while working on her albums. And the way they look at each other is just everything. Granted there was a TON of drama, and Tommy wasn’t always the best at handling his strong feelings for Jude. But the story was one I’ve always loved and thanks to YouTube I can re-watch it all over again. Start watching HERE!

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Sadly the show got cancelled and season 4 felt a bit like a rushed wrap up. Leaving Tommy Q with a broken heart. He proposed marriage on the brink of Jude’s career exploding and going international. She agreed but when it came time for them to ride off into the sunset together and for him to join her on her international tour, she declined. And chose to go alone. I get it, she was quite young and she needed to find her own way, and find herself. But after so many seasons of waiting for them to finally be together, it was very disappointing.

Needless to say they had some incredible moments, and the show left fans with some incredible music and opened my eyes to all that Alexz Johnson truly is. The music for the show, is so so good. The lyrics are amazing, the vocals are fire. Johnson has released many of her own material as well, since the show ended, and it’s amazing. Her voice is like a crisp, clear day. It cuts right through to your soul.

Check her stuff out- http://alexzjohnson.com/

Here are some of my favorite Tommy & Jude moments.

(Pardon the repeated scenes)

Tommy talking about how he wishes he could be with Jude, but she’s too young. Plus their first kiss.

“But if she was 21?” “Ohh in a spilt second.” AHHHHHHH I LOVE THIS!!!!

“There’s my look.”

“You know exactly why.”

“I want all of you, with me, forever….because I love you.” 

The kiss that made them reunite one last time!!!

Some of my favorite songs from the show are listed below. (Yes I own some of the soundtracks! That’s how much I loved the show and the music!) *You can listen to them all on YouTube or Spotify! Also check Alexz Johnson’s projects out on there too! I love the songs; Running with the Devil, Look At Those Eyes, Hunger Pains and Skipping Stone. 

24 Hours

Waste My Time

Let Me Fall

Skin (my absolute favorite*)

Time To Be Your 21

It Could Be You

Picking Up The Pieces

That Girl

My Sweet Time

Your Eyes

Anyone But You

Where Does It Hurt

I Don’t Know If I Should Stay

Don’t You Dare

How Strong Do You Think I Am

Natural Disaster

Liar Liar

I Still Love You

White Lines

2 a.m.

 

*I do not own any videos/images used.*

-<3-

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finding my inspiration…

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Funk, slump, busy week off, and a sinus infection later and I was left feeling super run down and sick. And now I am trying to pull my life back together and get back into my routine of doing things and accomplishing my goals. 

And that means returning to this blog. I’ve missed it, but I’ve been lying in the bubble of uninspired ideas. So I usually turn to music and YouTube when that happens and recently I’ve just revisited some things that inspired me in the past…

These are the women that often inspire my creativity. They are all just filled with good, calm, healthy vibes. I feel like such a hippie girl. I want to just throw on my kimono and moccasins and roast marshmallows by a fire pit. #BohemianGirl

Joy Williams– Venus Album

Specifically…

Such a powerful girl power anthem. Her whole Venus album spoke to me. As earthy and hippie as I sound. Joy is actually in the process of recording her next album! So excited, I cannot wait! I would love to see her live in concert. 

Rachel Talbott– YouTuber/Vlogger/Musician

I really love Rachel’s YouTube content. Every time I watch her I just feel so relaxed and like I want to create a better, more balanced, healthy life style. Her demeanor is so sweet and serene. 

I actually made my own spa pedicure because of this, and I loved it so much. I think I may continue doing this more often…when I have a bit of extra pamper time. 

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Visit Rachel’s new shop online @ PacificThyme.com She has some absolutely beautiful things on there and the prices are more affordable then I’ve seen in a while. I just bought a candle, a loose tea, and a tea infuser and I cannot wait to get them! 

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I was never a huge Disney kid, I had my favorites- The Little Mermaid/Pocahontas. But I love the soundtracks. Every time I hear a Disney song I just feel like I want to cry. It just tugs at the heart strings. And this medley includes some of the absolute best ones! That Rachel…such a talent. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eDCXk-fDwT0

Bethany Joy Lenz- 

This woman is always always always an inspiration to me. And recently I’ve just been listening to her soulful music again. She actually just released a new little track entitled Ghost Stories.  You can listen to it on her twitter. 

Here’s a vlog of mine from her concert I attended a few summers ago. It was an epic time!

This next concert was one I found on YouTube- a StageIt show, she had a while back. How gorgeous is her look! And that hair cut was pure fire. (video quality is a bit lagging) Her song “Dance with me” is my fav! ❤

Joy also paints and she has been sharing a lot of her work on her art instagram account The Lenz Gallery. 

Kalyn Nicholson– YouTuber/Vlogger/Author

This girl is inspiration reincarnated. Watching her plan her days and check her items off her list is oddly satisfying. Because I know how it feels to be a planner and a list maker. She’s real and she’s got these really chill vibes about her. I love the music she uses in her videos, I love her fashion and her home décor style. She makes it seem like you can really get through all your lists and encourages productivity. She also coined GYST day…a Get Your Sh*t Together Day! 

 

Who/what inspires you?

-<3-

 

 

 

Justin Timberlake’s #MANOFTHEWOODS gives Good Vibes

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album artwork

At the stroke of midnight on Friday, February 2, 2018 Justin Timberlake released his fifth studio album. And you bet your girl had her own personal listening party in her room, (thanks Spotify) even though she was exhausted, sometimes you just need to do it. #TheFangirlLifeIsReal #ItWaitsForNoGirl  

So as per usual I’m going to highlight my favorite lyrics and some of my random thoughts as I listened to the full album. You know your girl had her notebook ready! I can say that after my first listen… my favorites include- Midnight Summer Jam, Higher Higher, Morning Light, Montana, and Young Man. But as always, while I continue to hit replay on this album… for the entire weekend, I’m already finding new favorites, and I am really appreciating this album as a whole. Something I have to admit, I was a bit nervous about because Filthy wasn’t an instant favorite and the album is super different from what JT is best known for. Them Dance Anthems! 

FILTHY

Fav Lyric(s): 

Haters gon’ say it’s fake
So real

***

I said, put your filthy hands all over me
And no, this ain’t the clean version

*When I first heard these lines, I was like ohhh that’s fire. I can see that catching on. So it has been said that the voice we hear at the very end is in fact Jessica Biel. I remember hearing it and trying to decipher if it was her or not. “Look closer through the trees,” she whispers. And why I love it so much? I don’t know. Lol. In fact Jessica’s spoken word esque vocals are featured on quite a few tracks. And I am living for it!!! 

*Read my Full Review of JT’s first single HERE

MIDNIGHT SUMMER JAM *AN INSTANT FAVORITE* 

Fav Lyric(s): 

It’s in the air, hospitality
Anything you want, what’s mine is yours
But don’t you worry about the way I talk, woo
It’s where I’m from, come and get you some, uh
Hey, all of the locals are happy to get out and meet a new face
We dance in circles, on and on, dosey-do and then we sway
Even the old folks’ll come out and rock
And we just hopin’ the music don’t stop ’til the next day

*This is definitely my favorite song on the album. The minute I heard it I was like…OH MY GOD, this is my new “Let the groove get in.” It is the longest track on the album @ 5:13 and every time you think it’s done, it keeps going…so damn good. I love the drums, the horns, the guitar, the harmonica break down. It’s just such a great dance song. And I can see myself dancing to this on a cozy night in by the fire during winter, or at a big  outdoor summer BBQ. I love that last line…”Please… don’t stop the music…” P.S. did you catch Jessica’s “it’s sweaty out here baby” line. 

SAUCE

Fav Lyric(s): 

Ooh, I love your pink, you like my purple
You must be God herself, can I come worship?
Let’s make some new details, just for your journal
‘Cause you keep lookin’ at me with those eyes like you know somethin’ I don’t
So, go ahead, say I won’t

*I’ll admit at first listen I thought this song was good, but not an instant favorite. But the more I replay the album, it is seriously becoming one I really love. I absolutely love the chorus. This song has serious Prince vibes. “I like your pink, you like my purple…” 

MAN OF THE WOODS

Fav Lyric(s): 

How do I ever explain what I’ve got with you?
I try to find the words but they hide and that’s the truth
And nobody ever will understand what we do
There’s only one me and you
Come here, hold me
‘Cause there’s only one me and you

*This song is also the album’s title. Justin recently explained that the album is named after his son- Silas. Silas means “of the woods.” The song is super funky, almost like a spoken word country bob. I can’t explain it. It’s like an old comedy skit in the doo-wob era. You’ll see what I mean when you watch the adorable video feat Jessica Biel. But…but where’s baby Silas? A+ for 4 Justins. 😉 

HIGHER HIGHER *Favorite

Fav Lyric(s): 

Uh, stress is cruel, fame’s a lie
But you’re special, on every level
Success is cool, money is fine
But you’re special, another level

*This song gives off serious Earth, Wind, and Fire/ Barry Gib-The Bee Gees vibes. 

WAVE

Fav Lyric(s): 

I got rose-colored glasses
Batten your eyelashes
Come on, don’t be passive
So last time will be magic
This is fantastic, and we could get some practice
And miles on our passes for love

*This song has tropical vibes at first with a feel good, county fair vibe. I love the rose colored glasses reference.

SUPPLIES

Fav Lyric(s): 

I’ll be the light when you can’t see
I’ll be the wood when you need heat
I’ll be the generator, turn me on when you need electricity
Some shit’s about to go down
I’ll be the one with the level head
The world can end now
Baby, we’ll be living in The Walking Dead

*Read my Full Review on this song HERE

MORNING LIGHT feat. Alicia Keys *Favorite….gotta love my girl Alicia!

Fav Lyric(s): 

Look
Every time there’s a new sunrise
I open up my eyes
And I say to myself, “In the whole wide world of guys
I must be the luckiest alive”

‘Cause I’m in love with you
Laying here, in a morning light
And all I wanna do
Is hold you tight, just one more night

[Alicia Keys:]
Look, I can’t even get out of bed
With the thought you putting in my head
So I say to myself, “I don’t even wanna try”
Here, every part of me is paralyzed

*What an absolutely beautiful, soulful, romantic song. A sweet, pure love song with Jazzy, Motown/Temptations “My girl” vibes. I feel like this would be an incredible wedding song. 

tease

SAY SOMETHING feat. Chris Stapleton

*Read my Full Review on this song HERE

Fav Lyric(s): 

Sometimes the greatest way to say something is to say nothing at all

But I can’t help myself, no I can’t help myself, no, no
Caught up in the middle of it
No I can’t help myself, no I can’t help myself, no, no, no
Caught up in the rhythm of it

[Justin Timberlake (Chris Stapleton):]
Maybe I’m looking for something I can’t have

*Out of the 4 early releases this was my favorite. It got stuck in my head and in my soul. And I love that Justin can go country and it still works. He’s a freaking chameleon! LOL. And that video is EPIC! 

HERS (interlude)

Fav Lyric(s):

It’s an armor, like a barrier from the world
Like, our secret nobody else knows and I like that, you know?
It makes me feel like a woman, it makes me feel sexy, it makes me feel… it makes me feel like I’m his…

*I loveee interludes and preludes. He did this with Futures Sex/Love Sounds and The 20/20 Experience and some of my favorite parts of his songs are found in them. And to make it even better, this is a spoken poem by Jessica Biel all about wearing her husbands’ shirt. It’s quite beautiful, I love how her voice sounds breathy, and majestic.  I really love how this is titled HERS, by the lyrics, you’d think it’d be HIS since she’s speaking, but he changed it to speak on his own behalf almost as if to say, she may be mine, but I’m hers too. I also love how it leads right into…Flannel. 

FLANNEL

Fav Lyric(s):

Right behind my left pocket
That is where you’ll feel my soul
It’s been with me many winters
It will keep you warm
Ooh, here’s my flannel
The character’s in the way you wear it (the way you wear it)
It takes your shape while you keep it on (all you gotta do is keep it on)
May we live for many winters
Keepin’ each other warm
And may we live for many winters
Keepin’ each other warm

*I really like Justin’s vocals in this. He hits a capella *N’SYNC notes, super nostalgic, and beautiful. And what a beautiful ode to his wife/his family, yet again. This also leads to another Jessica Biel breathy ending- “…Do you see me..?”. It’s super woodsy, yet magical and futuristic. I can’t explain it, but I just think it’s so cool that he had her be apart of his record in such an artistic way. 

MONTANA *Favorite

Fav Lyric(s):

Now I know it’s 8 o’clock
And we’ve been kissin’ for hours
When the moon wakes up the sun
And our shadows kissed up on the mountains

*This was one I was super excited to here, after JT put a sneak peek of it on his social media, and it did not disappoint. It’s very disco inspired. I get some serious Staying Alive vibes. 

BREEZE OFF THE POND

Fav Lyric(s):

You and I against the world, against the world, against the world
You and I against the world, and everything that comes with
No denying what you’re worth, what you’re worth, what you’re worth
I’d be foolish beyond words to lose you

*Nice guitar vibes. 

LIVIN’ OFF THE LAND

Fav Lyric(s):

Singing I’m just one man doing the best that I can
Saint or a sinner, the loser can be a winner with a plan
When you’re living off the land

*I really am digging this track…it gives off some “Off the Wall”  Michael Jackson vibes .

THE HARD STUFF

Fav Lyric(s):

Anybody can be in love on a sunny day
Anybody can turn and run when it starts to rain
And everybody wishes all the skies were blue
But that ain’t the kind of love I’m lookin’ to have with you

***

So give me the hard stuff
The kind that makes you real
***
I’m never gonna give you up
‘Cause I want the hard stuff (hard stuff)
Yeah, I want the hard stuff (hard stuff, yeah)

***
So just know my fire for you will always burn
And please forgive the things in this life that I have to learn

*LYRICS!!!!! This song is kind of the “Not a bad thing” of this album. So beautiful. Basically a love song about wanting all of the ins and outs, ups and downs of a relationship. 

YOUNG MAN *Favorite 

Fav Lyric(s):

Someday somebody’s gonna break your heart in two
And I’ll be there
Someday you’re gonna break somebody’s heart
That’s what we do
One day I’ll be gone, son, but right now I’m home 
No, you’ll never be alone
Maybe someday you’ll be talking to your own

Young man, yeah
You know your daddy’s so proud of you
My little young man
Mama just can’t get enough of you

*Oh My God! this song had me in tears. Justin shares some beautiful family moments with us, as we hear him with his family. Jessica and Justin trying to get baby Silas to say Dada, and his little voice comes through, “Dada.” As his parents say “Good Job, buddy.” At the very end you hear Jessica talking to her son, “Is that daddy? Say I love you daddy.” Silas obliges and then we hear a little kiss sound. SO INCREDIBLE. And the lyrics make for a beautiful song for his son. 

FINAL THOUGHTS:

This album is definitely different. I was nervous it would be too different. But I think I’m growing up with him. And my taste in music has also been evolving. And I really love this album. I feel like it really showcases his songwriter skills and proves that he is a true storyteller. It’s a mix of several decade influences, disco, jazz, rap, country, Motown. He gets in touch with his home, his southern roots, and he expresses the drive for his music- his wife and his son- his family. To put it simply, MAN OF THE WOODS is a cool, chill, jam, full of seriously good vibes. I seriously want to go to this tour. He basically said for this show, he wants to “bring the outside in.” And that sounds really cool. I’m with it. Fingers crossed that I get tickets, it’s super difficult and prices are out of this word! 

*You can read all of JT’s new lyrics HERE

*And you can stream his album for free on Spotify…but buy it on iTunes, or ya know in a store (Like I did)…Just buy it…it’s so good! Oh and by the way… waiting on that Jessica Biel album… 

DISCLAIMER: You know when your an adult when you no longer hate your celebrity crushes spouse. HAHA. I used to always bad mouth their relationship, because I didn’t see why they were a good match and because your fangirl was #Jealous. But honestly now that they’ve gotten a little more open about sharing some of their life with the world, I can see how in love they are and how beautiful their marriage and family is. And I fully support that. She seems like an incredibly strong and sweet woman. You know fangirls, you’ve been there right? Like you feel like you can’t like your crush’s wife/girlfriend/ fiancé, it’s against the rules. He’s yours. Haha. Oh how we young girls used to think. Jessica girl, please forgive my childish ways. If it makes up for it any…I loved you in Summer Catch and 7th Heaven when I was a kid. 😉

Did ya catch our boy’s Superbowl halftime show?

And his appearance on The Tonight how with Jimmy Fallon.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cHR8UWYkKTE

He performed Supplies and Say Something and my two favorite guys graced us with another skit. 

 

Until next time fangirls…

 

-<3-

 

 

 

 

Justin Timberlake Feb. 2018 Fangirl Report

michelleleighwrites 2 Comments

Justin Timberlake’s new album “Man Of The Woods” is out THIS FRIDAY- February 2nd-TOMORROW! Just in time for him to take the stage this Sunday at this year’s Super bowl for the Half time show. And yes I plan on going to Target after work to buy my copy. Need that tangible stuff! Still no digital for me, not when it comes to this man! 

Expect a full album review fairly soon! 

album artwork

In the weeks leading up to this special day, Justin has released 3 out of 4 songs all accompanied by music videos. I imagine the 4th song will be released sometime this week. Yesterday Justin celebrated his 37th Birthday by rehearsing for the Super bowl and sharing some video clips of new songs. He hinted about “Man of the woods” being a “New song alert” but then he played a clip of another song entitled, “Montana.” I’m excited it sounds good!!! He also said that “Man of the Woods” the album title is named after his son, Silas- which means- of the woods; “So stop telling me I’m making a country album.” Hahaha ah Justin you might have wanted to lead with that little tid bit. Cuz you got people confused over here! 😉 Happy Birthday, to the man! Can’t wait for the new album! Now onto the 3 of the 4 songs already released.

You can read my feels about his first single- FILTHY HERE

The second song and video released was for SUPPLIES

Read the lyrics HERE

This song was more of a instant like than Filthy. And I think the video is pretty cool. Riddled with not so hidden messages and politics I’m sure there is a reason for each. But at first watch it’s just all very confusing. I do see Justin’s inner thug trying to come out here. Haha. That white hoodie tho. #ROCKYOURBODYVIBES

-The video starts with Justin sitting in front of a wall of televisions displaying a bunch of images- like eyes starring back you and weapons. Followed by news reports of racism and riots. 

As the song begins. 

-The next scene is filled with the colors, white, black and gold. As we see a woman in a black hoodie approach a man and some regal dressed women painted in white. As dozens of white umbrellas float above their heads and white painted alligators walk the streets. A man with a neck made of guns walks by too. To be honest I’m not getting this metaphor. Maybe it has something to do with racism or social class or the pouring rain of issues our world is currently facing. 

-Next we have a crew of people holding flashlights in front of what appears to be a Library. As Justin is joined by Pharrell for the chorus. Flashlights. Supplies. He’ll be the light in the darkness. 

-Justin also has a partner in these antics, a leading lady- who sets fire to the symbol of illuminati and we see dozens bow before it, praising it. Guess he’s stating his opinion of that one. 

-There’s the political jab at President Trump- as the girl rocks a “P***Y Grabs Back” shirt while lifting a car above her head. 

-Then there is a scene of floating people with light rings around their heads, Justin and his lady release two people as they fall free. My take is that society can brainwash you, but you have to think for yourself.

-2:42 is my favorite part of the song, and in the video it is basically the “romantic love scene” I guess you could call it. Justin and his love interest are circled in flashing beams of light while they have a make out session. He sings about being a generous lover. 

-If you ask me that part is a little misplaced. The sound of it, makes it feel like it could be in a song on it’s own. I do get that the song is about living in a world that’s falling apart, and how he will be the light, he will be everything she needs to survive. He’s got supplies. Sounds to me like someone’s been doomsday prepping. Haha. No but honestly if you look into the deeper meaning of this Rap infused song, you can really say it’s kind of a love song, he’s basically just saying that in a world of scary scary things, they still have each other and they will make it through. It’s beautiful when you put it that way. Not sure if people are picking up on that though. 

-The last few shots come to us from a dessert as Justin emerges from the ground of rubble, accompanied by his lady love and a few disheveled kids. Seriously though how is this chick still rocking perfect hair and lipstick in the apocalypse?

-The video ends with a very loud message as one of the young children screams into the camera, “Just Leave, die already. Your still asleep, wake up. Just leave, please. We’re good.” As Justin takes his girl’s hand and walks off, kids following. I think this has to do with needing to wake up to the world around us and accept that change has to come. Good change. I also definitely think it’s about Trump and our government and possibly how it is failing us. I know a lot of celebrities are not supporters of Trump. And neither am I. But I don’t like talking politics. 

I also think you can really interpret this video is a million different ways, there are some bizarre images. It’s very Taylor Swift. 😉

But I think it’s a really cool video, and he has some strong messages in there. I’ve never seen him do something like this before. Go Justin!

The next song released was SAY SOMETHING

Read the lyrics HERE

Ok so this song may be my favorite so far (I play it a lot!), and this video is EPIC. It was a one shot, one take, live performance. And it gave me serious Lumineers “Ho Hey” vibes. There is an incredible in depth article about this video, and you can read that HERE

It’s incredibly cinematic and beautifully shot. And that choir that joins in later on in the Chorus, COME ON NOW! This song is going to be incredible in concert, I hope he sings it at the super bowl!

This was a new style song and video for Justin and I’m noticing that he’s really pushing the boundaries with this album. It may be different, it may not be what we’re used to, but artists are meant to evolve and transform their styles. And I’m excited to see what the rest of Man of the Woods has got for us! Fangirl mode…ON!

track list

Tracklist

*Watch Justin’s socials for Behind the Scenes looks into his creative process.**

 

*I do not take credit for any images used.*

-<3-

 

 

 

 

 

Filthy Friday

michelleleighwrites 3 Comments

Although it’s been about 5 years since a Justin Timberlake album, we still had a lot of music from him 2 summers ago, when he did the soundtrack album for DreamWorks “Trolls,” where he also starred as “Branch,” and released the mega summer anthem “Can’t Stop The Feeling.”

But it’s that time again, my fellow fangirls… Justin Timberlake is back at it again, with a full solo album!

It all started last weekend when his website JustinTimberlake.com just displayed this logo…

tease

Then shortly after he released a trailer introducing his new album…entitled “MAN OF THE WOODS.” It was a very artistic, beautiful, scenic video, with Justin’s voiceover explaining how this album is very personal, inspired by his wife and son, as we see him with them in the video. Something that I feel is very rare for him to do. And at the very end of the trailer it is announced that Justin’s 5th solo studio album will be released February 2nd. 

Along with that announcement came the announcement of the album’s 1st single, “Filthy.”

filthy

“Filthy” was realized along with a video to go with it, at midnight last night-January 5th. 

*Read the lyrics HERE

I have to say upon first listen/first watch I was not completely in love with it. Which you know as a MAJOR JT FANGIRL I was quite heartbroken to admit. But I heard the song for the first time as I watched the video. And I think that’s what threw me, it was too much to take in all at once. I was confused by the song, something felt like it was missing, I kept waiting for a mega chorus that didn’t come. I kept grooving, then stopping, I was unsure if I liked it. 

Kind of like Perez Hilton’s reaction- 

I cracked up so hard watching this, because I was just like same, Perez, same. Except maybe not so vulgar in my dance moves. Haha. 

But then again I was watching this bizarre futuristic robotic performance. The video is basically this tech conference held in Malaysia in 2028, as Justin performs behind the scenes, a Robot takes his place on stage. Like a literal Robot Justin, grinding on Malaysian girls quite vulgarly.  I was so confused. It wasn’t at all what I expected after seeing such a rustic, woodsy, man living off the land trailer.  

Had I just listened to the song on it’s own, I think I would have had a different first reaction. However, as I gave it a second listen it began to grow on me. And I started to vibe with it. In other words, I’ve been jamming to it all day! 🙂 I feel like I had the same experience with Sexy Back when it first came out, it was so produced and you could barely hear his true vocals and it wasn’t something I was used to. But after a while it grew on me, and it became a song I love and that album became an album that I loved and that broke records! So I figured I had to give this one a minute to sink in. And it has. And I’m so glad. Because trust me, no fangirl ever wants to admit they don’t like bae’s music. But honestly speaking, I just can’t vibe with that music video. It’s too futuristic, Steve Jobs on crack for me. Lol. Artistic, Sure. Different, Absolutely. So I guess that’s enough…for now. 😉

Timberlake has since released his album artwork along with his track list…

album artwork

track list

Timberlake enlisted long time friends and partners; Timbaland and Pharrell Williams (the Neptunes) for this album. That in itself should tell you this album is going to be a force to be reckoned with!

The track list looks like it fits much more along the lines of the trailer video, with titles like Flannel, and Livin’ Off The Land. I’m super excited for HERS, I loved all his preludes and interludes on Future/Sex Love Sounds, and I just feel like it’s going to be like this sexy love ballad.

A.K.? Could that be ya girl…Alicia Keys, that would be an incredible collaboration, if I remember correctly pretty sure they were photographed together recently at the Rock In Rio, event…coincidence I think not! 😉 

I googled and looks like I’m right… Read More HERE 

The C.S. stands for country singer Chris Stapleton.

If you noticed in the Filthy artwork he posted to his social media (shown above) it reads “1 of 4,” as quoted in the article linked above…

“The remaining three singles will be released weekly beginning January 18.” 

In other words we’ll be getting weekly singles, until the release of the album, and just two days after the album release, Timberlake will perform the coveted Half Time show at this year’s Super Bowl on Sunday, February 4th! This will be his first time since his  “wardrobe malfunction” incident with Janet Jackson in 2004. I’m just hoping he brings out *N’SYNC, who’s with me?. 😉 No but really, who’s with me?

 

*I do not take credit for any images used.*

 

-<3-

 

 

BLOGMAS -Day 2- Christmas Playlist

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

I’ve been keeping the Christmas tunes at bay, just to let Thanksgiving settle and have it’s moment. But right after, I was itching to blast my trusty old- Home for Christmas *N’SYNC album. Seriously I don’t know how I’m going to pick favorites, because honestly I love the entire album. By the way can we talk about how in honor of the band’s 20th anniversary, Home for Christmas is currently being sold on vinyl in urban outfitters AND NSYNC.com is selling new Christmas themed merch. LIKE WHAT? It’s the 90’s again!

lights blogmas edit 

My Ultimate Christmas Playlist

This Christmas– Donny Hathaway

What Christmas Means To Me– Stevie Wonder

O Holy Night– Celine Dion

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays – *N’SYNC

Home For Christmas– *N’SYNC

All I Want Is You (This Christmas) – *N’SYNC

The First Noel -*N’SYNC

In Love On Christmas – *N’SYNC

It’s Christmas – *N’SYNC

O Holy Night – *N’SYNC

My Only Wish (This Year) – Britney Spears

Sleigh Ride – Hilary Duff

Last Christmas – Hilary Duff

Wonderful Christmastime – Hilary Duff

Christmas Eve – Justin Bieber

Christmas Love – Justin Bieber

Santa Claus Is Coming To Town – Justin Bieber

Happy Christmas (War Is Over) – The Fray

Noel– The Fray

Angels We Have Heard On High– Josh Groban

O Come All Ye Faithful – Josh Groban

O Come Emmanuel– Everly-(used to be the duo- Bethany Joy Lenz & Amber Sweeney)

 

Did I miss your fav?

I still have so many others, but the list would have never stopped. Isn’t Christmas music just the best! Certain songs just hit me right in the feels and make me tear up instantly, for example it never fails- O holy night by Celine Dion gets me every damn time. 

Let me know in the comments below what your favorite is! 🙂

-<3-

 

Taylor Swift’s Reputation Review

michelleleighwrites 1 Comment

0823-taylor-swift-cover-1[1]

I know I’m seriously late to the T-Swift first listen party, but I’ve been waiting to get to purchase a physical copy of the album, and today I got my butt to Target and finally did!

For starters the packaging is beautiful. I love the black and white, newspaper vibe. If you’ve noticed I’m a big fan of using the color scheme black, white, and red when I write my short stories. So I think the packaging is really sleek and chic. When you open the CD, there is a autographed double sided poster of Taylor, and then the CD booklet has LYRICS! I love when they put the lyrics in. I’m such a lyric junkie and this just makes life easier, having them right there in front of me.

**My current favorites include- End Game, Delicate, King Of My Heart, Dancing With Our Hands Tied, and Dress**

The first thing you see in the CD booklet is a note from Taylor herself the headline reads- “Here’s something I’ve learned about people.” In it she talks about how people have many different sides, angles, and feelings. As humans we can’t “simplify” ourselves into just one thing. When we feel emotion it comes in few. She also talks about how you have different relationships in life, and each of those relationships holds something different within you- your lover knows you differently than your best friend. And vice versa. Your mom knows you differently than your roommate, and so on. She also touches upon, how in this generation technology has made it easy for your every move to be documented, but that “we think we know someone, but the truth is that we only know the version of them they have chosen to show us.” And I think all of this is completely on point. And there is a sure relatability to her words. She also concludes with stating how fame has been both beautiful and used against her. How she knows gossip blogs will take her lyrics and run with them, but that “There will be no further explanation. There will just be reputation.” In other words, I think she’ll let the music do the talking. 

Notes Upon Listening: Girl knows how to write a damn chorus! She has this way of using colors, metaphors, and vivid images and displaying them through her words. I definitely saw a lot of gold, blue, red, black, grey colors mentioned to describe a certain feeling. With a 15 song set list, this is one sick body of work. Taylor Swift, as usual,  honey you never disappoint. And can I just say that she sounds AMAZING in this record! She hits some notes, tho! 😉

…Ready for it? 

*End Game [Feat. Future & Ed Sheeran] *A Favorite!

I have to say when I first saw Future and Ed were both featured, I was like what, huh? How’s this going to work? But then I remembered Ed can rap too. And it’s DOPE! I love the theme of the song, I wanna be your end game. End game, your “it”, your “the one.” The one you start and end all your days with. Your forever. 

Fav Lyrics:

[Taylor Swift & Future:]
I don’t wanna touch you, I don’t wanna be
Just another ex-love you don’t wanna see
I don’t wanna miss you (I don’t wanna miss you)
Like the other girls do
I don’t wanna hurt you, I just wanna be
Drinking on a beach with you all over me
I know what they all say (I know what they all say)
But I ain’t tryna play

[Taylor Swift:]
I wanna be your end game
I wanna be your first string
I wanna be your A-Team
I wanna be your end game, end game

I hit you like bang
We tried to forget it, but we just couldn’t
And I bury hatchets, but I keep maps of where I put ’em
Reputation precedes me, they told you I’m crazy
I swear I don’t love the drama, it loves me

And I can’t let you go, your hand prints on my soul
It’s like your eyes are liquor, it’s like your body is gold
You’ve been calling my bluff on all my usual tricks
So here’s a truth from my red lips

I Did Something Bad

I love the rumble right before the chorus. And that weird chant-like thing. So cool. This song is kind of an in your face, song. (Many on this record are, but I dig it!) I feel like she’s kind of just like I did this bad thing, it felt good, because your ass deserved it. Bye Boy! 😉  

Fav Lyrics:

I can feel the flames on my skin
Crimson red paint on my lips
If a man talks shit, then I owe him nothing
I don’t regret it one bit, ’cause he had it coming

They’re burning all the witches, even if you aren’t one
They got their pitchforks and proof, their receipts and reasons
They’re burning all the witches, even if you aren’t one
So light me up (light me up), light me up (light me up)
Light me up, go ahead and light me up (light me up)
Light me up (light me up), light me up (light me up)
Light me up (light me up), light me up

Don’t Blame Me

Girl hints some notes in this track! (@3:07)

Fav Lyrics:

Don’t blame me, love made me crazy
If it doesn’t, you ain’t doing it right
Lord, save me, my drug is my baby
I’ll be using for the rest of my life

My name is whatever you decide
And I’m just gonna call you mine
I’m insane, but I’m your baby (your baby)
Echoes of your name inside my mind
Halo, hiding my obsession
I once was poison ivy, but now I’m your daisy

And baby, for you, I would fall from grace
Just to touch your face
If you walk away
I’d beg you on my knees to stay

*Delicate *An Absolute Favorite!

Getting some Imogen Heap vibes, and I am here for it!

Fav Lyrics:

I can’t even decide. I love every lyric in this song! But I’ll try… 😉

This ain’t for the best
My reputation’s never been worse, so
You must like me for me…
We can’t make
Any promises now, can we, babe?
But you can make me a drink…

Dive bar on the east side, where you at?
Phone lights up my nightstand in the black
Come here, you can meet me in the back
Dark jeans and your Nikes, look at you
Oh damn, never seen that color blue
Just think of the fun things we could do

Third floor on the west side, me and you
Handsome, you’re a mansion with a view
Do the girls back home touch you like I do?
Long night, with your hands up in my hair
Echoes of your footsteps on the stairs
Stay here, honey, I don’t wanna share

Sometimes I wonder when you sleep
Are you ever dreaming of me?
Sometimes when I look into your eyes
I pretend you’re mine, all the damn time
‘Cause I like you

Look What You Made Me Do

So It Goes…

Fav Lyrics:

Gold cage, hostage to my feelings
Back against the wall
Trippin’, trip, trippin’ when you’re gone

And our pieces fall
Right into place
Get caught up in the moments
Lipstick on your face
So it goes…
I’m yours to keep
And I’m yours to lose
You know I’m not a bad girl, but I
Do bad things with you
So it goes…

Met you in a bar
All eyes on me, your illusionist
All eyes on us
I make all your grey days clear and
Wear you like a necklace
I’m so chill, but you make me jealous
But I got your heart
Skippin’, skip, skippin’ when I’m gone

You did a number on me
But, honestly, baby, who’s counting?
I did a number on you
But, honestly, baby, who’s counting?

Gorgeous

Whisky on ice, Sunset and Vine
You’ve ruined my life, by not being mine

You’re so gorgeous
I can’t say anything to your face
‘Cause look at your face
And I’m so furious
At you for making me feel this way
But what can I say?
You’re gorgeous

Ocean blue eyes looking in mine
I feel like I might sink and drown and die

Getaway Car (Yes I peeped that Hilary Duff Lyric, but I love both queens, so #NOHATE)

Fav Lyrics:

It was the best of times, the worst of crimes
I struck a match and blew your mind
But I didn’t mean it
And you didn’t see it
The ties were black, the lies were white
In shades of gray in candlelight
I wanted to leave him
I needed a reason

*King Of My Heart  *A Favorite!

YESSS with them tribal drum beats, this song has some serious soul!

Fav Lyrics:

Now you try on calling me, baby, like trying on clothes

Salute to me I’m your American Queen
And you move to me like I’m a Motown beat
And we rule the kingdom inside my room
‘Cause all the boys and their expensive cars
With their Range Rovers and their Jaguars
Never took me quite where you do

And all at once, you are the one I have been waiting for
King of my heart, body and soul, ooh whoa
And all at once, you are all I want, I’ll never let you go
King of my heart, body and soul, ooh whoa

*Dancing With Our Hands Tied  *An Absolute Favorite!

This song is a dance anthem. If I make it to one of her concerts, I can just see myself dancing my ass off to this song, singing my lungs out! That beep drop! 

Fav Lyrics:

I, I loved you in secret
First sight, yeah, we love without reason
Oh, 25 years old
Oh, how were you to know and

My, my love had been frozen
Deep blue, but you painted me golden
Oh, and you held me close
Oh, how was I to know what

I could’ve spent forever with your hands in my pockets
Picture of your face in an invisible locket
You said there was nothing in the world that could stop it
I had a bad feeling
And darling, you had turned my bed into a sacred oasis
People started talking, putting us through our paces
I knew there was no one in the world who could take it
I had a bad feeling

But we were dancing
Dancing with our hands tied, hands tied
Yeah, we were dancing
Like it was the first time, first time
Yeah, we were dancing
Dancing with our hands tied, hands tied
Yeah, we were dancing
And I had a bad feeling
But we were dancing

I’m a mess, but I’m the mess that you wanted
Oh, ’cause it’s gravity
Oh, keeping you with me

(^Michelle why don’t you just post the whole damn song!… haha)

*Dress  *A Favorite!

Sexyyyy!!! Such a great song. 

Fav Lyrics:

There is an indentation
In the shape of you
Made your mark on me
A golden tattoo
All of this silence and patience, pining and anticipation
My hands are shaking from holding back from you (ah, ah, ah)
All of this silence and patience, pining and desperately waiting
My hands are shaking from all this (ha, ha, ha, ha)

Say my name and everything just stops
I don’t want you like a best friend
Only bought this dress so you could take it off, take it off (ha, ha, ha)
Carve your name into my bedpost
Cause I don’t want you like a best friend
Only bought this dress so you could take it off, take it off (ha, ha, ha)

This Is Why We Can’t Have Nice Things 

Getting a bit of a Lorde vibe here! #Royalssss This song is a toast to ex- friends. That laugh tho!

Fav Lyrics:

Here’s a toast to my real friends
They don’t care about that he said, she said
And here’s to my baby
He ain’t reading what they call me lately
And here’s to my momma
Had to listen to all this drama
And here’s to you
‘Cause forgiveness is a nice thing to do
Haha, I can’t even say it with a straight face

Call It What You Want

This song is beautiful. She talks about falling in love with someone who knows her for her and loves her as she is.

Fav Lyrics:

All my flowers grew back as thorns
Windows boarded up after the storm
He built a fire just to keep me warm
All the drama queens taking swings
All the jokers dressing up as kings
They fade to nothing when I look at him
And I know I make the same mistakes every time
Bridges burn, I never learn
At least I did one thing right
I did one thing right
I’m laughing with my lover
Making forts under covers
Trust him like a brother
Yeah, you know I did one thing right
Starry eyes sparking up my darkest night

I want to wear his initial on a chain round my neck
Chain round my neck
Not because he owns me
But ’cause he really knows me
Which is more than they can say, I
I recall late November, holding my breath
Slowly I said, “You don’t need to save me
But would you run away with me?”

New Year’s Day

This is the perfect song to end her album with. A look at the year gone by, full of heart, and full of hope. 

Fav Lyrics:

Don’t read the last page
But I stay when it’s hard, or it’s wrong
Or we’re making mistakes
I want your midnights
But I’ll be cleaning up bottles with you on New Year’s Day

Hold on to the memories, they will hold on to you
Hold on to the memories, they will hold on to you
Hold on to the memories, they will hold on to you
And I will hold on to you

Please don’t ever become a stranger
Whose laugh I could recognize anywhere
Please don’t ever become a stranger
Whose laugh I could recognize anywhere

**Read all full lyrics HERE!

Bravo T-Swift! Taylor Swift is an incredible song writer, yes- but she is also a smart business woman. Her marketing strategy- I don’t give a f- attitude has placed this album in a new league. However she still has her true Taylor heart, writing songs about true emotion, and creating her own world for you to live in for an hour. A Taylor Town if you will. She comes at us with a range of sounds, emotions, and life lessons. Anger, Betrayal, Love, Lust, the list goes on.

As I make reference back to her opening statement in her booklet, she says, “We are never just good or just bad. We are mosaics of our worst selves and our best selves.”  We aren’t meant to be boxed in. And this album shows that Taylor Swift can be anything, and do anything she puts her mind to. Just like you. In many ways she’s quite the role model. Not because she writes vengeful tracks about ex- lovers and ex-friends, or because she has choppy layers now, and wears black eyeliner, and dark red lips, but because she seems to be highly aware of her humanity, and she is highly self- aware as a human being. It can be a scary thing, reflecting on your reputation, and yet she managed to take the good, the bad, and the ugly, and wrap it all up into one big ass blockbuster bow.  

Looking forward to all the new things! Get it girl!

*I do not take credit for the image used.*

-<3-

Move- Chapter 11

michelleleighwrites Leave a comment

I know it’s been forever but…We’re back! Aria and Liam’s love story continues…

MOVE poster

Previously on Move– Read Chapter 10 HERE

Catch up from the beginning HERE

Aria’s eyes flutter open, as her mind adjusts to where she is. Liam’s.

The sun light shining through crisp, light gray curtains as they blow, flowing in the gentle breeze rustling through the cracked window.

She smiles seeing him sleeping peacefully beside her on the couch. His arms wrapped around her waist.

Turning in his arms, she faces him as she places a kiss on the corner of his lips.
Liam stirs and opening his eyes, he smiles brightly.

“So it wasn’t a dream,” he says.
“Nope,” she replies laughing.
“God, I like waking up to you,” he says pulling her to him, as he kisses her again.
Aria smiles against his lips, her hand resting on his chest, she pushes him away gently.
“And I like waking up to you just as much, but-”
“Mm mm, no buts,” he says shaking his head and covering her lips with his, his arms tightening their grip around her pulling her closer to him. 
“You’re going to make it impossible for me to leave aren’t you?” she says with a laugh, kissing him back.
“That’s the plan, love,” he whispers in between kisses that just keep getting more intense by the second.

Aria’s body wraps around Liam, as her hands gently fall upon the muscles in his arms.
Each of their hearts beating rapidly, Liam’s hands firmly staying in their place on Aria’s waist.
Aria pulls away to come up for air, as she exhales, she locks eyes with Liam and they both laugh.
Aria takes Liam’s hand and places it on her chest- over her heart.
“Feel that- my heart is beating like crazy fast,” she says laughing.
Liam smiles, and taking her same hand, he places in over his heart, “We’re one in the same, love,” he says.
Aria looks up at him, and swiftly cups his face, pulling him to her, she kisses him passionately.
Liam responds quickly leaning into her kiss, as Aria falls back onto the couch.
After what feels like an eternity, Liam pulls away, sitting up.
“Aria.”
“Liam.” She says mimicking him as she lays beside him, reaching for his hand, he looks down at them and lacing his fingers through hers, he lets out a frustrated sigh.
“I don’t want to mess this up with you.”
“You’re not. You won’t.”
“If you keep kissing me like that, I’m going to lose any will power I have. And things could escalate quicker for us, then we planned. As it is, I’ve already seen you in your lingerie and I swear it is killing me, I can’t get it out of my mind,” he says a crimson blush crawling up his neck and cheeks.
Aria looks away and laughs.
“I’m serious, love, you are quite radiant and I just know that soon all the good manners I’ve practiced all these years, are going to fall straight out of my head. If I can be frank…(Aria nods her permission) I think you are incredibly sexy and every time I see you, I just want to rip your clothes off.”
Aria’s eyes shoot up and lock on Liam’s.
“Well then, we’ll have to set that dinner date up rather quickly won’t we?” she says smiling. “Although you did cook for me last night, so technically-“
Liam swiftly leans in and kisses her deeply, the urgency evident, as his hands finally slide along her body, cupping her bottom half.
Aria kissing him back, she wraps her arms around his neck.
Liam’s hands tug on the bottom of her hoodie, she lifts her arms up as he removes it tossing it to the side. Liam shifts her to a sitting position as she straddles him.
Aria breaking their kiss briefly she tugs Liam’s t-shirt off him. Smiling at him as her hands fall to his chest.
Liam smirks, cupping her face and pulling her to his lips, his hands ending up in her hair.
Aria looks at Liam as his breathing is quickened and raspy.
She reaches for the draw string on Liam’s pants, untying it, Liam’s lips moving to Aria’s neck.
“Where’s your bed room?” Aria whispers in a breathless tone.
Liam looks at her and he stills. Aria stares back, waiting.

Liam swiftly grips her legs and lifts her up, as he walks toward his bedroom.
Setting her on his bed, Aria slides her leggings off as Liam tosses his pants to the side, walking over to her, she kneels at the side of the bed in a similar black lingerie from earlier, reaching for him.
Taking her hands, he looks at her, “We’re really gonna do this?” he asks.
Aria looks up at him.

 

TO BE CONTINUED…

 

* I do not take credit for the images used in my edits or otherwise.*
-<3-