#Affordable Parker Drives

[kieran-kennedy]

Everyone was at the house in Rhode Island. Everyone except for Kieran. Things had felt … difficult, over the last several months. Reuniting with Selene hadn’t been at all what he’d expected. She was marrying Kane, and every day that passed was one day closer to this sham of a wedding.

Kane: What time will you be here? Kaia: please tell me you’re coming!! ☹️ i bought my wii so we could play just dance at 2am like we used to! kane said he was down!! Mom: Are you sure you can’t come? It would make your father’s night if you were here. Parker: Dude, just swing by for the night. It’s boring without you. My dad and your dad are one drink away from saying something mildly offensive and you can’t miss it.

At least Parker’s text made him laugh.

It was the last push that Kieran needed to get on the road. Kieran didn’t actually have any sort of project that he was working on, but that’s what he was telling everyone. Super important merger with deadlines and red tape and Kieran really couldn’t afford to delegate this to anyone else.

(Except he could).

The three hour drive to the Kennedy home in Rhode Island was loud and fast and mindless. Kieran couldn’t really think about anything while he drove. If he thought too much about what waited for him at his destination, he would’ve turned the vehicle around.

Or wrapped his car around a tree.

At least his dad was always in a good mood around his birthday, and Kieran came with a perfectly wrapped gift sitting in the backseat.

When Kieran finally pulled into the massive, 8 bedroom mansion, he thought long and hard about getting out. Was it too late to change his mind? Yes. He’d been spotted already by the security and staff.

Kieran pushed open the massive front door. There was laughter in the kitchen. There was a massive pile of gifts near the entrance. Kieran placed his there, too, before wandering into the kitchen.

Kaia and Parker were on one side of the island, sipping on some 4th of July themed cocktails, and — on the other side — Selene and Kane. Kieran couldn’t look at them for very long.

“Kieran!” Kaia was the first to notice. She slammed her drink down on the counter. Kieran forced a smile, hoping that it felt sincere and warm instead of hollow and cold, which is exactly how he felt. Kieran wrapped his arms around Kaia, greeted her with a kiss to her temple. Parker came next. They shook hands, and Kieran wrapped an arm around his oldest friend, before … well. Kane and Selene were left.

“Hey, man. I’m really glad you came,” Kane said warmly. Kieran offered him a hug, too, and he could tell that his older brother was being sincere. Selene was the only one left to greet. They’d been in this kitchen before, a lifetime ago. Kieran had to store those memories away just as quickly as they’d resurfaced. Otherwise, they’d devastate him. He offered Selene an empty smile.

“Hi Selene,” he offered, unable to maintain more than just a few moments of eye contact with his former friend. His brother’s fiancé. Thankfully, Parker slipped a cocktail into Kieran’s hand.

Kane chimed in. “Kaia made this round of drinks. That’s why they’re … extra strong.”

"Selene helped, too," Kaia said, rolling her eyes playfully.

Kieran's smile faltered ever so slightly.

“That’s okay. I could use a strong drink right now. ”

[denimbex1986]

'Actor Andrew Scott has suggested cheap theatre tickets should be put on a “sale rack” so that young people can see West End productions without having to spend £150.

The actor, known for television roles such as the “hot” priest in Fleabag and Moriarty in Sherlock, has won two Olivier Awards for his theatre work.

His most recent production, Vanya, an adaptation of Chekhov’s Uncle Vanya will be shown in cinemas this month.

Scott, 47, told BBC Radio 4’s Broadcasting House programme: “No matter how zeitgeisty or how modern you think your play is, if you are having to spend £150, no person between the age of 16-25 or beyond is going to be able to afford that. That is frustrating to me.

“Hopefully, there is some night or two nights a week when you can get something like a sale rack, you have to be prepared to rummage a little bit. It is important that it doesn’t remain an elitist art form,” he said.

Last November The Crown star Dominic West called West End ticket prices “crazy”.

David Tennant, the former Doctor Who star, said some tickets had become “ludicrously” expensive and warned that young people would be deterred from going to the theatre.

“We have to look after the industry from the bottom up because we won’t be making great telly and we won’t be making Oscar-winning movies if we don’t still have a thriving theatre scene,” Tennant said.

Tickets for Plaza Suite, which stars husband and wife Matthew Broderick and Sarah Jessica Parker, cost from £125 to £395.

National Youth Theatre artistic director Paul Roseby has also warned that theatre had become a luxury.

A survey by The Stage newspaper showed the average price of the most expensive tickets was £141, but the average price of the cheapest had risen by more than inflation to £25.'

[neotrances]

could we get more information about PJ he’s really cool c:

sure i posted about him a few days ago but it’s probably buried by now, full thing under the read more so it doesnt take up dash space also reposted the only art i have of him belowwww

Pj’s full name is Pj parker and he is “silk weaver” a spiderman that doesn’t go by spiderman, he’s based on furry silk orb spiders and he shoots natural webs directly from underneath his finger nails, these webs r razor sharp and strong as steel, he doesn’t know this at the start but he has the ability to soften and harden his web, and this ability is tied to his stability and emotional state

pj is from an abusive household / is poor in a really bad school and thinks very little of himself and has bad anxiety, the first few times he uses his webs he’s unable to make them anything but razor sharp and solid often leading to him harming ppl hes trying to help accidentally or causing a lot of property damage, hes interested fashion and design and enjoys sewing and wants to make a sustainable/ high quality clothing brand one day but can’t afford fashion school, so hes an unpaid intern for a big new york fashion brand and essentially works in a sweat shop and stays there long hours after school to avoid his mother, he’s in denial about being gay and acts hyper masculine at school and with his “friends” and is very quiet / goes mute often

his suit has metal claws / nails with an opening underneath them to allow him to shoot his web comfortably, and his version nyc is colder than usual and snows / rains heavy a lot year round so his suit has a half fur coat top to keep his upper body warm, there are also multiple pockets hidden with the fur to hold important items, in suit hes more talkative and is more of a grey vigilante compared to other spidermen bc he does kill some of his opponents depending on what they’ve done, he likes riding on top of subway trains for fun and sketches the city view a lot / people he sees on the train or walking around for fashion inspiration

also the scar / gash across his face is from the night he got bit, he accidentally shot his razor web at himself and split his cheek / nose / eyebrow open so a lot of the early story he wears multiple bandages going up his face, his “aunt may” is a retired drag queen who he meets accidentally on the subway on his way home from his intern job, she sees his drawing of outfits and compliments them and gives him her card to her boutique / bar, she used to design clothes for top brands herself but was black listed after coming out as trans (she is nonbinary and identified as both man and woman but when she started presenting feminine her career started to tank) now she takes care of lgbt ppl in the city, host clothing drives, and owns the building to her bar always offering a place to stay for people like pj

she knows he’s gay but wants him to figure it out on his own terms, shes the first person he runs to the night he’s bitten and she patches him up and promises to keep his secret, aaaand that’s all i got so far

tldr: scrawny poor weird gay kid dreams of being a fashion icon and gets forced into heroism

[voiceoffenrisulfr]

Becoming Spider-Man - Chapter Twelve

Peter Parker Sees the Future

𝐏𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒 -> Peter Parker & Tony Stark (IronDad)

𝐒𝐔𝐌𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐘 -> In which Tony has something to show him, and Peter assumes the worst.

𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐃𝐂𝐎𝐔𝐍𝐓 -> 866

𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒 -> (T) Mild discussion of hypothetical illness.

𝐀/𝐍 -> Short and sweet as we approach the end. <3 Check it out below, or on AO3 here! Cute divider by @/sweetmelodygraphics!

<- Previous Chapter (11/16) Next Chapter (13/16) ->

“You ready to tell me why we’re up at the crack of dawn yet?” I yawned, kicking back my seat and sliding one of the ever-present pairs of sunglasses onto my face, recoiling against the bright morning sunlight. Tony laughed, revving the engine as the tires spun on the gravel.

"Testosterone sure made you into a grumpy teenager, huh?” he teased good-naturedly, offering me a fond smile.

“It made me as sweaty as one,” I quipped back, winding down the window. “You’re going to regret not giving me a chance to shower.”

It was true, too – while others had gushed about the change in my voice and the beginnings of hair prickling at my throat, the main change I’d noticed so far had been the endless, eternal heat. I fluffed my t-shirt against my chest, wiping the chronic beads of sweat from my forehead, nose wrinkling against the odour of unwashed boy – but inside I delighted in the change in my natural scent. It may have been more intense, and more constant, but it was also more unmistakably man, and even in this I found euphoria.

“You know smelling like a gym sock isn’t a requirement of masculinity, right?” Tony challenged with a chuckle as he pulled onto the interstate, and I waved my hand dismissively.

“We can’t all afford to bathe in cologne, Tony,” I snorted easily. My confidence had come on endlessly since my first appointment at the clinic, and even Tony himself had commented on the change – gone was the nervous fear of my youth, replaced with something stronger, harder, and yet kinder, to both myself and others. Sometimes it felt harsh, but I’d been reassured that it was only comfort, not cruelty. My ability to blend with the playful banter ever-present in the Avengers had been returned in kind, and I was truly enjoying my life now, rather than simply existing.

“Says the kid with the Trust Fund,” he muttered teasingly, pulling his own shades down over his eyes. I laughed sharply, then paused, an inkling of my previous uncertainty sneaking through the chinks in my hormonal armour.

“I hope you’re kidding,” I warned, trying to keep my tone light, forcing the waver from my already-cracked voice. He simply glanced at me, shrugging a shoulder.

“You already know that you’re my soul heir and inheritor, kid. You’ll be well looked after when I’m gone.”

I swallowed dryly, fighting against the lump forming steadily in my throat. “Well, that won’t be for a long time, Mr. Stark.”

He smiled weakly, turning his gaze back to the road. “Yeah, kid. I’m sure it won’t be.”

The tone of the drive was somewhat muted following our discussion, and I found myself picking at the long-healed skin around my thumb, unconsciously betraying my nerves. I tried to lose myself in the eternal music that provided a soundtrack to my life with Tony, but I was still grateful when the car turned off down a long drive, away from the main road.

“Where are we-” I began, but Tony waved his hand, effectively silencing me, and I closed my mouth with a click, feeling rebuked. I sat in obligatory silence as we came to a stop outside a low wooden cabin, and Tony cut the engine.

“This… This is what I wanted to show you, kid.” He let out a low sigh, removing his glasses to pinch the bridge of his nose. “As much as I want to, I can’t be Iron Man forever. Eventually, it’s going to be time to pass that torch on to the next generation. And when that time comes… Well, I wanted to have somewhere. I always appreciated what Barton has. A nice little farm somewhere – ideally something that won’t get blown up twice a year,” he added, a characteristic smirk tugging lightly at his lips.

“This place… Is yours?” I clarified incredulously, my gaze trailing from the cabin to the lake spread before us. “It’s… Quiet. Peaceful.”

Tony nodded, shifting his eyes to look out of the windscreen. “I’d like to say that it’s what I deserve… But we both know I didn’t build this place for me.” His smile now was gentle, serene. “I’ll understand if, when the time comes, you decide you want to stay living at the compound. I’d never ask you to move out to the country with an old, retired guy.”

“You don’t have to ask,” I replied softly, the lump in my throat growing endlessly bigger. “You’d never have to ask, Mr. Stark. But… But what… Why…?” I swallowed again, fighting to control the tears that threatened to spill from my eyes. “Tony, is there something you need to tell me?”

His eyes flicked to mine, surprised, and he laughed quietly. “I’m not dying, kid. I’m just not a young man anymore; I’m getting to the time in my life where I’m ready to start thinking about the future, even if I don’t want to.”

I huffed out a breath, shaking my head. “You’ll be the death of me, Tony.”

He grinned, the tension easing, my light-hearted and playful mentor back to normal. “Well – do you want to go and check the place out?”

[holyhomo]

i think previous anon meant ‘user’ as in ‘reader’, and are asking about how they interact with the characters + their past :)

Ah I thought so already! Well the MC character is of course meant to be fully insertable, however I will admit that I should’ve made some changes to the MC’s given background as I did cut myself in the fingers there to be honest!

But that’s mainly because there is a ‘canon’ MC and yet I didn’t put some hard facts of theirs into the story at points I should have.

From very early on I’ve been debating whether or not to make the reader an actual character. Or better said, to reveal the canon character that is the protag.

As you probably have noticed, from the very get go I have not once used something like Y/N or ‘insert your skin tone’ or anything like that.

Mainly because it takes me out of the story. So I saw it as a challenge to write around it.

But yeah highly debating whether or not to reveal and start calling the protag by her canon name and reveal more about her background in the story itself besides here.

Please let me know what you think!

That all said, who is the ‘canon’ MC?

Well:

The ‘canon’ MC’s name is Fran (Francine) ‘Parker’.

There is one small problem with Francine due to me not writing things properly in the beginning due to wishing to keep the insert part.

She literally can’t be from any freaking country I imagined as a possibility 😅

Obviously Fran speaks English, so it would make sense that she could be English, however I never made the reader comment on living back in England or any other character.

She’s stated to not speak: French, German or Spanish, so any countries in Europe speaking one of those languages also doesn’t really check out 😅

She is stated to be from Europe, living in a city approximately a 6 hour drive away from Ylva’s apartment in Paris. 😅

I fricked up a lil as you can see.

So then if I were to have to choose for her to have come from a country when I inevitably rewrite things, it would probably be from England. Since everyone reading this story has some level of English skill. (With a shout out to my Spanish reader who uses a translator!)

Okay, with all this out of the way, let’s talk about who Fran is!

Francine (Fran) Parker, is a 24 year old lesbian from ??? who was abandoned by her birth parents at a park and grew up in foster care with not one, but two failed adoptions. She eventually aged out of the system but was able to get affordable housing as long as she had a job from the government.

Which is how Fran started working at the convenience store! She was always a bit of a night owl who didn’t do much besides work and entertain herself afterwards. She had no real social life due to the hours she worked but also didn’t have much of an interest due to having some big issues regarding bonding with people due to her upbringing.

She finished secondary education, but didn’t pursue anything after that, so she could just work and get an income and housing, as she had no one to financially support her otherwise.

She wasn’t thriving, but she was surviving and that was good enough for her. She just took every day as is, not looking at the further into the future than her next pay day.

Sure deep down she wanted to be a mom and have a home with a white fence and a loving doting wife, but she didn’t really see it happening.

Kinda a spoiler incoming as I am addressing this question pretty soon:

The whole reason she’s as calm as she is about the whole kidnapping situation is actually really sad. She fell for Ylva because in her whole life, no one, absolutely no one, but Ylva went through such extremes just to be with her. Her parents abandoned her as a baby at a random park, not one, but two adoptions failed and she went from one to the other foster home.

And then suddenly her super hot customer she was lusting after kidnaps her because she wants to be with her that badly.

So Fran just ran with it, because that’s also Fran. She takes every day as is.

She’s also shown to be incredibly maternal due to not only her lack of a maternal figure, but also often being one of the older and more responsible kids in the homes she lived.

She’s responsible in general actually. While she absolutely had months were dinner was cup noodles, she can actually cook quite well and is amazing at budgeting (not that she has to anymore).

She’s also not someone to just back down unless she realizes not doing so might get her or someone else harmed.

Fran’s Netflix obsession has also been mentioned before, but besides joking references I made of absolutely unhinged scenes of multiple different series such as Pretty little liars and Riverdale which she watched with Oline and Leslie and watching Adam Sandler movies with Ylva, she actually just watches whatever. Though a good documentary or feel good show like renovations or cooking, are always appreciated by her.

Here's Fran's pic! Also btw my IRL name isn't actually Fran. I just picked it because someone once mentioned calling me Holy or Homo or something felt awkward. I like Holyhomo though lol.

[letstrythisout4]

Trust Me- Chapter 4

Masterlist

When Matt arrived at the address Frank had sent and noticed a rapid heartbeat, he was more than a little worried. Apparently that heartbeat came from a man who went by the name “Micro”. Micro was clearly not excited to be here. He sat on the far end of the room, surrounded by computers and Matt could hear his muffle breath, probably wearing some type of mask to hide his face.

“Let’s get started, yeah?” The man said, eyeing the way Frank was making himself at home, disassembling his handgun and beginning to clean it. “You’ve got a name for me?”

“Peter Parker, high schooler in Queens, friends with a girl named MJ.” Matt was prepared to continue when Micro began to speak.

“Found him. Peter Benjamin Parker. Race: White. Height: 5’10. Age:” he gave a low whistle “sixteen, on the younger end of sixteen. Family: Richard and Mary Parker, deceased. Was taken in by his Uncle Benjamin Parker and Aunt May Parker, Ben is also deceased.” The man muttered as he leaned into the computers to get a better look. “He lives with May now. She works twelve hour shifts in a hospital working as a nurse.” 

“What’s his school life look like?” Luke asked from where he was leaning on a wall.

“Umm, he’s smart. He goes to ‘Midtown School of Science and Technology’; which is a super expensive private school. He got in on scholarship after getting a 99 cumulative grade on the entry exams. Only one other kid got the scholarship, super competitive entry…at least for those who can’t afford to buy their way in.”

“His friend?” Jessica drawled.

The clicking of Micros keyboard continued, “There is no “MJ”. But, there is a Michelle Jones-Watson that goes to his school. African-American, 5’3, sixteen but turning seventeen later this year. Uhhhhh, her father was in the air-force, her entire dad side of the family has some history of being in the military. Mom is an immigrant from the Dominican Republic, no siblings. She is the other scholarship kid, and scored a 90." He turned in his chair to look at the vigilantes. 

“When does the kids' aunt get off of work?” Frank asked, whipping his hands that had been smeared black from his gun with a rag.

“7am, so nine-ish hours from now.” 

Frank leaned back, “Let’s all kill some time and meet up in Queens at 6:30. We’ll wait for his aunt to get into their apartment and then go have a chat.”

A loud choking noise came from Micro, “Let me suggest that someone other than you and Daredevil go be the ones to talk to her. Respectfully, it's not exactly… thrilling to have vigilantes and mass murders ambush someone at their home.” he said, staring hard at Frank. 

“If I’m not going I need you to give us something that’ll let me hear and see everything.” Micro opened his mouth to argue, “Either wire us up or I’m going in. I’m not leaving this alone.”

Micro’s chair squeaked quietly as he turned, apparently thinking it over, “I have a small camera with a mic that one of you can wear but I want it back.” he said, speaking with more strength than Matt expected him to be able to speak with. 

“You’ll get it back.” Frank swore.

“...Fine.”

-------------------

The Parkers lived in one of the several apartment buildings in Queens. The area was not a good one, Matt kept veering off course to stop crimes which caused him to show up last of the group. The vigilantes were unnervingly serious. There was no banter, Jessica wasn’t drinking, Luke's leg wouldn’t stop bouncing and Frank just kept loading and unloading his handgun. The steady click-click click-click click-click was starting to drive Matt insane but he was stopped from yelling when he heard a simple conversation begin.

“Peter! You’ve gotta leave or you’ll be late”, the sound of a body hitting a wall was clear, “Don’t break through the wall to leave though. It’s not that serious.”

“Ha ha ha, you’re hilarious. You should quit being a nurse and become a stand-up comedian, I’d support you.” 

“She’s home, he’s leaving.” Matt reported, catching the attention of his fellow vigilantes.

He heard the boy say goodbye before giving his aunt a short hug and barreling out the door. From there he focused on the woman. Her heartbeat was steady and her footsteps were heavy as if she were dragging herself around. “We should go in thirty minutes to give him some time to get out of range.”

They waited, every second feeling like an eon, before Luke stood up saying, “Time’s up. Let’s go.” The group had decided he and Jessica would go to speak to her as they were the least intimidating out of the four, thanks to Jessica’s low(ish) profile and Luke’s reputation as a beloved hero. Jessica had the camera attached to her jacket and Matt and Frank sat around the tablet connected to it, eagerly listening to the impending conversation.

The two slipped into the building and knocked on the apartment given by Micro. “Oh, so you’re who he was warning me about. Come on in.” was what they were greeted with when the door opened.

After sharing a look they walked in, “Warned you?” Jessica asked.

“Why don’t you explain yourself first, yeah? You were the ones who came to speak to me.” May spoke as if it was a genuine offer but the implication was clear that she wasn’t going to tell them shit until they said what she was looking for. 

They watched as the woman walked over to the kitchen table and sat down continuing to eat what looked like…Fruit Loops. They looked at each other again and after debating silently Luke said, “We wanted to talk about your nephew.”

She stared at them expectantly, “What about him?”

“He’s Spider-Man.”

For a long moment nobody spoke or moved, “God dammit. If this stupid thing froze, I’m going to give him hell.” Frank swore from where he and Matt sat on the roof across the road.

Before he could continue to threaten the life of Micro they heard, “What does that have to do with you?”

“Excuse me?” Luke and Jessica said unanimously.

“What does that have to do with you?” May asked again. When they didn’t respond she continued, setting down her spoon, “See, here’s what I think happened/is happening and feel free to tell me I’m wrong. But from where I’m sitting it looks like you found out -somehow- that he is Spider-Man. Then went out of your way to find who knows what information and then came here to tell me that he is Spider-Man, as if I don’t already know.”

“I’m going to go ahead and assume - for my sanity and your safety- that you did this out of concern. But now that you have told me, this is what’s going to happen: you are going to get rid of any and all information you have on Peter, me and anything else you have in relation to us; then you are going to leave us the hell alone.”

“You’re just going to let him keep going?” Luke asked judgmentally. “You’re okay with the messes he’s putting himself into?”

May sat back in her chair and crossed her arms, “Have you ever raised a toddler?” 

The vigilantes didn’t respond. 

“Or an elementary schooler or a middle schooler or a highschooler or really any child, ever? No. No, I didn't think so. So let me put this into perspective for you. I love Peter. I raised Peter.  Watched him grow into the person he is now. That person has abilities no one else has. That person has a heart bigger than he knows what to do with. That person will not look away when he knows there's something he can do.” 

She took a breath, “I don’t love it. In helping others he is putting himself in danger and everytime he comes back hurt a part of me dies inside, but this is who he is. He will put others before him and he is too strong for me to stop him. I literally couldn’t stop him if I tried. And believe me I tried.” she gave a soulless laugh. “But really, none of this is any of your fucking business. He is my kid. Mine. Not yours, not anyone else's. And my kid has been given an impossible situation and now he is managing as best as he can. And that is all I can ask of him.”

“But what-”

“I’m not done.” May said cutting off Jessica. “That’s all I can ask of him…you though. I can tell you to stay out of his way. You have no place in this conversation. You don’t like that he’s Spider-Man? You want him to stop? Too fucking bad. If he won’t stop when I ask him to, he sure as hell isn’t going to when you tell him to. And good fucking luck trying to force him to stop, he is stubborn and strong and smart like no other and he will just embarrass you, so step away now.”

Frank slumped against the wall they were sitting on, “I fucking knew it.”

“Oh congratulations, Frank. You were right, the sixteen year old isn’t going to stop throwing himself off buildings.” Matt mocked.

“Shut the hell up you-” 

May interrupted him from where they were watching the scene on the tablet, “Do you have anything else you want to say?”

“How do you sleep at night?” Jessica asked, looking at the woman who was so accepting of the fact that her nephew may die at any moment.

May gave a small smile, “I don’t.”

--------------

“What now?” Micro asked.

“I don’t know about you all but I’m going to keep an eye out for him and give him my number.” Frank said, pulling out a box full of bullets and magazines from under the table he was sitting at; he began to load the magazines ignoring the groan that came from Micro.

“Please stop leaving your weapons here.”

“No.” 

“Give him your number then what?” Luke prompted, sounding tired.

“Tell him to let me know if he needs anything.” 

“You really do only care about kids and dogs, huh?” Jessica asked.

“Yes. Listen I have some business I have to deal with in Queens, which means that the kid will also be there. I’ll give him a burner with all of our numbers. I’ll tell him to call me if he needs anything and that he should only call you guys if there’s an emergency. Is that fair?”

The group was in agreement and as Matt began to leave the building he heard Micro tell Frank, “Give him my number too. I completely understand what May was talking about, and I know you do too. He isn’t that much older than my kids and I don’t know if I’ll be able to sleep knowing that I didn’t at least try.”

[richardsphere]

Leverage Log: The Real Fake Car Job

Well with a title like that, im left wondering the syntactical ambiguity. Is this a job about a fake car that turns out to secretly be real, or was there a "fake" Fake Car Job that its being contrasted against? Guess we'll see. --- No way this show starts with mistaken identity, so im betting its Witnes Protection covering a criminal's ass like usual. --- Parker looks at this guy's track record of gettign in with the maffia as a get-out-of-jail freecard and just makes a note. --- Since when do libraries charge for wifi? --- Hardison should invest in like, a small trailer for behind lucille. Keep Lucile clean. --- Oh thats bad... the show is seeding the question of "can Nate live a normal life without these high-stakes heists all the time", which is not a good indicator of his surviving the season finale. --- So he's selling the free wifi to afford his mini-cars. (good scam, low level enough most people wont even bother, allow himself to continue his hobbies a little without getting authorities called on him. Its a good con. Small scale, practical.) This guy is good at being bad. --- So the fake car is the Mussolini's car, which is gonna turn out to be the actual car they're looking for by accident? Is that what the title is about? --- Parker sold the "doesnt know about cars but found the Musselcar in her gramps' shack" character well enough, but if she's meant to play the "doesnt actually know what cars are what" character, maybe throw in a line asking about the colour of "Phil's" Alpha Romeo --- Witness Protection Bodyguard's got a good play with the GPS Tracker on the phone. (is the serving tray a bug or is it a bomb? Who knows? At this point i dont see a reason it couldnt be both) --- So he calls his car friend, from his old life. His old life, laundering money for the Maffia. Guess who's about to be assasinated! --- Is it the Wifi Money? Couple months as a librarian, couple dozen people using the wifi a day on average... Maybe a couple other minor side-hustles round town, could really add up. Especially if he suspects Italian-Parker to be naive enough... (turns out im right, i stopped the episode the moment Hardison said he hadnt accessed any banks for the money) --- Oh God, Hardisons gonna kill this guy with the implication that this "strange artist fellow" bought his prize cars and dismantled them for art supplies. ("aquired at a government auction last year) Like i love the powerplay here, tell him I murdered your babies and if you dont stop me, This baby is next. Like this is full on Dubenich invoking Nate's Son levels of emotional manipulation. --- "are we being suspicious enough" You are buying garbagebags, Axes and shovels "dont use that rope, for future reference, you can chew right through it". Well thats ominous foreshadowing --- Oh... The bodyguard thinks Team Leverage are hitmen working for the Mark to kill HER. In her defence i could definitly see him do it, kill his handler, flee the country dig up his missing money abroad. --- "i did not sell out the Marshal Service so you could throw away all of our planning on a car". shit, she's not witness protection, SHE'S MAFFIA? Oh no she isnt maffia, she's just corrupt. (5 MIllion dollars... thats good money) --- Mobster- You called our mutual friend Charlie Corrupt Bitch- You're an idiot! Mob- Then we tracked you down cause you left your GPS tracking on CB!- Ok that one is on me. Honesty! --- So they're not even going to be taking down the maffia? (most episodes, they'd somehow end up pulling those guys down as well) But hey, the Maffia seems to genuinely respect Nate. (in their defence, they've seen the damage these guys do) --- I only knew three of the five. (car would drive him crazy, Access the accounts, Turn on babysitter. Those are the ones he knew. The car friend who got the Maffia involved are obviously the ones he didnt plan on) --- "we matter". Well, this entire episode about the looming threat of retirement ends on a sweet note. But dang if it isnt an ominous plotthread to add to the final season.

[wonder-in-wings]

TIMING: Early August LOCATION: The Worm Row Alleys PARTIES: Felix (@recoveringdreamer and Parker (@wonder-in-wings SUMMARY: A few days after the Fight, Parker tries to return to the scene of the attempted mugging to collect his remaining tools but he can’t figure out which alley it was. Felix happens to be in the area. CONTENT WARNINGS: Drug Manipulation [reference to sedatives before]

Day 5. He was getting fed up. This was the sixth alley he’d been to and his search came up empty. Again. All the alleys in that cesspool of the town looked the damn same. And this was ignoring the part where his tools could’ve been picked up and sold for spare cash at the pawn shop - it’d been several days since he last visited. Parker refused to believe that that could be the case, not when there were three bodies there ripe for the choosing and he was further back in that alley. Not to mention searching for his tools was one of the only drives he had at that juncture.

Parker exited the space, stopping in the middle of the sidewalk, ignoring the people passing by him and casting a venomous glare to anyone who dared say anything or even look at him wrong. The forming scar on his face seemed to be a good deterrent after all, even if it wasn’t his choice to receive. Nonetheless, he couldn’t afford to start another altercation, not for the fifth time that week in public, never mind the completely vapid and incredibly unreasonable breakdowns he’d suffered in the privacy of his own home. He started crying three evenings ago because he ran out of salt. Salt. And that was even after he checked his cabinet to find that he still had some, he just needed to refill his salt shaker.

It was quickly reaching a point where Parker was becoming consumed with these aspects of control that were constantly slipping out of his grasp. It came so naturally to him before and he figured he’d allowed himself enough time to rest and recover from that night. The lack of being able to shut down core facets of his humanity, the ability to become robotic if it served the purpose of his nature as an observer and a collector was starting to get him into trouble. He kept trying to go back to work and every time he went, something innocuous would incense him and he’d snap and be subsequently sent home. He didn’t want to go home. He didn’t want to snap at people for things he didn’t like about them. Even the thought of being out of control threatened to send him spiraling, a self-fulfilling prophecy of getting upset about the lack of control then losing it then getting upset at losing it. Parker took a deep breath, closing his eyes and clenching his fists until the knuckles were white. Exhale. Unclench. Relax his shoulders. He opened his blue eyes again and stepped aside from the sidewalk, allowing himself some space and he went to the next alley.

—

The ground felt a little steadier under their feet than it had before. It was an adjustment, coming back from a full shift. Especially when shifting hadn’t been their choice, when the jaguar had taken control in a moment of terror and danger and kept them away from their life for days after. Their bosses were angry, of course, were punishing them any way they saw fit, and that meant Felix had been scheduled for back to back fights since their return to the Pit, everything they’d missed during the jaguar’s turn at the wheel rescheduled for the first moment they didn’t have another fight. They were run ragged, barely functioning, and still they knew they’d been lucky. They still had their tail. They still had their life. They tried to focus on that.

Even if Leo also had them taking out the trash now. 

It was a taunt, they knew; a way of displaying just how much control the Pit had over the balam. Take the garbage to the dumpster across the street. Don’t complain — you’re lucky we don’t have you in a cage in the basement after the shit you pulled. There’s nothing worse than a flight risk, Fe. You know we can’t afford that… and neither can you. 

So here they were. Lugging a garbage bag full of they didn’t want to know what to a dumpster away from the Grit Pit, for ‘liability issues.’ Felix wasn’t even sure if the reasoning was genuine or if Leo just wanted to make them walk farther. It probably didn’t matter. It wasn’t like they could say no either way.

They made it to the dumpster and lifted the bag inside, grunting with the weight of it. Their arm was still sore where the warden had stabbed them with the sedative, the slashes he’d left on their arms back when they were a jaguar’s leg still present. They thought about werewolves, of the enhanced healing granted to them with the full moon. Lucky bastards. 

Hearing footsteps at the mouth of the alley, Felix hurried to close the dumpster. If there really was something worth hiding in those bags, they didn’t want to be caught with them. They turned, ready to duck their head and trudge out of the alley…

Only to freeze when they spotted a familiar face at the mouth of it.

Immediately, their heard jumped into their throat. The jaguar stirred, sensing the anxiety, and they tried to force it down. They couldn’t afford to disappear right now, no matter how much they might want to. “Leave me alone,” they said, hating the way their voice shook. “I — I mean it.”

—

Wondering why he didn’t bother to carry a map with him so he could mark off inconsequential spots, Parker approached the next alley and examined his knuckles, which were still bruised from the altercation a few days ago. That was one of the things he was missing, his spiked iron knuckles. They were one of his oldest tools, most reliable friends, his defender. An attacker. He figured when he dropped them in favor of going bare-fisted, they slid under a nearby dumpster even though he couldn’t quite recall if there was a dumpster in the particular alley that he retreated into. He was stopped shortly as he turned the corner, however, and Parker glanced up when he was spoken to; by the fourth alley he’d been to where there wasn’t anyone there to ask him what he was doing, he chalked the experience up to luck as he wasn’t in the mood to entertain. This one wasn’t empty though, obviously, and whoever it was sounded afraid. Fortunately for the stranger, Parker’s being hearing-deficient combined with how he’d never been particularly skilled at vocal recognition meant that he didn’t know who it was at first and he could feel the latent irritation that threatened to turn into fury already starting to bubble in his gut. Unfortunately for the stranger, Parker’s eyes were much more proficient to compensate and he could pick a face from a lineup after seeing the assailant once in passing. As the Warden was heading into this alley to search for a set of spiked iron knuckles, he had almost run into a familiar face, indeed. Unlike the past couple of times though, a rush of adrenaline shot through him and for the first time in his memory, he had to resist the urge to run from the unassuming shifter that turned into something so close to ruining his life, managing to leave a lasting mark on the Warden’s face. The thought mortified him. “Where are your ears, kitty cat?” Parker asked, glancing down. “Or your tail?” His tone, while usually flat and clinical, took a sarcastic edge to it, subtle though it was. He was displaying a false sense of bravado as internally, he was calming himself down, keeping himself from bolting like a prey animal under the scrutinizing stalk of an apex predator. The roles should’ve been reversed.

But they weren’t, not right now.

—

It felt too much like it had the last time they’d run into the warden. An alley, two figures occupying it. If Felix tried to run, would the hunter shove him to the ground again? Had he brought those knives with him, the ones with the drugs inside? Had he come here looking for Felix, to either get the tail he’d been so obsessive about or to seek revenge for whatever the jaguar had done to him? There was a fresh scar across his face that looked like a clawmark had left it there, and Felix wondered if it had been his claws that carved it out. But the nymph at the lake, she’d had a similar experience with this warden, hadn’t she? How many people did he attempt to mutilate? How often did he target people like Felix, who’d just been minding their own business? 

The warden was speaking, and he sounded different. Less flat than he had been before. Was it anger? Rage towards someone who’d hurt him? Felix’s heart was pounding in their chest, the jaguar at the ready. He wanted out again, wanted to finish what he’d started, but Felix didn’t want any more blood on their hands, didn’t want to kill anyone. They shoved the feeling down, tried to calm themself even as the warden’s words injected more fear into them. 

Or your tail. 

Just hearing him question it sent a shiver down the balam’s spine. “If you ever touch me again, I’ll leave you with a lot worse than a scratch on your face,” they warned, though the way their voice trembled just a little seemed to take away from the intimidation they were going for. “I — I don’t have to go full jaguar to break out my claws. Remember that.”

— The other individual opened their mouth and the Warden was somehow expecting a complete shift in demeanor; he was expecting a rumbling strength, an actual threat. He was expecting the claws to come out as a show of dominance. Instead, none of that happened. Instead, the sense of fear, that primal urge to turn and bolt as fast and as far as his legs could carry him subsided rather easily as the shifter, who Parker now knew was called ‘Felix’, attempted their own form of bravado but it came out with much less confidence. One of the Warden’s eyes twitched in response as his hands balled into fists again, quivering slightly with the energy that flared up inside of him at the audacity. If he didn’t know any better, he’d think the jaguar was a crutch. There was no respect there. There was only fear; fear for what they housed inside them, fear from a lack of control since apparently the jaguar had thoughts of its own, fear undoubtedly regarding Parker himself. “Maybe not.” The slightly taller man flared his nostrils as he couldn’t keep his expression from flashing with an emotion that was alien on his face. He took a step towards the shifter; his own fear was gone and only a frothing pit of anger and daring remained at his particular moment. His fists clenched and unclenched, the sound of his knuckles cracking pinging against the metal dumpster they stood near. 

He took another step forward, his head tilting slightly as he kept his blue eyes on the other individual. “Show me.” His voice came out in a hiss, low, venomous; he wasn’t sure what the shifter was but he figured they had the hearing of an animal so he didn’t bother making himself more clear. Parker wasn’t even there for the shifter, why did everyone assume that he was anywhere for them? Couldn’t he simply have his own time, goals, priorities? He was challenging them. “Show me.” He repeated. “Will you strike first? Can you strike first? I won’t fight you right now; you have my word.” A dangerous, rare thing, for Parker to give anyone his word, even if he wasn’t talking to a fae but though it wasn’t binding, Parker was a man of his word. He wasn’t a liar. Just another thing for people to misunderstand about him. He was used to it. “Come on, kitty cat. Fall back on the jaguar to fight for you, shifter. ” Parker was playing a dangerous game, one that he wasn’t sure he would be able to win with his current mindset. Then again, the current mindset was what got him into this particular scenario; if he had just stayed calm, stoic, emotionless, and controlled, he wouldn’t need to have come back, wandering aimlessly as he didn’t know where one of his greatest non-fae treasures was. “Show me your claws, Felix.”

—

There was something different about the warden. It wasn’t just his tone — his entire demeanor had shifted. Before, he’d been a blank slate. No emotion in his eyes, no sign that he was a person at all. An empty vessel, a robotic creature with no thoughts or feelings outside his goal, and no room to argue with anyone who didn’t want him to achieve it. But this was different. There was anger dancing behind his eyes now. Had Felix put it there? Had the jaguar’s attack caused this man to shift from the robotic state he’d existed in before to something more fiery, something angrier? If so, was that anger reserved for Felix, or had they unleashed it upon the town?

And, perhaps more jarringly, which was scarier? Was it better to be accosted by an emotionless husk of a man, one who was single-minded in his goals but wouldn’t work outside of them, or was it more preferable to be attacked by someone so blinded with rage that he might slip up in a way that calculated warden from the other night wouldn’t have? 

Felix was terrified now, just as he had been before. His heart was pounding, and he ached with it. It wasn’t supposed to be like this. They were the predator. Why did they always feel like the prey?

The challenge caught them off guard. They weren’t expecting it, because why would they be? He’d seen their claws once — up close and personal, if the new scar on his face was any indication. But Felix wasn’t intimidating when they were themself. It was the jaguar that was the threat, the beast that made people tremble. Felix could hold their own in the ring, but they didn’t much like fighting outside of it. And threats weren’t really their forte. There were no threats in the ring, after all — you just fought. It was simple.

But there was nothing simple about this. 

The warden promised he wouldn’t fight them, and Felix’s eyes darted to the space behind him. “If you don’t want to fight, then I’ll leave,” they said, inching towards the mouth of the alley. “I’m not — I don’t want to fight you, either. Just leave me alone. Stay away from me, and I’ll go.”

—

The silence between them was palpable as Parker’s eyes wavered for a long moment, every muscle in his body tightening like a coiled spring ready to strike… but he wasn’t going to. He stared the shifter down, his pupils contracting and dilating with the light that wavered above them. He waited to absorb the shock from a blow, he waited to be struck by four more claws where the first one came from as they were on a human hand this time instead of the massive paw of the jaguar. He waited. He waited. But Felix disengaged. Maybe that was most of the reason why Parker felt so confident, even as his body pulsed with adrenaline to prepare him for whatever might’ve come; this scenario had a predetermined outcome. Despite everything that’d transpired between the two from the incident with the idiomimics to a few days ago, both of them knew that Felix wasn’t going to start a fight outside the Grit Pit, not on purpose and not with conviction. Felix wasn’t a fighter or a killer. Felix was a young shifter with poor luck and a desire to coexist. Underneath the obsession, underneath the single-minded desire, a small flicker of acknowledgment licked at Parker’s brain. ‘My son, be gentle for me.’ He exhaled, feeling himself deflate like a balloon as his body caught up with his brain’s realization that he wasn’t going to have to defend himself against anyone today, for once. His gaze fell from Felix’ face and the fear that painted it and he took a few shaky steps back, his eyes suddenly doing everything in their power to keep from meeting the shifter’s. “I won’t hurt you.” He said in a quiet breath. “I’m…” What, sorry? No, Parker couldn’t be sorry. The Warden didn’t hold regrets, only causes, effects and lessons to learn next time. He blinked, furrowing his brow and looking at the ground, leaning back against the opposite wall. The pendulum was swinging in the opposite direction now as a wave of uncharacteristic guilt washed over him. “I won’t hurt you.”

—

Felix tensed, waiting for the warden to attack. To grab them by the shoulder the way he had before, to force them to the ground with a knife in his hand. His heart was in his throat and he waited, and wasn’t the waiting the worst part? In the Grit Pit, at least, things were simple. A bell sounded, and the violence began. Fights were contained between the ringing of that bell, even if there were no referees to stop those fights from ending with blood soaking every inch of the ring. But out here? Out here, violence was unpredictable. Someone could push drugs into your system and try to cut pieces off of you, and there was no bell, no warning. 

The warden seemed hesitant in a way he hadn’t been before, but what were the odds that was anything more than a trick? What were the chances that he didn’t intend Felix any harm? He said I won’t hurt you, and for a moment, Felix was back in the alley outside the Grit Pit instead of in this one, was on the ground with a heavy weight on top of him and no one to hear his desperate screams. I don’t want to hurt you, the warden had said then. I don’t want you dead. But he’d still put that knife into Felix’s arm. He’d still pushed those drugs into their system. He still would have taken part of him like a trophy if the jaguar hadn’t intervened. 

Panic gripped them, and they didn’t even realize they were doing it until it happened. The subtle partial shift, the claws on their fingers and that tail that had started it all breaking free as it moved back and forth, swaying. The language in the tail was that of a jaguar stalking its prey, but Felix still wasn’t much of a predator. Their breath was a panicked gasp, their heartbeat a desperate flutter. 

“Don’t say that,” they said. “Don’t say that. You said that before, and it isn’t true. I — I hurt someone because of you.”

—

Parker was still leaning against the wall, his hands now on his knees that jutted out in a makeshift sitting position, swallowing the overwhelming guilt that shivered through his system like a viral infection; his body fighting and trying to reject the strain, making his stomach turn over, strangling his breath as he struggled not to break down as his mother’s voice echoed in his head. She was always the reasonable one, as mothers of that era tended to be; deadly and proficient but also able to draw from the deepest wells of compassion and patience. His brother had inherited the best traits from both parents, Parker could only learn the worst. So when the Warden backed off, releasing the pent-up energy that came with the anticipation of an immediate threat kicking his body into fight-or-flight mode, it was Felix’ turn to reciprocate. Parker hadn’t noticed anything different either until the shifter began to speak and red-rimmed blue eyes were lifted to see the look on Felix’ face… and then they fell onto the tail again. The damned tail, the treasure that lit the flames in Parker’s mind, the tail that wasn’t there when he looked down only to find it swaying mockingly in his freshly-scarred face when he looked back up. A sharp inhale was sucked into Parker’s lungs through half-gritted teeth and his breathing accelerated, the rush of desire and obsession storming through his brain. He heard what Felix said but for an agonizingly long moment, he wanted to disregard everything that he was feeling, everything in his mind that kept him rooted to the spot. Advance. Try again. Succeed. He pulled himself away from the wall roughly, as though he were yanked forward by an invisible tether and he started to advance towards the shifter only to abruptly turn to where he was facing the nearby garbage can. With all his might, he kicked the thing and the clanging metal, the awful scrape of the bottom as it was pushed along the pavement, sent needles in his skin. “Put the tail away.” Parker grunted as he cradled his arms to his stomach to keep them from reaching around and attempting to throttle Felix. He couldn’t look at them. Wouldn’t look at them. He had to breathe. “Put the tail away. I don’t… want to hurt you.” Parker’s voice carried effort into it, almost as though he were speaking between bouts of pushing a boulder up a hill. It was true. It was true. It was always true. “Keep the claws, put the tail away.” He repeated, his tone almost pleading; it was an unusual sound, one so unfamiliar that Parker didn’t know that’s what it was. He couldn’t explain why. He couldn’t explain anything.

—

They could hear the warden’s reaction to the subtle shift. The way his heartbeat picked up, the way his breath quickened. Desire was a physical thing overtaking him, and Felix felt sick at the implication. Fear and anxiety swirled in their chest, making the tail sway faster and faster behind them. They wanted to hide it away, wanted to tuck it wherever it went when they weren’t shifted at all, but control was hard to come by when emotions ran high like this. It was all he could do to keep the jaguar from taking over entirely, all he could manage to stay as human as he was.

They blinked, eyes yellow and catlike when they opened them. Their senses became sharper and, with it, new aspects of the situation began wrapping cool fingers around Felix’s throat. Parker’s sharp inhale was deafening, the want in his eyes as they fell on the tail impossible to miss. The alley was so full of fear, and Felix couldn’t tell who it belonged to. Was that Parker’s lungs drawing breath so quick it bordered on hyperventilation, or was it their own? Whose heartbeat was drowning out the sound of the town around them?

The warden took a rough step forward, and then another. Felix shrank backwards in response, trying to make themself smaller while still trying to appear as a threat. A predator’s instincts were at war with an abused mind, leaving them with a strange sense of limbo. Fight, flight, freeze. Somehow, Felix seemed to be doing all three.

Surprisingly, the warden stopped before he got to them. He kicked a garbage can, and Felix flinched at the sound, jerking backwards violently. He told them to put the tail away, and that was strange, wasn’t it? He couldn’t cut it off if it wasn’t there, and wasn’t that the only thing he’d wanted to do since he saw it? It was a trick, Felix knew. It had to be a trick. Still, he tried desperately to comply. He tried to convince the tail to go, tried to blink his eyes back to human and draw his claws back into his fingers, but nothing was listening.

And again, the man was claiming he didn’t want to hurt them. As if everything he had done didn’t prove the very opposite. “You drugged me,” Felix spat, gasping for breath. “You — you tried to cut a piece off of me. You don’t want to hurt me? You already did!” Faster and faster the tail swished behind them. More and more Felix willed it to go back to where it belonged. But the jaguar didn’t listen; he never did, these days. Angry at the mess Felix had gotten them into, they suspected. Angry that they only ever made it worse. “Just — Just get out of here! Go!”

—

The Warden didn’t turn back around to see if the tail had, indeed, been put away for a long moment, instead taking another step further into the alley with his back to the shifter. Parker’s mind was simultaneously on fire and dipped into icy water. He wanted to run. He wanted to fight. He wanted to harvest, to apologize, to scream, cry, beat his fists into someone’s face until they were unrecognizable, vomit. The weight of conflict was pressing too hard on him, slicking his forehead in a sheen of sweat, clamping down on his stomach. Parker kept trying to catch his breath, gulping for air like a fish on a sunscorched dock. He wasn’t sure what this feeling was that locked his muscles and made him feel like instead of anything else, he was about to pass out but when Felix started talking again, the words instead just expounded on the overwhelming sensation and he straightened up, squaring his shoulders and clenching his fists so tightly that his nails were cutting into his palms. He turned on a heel in a motion just a little too deft for a regular human as he closed the distance between the two with a misplaced grace and fluidity. In what seemed like a blur, Parker hovered his face mere inches away from the shifter, to the point that his pointed nose could’ve grazed the tip of the other. He locked tired, yet alert blue eyes that were spiked with tears onto the shifter’s sharp, feline gaze. He had to keep his eyes on the others, not let them waver even though he felt the allure, a hook in his mind. How much bravado the shifter had once Parker’s back was turned and he promised that he wouldn’t hurt them. How bold they were, hiding behind the jungle cat who did all the work for them even now. Felix wasn’t about to strike but the Warden had gotten wise to the assumption that Felix and the jaguar were not the same person. “I did. That’s what you want to hear.” He finally spoke after an indefinite amount of time glaring unblinkingly into the eyes of the other, staying there even if the shifter tried to disengage, breathing heavily through his nose as his head felt like it was swimming. “I did.” He repeated, his voice a low mutter through gritted teeth that tightened his jaw. “And I don’t want to do it again.” The tears that welled in his eyes now trickled down his face, catching in the folds of his fresh scar from the shifter he now stared down. “I’m not leaving. I lost something.” Another pause. “So get your jaguar to fight for you again, Felix. I said I wouldn’t.”

—

They were almost… worried, for a moment. The warden was sweating, was gasping, was looking less and less like the face from Felix’s nightmares and more and more like an unstable man in an alley that needed help. Felix took an uncertain step forward, kind and optimistic and stupid enough to almost ask if the warden was okay in spite of everything. In spite of their own trembling hands and their own stuttering heart, in spite of the way their tail twitched and curled around them, in spite of the memory of cement digging into their back as they screamed for a rescue that wouldn’t come. 

But just as Felix was prepared to swallow their fear and check on the man, the warden was moving. Fast as a strike of lightning, and just as dangerous, he advanced on the balam and Felix shot backwards, his back hitting the bricks behind him as he ran out of places to retreat to. The warden’s face was so close to theirs, and Felix felt the man’s breath against their skin, felt it like a hand clamped around their throat. 

He hurt them, and he was admitting it. Was this what they wanted to hear? Not really. They didn’t want an assurance that he didn’t ‘want’ to do it again when he’d claimed he didn’t ‘want’ to do it as it was happening. They didn’t want much of anything at all except for the warden to leave, but that wasn’t happening. He was close, he was suffocating, he was somehow scarier than he’d been before. 

Felix reached out their hands and shoved. Hard. They wouldn’t bring the jaguar out if they could help it, didn’t want to lose more days and face more consequences, but they didn’t want to stay in the alley with the warden, either. 

—

It wasn’t claws, it wasn’t the jaguar that pushed Parker out of the face of the stressed shifter. The Warden, every fiber in his being tense and coiled like the serpent he was related to sometimes, felt the energy of movement, the weight of Felix’ hands pressing against him forcefully. And while he didn’t have to, content to be an immovable object to the shifter’s supposed unstoppable force, he allowed himself to take a few stumbling steps back as though he weren’t expecting the effort. As he did so, he straightened up again and reached behind himself to make sure that he didn’t hit the other wall. All the while, Parker kept his steely stare on the shifter, narrowing his gaze; he wouldn’t look at the tail. He couldn’t. If he did so, he’d be gripped by obsession again, throwing the words he’d said previously out of the window. Proving that he was weak. Unable to keep his word. He reached up and roughly wiped the tears and sweat off one half of his face but suddenly slowed down as he reached the other side, much more careful as his middle finger traced the raw scar that was still forming on his cheek slowly, eliciting the faintest hint of a wince. He didn’t have the tools. He didn’t have the energy, the patience, the calm, calculated processes. Thankfully, the shove from Felix managed to stabilize Parker and the latter found his breathing deeper, steadier. The tempest of emotions that churned inside him, oil mixing with water that left him disoriented and split on what to do and which decision to make had seemingly been calmed by the show of aggression, if only temporarily. The Warden could wrap intangible hands around the wheel of control once more. He exhaled and closed his eyes, the frothing storm of extremes that didn’t belong to him settling. In. Out. As he opened his eyes once more, his expression softening, his gaze lowered from where they glared at the shifter before and drifted down to the feet of the dumpster. Slowly, and perhaps the most genuinely that he had in a while, he let a smile creep onto his face as his exhaustedly sharp eyes found the glimmering ghosts of light bouncing off his iron spiked knuckle-duster. Wordlessly, not caring how Felix might’ve reacted to him, Parker approached the dumpster one more time, dropping to a kneel as he reached under it. He collected the object in his hands gently, fondly, though he was retrieving a kitten instead of a heavy iron weapon. “I won’t hurt you again.” He was looking at the barbed knuckle-duster but he was speaking to Felix. “You don’t have to believe me.” Parker’s gaze flickered to the shifter’s face before looking back down at the weapon, slipping it onto his fingers as though to make sure it was really his. Of course it was. He made them himself. “Learn how to put the tail away. It’ll get you into trouble.” He added vaguely but he either couldn’t or wouldn’t elaborate further, unwilling to view himself critically at the moment lest he fall into another unwarranted and humiliating breakdown. With one last, rather earnest look at Felix, staring into their catlike eyes, Parker took the iron knuckles off his hand, slipped them into one of his jeans pockets and skulked out of the alley. He was going home. He’d reached his limit that day.

—

There was a moment after Felix shoved the warden where time stood suspended. There was a moment where they couldn’t move, couldn’t think, couldn’t breathe as they watched the man stumble backwards. Had they signed their own death warrant with that shove, they wondered? Would this be the thing to break the hunter free of whatever strange spell he seemed to be under, the thing that would make him look back at Felix again the way he had before, when he’d shoved him to the ground and held him there, when he’d injected a sedative into their veins to make them more pliable? 

But the hunter only smiled. Felix felt sick with it, the unnaturalness. He stepped forward again, and Felix was already so tense that it hurt but they tensed further at the movement. Like a wild animal, their wide eyes tracked every move the hunter made. The way he knelt, the way he reached under the dumpster. They swallowed when he came back with shining metal, thinking again of a knife in their shoulder and a drug pulling them under.

I won’t hurt you again, the hunter said, but Felix didn’t believe him. They couldn’t. Not when the damage had been done, not when there was blood on their hands because of what this man had done. They stood, just as tense, as the man spoke, tail wrapping protectively around their body as if the jaguar was trying to offer some comfort even as they had it locked away. Learn to put that tail away, as if it was easy. It’ll get you into trouble, as if it was their fault. As if having a tail gave someone permission to take it, as if existing meant accepting that people would want you dead for doing so.

Felix said nothing. No words would come to them, no response seemed right. They watched as the hunter removed the iron knuckles from his hand, watched him slip them into his pocket instead. They watched him leave without moving, without blinking, without saying a word. They listened until his ragged breath was far away, until they couldn’t hear his footsteps even with the jaguar’s assistance. 

And only when he was gone did they allow themself to collapse in the alley. Only when he could no longer see them did they allow themself to fall apart.

[fairydust-stuff]

Rewatch of Heathers 2018 aka Peathers Episode 4

I haven't seen a lot of positive about this show. So I'm going to make some posts about the things that are good here. For each episode.

We see Heather Duke pull Kurt into the bathroom. Then explain they only broke up with him to appease Heather C.

While, I don't give a crap about Heather D x Kurt at all. ( their just not interesting and make no sense. ) Its toxic because Heather Duke mostly bullies him but its not a compelling kind of bad.

But at least Duke has some conflict because they like Kurt but Heather Chandler doesn't want Heather Duke to date some jock. Its weirdly posessive but never goes into full on ship tease catagory. Its highlighted here that Heather Duke is trying to have their cake and eat it to by secretly seeing him.

After some JD & Veronica hook up stuff nothing interesting there and Veronica standing up Betty.

We see, A student named Brianna Parker is shown looking sadly at her empty wallet in front of the suicide tee shirt merchandise. The Heathers are selling, before running off near tears.

The next scene shows Parker in a trailer where we hear people shouting. Someone is passed out on the couch. Suggesting Parker has a bad home life and lives in poverty.

This clever bit of context reveals that some of the students who have reasons to be depressed cann't even afford the merch.

The next scene shows Parker proudly wearing a suicide t shirt she made herself. The other students, mock and belittle her for being unable to afford a new one.

She is stunned thoughout the day and attempts suicide by throwing herself from the bench into the circle of football players during the game.

This scene showcases the hypocracy of the anti suicide campign. It being valued for being new and expensive and trendy rather then its message.

Even the teachers conclude she should of tried to kill herself weeks ago to spare Ram the football player. Since no one will think its cool if the poor kid does it.

This bit of insensative dialog sounds like something that would come out of the Heathers movie even in the 80's.

It also shows the tv show did its homework in terms of showcaseing the pretending to care about suicide for clout theme that was always there in the franchise.

Parker wearing a knock off version of her merch causes Heather Chandler's brand to be tainted with her posters being covered over in the background to drive the point home.

She confronts Parker in the bathroom " Transfer to Washington, transfer to Jefferson. Because your future at Westernberg is as useless as your legs."

Lizzy the froster care girl Heather Chandler adopts to replace Heather N actually calls the Heathers out. Pointing out she lives in a bubble to the point she doesn't understand poor kids like Lizzy and Parker. " We cann't help that we're poor kinda like you cann't help the fact your overweight."

This class divide as highlighted by Lizzy is further stressed by Heather Duke stateing at one point earlier in the scene, " Just a case of the poor girl, trying to copy the ritch kids and failing miseribly." It also highlights the obliviousness of the Heathers due to being wealthy.

Heather Chandler takes Lizzy aside and is clearly confused at being at the other end a social justice tirade. To which Lizzy implies Heather taught her to call out injustice.

Its kinda ambiguious as to wheather Lizzy is sincere about her empathy for Parker, but it is also obvious she, is trying to manipulate the situation for popularity points. ( I think she does feel compassion for her honestly but she wanted to undermine Chandler).

Side note, Lizzy she seems to have some Heather Duke movie traits. She comes off as timid and being implied to have endured abuse in the past with her saying she learned to apply foundation to cover up the bruises. Also she manipulates her way slowly into the spotlight.

Heather Chandler threats to reveal Veronica and JD nearly killed her. As she needs a new angle if her " I am Suicide" thing doesn't work. By revealing she got JD on tape at her house.

Next scene is Heather Duke rubbing Heather Chandler's shoulders while trying to persade her, their completely loyal. Ok I take it back about their dynamic not being shippy! Dam!

At first Heather C is a little off put by it, but then she lets Heather Duke keep touching her shoulders. While argueing they can take down Lizzy for her. (Seriously, why cann't this be our toxic queer ship?) She agrees but warns Duke if they screw up, their in big trouble.

Cut to veronica monolaging about how America even packaged Teen suicide all pretty. A line that speaks for itself.

Meanwhile Heather Duke slips a note into Lizzy's locker implying Rem will kill himself because of her. Which causes everyone to gush about how lucky she is . With Lizzy playing it up for sympathy points.

Showing how suicide at Westernberg high has been offically romantsized.

Heather C lights a fire in the trashcan and walks off while Heather Duke watches her nervously afraid what she'll do to them.

Then Betty is revealed is put on the trail of realizing Veronica killed the third member of their friend group when they were kids. With her presenting her findings to JD.

JD goes along with it to try and kill her.

Meanwhile Heather Duke has Kurt break up with them because their too mean.

Duke gets Kurt to admit Heather Chandler wrote his lines for him. Then says Duke will end up alone if they continue to treat people badly.

While he's not wrong Kurt is kinda hypocritical here because one, He hung out with Rem and Ram who still bully people and sing chants about killing babies.

Also he let Duke's emotional abuser write his break up lines for him.

( I need to write a post on 2018 reboot Heather C and Heather D's dynamic one day, because its a lot).

So Betty kicks JD's butt six ways from Sunday. I'm not personally fond of this choice because JD is supposed to be dangerous. They already have him failing all, but one murder.

It kinda takes away from his threat factor. This version of him is already super rediculous. So this is just even more of a downgrade. I think I see what their trying to do parody JD, by making him super pathadic, but the problem is the story also wants you to see him as threat. Its like seriously writers you should of just picked a lane.

Tension rises between Veronica after she saves JD's ass. With her being pissed that he didn't tell her, he was going to kill Betty.

Veronica crashes the car to give him an alibi while musing "JD showed his true colors tonight its time I showed mine."

[gwenivere]

       *    💘 — what and/or who do you consider near and dear to you? ✈️ — ever traveled anywhere interesting? 🎮— favorite video game(s)? 🖊— any tattoos? 🍰 — favorite sweet(s)/dessert(s)? 🐶 — any pets? 📕 — favorite book/series? 😗 — what are some of your favorite things to do when you have some time to yourself? 💯 — share three random facts about yourself that your mutuals may not know about you. !!          ›          @manaborn      ,   prompt   [ … ]   accepting

💘 — what and / or who do you consider near and dear to you? obviously , at the top of my list , there's my family , composed of my mother , father and younger sibling .   also high up there is my girlfriend , carmen , who was also one of my first partners on here funnily enough .   these four , alongside my best friend , are the people i consider the closest and dearest to me .   in terms of objects , i'd have to answer books and tea , if only because i love both and they play an instrumental part in my daily life .   i would also consider my job to be something near and dear to me , if only because i'm lucky enough that i get to do something everyday that makes me happy .

✈️ — ever traveled anywhere interesting ? there are two places i consider to be the most interesting .   the first is sidney by the sea , a small town on the island of vancouver in western canada .   sidney by the sea is the country's sole booktown , and i had the privilege to spend an afternoon roaming through all of the various bookstores before watching the sun set in the sea at the nearby beach .   it's a wonderful place , if you can afford to go .   the other interesting place i've traveled to is lebanon .   i might be biased since i'm lebanese on my father's side , but i genuinely think the entire country is gorgeous and worth visiting , and i miss going there , although it's harder to visit now that my grandparents have both passed away .   i also sometimes joke with my family that lebanon is the only place in the world where you can choose to go ski in the morning and go to the beach in the evening .

🎮 — favorite video game(s) ? bloodborne is my favorite game ever , but other games i enjoy include the soulsborne series , identity v , the dishonored series , celeste and the house in fata morgana .   i also want to try splatoon , in spite of being bad at shooters , lol .   

🖊 — any tattoos ? unfortunately , no , since i'm scared of needles .   i was toying with the idea of getting the scarlet wing's flower or the red butterfly from mia goodwin's tomboy down the line , but since i'm approaching my thirties , i'm debating on whether or not i should since i am starting to consider myself too old for tattoos .   

🍰 — favorite sweet(s)/dessert(s) ? i'm fond of french pastries , mostly st. honoré cakes and religieuses , as well as more traditional lebanese sweets like qatayef and kadaif .   i also like strawberry shortcakes and mochis , as well as most gummies , peach rings especially .

🐶 — any pets ? none unfortunately , although i'd like to have one in the future once my girlfriend and i move in together .   i'd like to have a cat , but my sibling's allergic , so maybe a dog .

📕 — favorite book/series ? there are too many to enumerate , but some of my favorites include paradise rot by jenny hval , my sister the serial killer by oyinkan braithwaite , drive your plow over the bones of the dead by olga tokarczuk , her body and other parts by carmen maria machado , all's well by mona awad and nous , anastasia r. by patrice ordas and patrick cothias  ( which is available in french only )  .   in terms of series , i'm quite fond of the radiant emperor series by shelley parker-chan , the burning kingdom series by tasha suri and the magic of the lost series by c.l. clark .   books i'm looking forward to are silver nitrate by silvia moreno-garcia  ( which will include lebanese-mexican rep !! )  and a study in drowning by ava reid  ( my latest hyperfixation ) .

😗 — what are some of your favorite things to do when you have some time to yourself ? read and drink tea .   i also enjoy listening to music on my phone , although i am lucky enough to own a couple of cds by some of my favorite artists .   walking and exploring the nearby city is also something i enjoy doing by myself , alongside visiting bookstores or the national library .

😗 — what are some of your favorite things to do when you have some time to yourself ? read and drink tea .   i also enjoy listening to music on my phone , although i am lucky enough to own a couple of cds by some of my favorite artists .   walking and exploring the nearby city is also something i enjoy doing by myself , alongside visiting bookstores or the national library .

💯 — share three random facts about yourself that your mutuals may not know about you. 1. my favorite flowers are lilac , hortensia and lavender .   2. i work as a teacher specialized in teaching immigrant kids and teens .   3 . my copy of a river through time  ( the first guinevere jones book by random house australia )   is signed by tamara hope , who played gwen in the show .

[adrianparker]

ADRIAN PARKER

Welcome to Aurora Bay, [ADRIAN AWANG PARKER]! I couldn’t help but notice you look an awful lot like [HENRY GOLDING]. You must be the [THIRTY-FIVE] year old [ANIMAL ATTENDANT AT SEASIDE PET RESCUE & FORMER COMPETITIVE FIGURE SKATER]. Word is you’re [SELFLESS] but can also be a bit [SCATTERBRAINED] and your favorite song is [I’M STILL STANDING by ELTON JOHN]. I also heard you’ll be staying in [AURORA BAY DRIVE]. I’m sure you’ll love it!

Basics:

Full name: Adrian Awang Aati Parker

Birthday: July 7th

Zodiac Sign: Cancer

Age: 35

Gender: Cismale

Orientation: Chaotic Bisexual

Hometown: Born in San Jose, CA; grew up in Colorado Springs

Education: Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Technology

Occupation: Animal Attendant @ Seaside Pet Rescue & Pro Figure Skater

Residence: Aurora Bay Drive

Personality:

Positive traits: Selfless, compassionate, active

Negative traits: Scatterbrained, impulsive, frivolous

Fears: Causing someone harm, earthquakes, tight closed spaces

Likes: Animals, travel, people

Dislikes: Being inactive for too long, when people are in their phones all the time, bad weather

Hobbies: Surfing, swimming, figure skating, dog walking, rock climbing, drinking coffee, pet photography.

Languages: English, Malay, Malaysian Mandarin, Iban, some Spanish, some Cantonese; From traveling & competitions: some Japanese, some Russian, some French

Bio:

Adrian was born well off financially. His father was a successful NHL player and his mother a medical director. They afforded him a very comfortable lifestyle and created opportunities that many can only dream of. It kind of shows that he lives comfortably even by the way he acts sometimes and he doesn't even realize it.

From the time he was four years old, Adrian devoted his life to the sport of figure skating. He was a successful singles skater well into his early 20s, competing in the Olympic Games twice before switching to the ice dance field when the men's field became too competitive. It was a learning curve but he found a lot of success as an ice dancer, which he always attributed to his talented partner in interviews. They won a bronze Olympic medal and two US national championships.

While he had his influential skating platform, he did collaborations to support animal rescue clinics and animal hospitals. The Seaside Pet Rescue in Aurora Bay is one that he personally helped get funding for.

He studied veterinary technology while he was still competing (and due to this, it took him a lot longer to complete a degree but he finally did).

During the off seasons, he sometimes went on missions to help provide care and medical treatment to stray cat and dog colonies in Malaysia, Vietnam and Thailand. Posting about it on social media got him popularity (though maybe looking pretty in the hot weather didn't hurt either).

Due to coming from a rich background, Adrian never really considered money to be an issue and it's sometimes a wonder if he even realizes some people legitimately struggle with it. He's always quick to help others without hesitation if he can. He never really considers it a burden and doesn't think twice about it. Because he gives so freely, he's gotten taken advantage of in the past, but life goes on.

Since moving to Aurora Bay, he's gotten into surfing. Though he's not amazing at it, he enjoys being out in the sun on the water. It's one of the reasons he picked a condo by the beach.

Mostly he's here to live a relaxed life as well as he can.

Wanted Connections:

Former (or current?) ice dance partner.

Flirtationship with a neighbor with whom there's sexual tension and chemistry but he doesn't want to make things weird due to how they live so close and have to see each other all the time.

Friends he does physical activities with such as surfing, hiking, etc.

more tba...

[thomasrayan12]

Explore Inspirational Motivational Startup Stories to Drive Your Ambition

Starting a business from scratch requires grit, determination, and a willingness to face challenges head-on. Many successful entrepreneurs have gone through difficult times before achieving their goals. By exploring motivational startup stories, aspiring business owners can gain insights and inspiration for their own ventures. Whether you’re looking for e-commerce ideas to make money or simply seeking motivation for your entrepreneurial journey, these stories of resilience and innovation will help drive your ambition.

The Rise of Amazon: From Online Bookseller to E-Commerce Giant

One of the most inspirational startup stories is that of Amazon. Founded by Jeff Bezos in 1994 as an online bookstore, Amazon began with the simple idea of selling books online. However, Bezos had a broader vision—he wanted to create the world’s largest online marketplace.

In its early years, Amazon faced several financial struggles and skepticism from investors. Despite these challenges, Bezos focused on long-term growth, reinvesting profits into expanding the business. Today, Amazon is a global e-commerce giant that sells everything from books to electronics, apparel, and groceries. The key takeaway from Amazon’s journey is the importance of having a clear vision and staying committed to your goals despite setbacks.

Amazon’s success also serves as a reminder for aspiring entrepreneurs to explore e-commerce ideas to make money by identifying untapped opportunities in online retail.

Airbnb: Turning a Simple Idea into a Global Hospitality Leader

Airbnb’s story is another remarkable example of how an idea can evolve into a successful global business. Founders Brian Chesky and Joe Gebbia started Airbnb in 2008 by renting out air mattresses in their apartment to make extra money. The concept was simple—helping people find affordable lodging while traveling.

However, Chesky and Gebbia faced initial skepticism from both investors and customers. They struggled to gain traction, and their business idea was dismissed by many as impractical. But through persistence, creativity, and the use of an innovative platform, Airbnb expanded into one of the world’s largest hospitality companies, offering millions of listings in more than 220 countries.

The story of Airbnb is a powerful example of how solving a real-world problem with a unique approach can lead to tremendous success. For those looking to start their own venture, it highlights the importance of perseverance and being willing to adapt your business model when necessary.

Glossier: Building a Beauty Empire Through Customer Engagement

Emily Weiss, the founder of Glossier, built her beauty brand by focusing on customer engagement and creating a strong sense of community. Glossier started as a blog called Into The Gloss, where Weiss shared beauty tips and insights. By engaging with her audience, Weiss realized there was a gap in the market for beauty products designed with customer input in mind.

In 2014, she launched Glossier, offering a line of skincare and makeup products that catered to the needs of her audience. Glossier’s business model emphasized direct-to-consumer sales, relying heavily on social media and online marketing. Weiss prioritized customer feedback and created products that resonated with her audience, leading to rapid growth and brand loyalty.

Glossier’s journey highlights how deep customer engagement and understanding market needs can drive success. It also showcases the potential for e-commerce ideas to make money in niche markets by focusing on community building and direct-to-consumer strategies.

Warby Parker: Disrupting the Eyewear Industry with an Innovative Model

Warby Parker was founded in 2010 by four friends—Neil Blumenthal, Andrew Hunt, David Gilboa, and Jeffrey Raider—who wanted to make stylish eyewear affordable. At the time, the eyewear market was dominated by a few players, with high prices that left many customers frustrated. The founders saw an opportunity to disrupt the industry by offering affordable, high-quality glasses through a direct-to-consumer model.

By cutting out middlemen and selling directly to consumers online, Warby Parker could offer stylish glasses at a fraction of the cost. The company also introduced a home try-on program, allowing customers to test out glasses before making a purchase. This innovative approach not only saved customers money but also provided a convenient and personalized shopping experience.

Warby Parker’s journey from startup to a billion-dollar company is a testament to how innovation and customer-focused business models can disrupt traditional industries. Entrepreneurs can learn from their success and apply similar strategies to their own ventures, especially when exploring e-commerce ideas to make money in underserved markets.

Tesla: Revolutionizing the Auto Industry with Electric Cars

Tesla, led by CEO Elon Musk, is a startup story that highlights the power of visionary leadership and long-term thinking. Tesla was founded in 2003 with the mission of accelerating the world’s transition to sustainable energy through electric vehicles. At the time, the idea of mass-producing electric cars was met with skepticism, and Tesla faced numerous challenges, including production delays and financial difficulties.

Despite these hurdles, Musk remained committed to Tesla’s vision. By continually pushing the boundaries of technology and innovation, Tesla introduced electric vehicles that rivaled traditional gasoline-powered cars in both performance and design. Tesla’s ability to scale production and create a brand synonymous with cutting-edge technology and sustainability has made it one of the most valuable automakers in the world.

Tesla’s success is a reminder that ambitious goals and a willingness to take risks can lead to groundbreaking achievements. For entrepreneurs, Tesla’s journey demonstrates the importance of staying focused on your mission, even when faced with obstacles.

Conclusion

These motivational startup stories—Amazon, Airbnb, Glossier, Warby Parker, and Tesla—offer valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. They show that success often comes from solving real-world problems, staying committed to your vision, and embracing innovation. Whether you’re in the early stages of brainstorming e-commerce ideas to make money or already building a business, these stories provide the inspiration and guidance needed to drive your ambition and achieve your goals.

[collingsmedia]

Unlocking the Power of Effective Digital Media Strategies for Small Businesses

In today’s digital age, small businesses have unprecedented access to powerful tools and platforms that can drive their growth. Harnessing effective digital media strategies can be a game-changer, helping small enterprises compete with larger competitors and engage more meaningfully with their target audiences. This guide will explore why digital media matters, outline what constitutes effective strategies, and provide actionable steps for small businesses to elevate their digital presence.

Why Digital Media Matters for Small Enterprises

Overview of the Digital Landscape for Small Businesses

The digital landscape offers a diverse array of opportunities for small businesses. From social media platforms to search engine optimization (SEO), businesses can leverage these tools to enhance their visibility and connect with potential customers. Digital media has democratized marketing, allowing small businesses to reach a global audience without the hefty budgets traditionally required for such outreach. This shift has transformed the way businesses operate, offering more affordable and scalable solutions for engaging with customers.

Key Statistics Highlighting the Importance of Digital Media

Consider these compelling statistics: Over 4.5 billion people use social media worldwide, and 93% of online experiences begin with a search engine. Moreover, 81% of consumers conduct online research before making a purchase decision. These numbers underscore the critical role of digital media in today’s business environment. Small businesses that fail to embrace digital media miss out on these opportunities and may struggle to compete effectively.

Real-World Examples of Success Stories

Numerous small businesses have leveraged digital media to achieve significant success. Take, for instance, Warby Parker, a startup that disrupted the eyewear industry with its innovative online model and savvy social media campaigns. Similarly, Glossier, a beauty brand that grew from a blog into a multi-million dollar company, effectively utilized social media to build a strong, engaged community. These examples illustrate how small businesses can achieve remarkable results through strategic digital media use.

Setting the Stage: What Are Effective Digital Media Strategies?

Defining Digital Media Strategies for Small Businesses

Effective digital media strategies involve a comprehensive plan that integrates various digital channels and tools to achieve specific business goals. These strategies encompass everything from content creation and social media management to SEO and email marketing. The key is to create a cohesive plan that aligns with the business’s objectives and resonates with the target audience.

How Effective Strategies Differ from Traditional Methods

Traditional marketing methods, such as print ads and direct mail, often involve significant costs and lack precise tracking. In contrast, digital media strategies provide measurable results, allowing businesses to track engagement, conversions, and ROI more effectively. Digital strategies are also more flexible, enabling real-time adjustments based on performance data, which is a significant advantage over traditional methods.

The Role of Digital Media in Overall Business Growth

Digital media plays a crucial role in business growth by enhancing brand visibility, driving traffic to websites, and generating leads. It also facilitates customer engagement and feedback, which can be invaluable for improving products and services. By integrating digital media into their overall marketing efforts, small businesses can achieve sustained growth and build a stronger connection with their audience.

Objectives of This Guide

What You Will Learn from This Guide

This guide aims to equip small business owners with practical knowledge and strategies for leveraging digital media effectively. You will learn how to develop a comprehensive digital media plan, create engaging content, utilize social media platforms, and measure the success of your efforts. Each section provides actionable insights designed to help you implement effective strategies and drive business results.

How to Use These Strategies to Drive Business Results

To drive business results, apply the strategies outlined in this guide to your specific business context. Start by setting clear objectives and aligning your digital media efforts with your overall business goals. Use data and insights to refine your approach and continuously optimize your strategies for better performance.

Encouraging Actionable Steps for Immediate Implementation

Begin by assessing your current digital media presence and identifying areas for improvement. Create a detailed plan that outlines your goals, target audience, and key tactics. Implement your strategies step-by-step, monitor performance, and make adjustments as needed. Taking immediate action will set the foundation for long-term success.

Crafting Your Digital Media Presence: Core Principles of Effective Strategies

Developing a Comprehensive Digital Media Plan

Creating a strategic digital media plan involves several key steps. Start by defining your objectives and identifying your target audience. Next, select the digital channels that best align with your goals. Develop a content strategy and establish a timeline for implementation. Tools such as digital media planning software and project management apps can help streamline this process and ensure a well-organized approach.

Identifying and Understanding Your Target Audience

Understanding your target audience is critical for crafting effective digital media strategies. Conduct market research to gather insights into your audience’s demographics, preferences, and behaviors. Develop detailed buyer personas to guide your content creation and messaging. Analyzing audience data will help you tailor your strategies to better meet their needs and interests.

Choosing the Right Digital Media Channels

Selecting the right digital media channels is essential for maximizing your reach and engagement. Popular platforms include social media channels (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn), search engines (e.g., Google), and email marketing tools. Evaluate each channel’s suitability based on your business model and target audience. Balancing multiple channels can also enhance your overall strategy and increase your chances of reaching a broader audience.

Creating Engaging Content: Effective Content Strategies for Small Business Success

Developing a Content Calendar

A content calendar is a valuable tool for maintaining consistency in your digital media efforts. It helps you plan and schedule content in advance, ensuring that you consistently deliver relevant and timely information to your audience. Tools like Trello, Asana, and Google Calendar can assist in managing your content calendar effectively.

Crafting Compelling Content

Compelling content is key to capturing your audience’s attention and driving engagement. Follow best practices such as writing clear, concise, and relevant content that resonates with your audience. Incorporate visuals and multimedia elements to enhance appeal and convey your message more effectively. Additionally, leveraging user-generated content can build credibility and foster a sense of community.

Optimizing Content for Search and Engagement

To maximize the impact of your content, implement SEO strategies tailored to your business. This includes using relevant keywords, optimizing meta descriptions, and ensuring your content is mobile-friendly. Techniques such as internal linking and creating shareable content can also boost visibility and engagement. Regularly measure content performance and make improvements based on data and feedback.

Leveraging Social Media: Integrating Effective Digital Media Strategies for Small Businesses

Building a Strong Social Media Presence

A strong social media presence begins with a well-crafted profile that reflects your brand’s identity. Use high-quality visuals, a compelling bio, and consistent branding elements to create an appealing profile. Growing your social media following organically involves engaging with your audience, sharing valuable content, and participating in relevant conversations.

Engaging with Your Audience on Social Media

Engaging with your audience on social media involves fostering interaction and dialogue. Respond to comments and messages promptly, and encourage user participation through polls, questions, and contests. Manage your online reputation by addressing negative feedback professionally and transparently. Use social media insights to refine your strategy and better connect with your audience.

Running Social Media Campaigns

Effective social media campaigns require careful planning and execution. Define clear objectives, set a budget, and create targeted ads that align with your goals. Monitor campaign performance and adjust your tactics based on results. Analyzing campaign data will help you understand what works best and refine your approach for future campaigns.

Measuring Success: Analyzing and Adjusting Effective Digital Media Strategies for Small Businesses

Tracking Key Metrics and KPIs

Monitoring key metrics and KPIs is essential for evaluating the success of your digital media strategies. Key metrics include website traffic, engagement rates, conversion rates, and ROI. Utilize analytics tools such as Google Analytics and social media insights to track and analyze performance data.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Your Strategies

To assess the impact of your digital media efforts, evaluate how well your strategies are meeting your objectives. Techniques such as A/B testing and performance analysis can help you understand which tactics are most effective. Review case studies of successful digital media evaluations to gain insights into best practices.

Adjusting Strategies Based on Performance

Based on your performance data, make data-driven adjustments to improve your results. This may involve tweaking your content strategy, reallocating your budget, or exploring new digital channels. Regularly reviewing and refining your strategies will help you stay competitive and achieve long-term success.

Conclusion: Implementing and Evolving Effective Digital Media Strategies for Small Businesses

Recap of Key Points

Effective digital media strategies are crucial for small business growth. Key elements include developing a comprehensive plan, understanding your target audience, creating engaging content, leveraging social media, and measuring success. Implementing these strategies can enhance your visibility, drive engagement, and achieve your business goals.

Next Steps for Your Digital Media Journey

Start by assessing your current digital media presence and setting clear objectives. Create a detailed plan, implement your strategies, and monitor performance. Explore additional resources for learning and development, and consider seeking professional support to further enhance your efforts.

Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Digital media offers incredible opportunities for small businesses to grow and thrive. Embrace these strategies with enthusiasm and commitment, and remember that continuous learning and adaptation are key to long-term success. Take the next step in your digital media journey, and watch your business reach new heights.

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Finding the Cheapest Overnight Parking in Melbourne CBD

Parking in Melbourne’s Central Business District (CBD) can be a challenge, especially when looking for affordable overnight options. However, with a bit of research and planning, it is possible to find convenient and cost-effective parking solutions that won’t break the bank.

Research and Comparison: The Key to Savings

The first step in finding the cheapest overnight parking melbourne cbd is to compare prices across different parking facilities. Several websites and mobile apps allow you to search for parking options by location, duration, and price. Popular platforms like Secure Parking, Wilson Parking, and Ace Parking often offer special rates for overnight stays, especially if you book online in advance. By taking the time to compare these options, you can save significantly on your parking expenses.

Early Bird and Night Owl Discounts

Many parking facilities in Melbourne CBD offer early bird and night owl discounts, which can be a great way to reduce costs. Early bird rates typically apply if you enter and exit the parking facility within specific hours, usually between 6 AM and 10 AM, and leave by the end of the day. Night owl discounts, on the other hand, are for those entering the parking facility in the late evening and leaving the next morning. These deals are particularly useful if you’re staying overnight and can plan your arrival and departure accordingly.

Street Parking: A Budget-Friendly Alternative

While off-street parking in garages is often more secure and convenient, street parking can be a cheaper alternative if you’re staying overnight. Melbourne CBD has several streets with metered parking that is either free or significantly cheaper after a certain hour in the evening until early morning. However, it’s important to carefully read the parking signs to avoid fines, as restrictions can vary from one street to another. Additionally, some areas may have time limits, so be sure to move your car before the restrictions resume.

Park and Ride Options

Another cost-effective strategy is to use park-and-ride services available at train stations and tram stops located just outside the CBD. By parking in the suburbs and taking public transport into the city, you can avoid the high costs associated with parking directly in the CBD. This option is ideal for those who don’t mind a short commute and want to save on parking fees while still enjoying easy access to the city center.

Online Booking and Loyalty Programs

Many parking providers in Melbourne CBD offer discounts and promotions for online bookings. By reserving your parking spot in advance through the provider’s website or a third-party platform, you can often secure lower rates than if you were to just drive up. Additionally, some parking operators have loyalty programs that reward frequent parkers with points or discounts on future parking. If you regularly need overnight parking in the CBD, joining one of these programs could lead to significant savings over time.

Conclusion: Planning is Key to Affordable Parking

Finding the cheapest overnight parking in Melbourne CBD requires a bit of planning and strategy. By comparing different parking options, taking advantage of early bird or night owl discounts, considering street parking, and exploring park-and-ride services, you can save money while ensuring your car is safely parked overnight. With the right approach, you can enjoy Melbourne’s vibrant CBD without worrying about excessive parking fees.

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Sunglasses on Sale: How to Find the Best Deals on Affordable Sunglasses

Sunglasses have evolved from being a mere accessory to a necessary element for both style and eye protection. Whether you're driving, hitting the beach, or simply enjoying a sunny day, a good pair of sunglasses can make all the difference. However, the high prices of top brands can be a significant deterrent. This guide aims to show you that finding the best deals on affordable sunglasses is not only possible but can also be a fun and rewarding experience.

Understanding Different Types of Sunglasses

When searching for the best deals on affordable sunglasses, it's crucial to understand the various types available. Sunglasses come in different shapes, sizes, and functionalities, each serving a unique purpose. From aviators and wayfarers to sports and fashion sunglasses, knowing what suits your needs will help narrow down your options and make your shopping experience more efficient.

Importance of UV Protection in Sunglasses

One of the most important aspects to consider when buying sunglasses is UV protection. Prolonged exposure to the sun's harmful UV rays can lead to severe eye problems, including cataracts and macular degeneration. Therefore, ensure that any sunglasses you purchase, even if on sale, offer 100% UV protection. Many affordable brands provide this feature, so there's no need to compromise on safety for the sake of savings.

Popular Brands Offering Affordable Sunglasses

Several brands are renowned for offering stylish and high-quality sunglasses at affordable prices. Companies like Ray-Ban, Oakley, and Warby Parker have ranges that cater to budget-conscious consumers without sacrificing quality. Additionally, brands like Quay Australia and Sunglass Warehouse provide trendy designs that won't break the bank. Keeping an eye on these brands can help you snag a great deal during sales.

Where to Find the Best Deals on Sunglasses

Knowing where to shop is half the battle when it comes to finding affordable sunglasses. Major retail chains, specialty sunglass stores, and online platforms like Amazon and eBay often have extensive collections with competitive prices. Additionally, checking out smaller boutiques or local stores during their clearance sales can lead to unexpected finds at unbeatable prices.

Shopping During Seasonal Sales

Seasonal sales, such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and end-of-season sales, are excellent opportunities to purchase sunglasses at discounted prices. Retailers often offer significant markdowns during these periods, allowing you to buy high-quality sunglasses at a fraction of their original price. To maximize your savings, create a shopping list ahead of time and keep an eye on your favorite brands for any announcements regarding upcoming sales.

Taking Advantage of Online Discounts

The internet is a treasure trove of deals and discounts. Many online retailers offer exclusive deals that you won't find in physical stores. Websites like Groupon and RetailMeNot compile the latest discount codes and promotions, making it easier for you to find the best deals on affordable sunglasses. Additionally, signing up for newsletters from your favorite brands can grant you access to special promotions and early sale notifications.

Exploring Outlet Stores for Bargains

Outlet stores are known for offering products at reduced prices, and sunglasses are no exception. Brands like Sunglass Hut and Designer Outlet have outlets where you can find last season’s styles or overstock items at significantly lower prices. While the selection might not always be up-to-date with the latest trends, the quality and affordability make it worth a visit.

Utilizing Coupons and Promo Codes

Coupons and promo codes can significantly reduce the cost of your sunglasses purchase. These can be found through various channels, including online coupon websites, store newsletters, and even social media pages of your favorite brands. Before making a purchase, always search for available coupons or promo codes that can be applied at checkout to ensure you're getting the best possible deal.

Understanding the Role of Sunglass Trends

Fashion trends play a significant role in the pricing of sunglasses. Staying informed about the latest trends can help you make savvy purchasing decisions. While trendy sunglasses might come with a higher price tag initially, waiting for the trend to cool down can lead to significant savings. Alternatively, investing in classic styles that never go out of fashion ensures longevity and better value for money.

The Impact of Material and Build on Price

The materials and construction of sunglasses heavily influence their price. High-end sunglasses often use materials like acetate, titanium, or polarized lenses, which offer superior durability and performance. However, there are affordable options that still provide excellent quality. Understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions and find sunglasses that offer the best value for your budget.

Prescription vs. Non-Prescription Sunglasses

If you wear prescription glasses, investing in prescription sunglasses might be necessary. While these can be more expensive than non-prescription sunglasses, many online retailers offer affordable options. Websites like Zenni Optical and EyeBuyDirect provide prescription sunglasses at competitive prices. Additionally, some brands offer clip-on or magnetic lenses that can be attached to your existing prescription glasses, offering a budget-friendly alternative.

Second-Hand and Vintage Sunglasses: Yay or Nay?

Buying second-hand or vintage sunglasses can be a great way to find unique styles at a lower cost. However, it’s essential to ensure that they are in good condition and offer adequate UV protection. Websites like Depop, Poshmark, and even thrift stores can be good places to hunt for vintage sunglasses. Always check for scratches on the lenses and the overall build quality before making a purchase.

Comparing Prices Across Different Retailers

Price comparison is a crucial step in finding the best deals. With numerous retailers offering sunglasses, prices can vary significantly. Utilize price comparison websites or tools like Google Shopping to compare prices across different platforms. This practice ensures you’re not overpaying and helps you find the most affordable option available.

Benefits of Buying Sunglasses in Bulk

Purchasing sunglasses in bulk can lead to substantial savings, especially if you have a large family or frequently lose or damage your sunglasses. Many retailers offer discounts for bulk purchases. This strategy can be particularly useful for simpler, everyday styles rather than high-end designer sunglasses. It’s an efficient way to ensure you always have a spare pair on hand without spending a fortune.

How to Identify Genuine Sunglasses

When shopping for deals, especially online, it's crucial to ensure the authenticity of the sunglasses. Counterfeit sunglasses can be prevalent and often lack the necessary UV protection. Check for brand-specific markings, serial numbers, and purchase from reputable retailers to avoid counterfeit products. Authentic sunglasses will provide the quality and protection you expect, making them worth the investment.

Ensuring Warranty and Return Policies

Always check the warranty and return policies when purchasing sunglasses, especially during sales. A good warranty ensures that you can replace or repair your sunglasses in case of defects. Retailers with flexible return policies provide peace of mind, allowing you to return or exchange sunglasses if they don’t meet your expectations. This consideration is particularly important when shopping online.

Customer Reviews: An Essential Guide

Customer reviews can offer invaluable insights into the quality and performance of sunglasses. Reading reviews on retail websites, forums, and social media can help you make an informed decision. Pay attention to recurring themes in the reviews, such as comfort, durability, and UV protection. This feedback from other buyers can guide you towards the best deals without compromising on quality.

The Influence of Celebrity Endorsements

Celebrity endorsements can drive the popularity and price of certain sunglasses. While endorsed products often come with a premium price, they can sometimes be found on sale. Keep an eye on these deals if you’re interested in sunglasses popularized by celebrities, but be cautious of overpaying for the brand name alone. It’s always wise to balance style with practicality and affordability.

Accessorizing Your Sunglasses

Accessorizing your sunglasses can enhance their functionality and style. Items like protective cases, cleaning kits, and straps can prolong the life of your sunglasses and add a personal touch. These accessories are often available at discounted prices during sales, making them a worthwhile addition to your purchase. Proper care and maintenance can ensure your sunglasses stay in good condition for years to come.

Customizing Your Sunglasses

Customization options like engraved initials, colored lenses, and unique frames can make your sunglasses truly unique. Many brands offer customization services, allowing you to create a pair that reflects your personal style. While customization can sometimes add to the cost, it can also make your sunglasses a special and lasting accessory. Look out for discounts on customization services during sales.

Sunglasses Maintenance and Care Tips

Proper maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity of your sunglasses. Regularly cleaning the lenses with a microfiber cloth, storing them in a protective case, and avoiding harsh chemicals can keep them in excellent condition. Additionally, checking the screws and hinges periodically can prevent damage. These simple care tips can help you get the most out of your investment.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Sunglasses Options

Eco-friendly and sustainable sunglasses are becoming increasingly popular. Brands like Pala and Woodzee offer stylish, affordable options made from recycled or biodegradable materials. Choosing sustainable sunglasses not only benefits the environment but often comes with high-quality craftsmanship. These options are available at competitive prices and can often be found on sale, making them a smart choice for the eco-conscious consumer.

Common Mistakes When Buying Sunglasses on Sale

When hunting for deals, it’s easy to make mistakes that can lead to buyer’s remorse. Common pitfalls include prioritizing style over functionality, neglecting UV protection, and falling for counterfeit products. Avoid these mistakes by setting clear priorities, verifying product authenticity, and reading customer reviews. With careful consideration, you can find sunglasses that offer both style and substance at an affordable price.

Conclusion

Finding the best deals on affordable sunglasses is a combination of strategy, knowledge, and patience. By understanding the different types of sunglasses, leveraging seasonal sales, utilizing online discounts, and being mindful of common pitfalls, you can secure high-quality sunglasses without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for the latest trends or timeless classics, the tips and tricks in this guide will help you navigate the market and find the perfect pair at the best price.