#Advantages of cryptocurrency

[cruddymoose]

EMBRACE THE FUTURE OF ONLINE PAYMENTS WITH CRYPTOCURRENCY IN 2023

[intelisync]

Unlocking Perpetual Futures Contracts: Essential 2024 Guide for Beginners

Are you ready to take your trading to the next level with a financial instrument that offers endless opportunities and flexibility?

Perpetual futures contracts have emerged as a revolutionary tool in the trading arena, particularly for cryptocurrency enthusiasts. These contracts, unlike traditional futures, do not have an expiration date, allowing traders to hold positions indefinitely. This feature provides a significant advantage, enabling continuous trading and the ability to take advantage of long-term market trends. The funding rate mechanism, which periodically adjusts to keep contract prices in line with the spot prices of the underlying assets, ensures a balanced and fair trading environment.

Leverage is a key feature of perpetual futures contracts, allowing traders to control larger positions with a smaller capital investment. This can significantly amplify profits, but also poses a risk of larger losses, making risk management a crucial aspect of trading these contracts. The real-time mark-to-market settlement process adjusts traders' margin balances continuously, ensuring that gains and losses are promptly accounted for. This mechanism helps prevent sudden liquidations and keeps traders informed about their margin requirements.

Despite the numerous benefits, perpetual futures come with their own set of risks, including market volatility and fluctuating funding rates. Traders must have a solid understanding of these risks and employ effective strategies to mitigate them.

Intelisync, a pioneer in blockchain technology and exchange development, offers advanced solutions to enhance the security and functionality of perpetual futures trading. Explore how Intelisync can enhance your trading experience and provide the tools you need to succeed in the dynamic world of perpetual futures.

Discover how Intelisync can transform your trading journey and provide you with the tools needed to succeed in the dynamic world of perpetual futures. Contact Intelisync today! Ready to revolutionize your trading journey? Contact Intelisync today and Learn more....

[signode-blog]

Mistakes Traders Make While Using Moving Averages

Moving averages have a long history in the field of statistics and technical analysis. Their origins can be traced back to the early 20th century, and they have since evolved to become a fundamental tool for traders and analysts in various financial markets. Here’s a brief history of moving averages: Early Development (Early 20th Century): The concept of moving averages can be traced back to…

[jjbizconsult]

Advantages of Cryptocurrencies over National Currencies.

[capitalxtendsmartinvestment]

In this blog, you'll learn about the advantages and disadvantages of cryptocurrency, the benefits and risks of using a crypto trading platform, and how to buy and sell cryptocurrency.

[eosnox]

Smart Investors Choose Crypto: Unlocking the Potential of Crypto Investment

[brehaaorgana]

A reasonable take: You should actually be independently verifying all charities and charity fundraisers before donating unless you know the recipient personally.

This means:

Every single fundraiser/charity requires research and your own individual verification for your financial safety. Always. Forever! In perpetuity!

VERIFY, then trust.

If you only realized you should be worried about possible scams because foreign brown people are involved then yeah you might have been influenced by racism! That might not have been intentional on your part, but racism influences us in all kinds of ways we might not realize or even actively agree with!

But being wary of scams and fraud as a matter of course is not, in and of itself, racist. Practicing financial safety habits consistently to protect yourself against scams and fraud is not racist on its own. That would be absurd.

If people are saying they're vetted or checked by someone else, you still have to do the research to find out what that person vetted, how they checked, and if they are trustworthy.

You don't need to harass people in order to do this research and verification for yourself. If you decide you're not sure you still don't need to harass people.

Successful fraudsters are successful when you don't take the time to personally verify them before you give money. They may seem just like a bot, OR they might be indistinguishable from an actual person in need. Or both! Fraudsters do all of these things because they only need one thing to work on you.

Yes, it is a known fact that fraudsters try to take advantage of disaster, conflict, and turmoil in order to scam people who want to do good and help others. It's called charity scamming.

"Never pay by cash, gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency. Each of these forms of payment are difficult or impossible to track and reverse." - the FBI. But also me. Just as an fyi don't ever do that.

The United States has a lot of general resources on financial fraud and charity scams. Look at the FBI — IC3, the FTC ftc.gov/charity, the CFPB, FinCen (this page shows recent warnings in Suspicious Activity reports so you know what to look out for to avoid giving money to say Russian Oligarchs!) and the IRS websites.

Also international fraud awareness week. And Prevent Charity Fraud has resources aimed *at* charities, because nonprofits can be scammed too!

[sexymemecoin]

The Expansive World of Altcoins: Exploring the Diversity Beyond Bitcoin

Bitcoin, the original cryptocurrency, has long dominated headlines and market discussions. However, the world of digital currencies is vast and diverse, with thousands of alternative coins, or altcoins, each offering unique features and value propositions. Altcoins encompass a broad range of projects, from utility tokens and stablecoins to meme coins and more. This article delves into the rich ecosystem of altcoins, highlighting their significance, various types, and the innovative projects that make up this vibrant space, including a mention of Sexy Meme Coin.

Understanding Altcoins

The term "altcoin" refers to any cryptocurrency that is not Bitcoin. These coins were developed to address various limitations of Bitcoin or to introduce new features and use cases. Altcoins have proliferated since the creation of Bitcoin in 2009, each aiming to offer something different, whether it be improved transaction speeds, enhanced privacy features, or specific utility within certain ecosystems.

Categories of Altcoins

Utility Tokens: Utility tokens provide users with access to a specific product or service within a blockchain ecosystem. Examples include Ethereum's Ether (ETH), which is used to power applications on the Ethereum network, and Chainlink's LINK, which is used to pay for services on the Chainlink decentralized oracle network.

Stablecoins: Stablecoins are designed to maintain a stable value by being pegged to a reserve of assets, such as fiat currency or commodities. Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC) are popular stablecoins pegged to the US dollar, offering the benefits of cryptocurrency without the volatility.

Security Tokens: Security tokens represent ownership in a real-world asset, such as shares in a company or real estate. They are subject to regulatory oversight and are often seen as a bridge between traditional finance and the blockchain world.

Meme Coins: Meme coins are a playful and often humorous take on cryptocurrency, inspired by internet memes and cultural trends. While they may start as jokes, some have gained significant value and community support. Dogecoin is the most famous example, but many others, like Shiba Inu and Sexy Meme Coin, have also captured the public's imagination.

Privacy Coins: Privacy coins focus on providing enhanced privacy features for transactions. Monero (XMR) and Zcash (ZEC) are notable examples, offering users the ability to transact anonymously and protect their financial privacy.

The Appeal of Altcoins

Altcoins offer several advantages over Bitcoin, including:

Innovation: Many altcoins introduce new technologies and features, driving innovation within the cryptocurrency space. For example, Ethereum introduced smart contracts, enabling decentralized applications (DApps) and decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms.

Specialization: Altcoins often serve specific niches or industries, providing targeted solutions that Bitcoin cannot. For instance, Ripple (XRP) focuses on facilitating cross-border payments, while Filecoin (FIL) aims to create a decentralized storage network.

Investment Opportunities: The diverse range of altcoins presents numerous investment opportunities. Investors can diversify their portfolios by investing in projects with different use cases and growth potentials.

Notable Altcoins in the Market

Ethereum (ETH): Ethereum is the second-largest cryptocurrency by market capitalization and has become the backbone of the DeFi and NFT (Non-Fungible Token) ecosystems. Its smart contract functionality allows developers to create decentralized applications, leading to a thriving ecosystem of financial services, games, and more.

Cardano (ADA): Cardano is a blockchain platform focused on sustainability, scalability, and transparency. It uses a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism, which is more energy-efficient than Bitcoin's proof-of-work. Cardano aims to provide a more secure and scalable infrastructure for the development of decentralized applications.

Polkadot (DOT): Polkadot is designed to enable different blockchains to interoperate and share information. Its unique architecture allows for the creation of "parachains," which can operate independently while still benefiting from the security and connectivity of the Polkadot network.

Chainlink (LINK): Chainlink is a decentralized oracle network that provides real-world data to smart contracts on the blockchain. This functionality is crucial for the operation of many DeFi applications, making Chainlink a vital component of the blockchain ecosystem.

Sexy Meme Coin: Among the meme coins, Sexy Meme Coin stands out for its combination of humor and innovative tokenomics. It offers a decentralized marketplace where users can buy, sell, and trade memes as NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens), rewarding creators for their originality. Learn more about Sexy Meme Coin at Sexy Meme Coin.

The Future of Altcoins

The future of altcoins looks promising, with continuous innovation and increasing adoption across various industries. As blockchain technology evolves, we can expect altcoins to introduce new solutions and disrupt traditional systems. However, the market is also highly competitive, and not all projects will succeed. Investors should conduct thorough research and due diligence before investing in any altcoin.

Conclusion

Altcoins represent a dynamic and diverse segment of the cryptocurrency market. From utility tokens and stablecoins to meme coins and privacy coins, each category offers unique features and potential benefits. Projects like Ethereum, Cardano, Polkadot, and Chainlink are leading the way in innovation, while niche coins like Sexy Meme Coin add a layer of cultural relevance and community engagement. As the cryptocurrency ecosystem continues to grow, altcoins will play a crucial role in shaping the future of digital finance and blockchain technology.

For those interested in the playful and innovative side of the altcoin market, Sexy Meme Coin offers a unique and entertaining platform. Visit Sexy Meme Coin to explore this exciting project and join the community.

[erc20tokengenerator]

ERC20 Token Generator Introduction

Have you ever thought about creating your own cryptocurrency? With an ERC20 Token Generator , you can make it happen effortlessly. Let’s explore how to dive into the blockchain universe.

Understanding ERC20 Tokens

ERC20 tokens are a type of digital asset on the Ethereum blockchain, following a set standard for compatibility and functionality.

Advantages of ERC20 Tokens:

Consistency: Adheres to a universal protocol.

Broad Adoption: Recognized across various Ethereum-based platforms.

Robust Support: Strong community and resources available.

How to Use an ERC20 Token Generator

Creating tokens is simplified with these tools. Here’s how it works:

Specify Token Details:

Decide on a name and symbol.

Determine the total number of tokens.

Utilize the Generator:

Access an online generator.

Enter your token information.

Deploy Your Token:

Review your settings.

Launch on the Ethereum network.

Features of ERC20 Tokens

ERC20 tokens provide essential features that enhance their usability:

Standard Operations: Includes transferring and checking balances.

Smart Contract Compatibility: Integrates easily with smart contracts.

Security Assurance: Utilizes Ethereum's strong blockchain security.

Reasons to Create an ERC20 Token

Why create your own token? Here are some compelling reasons:

Raise Capital: Launch an ICO for funding.

Build Engagement: Offer rewards to your community.

Drive Innovation: Explore new blockchain applications.

Challenges to Consider

Despite the simplicity, some challenges exist:

Knowledge Requirement: Some blockchain understanding is needed.

Security Concerns: Vulnerabilities can be exploited if not addressed.

Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring adherence to legal standards is vital.

Best Practices for Token Creation

Follow these tips to ensure a successful token launch:

Code Audits: Regularly check for security issues.

Community Involvement: Seek feedback and make necessary adjustments.

Stay Updated: Keep abreast of blockchain trends and legal requirements.

Conclusion

The ERC20 Token Generator empowers you to create and innovate within the crypto space. Whether you're a developer or entrepreneur, it's a powerful tool for blockchain engagement.

Final Thoughts

Embarking on token creation offers a unique opportunity to explore the digital economy and its possibilities.

FAQs

1. What is the purpose of an ERC20 Token Generator?

It’s a tool to create custom tokens on the Ethereum blockchain easily.

2. Do I need technical skills to create a token?

A basic understanding of blockchain helps, but many tools are user-friendly.

3. Can I trade my ERC20 tokens?

Yes, you can trade them on crypto exchanges or directly with users.

4. What costs are involved in token creation?

Creating tokens incurs gas fees on the Ethereum network.

5. How can I ensure my token’s security?

Perform regular audits and follow best practices for security.

Source : https://www.altcoinator.com/

[mariacallous]

More than 200,000 people in Southeast Asia have been forced to run online scams in recent years, often being enslaved and brutalized, as part of criminal enterprises that have netted billions in stolen funds. Such “pig butchering” operations have largely been concentrated in Myanmar, Cambodia, and Laos, typically rooted in Chinese organized crime groups exploiting instability and poor governance in the region. Though they come at great humanitarian cost, pig butchering scams are undeniably lucrative and, perhaps inevitably, similar operations are now being uncovered on multiple continents and in numerous countries around the world.

A WIRED review of law enforcement and civil society action as well as interviews with numerous researchers show that pig butchering operations that are offshoots of the Southeast Asian activity have emerged in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, Latin America, and West Africa. Many of these expanded operations apparently have links to Chinese-speaking criminals or have evolved in parallel to Chinese Belt and Road Initiative investments, the country’s massive international infrastructure and development initiative.

In 2023, the FBI had reports of nearly $4 billion in losses from the scams, and some researchers put all-time total global losses at $75 billion or more. Beijing has made a concerted effort in recent months to crack down on pig butchering schemes and human trafficking to scamming centers in the Southeast Asian region, but the activity is proliferating around the world nonetheless.

“As all sorts of attackers learn that they can make serious money doing this, they’re going to make those pivots,” says Ronnie Tokazowski, a longtime pig butchering researcher and cofounder of the nonprofit Intelligence for Good. “So pig butchering is cropping up in more and more countries. Even with all the interventions researchers and law enforcement have done there is little to no sign of this stopping.”

Pig butchering emerged in the last five years and is a type of scam that involves building seemingly intimate relationships with victims. Attacks often start by texting potential targets out of the blue and getting them talking. Then attackers begin to build a rapport and introduce the idea of a special or unique investment opportunity. Finally, victims send funds—typically cryptocurrency—through a malicious platform meant to look like a legitimate money management service, and attackers must launder the money from there. All of this takes time and careful planning from a large workforce. Experts say people from more than 60 countries have been abducted and trafficked to Southeast Asian scamming compounds that typically operate with thousands of forced workers. And in recent months, scam centers have been detected around the world as well in different configurations and sizes, but with the same goal.

“Organized crime groups have basically taken advantage of a favorable situation, a favorable environment for them related to governance challenges, limited enforcement capacities, limited regulations and legislative frameworks,” says Benedikt Hofmann, the deputy head of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime’s Southeast Asia and Pacific office. “All these ingredients you also find in some other places of the world.”

“What we’ve seen is criminal groups who are invested in this region here, looking beyond this region for establishing similar operations,” Hofmann says of the international expansion.

The wealthy, authoritarian city of Dubai, within the United Arab Emirates, has emerged since 2021 as the largest epicenter of pig butchering outside Southeast Asia. According to the UN, international migrants comprise more than 88 percent of the UAE’s population, making a uniquely diverse, and potentially vulnerable, workforce readily available.

“Dubai is both a destination and also a transition country,” says Mina Chiang, the founder and director of Humanity Research Consultancy, a social enterprise focusing on human trafficking. “We can see lots of compounds that are actually operating in Dubai itself.”

In July, Humanity Research Consultancy identified at least six alleged scam compounds believed to be operating around Dubai. The research—based on testimony from forced laborers, data leaked from a cyberattack, and social media posts—identified potential compounds around industrial and investment parks. These operations “to the best of our knowledge are managed by Chinese-speaking criminals,” the research says, adding that they operate in a similar way to compounds in Southeast Asia.

“They call it a typing center. But a huge scam call center,” reads a one-star review left for a location in Dubai on Google Maps. Another says: “Mostly poor people from Africa working there and mosltly jailed in Dubai. No matter how much they offer you everything is scammed. Highly suggest never ever go there.”

Dubai’s police force did not respond to WIRED’s request for comment about potential scam centers located in the city.

Pig butchering operations may have emerged in Dubai because of immigration and workforce dynamics, but in multiple African countries the activity has started to appear because of an existing culture of organized scamming.

In Nigeria, where digital scamming has been a prominent illicit industry for years across numerous platforms, it was all but inevitable that attackers would adopt the conceits and tactics of pig butchering. The scheme is mature enough that there are now readily available prefab cryptocurrency investment platforms, templates, and scripts available for sale online to anyone who wants to get started. A gang that is already used to carrying out romance scams or business email compromise schemes could easily adapt to the premise and cadence of pig butchering.

“If you look at West Africa’s history with social engineering stuff, it’s a potent mix,” says Sean Gallagher, senior threat researcher at Sophos. “You’ve got a lot of people who have seen this as a way to make a living, especially in Nigeria. And the technology is easily transferable. We’ve seen pig butchering packages for sale that include fake crypto sites and scripts that appear to be tailored to targeting African victims.”

Nigerian law enforcement have been increasingly pursuing cases and even securing convictions related specifically to pig butchering. Gallagher and Intelligence for Good’s Tokazowski also say that in studying and interacting with scammers, they have seen technical indicators that pig butchering attacks may be coming out of Ghana as well. The US Embassy in Ghana has warned about the potential for financial scams originating in the country.

Pig butchering has cropped up in other regions of Africa as well, with ties to Chinese-speaking criminals. In June, 88 people in Namibia were rescued from a scam center, which had links to Chinese nationals who were reportedly arrested. Meanwhile, local reports also indicated that 22 Chinese nationals were sentenced to jail time in Zambia for their links to local scam centers.

Stephanie Baroud, a criminal intelligence analyst in Interpol’s human trafficking unit, says the policing organization, which has been coordinating law enforcement actions, has seen an increase in international scam centers. Not all of them are linked to criminal groups from Asia.

“While sometimes we are noting a link to Asian groups, there are cases where there haven't been,” Baroud says. In some situations, she says, new pig butchering activity around the world seems to be an offshoot of Southeast Asian operations, but unrelated actors appear to be taking the model and adapting it to their resources and expertise.

The scams have emerged in Eastern Europe as well. At least two “fraudulent call centers” trying to con people into investing in cryptocurrency were uncovered by law enforcement in Georgia this month, with reports saying men from Taiwan were forced into working in the country. Local officials, who did not respond to WIRED’s request for comment, have said in recent years they have prosecuted seven companies involved in call center operations.

Scam compounds have also been broken up in Peru and Sri Lanka. And there has even been alleged trafficking in truly unexpected places like the Isle of Man, a British territory where almost 100 people were working between 2022 and 2023 as part of a pig butchering operation, according to a BBC investigation from August.

“The People’s Republic of China–origin criminal groups that are behind these sophisticated forms of scamming are looking to build networks and hubs all around the globe simply because this is so lucrative,” says Jason Tower, the country director for Burma and a long-time security analyst covering China and Southeast Asia at the United States Institute of Peace.

Pig butchering scam centers rely upon multiple layers of criminality to operate, encompassing the recruitment of trafficked people, running scam centers on a day-to-day basis, the development of technology to scam thousands of people, and the sophisticated money laundering required to process billions of dollars. As Chinese authorities have cracked down on Chinese-speaking criminal organizations operating scam centers across Southeast Asia, the groups have likely continued to spread their operations, albeit at a smaller scale.

“I would say it was an intentional hedging strategy, seemingly to diversify the geographic basis of operation and ultimately ensure business continuity,” says John Wojcik, an organized crime analyst at the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. “But at the same time, I think it’s also an immediate reaction to mounting law enforcement pressure and regulatory tightening in this region.”

In addition to the geographic spread of pig butchering operations, researchers note that there has also been a shift in the people targeted by traffickers to “work” in scam compounds. “Over the past two years, the countries targeted for recruitment have gradually shifted westward,” says Eric Heintz, a global analyst at human rights organization International Justice Mission.

Many trafficking victims within the early years of pig butchering were based in Southeast Asian countries, but this soon shifted to South Asian nations such as India and Nepal, Heintz says. “We have since seen recruitment posts targeting East African nations like Kenya and Uganda, and then West African countries like Morocco, and then, most recently, we have seen posts targeting El Salvador.”

As always, the spread and evolution of pig butchering is driven by how profitable it can be. Researchers say that another alarming trend involves people from around the world choosing to go work in scam centers or even being liberated from forced labor and returning to keep working voluntarily. As long as the money keeps coming in, pig butchering will keep spreading around the world.

“Fraud is not being seen as a serious crime—not like drugs, not like terrorism,” Humanity Research Consultancy’s Chiang says. “Globally, we need to start shifting that idea, because it creates the same kind of damage, and maybe even more because the amount of money we're talking about is so huge. We are racing against time.”

[intelisync]

Liquid Staking for Novices: A 2024 Introductory Guide

Unlock the full potential of your cryptocurrency investments with liquid staking, where liquidity meets profitability.

Liquid staking is transforming the cryptocurrency landscape by offering a solution to the liquidity problem associated with traditional staking. By issuing Liquid Staking Tokens (LSTs), this innovative approach allows users to stake their assets while retaining the ability to trade or use these tokens in various DeFi protocols. This dual benefit of earning staking rewards and maintaining liquidity makes liquid staking an appealing option for investors, particularly those involved with major cryptocurrencies like Ethereum and Solana.

Liquid staking is transforming the cryptocurrency landscape by offering a solution to the liquidity problem associated with traditional staking. By issuing Liquid Staking Tokens (LSTs), this innovative approach allows users to stake their assets while retaining the ability to trade or use these tokens in various DeFi protocols.

This dual benefit of earning staking rewards and maintaining liquidity makes liquid staking an appealing option for investors, particularly those involved with major cryptocurrencies like Ethereum and Solana.

The process of liquid staking involves depositing cryptocurrency into a staking contract, which then issues a liquid staking token representing the staked assets. These tokens can be utilized in decentralized exchanges, lending platforms, and yield farming protocols, providing users with the flexibility to optimize their investment strategies. This increased liquidity and flexibility allow users to respond quickly to market changes and new investment opportunities, making liquid staking a valuable tool in the crypto ecosystem.

Despite its benefits, liquid staking presents certain challenges, including the risk of validator penalties and smart contract vulnerabilities. Additionally, the regulatory environment for cryptocurrencies is continuously changing, which may impact staking practices. Nonetheless, liquid staking is poised to play a pivotal role in the future of blockchain finance, enhancing the value of crypto assets through improved accessibility and liquidity. Intelisync offers tailored blockchain solutions, including liquid staking, to help businesses Learn more.....

[system-of-an-up]

I'm so clever

Stay safe artists.

How to recognize an art scam?

1. Hi can you draw a picture of my son and his pet? I'll pay you anything what are your prices?

That's the most common question I got several times on other websites. Whether you gave prices or not they won't look into it. They never looked at your account, in fact. They pish you into making high prices for them to get refunded later.

2. They don't follow you, or they didn't like your art a while ago.

When you're commissioning an artist, it's because you enjoy their art. The least you'd normally do is give their art likes, comments, or follow you.

3. Just do it

A normal client would totally understand your suspicions and would prove they're not a scammer by explaining what they like in your art. For example, the choice of color palette, the graphic paw (funny way to say signature style), etc. They can also make you feel guilty about your questions. Don't.

4. They'll insist on a certain payment method that could give them advantages, and/or pay you AFTER.

Okay, let's say you're gonna buy bread. The baker hands you your baguette. You are right in front of them, so it's okay to pay after.

Now, you are asking for a developer to make you a script. They have no guarantee that you are real, nor that you are honest. It's normal for them to ask you to pay them first. Or 50% before 50% in the middle.

If you take PayPal, don't. They have a 180d refund policy, and even if the client was hobest at first, PayPal is by the buyer's side and not yours. It doesn't matter if you did the commission, the buyer CAN be refunded.

Solutions?

KYC. Know Your Customer. Sniff shady customers. But it's not really 100% working.

Use a middleman. This one decreases trust from the buyer's side but someone who has seen your commissions before and trusts you from the beginning wouldn't be too affected.

Make them sign an online contract before the commission. A lawyer can make you one or you can make one yourself. Email them, and if they're not a scammer they would sign it. Then you could contact PayPal in case of refund with this contract that person signed with their REAL information + their username and PayPal acc.

Ask for CRYPTOCURRENCY or set up a private XMR <your crypto currency> wallet. Few people really use crypto though.

DMCA them in case they use your art after refusing to pay you. Keep reverse-searching (Google Lens/Images) your art after getting scammed. As long as you have screenshots of the conversation with the client, you have all rights to do so.

[kentai345]

East Highland's Notorious - Chapter 2

AO3 l Chapter 1

Fezco x reader

Summary: You never proclaimed yourself to be a nice person or a good girl because no one expected you to be one. If someone perceived you as one that was their fault. Life wasn't easy but Fez made it bearable.

Things had been weird since the whole Mouse incident as (Y/N) was ignoring me still pissed about the money and she was ignoring Fez too. She didn’t hate him she was just putting distance between them to give her time to get over her crush. So it went from talking every day, to every other day, and less and less. If she did respond it was just one-word responses. She missed staying at Fez’s as things were starting to get rough at home. She was depending on the money that she saved over the summer to feed her and her parents since the money they got they used to buy drugs and on nights when they were on a bender she would end up locked outside the house having to sleep on the porch until they got back. She was having a bad week.

“Bitch are you listening?” Maddy said snapping me out of my thoughts. “No stopped listening around long-distance.” I said remembering the last thing we were talking about was Cassie and Mckay.

“What’s up with you?”

“It's been a rough week.” I said with a sigh as I got another text from Fez which I ignored leaving him on read. “Still ignoring Fez.” Maddy asked.

“I’d rather go back to talking about Cassie and Mckay.”

“Stop being such a coward and fucking talk to him, you put up a fight for everything else. Why not him?”

“I’d rather die than put myself in that situation and once I get over him I’ll talk to him like normal again. Besides I have bigger worries right now.”

“Like what?”

“Money problems.” I said glaring at Rue from across the cafeteria and she looks away when our eyes meet.

“Hey do any of you guys know how BitCoin works?” Kat suddenly asks. Maddy and Cassie shake their heads and I take advantage of the situation. “No, but for 10 dollars I can take you to someone who does.”

“You can’t just take me for free.”

“Did you not just hear me say I’m having money problems? I need gas money and you got the friend discount I usually charge 25.”

“Fine.” Kat agrees and I tell her to meet me after school.

After school I call Ash asking him if he was at the store and I was gonna bring a friend who needed information on BitCoin. “Why? You know how it works.” He said.

“Ok we know that but she doesn’t and I need cash, so I ain’t telling her for free.” I said and saw Kat coming my way. “Just do me this favor.” After hanging up we get in my car and after she gives me the money I drive her to the gas station. I was so busy focusing on getting cash I completely forgot that Fez would be here too. Fez was outside smoking when we got here and I avoid looking at him as we go inside and I call for Ash.

“Hey, (Y/N).” Fez said as I sat atop the counter next to the register.

“Hey…” I said staring at my feet finding them entertaining. I was glad Ash had come out from the back and he sat down next to me on the counter to breakdown BitCoin for Kat.

“It’s a worldwide cryptocurrency and digital payment system.”

“I literally have no clue what you’re talking about.” Kat said and I shake my head.

“There’s literally no easier way to explain it.” I said and she looks at me suspiciously. “I thought you didn’t know how it works.”

“I don’t, but I can’t help you if you’re stupid.” I said and she looks at me taken aback. “Shit sorry, I’ve been getting no sleep.”

“Look why don’t you just tell us what you’re trying to do, and we can tell you how we can help you.” Fez said.

“Unless it’s human trafficking. I don’t fuck with human trafficking.” Ash said.

“I’m not human trafficking.” Kat clarifies. “Yeah, us neither.” Fez said.

Kat starts to explain what she was trying to do but I quickly stop her. “First give me another 10 dollars.” I said to Kat holding out my hand and rolling her eyes she gives me the cash. “I was just wondering if it’s like a good way to anonymously get money online.” She explained.

“That’s literally what it’s made for.” I said like it should have been obvious.

“Dumbass.” Ash said and I nod my head agreeing. “What a waste of a trip. Oh wait I got 20 dollars out of it.” I said laughing. “If you give me 5 dollars I’ll drive you home.” I said and she glares at me.

“I’m fucking with you. Get in the car.” I said getting down from the counter. I say bye to Ash and give a half-hearted wave to Fez as we walk past him but he grabs my hand.

“Yo, can we talk for a second?”

“No time I gotta go to work after I take her home sorry.” I said slipping my hand out from his.

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

I started taking on more hours to make up the cash I had lost which meant getting off later and getting less to no sleep if my parents locked me out. But it made avoiding Fez easier except for when he showed up at the restaurant giving me no choice but to talk to him. I should have expected to do this sooner or later, especially after blowing him off at the gas station.

“How long are you gonna stick around?” I asked him as I came to clear his plate and give him the check.

“Till you get off, didn’t see yo car thought I could drive you home and could finally talk.”

“I’m working late, so no need to wait up. I’m sure there’s money to be made somewhere.” I said and left for the kitchen setting the plate down. I go back to Fez to get his money for the bill and he hands me a 50.

“Keep the change.”

“That's too much for a tip.” I said not wanting to take his money. “Don’t worry about it.” He said not taking no for an answer and reluctantly I keep the change.

After clocking out I go to the bathroom to change out of my uniform and I consider just sneaking out the back to avoid Fez but like he read my mind he waits for me near the bathroom giving me no chance of escape. Once we’re in the car he doesn’t start it right away so we just sit in awkward silence as I find anything to stare at out the window.

“So like what's going on with us?” He breaks the silence.

“Nothing, just been crazy busy.” I said playing with my fingers.

“Can you at least look at me.” He said and hearing the sadness in his voice I comply. He reaches for my hand but I pull it back from his reach “I’m really tired so can you just take me home, please.”

“Can you at least tell me, why you been avoiding me? Like for real.” He said starting the car. “I’m just trying to get things back to how they were, you know before the summer.”

“And like what does that mean?”

“You see me like a little sister and I don’t see you- look I don’t know how to explain it.” I said frustrated and looked out at the passing scenery.

“Don’t do that, just say what you gotta say.” He said and finally taking Maddy’s advice to stop being a coward I decide to just spill. I could always just jump out of the car and hope it kills me if it doesn’t work out.

“Fine. Am I really just a little sister to you? Like nothing more?” I asked looking down at my lap. “That’s what- hold on.” He said and pulled over. He brings his hand to my chin making me look at him and I become even more nervous under his gaze.

“Is this about that shit, I told Mouse?” I nodded my head at his question. “Nah, I just said that so he wouldn’t try no shit on you. Of course, you are more than that to me.” He clarifies but it's still not enough clarification for me.

“Like a friend you fuck around with more or like-”

“Like your my girl, more.” He states cutting me off and I smile. “I would love to be your girl.” I said shyly and leaning in he kisses me.

“Can’t believe you’ve been giving me the cold shoulder over that.” He said in disbelief.

“What did you expect from me? You weren’t exactly defining what our relationship was and I was trying to figure it out all summer.”

“Didn’t think I had to, thought it was obvious. And shit, you didn’t say nothin.”

“Like hell I would, you know what this isn’t about me.” I said kissing him as a distraction. After sharing a few more kisses he continues taking me home and as my house comes to view I see my dad’s car gone which meant the house was empty and I was locked out. I didn’t want to worry Fez so I didn’t tell him and pretended everything was normal. After much convincing, I told him he didn’t have to wait for me to go inside and after kissing him goodbye he leaves. I walk up to the front door hopefully trying the door knob but it was locked and I sigh defeated.

I sit on the ground leaning against the front door and prepare for a long night outside again wishing I could just change the locks and lock them out for a change. However, I would never do that cause even though my parents were practically fucking useless except for somehow keeping a roof over our heads I’d seen them angry and I’d hate for it to be targeted at me. It’s just a rule you don’t piss off a drug addict especially when you have to live with them. As I was accepting my fate I was considering sucking it up and calling Nate and hear a car stop in front of the house and when I look up I see Fez getting out of his car. I should’ve known he was gonna circle around and catch me in my lie.

“How’d you know?” I asked him as he got closer.

“Yo dad’s car is gone which means they’re out doing whatever and you're locked out.”

“Well aren’t you a great listener.” I said sarcastically as I stand up and hug him. “Thank you.” I whispered into his chest and he kisses the top of my head. “Let me take you home.” He said grabbing my bag for me off the ground and taking my hand with the other.

“Your house feels more like home than mines does anyway.” I said as I got back in his car.

“Good to hear, 'cause even though he won’t admit it Ash misses having you around.”

“Of course he does, who else is gonna bother him.”

When we get to his house I go to take a shower and when I get out I realize I don’t have any clothes to change into and walk into his bedroom with just a towel and see Fez putting some clothes down on his bed. When he sees me he looks away shyly with a light blush on his cheeks and I smile to myself finding his shyness cute. “Sorry, can I borrow some clothes?”

“Uh yeah here.” Turning back to me he hands me the clothes he had set down on the bed. It was actually some of my clothes that I must have left behind from previous times. “Thanks.” Without thinking I start to remove my towel and he immediately turns back around sitting on his bed with his back to me. “Sorry.” I apologized for not warning him.

“Okay, I’m done.” I told him as I sat down on his bed and he turned back to face me. We fall into a silence staring at each other before I release a nervous laugh looking away first. “It feels different, now that we’re together.” I said playing with my fingers in my lap.

“Different like how?” He asked scooting closer to me and takes my hand into his. “A good different like I’m nervous because I’m used to sleeping on the couch instead of in here with you.”

“Don’t be.” He reassured kissing me. “We can take it slow or whatever you want.”

“Thank you for everything Fez.”

“No need.” He kissed me again. I feel his tongue against my bottom lip and I open my mouth for him letting his tongue intertwine with mine. His hand goes to my hip kneading at it lightly and I lay down on his bed pulling him with me as we continued kissing until we have to pull apart for air. Cuddling into his arms I end up falling asleep as a week's worth of lack of sleep caught up to me.

I woke up early in the morning to catch up on homework and make breakfast for Fez and Ash. I was working on my homework at the kitchen table when Ash woke up before Fez and came into the kitchen smelling the food making himself a plate. “What are you doing?” He asks sitting with me.

“ Late homework. Help me out?” I said passing him my math homework with a 20. He takes it and starts working on it as he eats breakfast. Fez came into the kitchen smiling as he saw us at the table kissing my cheek before grabbing some food and sitting with us. “You want a ride to school?” He asks me.

“No need, Nate’s gonna take me.” I answered not looking up from my assignment and missing his look of annoyance. “Nah, I’ll take you.”

“And once again no need.” I said not wanting to inconvenience him.

“Just tell him, I got you.” He said and I finally look at him. “Nate already’s on the way. Why are you making this such a big deal?” I asked and my phone rings getting a message from Maddy telling me they were outside. “And he’s here. Thanks again.” I told Ash grabbing my homework from him and putting it in my bag and Fez walks with me to the door.

“See you later.” I said kissing him.

“I’ll pick you up after.”

“Thanks but-” I stop seeing his smile drop. “I would appreciate it, miss you already.” I said kissing him again before leaving.

“Uh are you good?” Maddy asked me as we were walking to class. “Yeah, I need some advice. So you know I’m used to using Nate for stuff like rides to school or getting him to spoil us on our shopping trips and stuff. And I think Fez is like…”

“Is jealous?” She finishes and I shake my head.

“Not jealous more like bothered by our friendship.”

“I get that Nate’s been your friend for a long time and you two trust and depend on each other. But you need to start depending on Fez the same way or it's gonna seem like you don’t need him and you don’t want him to feel like second place.” She explained and I sighed annoyed yet still confused.

“Is that how you feel about Nate and me?”

“No, after you set us up you took a step back giving us space, which is what you need to do for Fez.”

“Why is dating so complicated?” I whined.

“At least you’re not dating Nate he’s even more complicated along with being a dick.”

“Don’t I know. What’s the new trouble in paradise?”

“You’re not gonna believe me if I tell you.”

“Now you have to spill.” I said curiosity piqued and she pulls me aside in the hall lowering her voice.

“Okay, so last night I went through Nate’s phone and…” She looks around and I wonder if she found the messages between him and Jules. “And?”

“He had dicks on his phone.”

“Like his own or…”

“No other guy's dicks.” She said and I can’t attempt to hide my look of shock.

“I actually have no words and that’s too crazy to be made up. You don’t think he’s gay, do you? Cause Nate’s like the definition of straight toxic masculinity.”

“I know he’s like super straight but…” She says in thought.

“I think you gotta talk to Nate about it, he might not like you going through his phone but it is weird.” I advised.

“Ugh, you’re right dating is complicated.” She complained hugging me and I smile hugging her back.

After school I see Fez’s car waiting for me outside and on the way to his car Nate comes up to me to remind me about the carnival. “My parents wanted me to invite you to come to help out at the booth for the chili contest."

“Why?” I whined. I had only met Nate’s dad and brother before and that was enough for me.

“You made a good impression on him and now my mom wants to meet you and you know they both-”

“Hate Maddy.” We say simultaneously and he nods his head. “No offense I’ve met your dad and your idiot of a brother I don’t wanna meet your mom.”

“Look I’m not fucking thrilled either but just do it, just stick around for Maddy I invited her too. Stay for a few minutes and that’s it.” He said then looked at my hands. “And get a manicure.”

“I’m sorry you’re forcing me to spend time with your family and get a manicure.” I scoffed annoyed walking off but he grabs my wrist roughly stopping me. “I’m not joking (Y/N), just do what I say.” He said coldly giving me some cash for the manicure before walking away. I rub my wrist to ease the pain before remembering Fez and rush to the car.

“Sorry about that.” I told him as I got in the car. “It’s alright, what did he want?” He asks gesturing to the money in my hand and I put it in my pocket.

“Just paying me back for something.” I shrugged not wanting to explain the complicated ways of Nate Jacobs.

When we get back I got his room to put my stuff down and wanting to talk to him we sit down on the bed. “I wanted to say sorry about this morning, I’m so used to figuring stuff out myself or having Nate do stuff for me that I don’t want you to feel like I don’t depend on you or need you.”

“Nah, I get that you been friends for like a long time or whatever but I would appreciate it if you let me help you out like he does for you.” He said.

“I swear I’ll try, no I will. I just don’t wanna make you feel bad or anything.”

“It’s alright baby, we’re good.” He said kissing me and grabbing my waist pulls me into his lap. I straddle his lap, wrap my arms around his neck, and bit his lip teasingly and he squeezes my waist in response. His lips trail from my lips to my jawline down to my neck sucking lightly on the skin and I hum in delight. He goes to my collarbone and I roll my hips into his causing him to release a groan but before we go any further there’s a loud knocking and banging coming from the front door.

“You expecting someone?” I asked sliding off his lap.

“Nah, but don’t move alright? I’ma go get rid of them.” He said kissing me one last time before getting up and I nod my head obediently. The banging on the door didn’t ease up until Fez got there and after waiting for awhile I heard yelling and banging coming from the door again and go to see what was happening. As I get closer to the door I hear Rue’s voice.

“Open the door! Open the door! Open the door.”

“I can’t do it, Rue. I’m sorry.” Fez says leaning his head on the closed door listening to Rue blame him for her problems. He faces away from the door and I see the sad heartbroken look on his face and take him into my arms.

“I’m so fucking serious. If you don’t open this door right now, I swear to god, I will hate you, till the day I fucking die.” She threatens and shaking my head I take Fez’s hand and take him away from the door.

“I’m sorry.” He tells her one last time before we walk away and we sit down on the couch together just hugging each other.

“You did the right thing. There’s not much we can do but it's a start.” I tell him attempting to cheer him up. “And she didn’t mean any of it, its what addicts do, she’ll calm down and come to her senses eventually.”

“I know.” He whispered. “Thank you for being here.” He kissed my forehead and I smile at him cuddling further into him. We spent the rest of the day just watching movies Ash eventually joined us later and I can’t help feeling truly at home with them.

[exnori]

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