#EVERYDAY IS BIKE NIGHT MONDAY WEDNESDAY FRIDAY | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

sunmoonandeddie · 4 years ago

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saturdays

pairing: bucky barnes x reader

word count: 3,467

summary: Bucky Barnes has a new routine.

warnings: Some swearing

a/n: This was my March 2020 one shot for my Patreon that they received early access to. Let me know what y’all think!

Bucky Barnes has a new routine.

Sundays are for sleeping in before eventually making his way to Brooklyn, where he picks up three bouquets and an egg, bacon, and cheese breakfast sandwich from Sal’s bodega before going to the cemetery. He sits against his sister’s tombstone—his parents’ to his right—and eats his late breakfast. He sits and talks for a few hours before leaving the flowers on their graves. He always has to have peonies, since those were Becca’s favorites.

Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays are for training. He wakes up at five in the morning to go running with Sam, something he thought would end when Steve went back to be with Peggy Carter. But he wasn’t bitter. No.

But which thing he wasn’t bitter about, he’d never tell.

Along with the run, he spends most of the day sparring and battling simulations in the gym. He has short breaks for meals, but he pretty much is on go until after dinner, when he goes straight to bed.

But Fridays are his favorite. Because he gets to sleep in until nine-thirty in the morning, which is a luxury he’s not used to. Then Sam and him grab a late breakfast together before Bucky goes into the city for his therapy session.

And Bucky likes his therapist! Which he was really, really surprised about! But Marlene is good. Marlene is good because she doesn’t placate him. She calls him out on his shit, and pushes him forward. Because if it had been up to him, he would’ve stopped seeing her after their third meeting, when she had him drawing with fucking crayons that snapped in his hand way too easily. But it’s been over a year since he started seeing her, and even though he still has his bad days, his bad days now would’ve been his best days before.

“So, you think you’re finally ready to go through Rebecca’s things?” Marlene asks, looking at him with a peaceful expression.

“I don’t think so, I am,” he says firmly, feeling a rush of triumph as a smile spreads across her lips. “It’s time, you know?”

She nods in understanding, humming. “Do you have someone going with you?”

Usually, Sam would go with him for things like this, and just in general. They were attached at the hip, especially after the whole Steve leaving thing.

Yeah, they were both hit pretty hard with that.

“Yes, but I…” He sighs, rubbing his hands on his jeans. “I think this is something I need to do alone. At least, the going through her stuff part… But he is going with me to move the stuff to the Tower.”

“Good, good,” she says, her brows slightly furrowed. “And how are you feeling today about Steve leaving?”

Bucky lets out a huff of air, taking a moment to think about it. “To be completely honest with you… I’m kind of over it today. I have other things to do and yeah, I would’ve liked him to be here for it, but that’s not how it is. And him leaving is more about him than it is about me.” He shrugs, his lips pressed into a thin line. “Just because he decided to go back doesn’t mean he wanted to leave me.”

Marlene sets her clipboard to the side, a warm smile on her face. “Well, Bucky, I think we’ll end today on that thought.” She stands up, offering her hand for him to shake as she does everyday. “You’ve done well today. You should be proud of yourself.”

He leaves with a wave and a “See you next week!” as he always does.

He hadn’t known about the storage unit full of his sister’s stuff until about eight months ago, when he asked Maria Hill if there was anything left of hers. He knew that SHIELD had been the ones to take control of her assets when she had no children, since she was the sister of a Howling Commando and the best friend of Captain America.

Becca had died in December of 2013. He’d missed her by less than six months.

It was heartbreaking when he first found out, and still is, if he was being honest. But at least he has her stuff to go through, even though he has no idea what all is going to be in the storage unit. Stevie hadn’t had anything other than what the Smithsonian had snatched up.

The car ride to the storage facility is quiet, Sam at the wheel. Bucky still hasn’t gotten his license, since he doesn’t see a point. Why should he when there’s the subway and Uber and even just good old fashioned walking? “You’ve gotta save the Earth, Sam,” he says when he really feels like irritating the other man.

“You sure you’re ready for this, man?” Sam asks as they stand in front of storage unit 429.

“Yeah,” Buck says, punching in the key code and lifting up the door. “Yeah, I’m ready.” He flips the light switch on the wall, and is shocked by just how much stuff there is. There’s boxes upon boxes upon boxes.

Sam’s hands go to his hips as he looks at it, whistling. “Alright. Let’s get it loaded.”

It takes several hours and three trips to get everything from the storage unit to the Tower, and by the end of it, the both of them just collapse on the couch with a couple of beers and a pizza to share between them.

But Saturday morning comes bright and early, and even though it’s his only day out of the week where he has absolutely nothing to do, Bucky knows he has to start going through her things.

The first four boxes are just clothes. Clothes upon clothes upon clothes. He finds a baby blue dress that she used to wear for church, starched to perfection, and he holds it to his chest for a long time. He cries then.

And he knows that the fact that she’s hoarded so many clothes has a lot to do from growing up during the Depression. He still finds himself falling into old habits of checking the price of food, despite the fact that he never has to worry about money again with his Avengers salary and the backpay from being a POW.

He finds his parents’ wedding rings, and the string of pearls his ma wore for special occasions.

And then he finds an old shoe box, and when he opens it up, he finds letters. Letters upon letters upon letters. They’re in bundles, tied together with fraying ribbon. The paper is yellowed and soft from being folded and unfolded so many times, and he can see the looping black letters that covered the pages.

He takes the ones that look the oldest and unties them, he takes the top one from the stack and sets the rest to the side, before carefully unfolding it.

“Ruthie,” he says quietly as he reads the name at the bottom, not even bothering to read it yet. “Ruthie…” His eyes pop open as he suddenly remembers, remembers receiving letters everyday from a girl in the Bronx. They were never romantic, but it was nice being able to write to someone and not having to hide how bad it was, like he had to with his ma and Becca. She even sent her picture once, so he could know who he was writing to. “Ruthie!”

He spends the rest of the day reading the letters, and passes out sometime around four in the morning with his face on a letter. He takes the letters with him to his family’s graves the next day, reading to them after he replaces the flowers.

It takes him two more days to finish reading all the letters, in between breaks while training and staying up until he absolutely can’t.

He cries a lot while he reads it. He’s not afraid to admit that. But it’s nice to remember that he had a friend to listen to him during one of the worst times of his life.

Bucky’s almost afraid to look her up, to find out if she was still alive, and if he could go see her, to thank her. They wrote back and forth until the day he fell off the train, and he knows that had to be pretty jarring for her.

But then Sam finds out about the letters—it would be hard for him not to, considering that he was walking around with his nose in the letters for days—and it’s all over.

Turns out, she’s alive. She’s alive, and she’s still in Queens.

He goes the next Saturday, taking his bike all the way to the other borough. He looks a little intimidating and extremely different from how he looked back then, but he hopes she recognizes him. He really, really hopes she recognizes him, because otherwise this’ll be real awkward.

He stands in front of the door for a long time, taking his hands in and out of his pockets about eight times before he finally reaches up and knocks.

And then the door opens, and there’s Ruthie.

Well, not Ruthie, though at first glance, you’re the perfect picture of her. You’ve got her hair and her eyes, and the curve of her lips. But the nose is different.

“Can I help you?” You ask, raising your eyebrows at him. You’re wiping your hand on a hand towel, peering at him like you recognize him from somewhere but you don’t know where.

“Hi, uh,” he says slowly. His throat is suddenly so dry that he can barely talk. “I’m Bucky. Bucky Barnes. I was pen pals with—”

He’s cut off by Ruthie herself appearing in the doorway. She’s much older—she is ninety-nine, after all—but it’s definitely her. “Did you say Bucky Barnes?” The little old lady’s eyes widened as she saw him, her hand over her heart. “Oh, my stars, it’s really you. I heard about what happened to you, and I…” She shakes her head, clicking her tongue. “Why, it almost gave me a heart attack, you know.”

“Little Ruthie Pratt from Queens,” he says, reaching in his pocket and holding up the letters. “I found these while, uh, going through my sister’s stuff.”

“I still have mine!” Ruthie says, pulling him inside.

It’s nice and homey and everything that Bucky had thought it would be. The front foyer is covered in photos, and there’s quite a few of you. You’re clearly one of Ruthie’s pride and joys, if the sheer amount of them has anything to do about it.

“I used to read these to my grandbaby here,” Ruthie says as she comes back with an old oak jewelry box in hand. “Anytime she stayed the night—her parents worked a lot when she was growing up—she always asked me to read her one of my ‘Bucky letters.’”

“Grandmama,” you say, cheeks flushing as you avoid his eyes.

“It was so cute! She used to recite them word for word along with me!” Ruthie teases as they go to the living room.

It’s quaint, with soft pastel colors dominating the room. He sits on a floral sofa that’s got a circle with dark hair on it, the marking of a furry friend’s favorite spot. He watches as you move to the kitchen, grabbing a pitcher of what looks like tea and a few glasses.

You sit beside her with the ease of knowing that you belong here, pouring yourself a glass. “Grandmama, do you want some tea?”

She scoffs, rolling her eyes as she opens the box and looks for the oldest one. “You keep that monstrosity away from me,” she says. Seemingly remembering Bucky’s presence, she says, “My daughter’s husband is from Louisiana. Ridiculous man got both her and my grandbaby addicted to that absolute sludge.”

The secret smile you give him as the two of you listen to her tirade about sweet tea makes him feel at ease, and sets the tone for the rest of the afternoon.

Things go on as normal, or as normal as they can.

And Marlene happens to think that all of this is absolutely fantastic for him. She loves that he’s now spending time with Ruthie and you, reconnecting with his past while understanding that he doesn’t have to be the person he was in the letters.

He’s different. He’s not the Bucky that Ruthie knew back then.

It’s an unusually warm day in November four months later when he takes you out for a coffee, just the two of you. And it isn’t a date—really, it isn’t—but he finds himself wanting it to be about halfway through his second coffee.

And that’s why he starts talking about dating to Marlene, who had, quite frankly, been waiting for him to realize his feelings for a while.

“I think I’m in love with her,” he says as he storms into his therapy session, eyes wild and hair a disarray. He’s clearly been worrying real hard about it.

Marlene looks up at him, peering over the silver rim of her glasses. “Oh, really?” She says nonchalantly, as though she doesn’t have you in her notes about him. “And why is that?”

Bucky can’t help the frown on his face as he realizes that she didn’t even ask who he was talking about, because she knew. “I… I don’t know,” he says, slumping into his usual chair. “She makes me happy. Happier than I’ve ever been. And she always makes me laugh, even at the most inappropriate of times.” His gaze softens the more he thinks about you. “And she isn’t scared of me. She doesn’t judge me. She’s read about everything I did in the war, even before HYDRA, and she doesn’t care.” His hands are sweating as he rubs them together. “Actually, it’s not that she doesn’t care—she does care—but she cares because she… she loves me.”

You love him. And sure, he knows that. You’ve said that you love him multiple times, even if you only mean it as a friend way.

But the thought that he has someone who loves him that doesn’t have to is… groundbreaking.

“She loves me, and she wants me to be okay,” he says, looking up at Marlene then.

His therapist has a pleased look in her eyes, even if she won’t let it show with a smile. “I think she’s good for you,” she says simply, her pen held loosely in her hand. “Are you seeing her again soon?”

“I’m seeing her tomorrow night,” he says, his heart growing light. “We’re grabbing a few drinks to celebrate her finally graduating from cosmetology school.”

It’s a big deal for you, completely something. You’re smart, there’s no denying that, but when it comes to schooling… You’d done well in high school, but college proved to be the bane of your existence.

You’d dropped out in the middle of your junior year, and that had been it. You’d moved to Queens to live with Ruthie after, working various low level jobs and trying to find something that fit.

But you’d fit in at cosmetology school. Hell, you excelled. And you enjoyed it! You enjoyed waking up in the morning and going to your classes!

You cried when you got your certificate, and it was now framed in Ruthie’s house until you start your first salon job in two weeks.

“Are you going to tell her about your feelings?” Marlene asks curiously.

Now that makes him pause.

“... Should I?” Bucky asks, feeling a wave of anxiety coming over him. “What if she doesn’t feel the same way? And she sees me as just a friend?”

“If she’s really your friend, she won’t abandon you just because you tell her you have romantic feelings for her.”

“You sure about that?”

Marlene fixes him with a look, raising one perfectly sculpted eyebrow.

He runs his tongue over his teeth. “Fine. You’re sure,” he says, slumping a little in his chair. “Doesn’t mean it’s easy.”

She snorts, making a note on her pad. “I never said it was going to be easy, Bucky. Doesn’t mean it can’t be done.”

The next night, he spends an hour and a half trying to decide what to wear. “It shouldn’t be this hard,” he grumbles as he switches shirts for the forty-ninth time. “It’s just drinks.”

Sam, however, is having a great time watching his new best friend freak out over seeing a girl for the first time. “I mean, she already agreed to going out with your ugly mug, man. It’s not gonna matter what you wear.”

And in some way, that helps. A little.

But he does have to threaten Sam with bodily harm if he spies on his date that’s not really a date.

He almost boxes him the ear when he insists for the fourth time that it’s a date.

He shows up at your door with a bouquet of flowers from Sal’s bodega, the buttons of his dark blue henley left open, exposing a smattering of chest hair.

When you open the door, the air is knocked from his lungs. You look absolutely radiant. The light from the sinking sun is giving you a halo-like glow, and he’s sure, not for the first time, that you’re an actual angel.

“Hi,” you say, a flush on your cheeks as you see the flowers. “Are those… Are those for me?”

He nods dumbly, trying to swallow down the lump in his throat. “Y-Yes,” he says, pushing them into your arms. “As a congrats. For, you know, graduating. And stuff.”

“Thank you,” you say as you take them, handing them to Ruthie.

She’s standing just inside the door, a giddy look on her face as she holds the flowers, watching you take the motorcycle helmet from his hands. “Have her back by twelve!”

“Grandmama!”

“Fine! Twelve-thirty!”

You’re clearly embarrassed by her antics as he helps you on behind him, guiding your arms around his waist.

“You ready?” He asks, his voice breathy.

A shiver runs down your spine as you nod, wrapping your arms tighter around him as he starts the bike, taking off.

“She doesn’t actually mean that,” you say as he leads you into the tiny, out of the way bar. You’re fixing your hair, trying your best to appear presentable. “I’m grown, you know. I don’t… I don’t have a curfew.”

A slow smile spreads over his lips as he listens to you ramble. “I know,” he says finally, figuring he should put you out of your misery. “Ruthie does like to tease those she loves.”

The bar is quaint, clearly a local place that tourists haven’t invaded. He leads you to a high table, calling out your order to the lone bartender.

“So, I—”

“I like you,” Bucky says, unintentionally cutting you off with a wince. “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to interrupt you, but I really, really like you, and I really, really want this to be a date, but if you don’t feel the same way then I completely understand and we can just forget that I ever said anything and everything can just go back to normal and that might be the best thing because, quite frankly, I haven’t dated since the forties and I have no idea how dating is supposed to work nowadays, but I’d really like to try it with you but only if you—”

His rambling is cut off as you place your hand on his, intertwining your fingers. “Okay,” you say, like it’s the easiest thing ever. “It’s a date.”

He stares at you for an embarrassingly long time, his mouth dry. “Uh… What?” He says quietly. His heart is pounding at an unnaturally fast pace, and he honestly thinks he might be on the verge of a heart attack.

“I like you, too,” you say, smiling at the bartender as he brings you over your drinks. You look so beautiful, your eyes the brightest thing in the dim lighting of the bar. “So this is a date.”

“Okay,” he breathes out, a wave of relief washing over him. “It’s a date.”

He’s a little starstruck as you continue on with what you were going to say before, a pink blush dusting his cheeks. Your hand stays in his for the rest of the night, occasionally giving a little squeeze as though you’re reminding him that you’re still there and you’re not going to disappear.

And it feels good.

And okay, Marlene may have been right.

And yeah, Fridays might be good. But as he sits there with you until the late hours of the night, he’s sure: Saturdays are his new favorite day. Because Saturdays brought him a new beginning when he wasn’t expecting it.

#bucky x reader #bucky x you #bucky x y/n #bucky barnes x you #bucky barnes x reader #bucky barnes x y/n

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eatsbop · 3 years ago

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You're my neighbor, not my dad. Why you don't get it when it's your fan-fiction?

If you do, can you write one for me and Taekwondo? My OTP.

No, what I don't get is why I'm not your dad pfffff

He was seven when he first experienced a heartbreak.

Even as a child, Taehoon had always been good at taking everything in a stride. Or at least, putting up a facade to fool the world that nothing can faze him.

But this is different. This is difficult. This is new. This has been boring a hole in his soul since Monday, 4.32 pm, five metres from his father's dojang. The incident so clear in his mind. The bitter memory replaying itself over and over again, keeping him up all night. The memory lingers yet he is alone. Cold to the core. Broken. It's Wednesday now. Come Friday he'll probably be well hollowed out.

He wants to throw up.

"Taehoon-ah.. you need to eat. No point making yourself sick.." Hansoo sighs across from him at their dining table. "Are you alright? You look like you didn't even sleep a wink. That won't do. Get a hold of yourself. This isn't forever. You'll get past this. You're a strong boy.. aren't you, Taehoon-ah? Please eat, okay?"

Taehoon opens his mouth, lips quivering. "Everyday I get up at 5.30 am.."

Hansoo takes a deep breath, seeing his son choke on his next word from all the hurt he's going through. How he wishes Taehoon never had to experience such pain. "I know.."

"..just to see him." Taehoon hiccups, tears rolling down his still chubby baby cheeks.

"I know.."

"I miss him, Appa.."

"Taehoon-ah, I told you it's better that-"

"I can't take this anymore! I miss him! I miss the dojang! I miss Taekwondo!"

"Then why did you drive your bike to the electric pole? I told you to be careful. No Taekwondo until that cast on your leg is off."

#viral hit #how to fight #seong taehun #seong taehoon #seong hansoo

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neocity-sarai · 5 years ago

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Tattoos Together

❈ main concept: childhood best friends to lovers!

❈ pairing: mark lee x reader

❈ alerts: fluff, angsty angst, language, parties, mentions of drinking/smoking, mentions of the dreamies/other idols

❈ song reference: “tattoos together” by lauv

Vancouver has always been home. Since you were a child, Vancouver has been the place to be. Years of dinners in the city, biking around Granville island, and field trips to the Victoria gardens were the norm, just little secret spots you go to when you want a getaway- an escape from school, work, whatever it is you’re doing. At age 15, the Lees moved into the light blue house next to yours, the one with overgrown weeds in the yard. The one with the crooked, leaning mailbox in front of it- daisies painted on the rusty metal. A young girl, an artist, used to live there until she moved to Paris for her next exhibit- leaving the lonely, periwinkle house behind. That day the Lees moved in, your parents baked more muffins than usual (on purpose) so they could welcome our new neighbors by enticing them with food. The saying goes that a way to a person’s heart is through their stomach right? When dad is done packaging them up into a neat little box, he shoves it into your hands, “Y/N. I hear the Lees have a son about your age, go introduce yourself.”

Glaring at your father, you set the box that was tied with a small yellow ribbon on the table before saying, “I’m sure they can manage just fine without the muffins. Why do we have to go greet them now? they’re probably tired from moving.”

Mom gives you a stern look, her jaw tightening, “Don’t be silly, it’s a nice gesture. Come back before dinner is ready.”

Before you can even protest, your parents are shoving you out the door, still careful not to crush the perfectly wrapped box. Stepping over the stairs, you finally manage to make it to the door. Here goes nothing? The cherry red door swings open lightly after you linger my finger-tip on their doorbell, opening up to a pretty woman- her facial features defined of asian descent. Her dark hair is tied into a loose braid, her pink sweater tucked into the waistband of her culotte pants. The woman smiles at you, the corner of her lips upturned, “Ah- you must be Y/N. I just got a call from your mother.”

You try to hide the shaking of my hands, handing her the box of warmed muffins, “Uh-hi Mrs. Lee. My parents made some muffins to welcome you to the uh- neighborhood.”

The woman’s eyes crinkle until her eyes stretch thinly, “That’s so nice of you! Thank you, I’m sure Mark will enjoy these!”

You question,“Um- Mark?”

Her laugh is light and airy, “My son-Mark! Wait here, I’ll get him.”

You wave my hands at her, motioning my refusal, “No worries, I-I have to get going for dinner..”

She doesn’t wait to listen to my words before turning away from the door to scream Mark’s name. A few minutes later, a boy wearing a dress shirt over his black t-shirt comes stumbling down the stairs, a pair of black headphones hanging off his neck. His glasses rest on the bridge of his nose as his jet-black hair sits as a messy pile on his head. It looks like he hasn’t combed it in days. Mark shouts, “What? What did you need mom?”

Mark’s mother clutches him by the arm, shoving him into my view, “Meet y/n. She’s the daughter of the family next door.”

At first, no words come out of Mark’s mouth, his doe, boyish eyes as wide as saucers. Mark’s mother hits him in the back, causing him to cough abruptly, “Uh-yeah-my name’s Mark. W-what’s your name?”

Mark’s mother laughs again, leaning down to whisper into his ear, “I already said her name is y/n!”

Redness creeps up to Mark’s cheeks, his nose tinted a slight shade of rose as his dark irises bounce everywhere but at me.

You smile anyway, “It’s y/n.”

He gives me a small smile and a nod, eyes set on the ground. His mother speaks up again, “I’m really sorry y/n, my boy’s really shy around pretty girls…”

Mark lightly hits his mom in the shoulder, “Mom! Don’t say that! You’re embarrassing me!”

His face is as red as a tomato, glasses sliding farther down his nose only for him to push them up with the tip of his index finger. I laugh at their cute relationship, holding out a hand to Mark, “It’s nice to meet you. I hope we can be friends?”

Mark stutters once more, his eyes wild with energy, “I-i’d like that very much-h, yeah.”

After you tell Mrs. Lee goodbye, you give Mark a nod before turning back on to their driveway. The both of them stand in the doorway, Mark’s voice reprimanding his mom in the house behind me. Maybe it wasn’t so bad meeting the Lees after all. That night, you go to bed, replaying the vision of Mark’s embarrassed smile in your mind.

Age 18 (senior year)

The next several years breeze by. Ever since Mark Lee enrolled into Everlane high, he wasn’t as shy of a freshman compared to the day you met him all those summers ago. Over the years, he grew a lot taller, his face a lot mature, yet still adorably awkward at the same time. He became a smart student, one favored by many of the science teachers- causing his friends (Jeno and Jaemin) to roll their eyes playfully whenever Mrs. Scofski would praise Mark for solving a chemical equation on the white-board. Mark was a basketball captain along with his best friend Hyuck, the two always tag-teaming during the school’s games. Due to Renjun’s forcing, Mark joined the student body as a reputable member. He became a biology tutor for kids who had found science class difficult or just fooled around without paying attention (Jisung and Chenle being two of those kids). Quickly, Mark was showered as Everlane’s golden boy, your neighborhood’s ideal son. He was doted as smart, popular, and mr. perfect to all the girls in the area- no matter how much he always denied it when you told him so. After your first meeting, your parents would frequently eat together, alternating households. The Lees also force Mark to walk you home from school, in fears that you would be kidnapped by a random stranger. At least he was good for one of many things- telling you that he’d swing his basketball at any person who would come even close to you.

Most days after your homework sessions, you’d plan new adventures with each other. your week went like this: on Mondays, you went walking along the water, skipping rocks on the bay until the sun went down and could see the glitters of the city sky-line. In the spring, the sky would melt from a tangerine orange color into a musty silver. On Tuesdays, you’d get clam chowder at Phil’s on 2nd avenue, Mark always ruined his shirt ( you would forbid him to wear white on Tuesdays) and then you’d sit on this abandoned rooftop above an old department store. Up there, the air always felt cold so that you would have to blow your warm breaths into your hands, lean your heads on each other’s shoulders as Mark let out his high-pitched laughs. On Wednesdays, it was maple waffles before school in Gas town, the steaming clock chiming delicate music by the hour. Thursdays were meant for taking stupid photos, listening to dusty mixtapes, and hanging out with the rest of your friends. Last Thursday, you would all go to the Capilano suspension bridge and sit on a treehouse’s edge- causing Hyuck to scream from the heights. Jaemin always quieted him down with a bone-crushing hug or a playful kiss, earning a look of disgust from Renjun. You always wanted gelato after that. On Fridays, all of you would stay in for a movie night at either Mark’s house or yours- Jeno punching Chenle to stop him from making fun of the ghosts in the horror movies you’ve been watching. It never works. Saturdays were like Mark’s public appearances at Everlane high’s party scene, one call and you all would be at someone’s house party. You’d never really enjoyed them though: too many people, too much dirty dancing, and the burning stench of vodka stung your nose. The only reason you would stay is for Mark and the boys. Sundays, your family and Mark’s get together for either dinner or lunch- switching off every week. Your parents would even play a betting game to choose who gets to wash dishes, Mark groaning every time his family loses rock-paper-scissors. Spending time with the people you loved made the days go by faster as you never particularly had bad days in the extreme. Piles of homework and grumpy teachers didn’t hold a candle to what you’d get to do every day- if it meant spending time with Mark. When you go to bed each night, you would feel content- happy, even.

Monday

You still think back to the moment when the boys were eating lunch in the cafeteria, like you did everyday. Chenle was talking about how he’d earn himself detention because he was messing around with chlorine in chemistry in order to make Jisung laugh.

“You’re such an idiot, Chenle. That’s going on your record, you know?” Jaemin scoffs.

Holding his sandwich in one hand, Jeno sweeps his coffee-colored bangs out of his eyes, “What do you expect? it’s Chenle- it’s like he’s powered on candy all the time.”

Chenle slurps up his gummy worms in an exaggerated motion, “I’ve already been through 6 packs of these since this morning. I feel so sick.”

Narrowing his eyes, Hyuck rests his chin on the palm of his hand as he pouts his lips, “Poor baby, eat more and you’ll be blowing up the toilet in no time!”

Chenle squints his eyes at the blond-haired boy, tossing a gummy worm at him, “Hyuck! Stop it!”

Hyuck continues to laugh as he clutches his stomach, Jisung stealing the candy from Chenle’s fingers before stuffing it into his mouth. I pull Hyuck up from his side, “Hyuck, you’re going to fall, sit up!”

Due to his lack of breath, Hyuck stares into my eyes, his golden irises gleaming, “You’re here to catch me though.”

You push him back down, palming my hand onto his face, “Stop reading cheesy rom-com lines. It’s so not cute, cringey at that.” Before Hyuck can finish whining, we’re interrupted by Mark plopping his food tray on the table. Jaemin says, “Someone’s late. Where were you?”

Mark looks like he’s out of breath, heaving and panting as he cards his fingers through the crest of his raven hair. “You guys aren’t going to believe this but, I think Cassandra likes me.”

Jaemin raises a skeptical eyebrow, “You mean Cassandra as the cheerleader who got kicked off the team for drinking last year?”

Suddenly, you stop paying attention to the conversation anymore. All you feel is the weight of your heart sink, my limbs feeling heavier at your side. Hyuck looks at you, noticing your fallen expression before clutching your hand under the table, giving it a comforting squeeze. It seems like Jeno sees it too because he glances from you to Mark as Mark excitedly explains his story. “Yeah, I was just finishing up some tutoring with Roberto from last period and Cassandra gave me her number after that! Isn’t that sweet?”

Jaemin nods disinterestedly, “Yeah, sweet I guess.”

Among the group, you have only ever admitted your feelings for Mark to Hyuck because he cornered you about it one day. Yet, it seems like Jeno, Jaemin, and Renjun have caught on from their pitied faces. Mark drones on about how “totally cool” and how athletic he thinks Cassandra is. The difference is you don’t play any sports and you don’t slap coats of makeup on your face every-day before school, nothing like Cassandra. You shake your head at the ping in your heart- a small glimmer of hope that Mark would ever feel the same about you. By the time lunch is over, classes feel longer than usual. They drag on, your teachers’ words in one ear and out the other. You text Mark that you have to stay over for school so he can walk home without you- a blatant, utter lie. Instead, you opt to put my headphones in and take the long route home. Plopping on to the surface of my comforter, you hear the familiar ring of Mark’s text tone.

[2:55 P.M.] (Marcus Lee <3) Y/n? Did you get home okay?

[2:55] Yeah, I did. Thanks Mark.

[2:56] (Marcus Lee <3) Hey, are you okay? You seemed a bit down today? Like you know you can tell me anything right?

[2:56] Yeah. I know. I’m just a bit more tired than usual. Stayed up last night writing Mr. Gillion’s paper..

[2:57] (Marcus Lee <3) hahahah ewww. That doesn’t sound fun… Do you want to go into town and get churros later?

[2:58] I think I’ll pass today, I got some homework to finish. I hope you have a good day though :)

[3:00] (Marcus Lee <3] hahaha okay. I guess I’ll have to take my mom on a churro date then hahah. See you tomorrow! ;)

You’d be lying if you said you didn’t want to hang out with Mark. Still, you couldn’t forget about the way Mark’s eyes sparkled when he talked about Cassandra, the way his voice cracked from the excitement of talking about it. How can you expect him to know? To reciprocate? It’s not like you were dating, you have no right to be jealous of Cassandra- a pretty girl, someone who had football players falling at her feet. Even if you had told Mark the truth, what if he didn’t feel the same? It would make these awkward, not to mention with your friend group. You shouldn't.

Tuesday

In all honesty, you had forgotten about yesterday’s lunch conversation. That was until the reminder hits you like a slap to the face when you see Cassandra’s arms wrapped around Mark’s neck as he laughs into her shoulder. Renjun and you had been walking to art class, the crack in your heart widening by the second. They fit so well, the way Mark’s basketball jacket matches Cassandra’s cheerleading uniform, the way his teammates and her friends hang out together in a pack. Renjun whispers to you, “Are you okay?”

You nod at him, trying to conceal your emotions, “Just fine, let’s head to class.”

When you pass Cassandra and Mark along with their cluster of friends, Cassandra’s voice comes out in a squeaky tone, “Hey, y/n.” When you turn to look at the pair, you see Cassandra’s hand daintily resting on Mark’s stomach, his eyes wide as saucers when he realizes you and Renjun are in front of him. You hear Renjun mutter an ‘ugh’ after curtly waving to them. Mark leaves Cassandra’s grasp, motioning towards you both, “You guys going to art? I’ll walk with you-”

Before you can answer, Cassandra wraps her thin arms around Mark’s waist, “We have to go help Felix with the party stuff remember?”

Mark scratches the back of his neck before glancing back at her and you with Renjun, his mind in a state of conflict. To make it easier for him, you smile at him, “You go, looks like you’re busy.”

Walking faster, Renjun drags you by the arm as we breeze past the crowd of athletes and cheerleaders. Renjun rolls his eyes again, “I don’t get why he likes her so much, they haven’t even been friends for that long and you’re right-”

You cover a hand to his mouth, “Renjun, it’s okay. I’ve accepted it by now.” You try to convince yourself at the very least.

After art class is done, lunch time seems to come in a hurry. Everyone takes their usual seats, Hyuck on your right with Renjun on your left. Jeno, Jaemin, Chenle, and Jisung sit around you three in a circular formation. Jaemin speaks first, “So, what, are Mark and Cassandra dating now?”

Jeno shrugs his shoulders before stuffing a quarter of a cookie into his mouth, “Don’t know and don’t care.”

You say, “Looks like it, they were pretty intimate in the hallway this morning.”

Renjun and Hyuck make disapproving faces, Renjun quips, “I don’t know. I feel like this is happening so fast and he told me that he really-”

“Shut up!” Hyuck screams at Renjun, throwing a limp french fry at him.

“Ew, what the hell was that for?” Renjun’s eyebrows are furrowed with disgust, patting the fabric of his white denim jacket from any salt crumbs.

Hyuck’s eyes go wide as he makes a zipping motion on his lips, his blond hair gleaming under the dim lights, “Don’t say it- she needs to hear it from him!”

Renjun shoots back, “But it’s so obvious, what difference does it make?”

“What are we talking about?” Chenle’s face contorts with confusion, Jisung looking at him for any hints.

Jaemin glares at the pair, “Shh, let’s just all move on.”

You say, “I’m with Chenle, what are we talking about?”

Hyuck places a firm hand on my shoulder, his honey blond hair casting shadows on his forehead, “Nothing, it’s not important.”

As you eat, you spot Mark walking over to all of you, his black backpack slinged over one shoulder before setting his food down. “Hey, guys. We can squeeze in two right?”

Hyuck looks at Mark, his eyes furrowing with bewilderment, “Two?”

“Hey guys!” Cassandra’s preppy figure pops out from behind Mark. She looks more done up than before: red lipstick, long platinum-streaked hair in a slicked pony-tail, and the tightest cheer-leading uniform she could fit herself into. She plops herself down in between Mark and Hyuck, taking off the container of her salad before looking around our table. I sense Renjun and Hyuck give me a look while the other boys continue to eat in silence.

“So what did you guys do today?” Mark asks. Jaemin gives him a short response while Jisung explains how the class pet mouse made it’s escape during second hour, earning a chuckle from Mark. You get an odd feeling in your stomach when Cassandra looks at Mark so lovingly at your lunch table. The boys’ dynamic seems almost disrupted every time Cassandra butts in to say that she doesn’t think Jeno’s jokes are funny. As lunch finishes up, the school bell reverberates through the cafeteria walls- a signal for the next class period.

The next class is statistics with Mr. Midas. Out of the group, Mark and Jaemin are the only ones in the same class as you but it doesn’t help that they’re seated as farway as possible. On the bright side, you’re seated next to Chan, one of Mark’s basketball teammates. Over the course of the year, Chan has always been a kind deskmate by helping you when you’re confused with a problem or sharing his study guide with you. Sometimes you notice he scoots closer to explain a formula and asks you if you’re uncomfortable with his sudden closeness, to which to his relief, you always reply no. Chan is just as handsome as Mark, someone well regarded in the school. No one could resist his flirty charm, the way his chestnut hair curls to one side of his forehead and the way his hoodie falls past his waist a bit. You discover how Chan is really passionate about producing music and running your high school’s channel as a radio dj. When Chan smiles, it makes you happy to see how his eyes crinkle into crescent moons, and how his teeth gleam white when he smiles about the flower you drew him at the corner of his notes.

“Are you doing okay, y/n?”

You give a reassuring nod, “I’m doing okay Chan. Thanks for asking.”

He quirks up his brow, a scar slashing it at the end, “You don’t look okay though. Listen, if you don’t want talk about it, you’re all good, I just-”

Pausing him with the hold of your hand, you continue, “if you don’t mind, I’d like to talk about it.”

He gives you affirmation, you say, “Have you ever felt unrequited love?”

Chan shakes his head no, leaning back in his chair, “Maybe when I was younger but not now? I’m truly sorry y/n. Whoever it is, anyone who doesn’t see how funny and beautiful you are doesn’t deserve you period.”

You hold your tongue for a bit due to the fact of Chan’s comment catching you off guard. Freezing, he realizes the bluntness of his words, “Oh man, you just said unrequited love and I biffed it right? I didn’t mean it that way-no, wait. You are funny and very pretty so, uh-yeah.”

Bursting into laughter, you put a hand to your mouth causing Cassandra and Mark to look at you from across the room. Soon enough, you tear your eyes away from the students staring at you to focus your attention on Chan. He’s laughing too, his voice full of brightness and mirth. You respond, a light cloud of pink floating your cheeks, the room feeling a bit warmer, “I really appreciate that Chan. Thank you for making me smile today.”

A smirk graces Chan’s face as he says, “Happy to do it, whenever you want really.”

Statistics goes by extremely quickly when you’re sitting next to Chan- it’s like he’s telling you a couple of jokes and then it’s over. As the bell rings, Chan nudges you with his elbow as he packs up his bag, “So, I uh-this friday, we’re having our championship game and this party after? I was wondering if you want to come?”

You hesitate, thinking you might have plans with Mark, yet you decide he would probably hang out with his girlfriend over you anyway.

“I’d love to come. On one condition.”

Chan raises his eyebrows, “And what’s that?”

“You have to win the game.”

Chan throws up his hands almost hitting you in the process, “Well, duh! I’m not going to let you down, I promise.”

Friday

For the past couple days, you haven't heard from Mark. No texts, no calls, and no plans out in the city. You were hurt that the boy you’d call your best friend would ignore you just because he got a new girlfriend, your years of friendship overlooked just like that. When Friday rolls around, you attend the Everlane versus Brisbane championship basketball game. You decide that you’re there to cheer on Chan, the boy who’s taller than the rest, his purple jersey hanging against his muscular frame. You spot Cassandra giving Mark a kiss on his cheek on the court, you have to look away at the sight. By the next hour or so, you’re surprised at how long Chenle, Jisung, and Jaemin have been screaming. Each of them held a poster for each Hyuck, Jeno, and Mark- their jersey numbers adorned with dollar store glitter and messy handwriting. When Mark makes a slam dunk in the basket, the crowd goes ear-deafeningly wild, cheering out Mark’s name like a repeated mantra. Shortly after, Hyuck makes an attempt to pass the basketball to Mark; the ball missing Mark’s hands before Chan dribbles it to their opponent’s basket. The cheerleaders dance to the thrum of the crowd screaming Chan’s name over Mark’s, causing Mark to grit his teeth with irritation. For a while, the back and forth of swaying bodies goes on until the Everlane team makes the last shot before the final countdown. When Jeno makes the last point, you’re certain you’ve lost your hearing by then. The cheers ring in the gym, causing the alarm to blare with victory. After everyone exits the gym, you see Mark, Chan, and Jeno being tossed into the air in a sea of fellow players and short-skirted girls as pompoms explode upwards. You decide to wait with Chenle, Jisung, and Jaemin in the empty parking lot, waiting for Renjun to pull his car around. Jeno and Hyuck jog to you all first, their basketball duffels hanging from their hands, bodies are drenched with sweat. Chenle says, “That’s some fine work out there gentleman if I do say so myself.” Hyuck does his signature handshake with Chenle, a reckless grin smeared across his face, “I knew we’d win. Brisbane can’t take down the undefeated.”

Jeno gives him a firm nod, slinging his arm around a pleased Jaemin. You smile at the boys, “Congratulations guys, you all killed it on the court.”

Hyuck and Jeno smash you in a sweaty hug, “Aw, thanks y/n. You did well cheering for us.”

You laugh, “Get off, you guys are sweaty!”

Before Hyuck can smear his sweat onto your shoulder playfully, a voice stops you in your tracks.

“Y/n!”

It’s Chan. A damp towel hangs off his neck, his nike headband wrapping his forehead under his bangs. “You ready to go?”

You shout, “Just give me a second!”

Hyuck and Jeno give you a knowing look, “Where are you going with Chan?”

You reply, “Oh, we’re just carpooling to the party at Felix’s house.”

Renjun asks, “Also, where’s Mark?”

Hyuck shakes his head in contempt, “He’s heading to the party with Cassandra.”

Jaemin mutters, “Of course he is.”

Of course he would. Mark is one of the captains on the team, why would he be excluded from the after-party? The ache in your heart pings again, you feel sick from the thought of Mark making out with Cassnadra at some gross party. You wouldn’t be able to handle the tears. Though, Chan had invited you, not Mark- who he didn’t even mention it to you, the least you could do is be courteous. What kind of person gets invited to something and cancels so last minute?

You say, “You guys get to the party and I’ll meet you there, okay?”

Renjun’s eyes crease his concern, “You do know that Mark and Cassandra will be there though right?”

You nod, “Yes. But we won’t mind them, let’s just go have fun tonight.”

After parting, you jog over to Chan who’s tossing his duffel into the trunk of his silver Lexus, his hair damp from the game. He turns to you, grinning, “you ready?”

You smile at him, telling him yes before launching yourself into the passenger seat. Chan turns the ignition, his car interior smelling like cherries from the air freshener that hangs above his head. As Chan drives, the street lamps glow on the side of the road as the moon peeks between the rainy clouds. He rolls your window down, your skin shivering at the cold chill of the night. “So, there was something I wanted to ask you?”

Turning to him, you face the chestnut-haired boy, “You remember stats class a few days ago?”

You reply, “I do?”

“Mark was looking at you the whole time. When you guys hadn’t texted in several days, he asked me if you and I were a thing during practice.”

You quirk your brows up in surprise, “And what did you say?”

Chan smiles to himself, letting out a breathy chuckle, “I said no. But, I was definitely interested.”

You allow yourself to feel nice, to feel like Chan likes you for who you are around him. Chuckling at him, you flip your hair in a sassy manner, “Well, I’ll definitely keep that noted.”

When you arrive at the party, the small two-story house looks like a sight straight out of one of those coming of age movies. The small house is jam packed with people, some hanging out on the lawn as they sip their drinks as music shakes the walls. You spot Renjun’s car from the side of your eye, meaning that your friends had gotten there before you and Chan. Upon entering the house, it’s like a warzone within it. Some people are peacefully talking by the lounge area as they feast on snacks. Some are in the kitchen mixing a plethora of colorful drinks together while also playing a form of beer pong. Girls run up and down the stairs with their friends, some with boys trailing behind them with a trance in their eyes. Some are grinding on each other on the dance floor, sensual music thrumming at the source of the boombox.

The first thing you see are your friends sitting in the corner by the backyard door, Mark on the loveseat with Cassandra practically on his lap. You instinctively grab Chan’s hand so you don’t break down right there. He gives you a surprised glance, “y/n? What’s wrong?”

Instantly, you let go of his hand as you cast your eyes down towards the floor. When you don’t answer, he sees a view of your friends laughing along with Mark and Cassandra. You feel a large hand cover yours which causes you to look up at Chan, “It’s okay y/n. Just stick with me.”

You nod, leading him to the drink table in the kitchen. When he leans down to sniff a large bowl full of sour juices and cubes of fruit, his nose scrunches in disgust, “ugh, jungle juice.”

Out of random courage, you swipe an empty cup from the tower as you shove the metal ladle of jungle juice into it. Downing it despite Chan’s protest, you feel a surge of electricity light your lungs on fire as the beat of your heart quickens from the liquid courage. He laughs, keeping his hand on the small of your back, “You surely make reckless decisions when you’re bothered by something.”

You giggle back at him, “You drink something too, you’re a winner tonight after all.” Chan reaches from a glittery purple bowl that pops with bubbles, “a toast to that, y/n. A toast to that.”

before he downs the liquid in one go. You feel his body jolt from the energy too, a smirk plastered on his face, “Wanna go play a game with some of the boys? Only if you want to, we can talk upstairs too.”

Shaking your head in refusal, you hang on to Chan’s shoulder, “Let’s go have fun.”

Chan grabs your hand, his metal chain bracelet cool on your wrist as he leads you past your friends, Mark, and Cassandra before opening the backyard door. Mark moves Cassandra off his lap, her eyes as cold as ice before she angrily gets up to get another drink. The rest of your friends sit in their circle in awe, glancing down at Chan’s hand enclosed on top of yours. Coolly waving to them, you say, “I’m outside if you need me.” before you meet eyes with Mark- his lips pressed into a frown, his irises shot with hurt. You ignore the ache that grows on the wall of your heart. You tell yourself, Mark’s ignored you all this time because he doesn’t feel the same way and never will. After being outside on the patio for a while, you meet some of Chan’s radio-club friends as all of you play a game of sorry. For a moment, Mark and the others aren’t on your mind, just the fact that Chan is pulling you into an enthusiastic hug after winning a round. You turn to Chan, “Hey, I’ll be right back. I have to use the bathroom.”

Chan smiles at you before he presses a lingering kiss to the crown of his head, “Sure thing. I’ll be here.”

You’re not even surprised that Chan kisses you, whether or not it’s the alcohol, you don’t mind it. When you head back into the house, you feel an arm grab your wrist and spin you around. Your friends are still sitting where they had when you passed them except Mark is the one boring his eyes into yours as he grabs your shoulders, “We need to talk now.”

Before you can say no, he pulls you to the quieter part of the kitchen, you say with bitterness, “What do you want Mark? I have someone waiting for me.”

Left without any patience, Mark lets out a huff, “Are you and Chan together?”

You sigh, casting your glance at him, “Seriously? It’s none of your business. Second, it’s not like you told me that you were with Cassandra.”

Mark uses his hand to comb back his black hair, making it even more messy, “Y/n. That’s because we’re not together, it’s just complicated and I haven’t had the time to tell you why or how we-”

“Stop right there. You ignored me for days Mark! You never texted or called! What was I supposed to do? Pine after you when you’re chasing Cassandra around?”

Mark’s doe eyes flash with pain, his hand tightening around the sides of your arms, “No! That’s not it! I didn’t mean it that way, I’m just trying to figure out what to do..” You shove Mark off you, his hands sliding off your arms, “Well save it. I’m done with you playing around with my feelings!”

Mark calls after you, tears streaming down your face as you try to make your way to the bathroom without being stared at. It takes all three minutes of some Chris Brown song for you to stop heaving. You feel sick to your stomach, so much for a fun night. You text Chan to meet you outside in front of the house, avoiding the corner your friends were comforting Mark at. Chan finds you leaning against his car, “Oh my god, are you okay?”

Giving him the only smile you can muster, you explain, “Listen, I’m so sorry. You invited me to this party and I just-I’m here being a cry-baby and everything. I’m just going to walk home now. I’m sorry.”

Chan shakes his head in definite refusal, “Nonsense. I’m driving you home. I’m about done anyway.”

You ask hesitantly, “Are you sure?”

“Absolutely.”

The night drive back to your neighborhood gives you peace of mind. Chan rolls all the windows down as soft music plays from his radio, slowing the bounce of your heartbeat. He’s got one hand on the wheel and one hand rested on yours by your knee, you feel comfortable with Chan. It’s the same feeling that flutters in your stomach when you’re close to Mark and right now, you hate the thought of the black-haired boy that consumes so many of your thoughts. Before Chan’s tires screech to a stop in front of your porch, he turns to you with concerned eyes, lips pressed into a pout. “Come here, y/n.”

You waste no time collapsing into the space on his wide chest, his hands stroking your hair down. Resting his chin on your head, you close your eyes to the rhythmic beat of Chan’s heart as the soft patter of the rain is enough to drift you to sleep. You pull away from his chest, looking up at the shadows in Chan’s eyes, his hair falling near his eye-lids while he glances at your lips before looking down to his lap. He says apologetically, “I’m so sorry. I’m not trying to take advantage of your feelings right now. I’m really not-”

You cut him off with your hand pressed to the curve of his cheek, “Can I kiss you?”

He doesn’t waste time to grip the back of your neck, kissing you harshly as he bites the bottom of your lip. You sigh into him, fisting the fabric of his jacket when he moves in even closer to twist a hair behind your ear. When you detach from him, you can’t control the burst of tears that shakes your body. The alcohol blurs the vision of Mark and Chan together as your mind throbs from the effect, leaving you dizzy. You apologize to Chan over and over again, wiping the tears that fall from your eyes. Instead, he kisses his lips to the side of your temple as he urges you to get some sleep. Like the gentleman he is, he walks you to the front door, draping his basketball jacket over your shoulders. Your home is dark- due to the fact that your parents are out of town on a business trip in Toronto so you just flop onto your bed in defeat. Mark’s ringtones shoot off from your phone, notifications of several apology texts and missed calls. Not wanting to check any of them, you toss your cell phone into the grey trash bin that sits by your desk. Going to sleep feels especially difficult when alcohol still surges through your veins and you can’t control the sobs that erupt from your throat. You hear Mark’s car pull up on his driveway, not wanting to see him whatsoever. On your bed, you almost feel him looking up at your window to check if you’re awake- for once, you’re glad it’s curtains are securely shut.

The next few weeks are pretty miserable besides the fact that you’re getting closer to Chan. You don’t acknowledge Mark’s presence anymore. By Hyuck and Jaemin, you’re told he comes by to the lunch table to check if you’re there. You still hang out with your friends separately rather than in your usual group- the web that connects you slowly falling apart. It’s difficult when you have art with Hyuck and Renjun, stats with Jaemin, and ceramics with Jisung, Chenle, and Jeno- as you try to take paths opposite of Mark at the same time. Later on, you explain everything that’s been going on between you and Mark to Chan. He takes it surprisingly well by comforting you and listening to your anger, how he’s willing to let you heal before you two start anything. How could Chan be so patient with you? He says it’s because he really likes you and would rather be there for you as a friend first. When you get home, your parents give you a lecture about starting things with Mark, how they want to have dinner with his family but can’t. Of course, they feel sorry once you explain to them what really happened.

Now, the weather outside seems a lot sunnier, yellow pollen from the peonies float in the air as you make your way out of the double doors. The time is nearing for spring break- a well needed barrier from Mark, from everything. Before you walk your way home, you’re stopped by Hyuck and Renjun. Renjun holds an envelope in his hands before giving it to Hyuck, both of them trapping you, “Y/n. We’ve been looking all over for you.”

You say, “I’m going home now, can we talk tomorrow?”

Hyuck narrows his eyes at me with contempt, “No, of course not. Just hear us out.”

Renjun speaks up too, “Do you have plans for spring break? I’m assuming you don’t because you mentioned a few weeks ago that you didn’t. We’ve got 8 tickets to Victoria island.”

You reply, “And.. your point is?”

Hyuck crosses his arms, rolling his eyes, “The point is to make up. Our group is in shambles because of all this lovesick drama. A trip is a perfect opportunity to mend things.”

Laughing, you cackle at his suggestion, “If you expect me to go then that’s hilarious. I’m not going.”

Hyuck throws up his hands in frustration. “How can you kick it if you don’t even know what will happen?”

Raising your eyebrows defiantly, “Do you remember what happened when Mark and I were in the same room? Hyuck, it’s not happening.”

Renjun grumbles, flicking the envelope in my face, “Fine! We won’t invite Mark then! We just want you to come with us and then we’ll see what happens from there okay?”

Hyuck socks Renjun in the shoulder with a fist before shouting, “How can we not ask Mark?”

In response, Renjun shoots a frigid glare at Hyuck as if he’s threatening him with his eyes, “We’re just not going to ask him! Y/n, will you come?”

You pause for a moment as you stare back at the pair. You raise your voice to make yourself crystal clear, “I will only go if Mark doesn’t. Simple as that.”

Renjun bobs his head in agreement, “Deal. No Mark.”

When you walk away, you still hear Hyuck berating Renjun for his decision only to be shut up by some snarky comment that comes through Renjun’s lips. The sound of their voices falling away.

First day of spring break

By the time spring break begins, you find yourself standing in front of Renjun’s van with your suitcase packed full of your things. You’re greeted by Renjun, Hyuck, Jaemin, and Jeno first. Of course, Jisung and Chenle are seen scampering across the school parking lot with their duffel bags messily unzipped, some shirts hanging out of the top.

“Didn’t I tell you to pack the night before?” Renjun scoffs at the pair.

Chenle pokes his tongue at the older boy, wrapping his arm around Jisung’s broad shoulders. Jeno holds his hands up in the air before bellowing, “shot-gun!” straight into Hyuck’s ear- causing Hyuck to throw a whiny fit. Once our suitcases are in the back of Renjun’s car, he leans on the side of his van as if he’s waiting for something. Jaemin says, “Okay, isn’t that all? Why aren’t you closing it?”

Renjun has a wicked grin plastered all over his face, “Not everything and not certainly everyone.”

You all turn to face Mark, circles under his eyes, his hair unruly as if he hasn’t gotten sleep in 3 whole weeks. Shoot a menacing face at Renjun, you whisper at him, “You told me Mark wasn’t coming.”

Renjun gives you an evil, sinister smile, “I crossed my fingers behind my back.”

Having the extreme urge to strangle Renjun on the spot, you ponder about Renjun’s extreme lengths to reach his goal of making up. Before you can walk away from the car, Hyuck drags your hand back to the door of the van, “Ah-ah- y/n. You’re not going anywhere.”

The whole car ride to the ferry is awkwardly silent due to the fact you’re mercilessly squished between Hyuck and Mark. Personal boundaries don’t exist in the car, your legs are practically on top of each other as Mark steals side glances at you from the corner. Getting to the dock port seemed less stressful than you’d imagine it to be. Renjun had parked his van at the base garage of the ferry before unloading everyone's belongings.

Just as easy as it was to get on to the boat, it was easy getting off too. You’d make your way down to Renjun’s car, Renjun driving it down a ramp and into the pathway that opened into Victoria island. You have to admit to yourself, Victoria island looked even more gorgeous than you had remembered last time you came with your family. During springtime, all the beautiful flowers in Butchart gardens would bloom pinks and purples, the greenery would turn a lush, healthy evergreen, and the city would stay lit for the tourists. It was the perfect place to have a vacation, one with friends at that. Jaemin and Renjun booked a small cottage house for everyone to stay in, one straight out of a fairy tale storybook. The cottage ceiling looked like it was made with hay and lime-green vines, beams of cedar-wood reinforced the walls of the structure. It had a white picket fence that surrounded a small rose garden near the entrance; white lilies floating in an old, peeling fountain. Finally entering the house, you were amazed by the impeccable interior:various paintings of Victoria island, a kitchen that was big enough to seat 10, and bedrooms slacked with ivory/gold wallpaper. Like ants scattering into their units, the boys jumped on their beds that they ‘claimed’ while you and Mark stood in the middle of the hallway. Watching all of them make a clamorous reaction over who got the best room was like watching families seize their buttons during family feud. By observing them, you’ve come to realize that there were only 7 rooms instead of 8. Realizing this, you glance over at Mark who was in turn staring back at you before racing towards the end of the hall- flying to the surface of the bed. Both of you landed on it at the exact same time, faces extremely close together. Hastily, you sit up in an attempt to push Mark off the bed that you claimed first, “Mark Lee, get off my bed now!”

He incredulously stares back at you, “Your bed? This is mine!”

You exclaim, “You’re trying to take my bed now? I clearly jumped on it first!”

“No, you didn’t!”

Bickering back at forth, you and Mark don’t even realize the rest of the boys practically flailing in the doorway, Hyuck saying in a sing-songy voice, “Or.. you could shareee!”

In unison, you and Mark shout, “Hell no!”

You get up first, shoving a pillow at Mark, “Fine, you have it! I’ll room with Hyuck.”

Hyuck clicks his tongue, “Oh no you’re not, y/n. Nada. No bueno.”

Before you can argue with Hyuck or chase him out of the room for that matter, you hear Mark speak up from behind. His voice is shy and quiet, his face a shade of beet red, “You just take the bed. I’ll take the floor.”

You turn to face him as you’re about to reprimand him for such a stupid idea until you realize that it’s probably the best decision to make at the moment.

After dinner that night, everyone had settled into their respective rooms. You had changed into a hoodie and sweatpants after you had showered. You sat on your bed, texting Chan goodnight before shutting it off to charge on your nightstand. Mark had stumbled into your shared room with one pillow and a thin fabric cover-(hardly a blanket) before setting it down on the carpet. Seeing Mark in this state, it reminds you of the old days. The way that his headphones sat comfortably on his ears, his black hair matted with drops of water, and his toned frame covered with black pants and a black tee. The hollows of his cheeks make his face more prominent, his lips the color of a strawberry slice. In one swift motion, he wraps the thin cover around his body before turning on his side, “Good night, y/n.”

Unable to say anything, you shut off the lamp- casting darkness all around you. “Good night, Mark.”

You almost forget that Mark’s there in the room with you until you hear the tick of his teeth chattering and the breathy huffs from how cold it is. You sit up to take a look at his shaking figure, the thin material doing no justice as a blanket. You believe that the air bnb manager hadn’t put extra blankets or control instructions for the ac system as you had all looked for them earlier. Deciding to wrap one of the thicker blankets that’s draped over your legs, you almost trip towards Mark’s shuddering body before patting it against him. Before you turn to go back to your bed, you feel a hand curl around your fingers, Mark slightly opening his half-lidded eyes at you. “y/n?”

Pausing, you touch your hand to Mark’s cheek, “Mark, you’re freezing. You should have told me, this blanket cover isn’t any better than a piece of paper.”

Mark shifts his body closer to face you now, his hands still wrapped around yours, “i-i didn’t know.”

“Do you want more of my blankets? I’m kind of used to the cold.”

Mark says, “No, if I take them, you’ll catch a cold.”

“Mark, I’m fine, really.” You insist on letting you help him, the boy shivering from the icy temperature.

His eyes become stern, his muscles stiffening, “y/n, I said no!”

Pausing, retract your hand from Mark’s as the warmth slowly is replaced with cold air. You give him a gentle nod this time, “I-okay.” Mark sits up from his place, fingers running through his messy hair, an earbud still plugged into his left ear, “What I mean is, I don’t want you to get sick. It’d be my fault.”

Instead, you walk back to your spot on your bed, “Look, don’t take this the wrong way but, you can come warm up for a little. Just before you go back to sleep, I promise- I won’t touch you.”

In the dark, Mark’s eyes glint like swirling, black orbs as he nods at you, getting up to take a spot next to you on the bed. He leans back into the pillow by your head, the coolness of it feeling like a cold cloud. Sighing with content, he submerges his body under the warmth of the comforter, careful not to over step his boundaries with you. When Mark lies next to you, you can seem to shut your eyes. Instead, your heart beats out of your chest when you hear Mark whisper. “y/n?”

“Yes, Mark?”

He says with a heavy heart, “I miss us.”

Propping my elbow on your pillow, you turn to face him, “I miss you.”

You choke on your words, your head throbbing with dizziness when you realize what you had just admitted to Mark. You seem visibly gulp, his eyes tracing the crease where the flowery wallpaper meets the ceiling. His voice comes out shaky, “y/n..I-I like you.”

Mark’s earbud sings the words of a beautiful, familiar tune:

Said I never fall, i’d never fall and then I fell for you mhm

Back against the wall, against the wall, and against the wall, that’s how it felt with you mhm

When those words fall from Mark’s lips, all the oxygen from your lungs makes an exit and threatens to not come back in- you’re left stunned. Mark turns his face to you to see your reaction and you stare back at him, eyes widened. Before you have the chance to say anything, Mark presses his lips to yours, rising from the pillow as his nose knocks against yours lightly. You find yourself kissing him back, harder than when you kissed Chan the night of the party. The kiss is full of yearning, almost full of struggling sadness to trap the right feelings- Mark’s hand snakes a hand around your jaw in order to stabilize you. He keeps kissing you aggressively, his eyes squeezed shut in pleasure as his tongue swipes your bottom lip. You pull away first, fire thrumming in your lungs as you place your hand on his chest, “Mark, you have a girlfriend. We can’t.”

Mark shakes his head slightly, “I’m not dating Cassandra.”

You make a face at him, “What do you mean? Because if I’m a rebound, I don’t want to be.”

Mark chuckles, a smirk snaking on his swollen lips, “Trust me, you’re not a rebound. And, I meant what I said about liking you.”

“Mark, you can’t just tell me you like me and then kiss me like nothing’s happened. I saw you and Cassandra with my own eyes.”

Mark sighs before gazing back at you with his obsidian-colored eyes, his skin glowing from the moon that shines slightly through the window curtains, “I’ve liked you since the day you brought those muffins to my house. I thought you would never see me as more as a friend and I tried to use Cassandra to get over you. I never wanted to burden you if you didn't feel the same. Clearly, it didn’t work. Not even partially. I’m sorry.”

You press your forehead against Mark’s, pressing a lingering kiss to the shape of his lips as you use one hand to pull the hairs on Mark’s nape- causing him to groan before reciprocating.

You whisper to him, a beautiful sound to his ears, “Why are we so difficult? We’re such idiots.”

Placing your head on Mark’s chest, both of you collapse on to the bed, sleep washing over your minds. You hear Mark giggle before putting his right ear bud into your ear, the sound of a man’s voice humming:

One weekend in Portland, you weren’t even my girlfriend

We were walkin’ and talkin’

Then somebody said.. let's get tattoos together, something to remember

If it’s way too soon, fuck it, whatever

Give me shapes and letters

If it’s not forever, then at least we’ll have tattoos together

Mmm, ‘cause I love you

When you wake up the next morning, you and Mark are greeted by Jaemin and Renjun cooking breakfast in the kitchen as Jeno, Hyuck, and Chenle play mario kart on the old television in the living room. Jisung is setting the table with eating utensils while also stopping to look at his Nintendo switch every few seconds. Aside from reddened faces and teasing, the boys had already suspected of your making-up based on the blush that coats both of your faces. That afternoon, you call Chan on the phone through facetime, letting him know that you and Mark had made up. Chan tells him how happy he is to hear it, telling you that he’s always known how much Mark had liked you and that he didn’t hold a candle to how Mark would talk about you to the basketball team. You apologize out of worry that you’ve hurt Chan but like the gentleman he is, he tells you that you’ll always be good friends especially when he’s good friends with Mark.

The next few days are like dreams. Together, you, Mark, and the boys go gallivanting across Victoria island through the sea towns made of floating boathouses and seafood restaurants. You bring your polaroid camera with you, capturing memories of Hyuck dropping his ice cream, selfies with Jeno and Jaemin, and seagulls chasing Renjun- all in a few frames. Even one morning, all of you had the spontaneous but rather, stupid decision to get matching commemorative tattoos, each of them a different flower on your wrists to commemorate your friendship. Each afternoon meant picnics at the Goldmere Provincial Park or whale watching tours out on the cobalt waters that were foaming with white. Other days you’d all visit the aviation museum or opt to sample the best chocolate fudge at Roger’s after a small hike.

On the last night of your trip, Mark had made sure that he wanted to take you down Tiffany avenue before meeting up with the boys for dinner. He’d told you to dress nicely in which you all did, leading you by the hand down the shopping street as your tulle skirt wavered behind you. When the both of you came to a balcony that overlooked the water, the ocean looked so vast like it could swallow you into the great swirls of turquoise and aquamarine as white ocean spray crashed on the sharp rocks. The sky turned a lavender shade that bloomed into a twilight pink, the sun barely touching the tips of the mountains. Mark had placed an item in your hand from his pocket, a pair of cherry earrings he had bought in a souvenir shop when you weren’t looking. It reminded you of the song on Mark’s playlist from several nights before:

Yeah, your cherry earrings are my favorite

It looks so good I had to save it

I’ve been hopin’, prayin’ we last forever

‘Cause there’s nothing better than you and I

A week ago, you told Renjun that in any circumstance, you would never go anywhere if it reminded you of your feelings for Mark, of your friends, of everything that had happened. Now, you’re glad to be able to let go, you’re able to feel the cold wind on the cliffs- Mark right by your side. Being wrapped up in the tight security of your boyfriend’s arms, (yes, Mark had asked for real this time) along with your best friends, you’re careful to not let go of them now. There’s no place that you’d rather be.

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hello-justawriterofthings · 6 years ago

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Secret Love Song - Steve Harrington

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So this is my first Steve / Stranger Things story, it may not be the last because I'm currently obsessed with this Show! Let's say that this story is set in season 1, a little before actually. But, it is different from the show. So king Steve when he was a jerk, a bit before dating Nancy. Also kind of based off of the Little mix song, I hope you'll enjoy and understand what I was going for <3 ( Y/N = Your name, Y/L/N = Your last name )

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Pulling up into the parking lot of Hawkins High school was always interesting, being the only girl who didn't own a car ( Or secretly borrowed their parents and then claimed it as theirs ) but instead, I rode around on a motorbike. Most of my class mates categorized it as weird, I'm not exactly sure why, but I always heard whispers of speculation. I parked my bike in the same boring place, before pulling off my helmet and climbing off of ' Roberta ' ( Yes I named my bike, move on ). My hair fell flat against my shoulders as I glanced around, Monday mornings were great. " Hey Y/N! " I heard from behind me, I glanced over my shoulder to see Nancy and Barb approaching. I quickly grabbed my bag and turned around, " Hey ladies, how was your weekend? " I asked with a smile. " Boring! " Nancy groaned as we walked towards the school, " Yeah, we studied for the History test all night. Remember, we were all supposed to study until you bailed on us " Barb stated with an eyebrow raised. " What were you doing this weekend? " Nancy then questioned, " Just a few boring family dinner things, grandparents came in Saturday, left Sunday. So nothing exciting " I sighed. I could tell Barb was going to say something else, but didn't get the chance. Loud commotion came from the cars next to us, which made everyone look that way. Kind Steve, rough housing with his jokers, he glanced our way, which only made me roll my eyes and continue walking. " Steve's pretty cute " Nancy muttered, which made Barb roll her eyes " Yeah right, like he'd go for any of us. Too Focused on his reputation " I sighed to myself as I thought back to my weekend.

Friday night is when the weekend started for me, I was in my room reading a book, one of my favorite hobbies. " Y/N, Phone call! " my older brother shouted from the living room, " Who is it? " I yelled back. " I don't know, answer the damn phone! ' he yelled back, i groaned as I rolled over and grabbed my phone off my nightstand. " Okay I got it! " I yelled to Nick, " Hello? " I then asked. " You really share a phone line with the rest of your family? " Steve asked, I rolled my eyes " Did you call to annoy me or did you need something? ". He chuckled " Sneak out tonight ", " No! " I exclaimed. " Come on, we had a blast on Wednesday remember ", he stated seriously, " And I got in trouble when my parents found out " I explained. " Y/N, take a chance. Aren't your parents out of town? " he sighed trying his hardest to convince me, " And how would you know? " I questioned. " I heard you telling Barb at lunch " he sighed, " Oh, listening in on my conversations are we Mr. Harrington? " I smirked. He chuckled again " Hey, you're parents aren't home, come out with me ", again trying to talk me into it. You should've flat out denied him, but like all the times before, you couldn't. There was just something about Steve, he had a way about him. "Fine, but if my allowance get's taken away again, I'll never speak to you again " I stated seriously, " Stop worrying, I'll be there in 20 " he stated. " Whatever " I muttered before hanging up the phone, I sighed deeply before jumping up and walking to my closet. " Where are you going? " Nick asked as he stood in the doorway, " Out " I stated while looking through my clothes. " With that Harrington kid again, Why do you keep sneaking out for him " he asked, I shrugged " I like him, hes nice... And technically I'm not sneaking out this time, you know where I'm going ". " He's only nice because he wants something, come on Y/N, you're smarter than this " he explained, " I know Nick, but I like him a lot and maybe he's not using me " I sighed not even believing my own words. " Just be careful, If you're not back by midnight, I will tell mom and dad why you've been sneaking out " he stated seriously, I gave him a small smile "Thanks, I promise I'll be back by then ". He nodded while walking back towards the living room, leaving me alone with my thoughts.

15 minutes later, I was dressed and waiting on the front porch. The light was off so I wouldn't draw to much attention to myself, I still felt like an idiot standing there though. A few minutes later, his car pulled up, but not outside my house. He'd never park right outside, he always had to be two houses away from mine. Just in case one of his friends or one of the many high schooler’s drove past. he never would want to be questioned for being in this area, especially if it had to do with me. He'd deny it, he'd deny everything. I quickly darted over to his car and climbed in the passenger seat, then gave him an enthused look. He chuckled while putting the car into drive, " So, where are we going? " I asked. " My house, my folks are gone too " he smirked, which only made me roll my eyes. The drive to his house was quiet, I just couldn't stop thinking about what Nick said. Finally, we arrived and the awkward air was just making me regret even coming. " Want something to drink? " he asked, not receiving an answer. " Okay Y/N, What's up? " he asked annoyed, " Nothing... I'm fine " I sighed. " No, you were fine on Wednesday night. Now, you're being weird " he stated sternly, " I've just got something on my mind. Did you want me to come over to talk or to get down to business " I questioned. " Get down to business?... What No, Y/N I invited you over to hangout. We can watch some movies, order pizza. You know, hang, get to know each other more " he stated, I looked at him confused " We've never done that before, usually you invite me over to , you know, hookup ". He smiled " There's a first time for everything, now What do you want to drink? ", I continued to look at him confused, even after he had left the room. About an hour into our hangout, the doorbell rang and something just didn't feel right. " Were you expecting company? " I asked, only to have him shake his head no. " Would you mind waiting in the laundry room while I get rid of whoever's at the door? " Steve asked quickly while pulling me up off the couch and pushing me towards a door, " What? " I questioned. " If it's Tommy, he's going to barge his way in. I'll make something up to get rid of him I swear, Just don't move okay " he stated in a panicked tone as he shut the door, not giving me anytime to respond. I sighed deeply while throwing my hands up before glancing around, Friday night and I'm sitting in the Harrington's laundry room, Great. I could hear both Tommy and Carol's voice as I sat in the small room. Music started to play loudly, joined by other voices. ' Great ' I thought to myself. I glanced at me watch, 10:50 pm. I'd give Steve 10 minutes , when 11 o'clock comes around, I'm climbing my ass out of one of these windows and trekking through the woods. 11:20 pm came rolling around and whatever party that was going on, clearly wasn't going to be over anytime soon. So, I squeezed through the window and started on my long walk home. 11:40 pm, still I was walking. I was still a while from my place, but at the moment, I was too pissed to care. " Y/N? " I heard a voice question, snapping me out of my blind rage. " Huh? " I mumbled looking to the car next to me. " Huh? " I mumbled looking at the car next to me, " Oh hey Jonathan ". " Do you need a ride? " he asked with a smile, I sighed deeply and nodded. I climbed into his car with a smile, " How many times are we going to meet like this? " I asked. Earning a laugh from him " What do you mean? ", " I mean, you saving me from a lonely, cold walk home " I smirked. He laughed once more " It's really no problem Y/N, I've known you for a long time, I'd never let you walk home in the dark ", I nodded while sighing again. It was true, Jonathan and I's parents used to be very close friends. They'd have dinner parties, holiday parties. Jonathan and I practically spent everyday together, until his dad left them. Jonathan stopped coming around, everyone just stopped speaking to each other. " Hey, you okay? " he asked quietly, breaking me from my thought process. " I'm okay, Are you okay?... How have you three been holding up? " I asked as I looked over at him, he smiled " We're fine Y/N, it's you I'm worried about ". I furrowed my brow " Jonathan, I'm fine. Just got some crazy things going on in my life right now ", he nodded but didn't say anything else, he was too respectful to pry into my business. Soon we pulled up in front of my house, " Thanks for Everything Jonathan, tell your mom and Will I said Hi " I smiled warmly. He smiled back while nodding, I quickly got out of his car and dashed to my door. I made my way into the house, only to be greeted by Nick. " I know I know, i'm late. You were right about everything okay. I'm just a stupid idiot that believed a pretty face, I'm done with it! " I exclaimed as I kicked my shoes off and walked to my room, " What did he do? " Nick questioned. " I don't know, pushed me into his damn laundry room , told me to wait, then threw a party. I had to climb through the window and walk through the woods. Jonathan saw me walking, gave me a ride home " I stated, " Jonathan Byers? " Nick sighed. I nodded while grabbing pajama's and walked to the bathroom, I was not only done with the conversation, but with Steve in general.

Between Lunch and history, I walked the halls. No appetite, plus tired of the the questions from Nancy and Barb. I was randomly pulled into the janitors closet suddenly, taking me off guard and letting out a small scream. " Shh " Steve groaned, " What the hell are you doing! That's how you give someone a heart attack " I whispered while smacking him. " How else was I supposed to get you to talk to me, you've been dodging my calls " he sighed, " Well that must mean, I don't want to talk to you Steve. Take a hint " I argued. " Hey! I'm not the one who disappeared Friday night " he spat, I scoffed while shaking my head " Really? You're the one who pushed me into your laundry room, saying that you were going to get rid of your jerk off friends and instead you went on with the party. I stayed in that room for 40 minutes, I gave you a chance and you blew it ". " come on Y/N, you know how it is... " he sighed, " Yeah, all you give a shit about is your damn reputation " I stated crossing my arms. " That's not true, I care about you " he explained, " Yeah okay, you ' Care ' about me. But never speak to me unless we're hidden away from the world, you don't hide someone you care about Steve! " I spat. " I'm not hiding you, I'm just waiting for the right time too... " he started, " Bullshit " I interrupted him. " There'll never be a right time, at least not while we're still in High school " I sighed, "Y/N... " he started , but once again gt cut off by me. " We've been sneaking around for almost a year Steve, enough is enough, I'm tired of lying to everyone. I have to move on because it's clear to me that I don't mean shit to you " I spat. before pushing the door open and making my way towards my locker. Of course though, Steve didn't have the guts to chase after me. This was it.

A few days past, then a week, then two weeks and before I knew it, I couldn't remember the last time I spoke to Steve. Sure, he was annoying with phone calls the first week, but then realized I wasn't going to talk to him, so he stopped. I won't lie though, I missed him, sure things were complicated and probably ruined now, but it's hard to just get over him. Another Friday had come, Sunday was my birthday, but to me, it was just another day. Parents had to work, i only had three friends, four if you include Nick. So, it's not like I could throw a raging bash. Not much would be happening. I drove my bike out to the Byers house, at Jonathan;s request. When I approached the front door, I could hear whispers and shushes. I smiled a bit, but knocked on the door anyways. When the door swung open, Joyce and Will both pulled me into tight hugs. " Happy Birthday Sweetheart! " she smiled, "Come in, I've made dinner ". " And Cake! " Will smiled brightly, which only caused me to smile as well. I followed them into the house, where Jonathan was located. I gave him a tight hug, then gave him a look. He chuckled as the four of us walked into the kitchen, a cake decorated nicely, even had birthday candles on it. My own parents hadn't made me a cake in years, so this I appreciated greatly. " Thank you guys so much, everything looks delicious " I stated as we all sat down at the table, " You guys didn't have to do this though ". " Of course we did, you only turn 17 once and it's been a while since we've seen you, we wanted to catch up " Joyce smiled, which I returned. As we ate, we talked and laughed. Everything felt normal again, like nothing ever changed. Glancing over at Jonathan, I wondered if things would've been different, if our friendship hadn't strayed. Would I have fallen in love with him instead of Steve? LOVE?!?! Hell no, I did Not love Steve. At least I didn't think so. After dinner and cake, Jonathan and I took a small walk, just to talk. " Can I ask you something? " he asked, I nodded with a small smile. " What's going on between you and Steve? " he asked quietly, my eyes almost bugged when he asked that " Nothing... Why would you think that anything's going on between us? ". He chuckled quietly " I’ve seen you guys together, the other night when you were walking home, you were probably coming from Steve's house, his friends are just idiots not to realize ", I sighed deeply " You're too smart for you're own good Jonathan ". He smiled once more, " Whatever Steve and I had, it's finished. I'm tired of hiding " I sighed. He nodded, but stayed quiet. " Do you think I was an idiot? " I then asked him, " No, I think you cared for him and when you care for someone, you tend to put in 110% Even if you don't get it in return " h stated just as we reached my bike. " Try not to worry yourself to much Y/N " Jonathan stated as we pulled me into another hug, I chuckled quietly " Just don't tell anyone, don't wanna ruin Steve's reputation ". He scoffed " Who am I supposed to tell? ", I smirked " Will ". He broke out into a loud laugh, the loudest I'd ever heard come from this boy. Once he recovered from my not so funny joke, he sighed " Get home safe okay ". I nodded,wearing a small smile. " Also, happy birthday " he smiled handing me a small wrapped gift. " Jonathan " I groaned, " Shush, just open it " he smiled. I did as he said, unwrapping the small box. It was a necklace that had a little motorbike charm, it was simple but amazing. " You didn't have to " I sighed, he smiled once more " I did, the three of us pitched in. Since we know how much you love Roberta ". I chuckled while nodding " You were the one who came up with that name " , " Never thought you would keep it " he smirked. I smiled " Thanks again for tonight, I appreciate it so much. Tell your mom and Will Thanks too ", he nodded while giving me one last hug. I climbed onto my bike, after placing the gift in my bag. " be careful on that thing " he shouted as I stated it up, I put my helmet on, nodding to him again. And then with one last wave, I was off.

Saturday night came, which meant it was sleepover central in the Y/L/N's household. Every year Nancy, Barb and I always had sleepovers for our birthday's. Even though we were all far too old to do so. With our pajama's on, pizza ordered and my parents gone, it was party time. " So, what movie's are we watching tonight? " Nancy questioned curiously, I shrugged " Let's watch something scary? How about Texas chainsaw massacre ". " Why would you want to watch that, people killing people " Barb stated seriously, " Fine, What about about Alien?... It's an alien killing people " I smirked causing Barb to roll her eyes. " We're alone, Why would we watch something scary? " Nancy asked, " Because it's my birthday and I need a distraction " I explained. " Why? " they both questioned at the same time, which made me panic slightly " No reason ". We started with Alien, as we pigged out on pizza. Halfway through the movie, there was a loud knock on the door. Nancy and Barb both looked at me with wide eyes, " Were you expecting someone? " Barb asked. I shook my head no, of course this would happen to us though, when we alone and in the dark. Another loud knock, causing them to jump slightly. " Go answer it! " Barb whisper shouted, " No, that's a stupid move. What if it's an Alien! " Nancy exclaimed quietly, causing me to roll my eyes. I jumped up off the couch and walked towards the front door, looking through the peephole, I saw a face I was not expecting to see. I ripped the door open and stared at Steve, " What the hell are you doing here? " I asked. He chuckled while looking at my pajama's " Well tomorrow is your birthday. I wanted to bring you something... Nice pajama's by the way ", I rolled my eyes while crossing my arms over my chest. " You didn't have to do that, we're not exactly on speaking terms. I'm surprised you even came over ". He sighed deeply " Hey, I'm going to try... I want to try and make this work " , I nodded " I get that Steve, but it's not enough. It's the middle of the night, everyone's asleep, so no one's going to actually witness you being here. I'm sorry for being so mean about this, I just don't want to continue to lie about whatever it is between us ". He nodded " I understand, I just wanted to drop this off. Happy Birthday, see you in school... On Monday! ", he was definitely nervous for some reason. I took the small gift and flowers from him, sending him a smile " Thank you, see you on Monday ". He nodded once more before walking back to his car, I sent him a quick wave before walking into the house. " What was Steve Harrington doing here? " Nancy shouted, " And how do you know him? " Barb questioned. I shrugged placing the flowers on the kitchen table " He was just dropping off a birthday gift ", " But, how do you know him?! " Nancy questioned. " We were partners in Biology, I was upset that my parents weren't going to be around for my birthday or really anything. I'm just as confused as you are, I never thought he'd show up. Hell, I didn't even think he knew where I lived " I sighed while looking down at the little gift, " Well... Aren't you going to ope it? " Barb asked with a smile. I sighed again while opening the box, inside was a key chain, clearly for my bike keys. Two charms were on the end, a book and a little dog. I almost started crying right then and there, earlier we lost our family dog and I remember Steve comforting me, it was one of the hardest moments in my life was the day my good ol' boy passed. " Wow, he must know you very well, you love to read and your dog was the most important to you " Barb smiled, I shrugged slightly " We just talked a lot in class ". Both Nancy and Barb nodded before walking backing into the living room, I pulled my keys out of my bag and hooked the key chain to it ( I'd call Steve in the morning and thank him once more ). The next morning, after the three of us made a mess of my kitchen, attempting to make pancakes. Barb and Nancy left, wishing me a happy birthday once more. When Nick returned home, he told me that mom and dad had finally gotten me my own phone line, which I had been wanting for the past few years. Once everything was hooked up, I dialed Steve's number. " Hello? " he asked, " Hey Steve, it's Y/N... " I sighed. " Oh hey, what's up? " he asked, " I just wanted to thank you for the key chain. I absolutely love it " I stated. " Well, I'm happy you like it " he chuckled, " I do it's perfect " I sighed, this was the most awkward conversation he and I had ever had. " That's great, he Y/N. I gotta go, Can I call you later? " he asked, " Um sure, that's fine " I muttered loud enough for him to hear. " Okay, talk to you later " he stated before hanging up, not even waiting for a reply. I guess maybe I was to hard on him, to much of a bitch. Trying to force him to be seen with me in public, maybe eventually he would've dumped his stupid friends. I may have ruined my chance.

Now weeks later and that phone call from Steve never came, none at all actually. He pays no mind to me in school and I believe that it was probably all my fault, at least that's what I thought for the last few weeks. That is, until rumors started swirling around school of Steve and Nancy being a thing now. I witnessed it for myself a few times and even though it made me sad, there was nothing I could do about it. Things were over and now it was time to move on with my life, it still hurt seeing them walk down the hallway, hand in hand. It makes me wonder, what if... But anyway, that's in the past now . Time to move onto the future...

Why Can't we be like that? Wish we could be like that. ---------------------------------------------------------------

Hey guys, I know it's been a long time, but I'm back and going to start writing again, or attempting to. I've just been constantly tired and sometimes it's hard for me to just want to get up and write. But, I hope you like this and thank you all for hanging around. You're all so amazing, I can't even. I really hope you enjoyed this, Thank You so much for Reading <3<3

#steve harrington imagine #steve harrington fanfic #steve harrington fanfiction #stranger things #stranger things fanfic #stranger things fanfiction #fanfiction #fanfic #imagine #writing #writer #My writing #writing again #Thank You #thanks for reading #Thank you for reading #hope you like it #your amazing #joe keery

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gfyyo · 3 years ago

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07.06 Monday - sponty date, gifts and i’m happy. thank you.

Tuesday - wish i’m with you

Wednesday - finish all of my stuff so i can peacefully be with you

Thursday - finally, a whole day with you to bike around BGC or UPTC? and i can’t wait

Friday - stay at home with you. shoot crazy tiktoks and have fun with you all day while working. (nsfw & wholesome content) maybe go out with my friends? finally

Saturday - walrus with you & your friends? or should i say a crazy night when we get home not minding anyone if they can see us making out inside the elevator.

Sunday - i’m leaving home. I don’t want to. I just can’t wait for the day that i’ll come home to you everyday after a long tiring day from work.

Note: update this with pictures of our week :>

07.06

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ecoutez-moi · 4 years ago

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part 5 - gratefulness in our lives

DAY 27 - MONDAY - March 15

Adreanna C.

Of course! I am grateful for:

1. God & His many blessings

2. Family

3. Friends

4. Great health

5. Being in my right mind

6. Remaining financially stable during these hard times

7. Having a roof over my head

8. Having so much love & support surrounded around me

9. The mistakes I’ve made & continue to make every now & then because I only learn from them

10. LIFE

DAY 28 TUESDAY- March 16

Sophia C.

10 things I’m grateful for

1. A steady job that allows me to have a income to not only purchase what I need but also little wants that bring me joy.

2. A group of work friends who takes me as I am. They listen to my Debbie downer complaining when I feel burnt out and take in my over-the-top extra-ness when I feel motivated without making me feel bad about being either way.

3. A healthy and relatively smooth first pregnancy with only annoying but not-too-scary symptoms or complications.

4. Being able to spend time with my family and have them feed me/talk to me while transitioning to a new place.

5. Having the financial means to get a bigger place.

6. Having support from my partner during an isolating time.

7. Having different types of friends and relationships to lean on in different aspects of my life- an empathetic brother and an aggressive sister to stand up for me in the stuff that I’m too meek in.

8. The recovery of my family after health scares.

9. A body that allows me to live and enjoy life.

10. The experiences and relationships that brought me to where I am today and continue to help me grow as a person.

Rachel C.

Rachel’s Gratitude List

• A safe place to live

• A caring partner in life

• My health

• The ability to find the positive in a situation rather than getting stuck in the negative.

• Access to clean water to drink

• A way to make a living in the midst of this pandemic.

• Food 😊

DAY 29 WEDNESDAY - March 17

Didi

Today I’m grateful to wake u p and still can see a beautiful view of the sky. A fresh smell in the morning. A good breakfast which tastes so amazing even if it ‘s just a scrambled egg. A peace of mind I had because I wake up to live like there’s no tomorrow. Love and Bless <3

Maritza

I’m grateful for everything

Happiness friends and love Nd music

DAY 30 Thursday - March 18

Kristin D.

I am grateful for:

1. Loving parents and family

2. Friends

3. Health

4. Safe shelter

5. Food provision

6. Current employment

7. The opportunity to sit still (this is spiritual)

8. New bible study

9. Mentoring program

10. Lessons that I will learn from the last 2 difficult weeks

Ivy F.

1. Yoga

2. Breathing

3. Fresh foods

4. My parents

5. Support of friends

6. Hope for change

7. Rain & sunshine

8. Simply feeling - allowing myself to get more comfortable with openly feeling my emotions

9. A laugh that hurts so good

10. A bright smile

Justus W.

Grateful for strength and wisdom in my marriage!

Grateful for the trials I’ve been through that added clarity to my thinking

Grateful that my mother and brothers are taken care of

Grateful for the gifts God had given me to use.

Grateful that every time anyone negative or crazy is in my life God always exposes them.

Grateful that in my years of cross country driving nothing terrible has ever happened.

Grateful that God must have a lot of patience with me 😂

Grateful to have a home and safe place.

Grateful that since I turned 18 God has provided for every bill. Never missed a payment on anything

Grateful that I know God. And that if anything on this list ever changed I could still stand on the Word and have faith!

DAY 31 March 19 FRIDAY

Klisha T.

Hmmmmmm 10 things

About to get the kids to bed but theres so many things lol

For health, for my kids, for healing for Mya, for my husband, for salvation, for God's grace

For our best friends Myo and Natalie

Literally for a place to live

Running water

Food

Is that 10? Lol

DAY 32 March 20 SATURDAY

Vlad S.

My wife

My family

My friends

My dogs

My creativity

Nature

Good food

My neighborhood

Biking

My youth

Kevin M.

I am grateful for my health - I am

Obviously getting older but I feel like I am healthier than when I was younger. I am feeling the healthiest and most grounded I have felt in a long time.

I am grateful for some space in my life.

I am grateful for the deep, connected friendships I have cultivated over the years. I feel as we all get older these friendships are going to be what sustains me.

I am grateful to be inspired everyday by what people are creating in this world.

I am grateful I get to work at something that interests me.

I am grateful that most days I wake up and can put my energy towards things that excite me.

I am grateful for my mom, dad and my sisters and the family I was born into.

I am grateful I am still very close to my mom and sisters.

I am grateful that I get to live in NYC and that the city still excites and inspires me.

I am grateful for Al-Anon.

I am grateful to be free of any substance addictions in my life.

I am grateful for the natural talents, skills, gifts that I have been given by God and that I can use those everyday to what I do or in service of others.

I am grateful that I have been blessed with the resources that I need to live a comfortable life.

I am grateful that it’s easy for me to see the good in people.

I am grateful that I have a curious mind.

I am grateful that I feel my feelings deeply.

I am grateful that I am nor afraid to cry in front of people.

I am grateful that I always want to be better.

I am grateful for my three children and that they have such big, bold and expressive personalities.

I am grateful for the many years I have had in partnership with Leslie and all the incredible adventures we have had.

I am grateful for the other romantic relationships I have had in my life and the wisdom they have given me.

I am grateful for the times life teaches me how to let go.

I am grateful that alcoholism in my family has given me the opportunity to form a deeper connection to my spirituality.

I am grateful that I have so many things I am grateful for!!!

DAY 33 March 21 SUNDAY

I missed today :(

DAY 34 March 22 MONDAY

David H.

1. Everyone in My family is healthy

2. Thru this last year where our family members could not meet , my cousins have announced engagements and pregnancies so our family is growing

3. Work is good , the word is getting out that I’m not bad at this

4. In a world where ppl have a difficult time

This year, my business has thrived

5. My perspective on life is more keen

6. I have the capability to low you now as a passerby than I did years ago when I was closer

7. God was always with me. But I only see him now

8. From our last conversation you’re in better place now and I’m thankful for that

IM so happy for you. I couldn’t genuinely say that years ago

9. Perspective

10. Christina, you’re a bigger part of my life than you know. I’D kill for you

DAY 35 MARCH 23 TUESDAY

Chrissy K.

My ten.. I’m grateful..

- even though my sanity and energy is tested everyday- I’m grateful for this extra time I’m having with the kids, to watch them grow in small ways everyday

- most of family and friends have been healthy (or able to recover), safe, financially stable during the pandemic

- being able to ride out half of the pandemic in San Diego, meaning more space, more things for the kids to do ie, zoo, beaches, closer to cousin

-having access to some beautiful outdoors

- great weather so we weren’t cooped up inside all year

- super humbling and challenging living with the in-laws.. but grateful charlie and Benny are able to bond with them

- the timing of things.. bro was out in ny right before pandemic hit so was able to help At the store, in-laws decided to go to Korea for extended time so it allowed us to have time alone in sd, my maternity leave rolled right into quarantine

- food

-korean dramas 😂 keeping it real- turned into korean lady putting on kdrama while I do dishes and cook

- finally able to drink again.. pass that glass of wine or beer

DAY 36 MARCH 24 WEDNESDAY

Shav G.

1. my health

2. my sleep schedule

3. my ever supportive family

4. my friends i get to jam with every day

5. my studio being close by

6. the city that inspires me every day

7. my recent boom in love interests 🤣

8. my view

9. my doormen they’re my bff’s

10. my drive to do better

Anne C.

[11:17 PM, 3/24/2021] Anne C: this is amazing - love that you're creating and holding space for something positive.

[11:17 PM, 3/24/2021] Anne C: life has been very tough - giving me a beating with what its throwing at me.

[11:18 PM, 3/24/2021] Anne C: so I'll like to say i'm grateful for strength

DAY 37 MARCH 25 THURSDAY

Marion G.

What a great idea! I would love to!

1. My family

2. Good health

3. Great friends (you included!)

4. Coffee in the morning

5. A good night's sleep (when I get one)

6. The time I've been able to spend with my kids this past year.

7. Peace of mind

8. Having a job during these difficult times

9. Wine

10. Music

What a great exercise to do first thing in the morning! Miss you!! ❤

Bonnie Y.

DAY 38 MARCH 26 FRIDAY

Sina W.

1. My parents. They’ve really been there for me through the challenges of covid & especially through the break up. Paying for therapy & spending a lot of time with me watching shows and just crying was very needed.

2. Ty. I would say “my friends” but I haven’t seen my friends like that. I spend every day with Ty lol. He is my friend soulmate and I hope everyone finds a friend like him. He walked me to my apartment every night when I was being harassed by my ex, let me crash with him, fed me, and above all has made incredible sacrifices to be a part of this music journey with me and I can’t thank him enough.

3. Nature. I’ve spent a lot of time connecting with nature, reading about nature, and sitting in nature. It’s been very meditative and helped me keep a level head.

4. Music. Just grateful to do what I love & be able to take everything I’m feeling and turn it into something tangible and productive. It has been my saving grace through quarantine and I don’t know what I’d be doing if I didn’t have it.

5. Edibles lol. Between October and February my anxiety was through the roof. I’ve been through a lot of shit recently and thank god there’s been something to take the edge of sometimes.

6. Books. I’ve read 20 books since Christmas. I’ve been really excited about learning recently. Everything from meditation to the ice age to gentrification. It’s given me a lot of perspective and makes me really happy.

7. My sister. We recently started getting a lot closer and I always hoped that would happen.

8. My DOG. He makes me so happy. Like pure joy. I love him so much.

9. The sun. Not very common in Portland but every week we may get a sunny day and every time it happens it’s a reminder that this will be over soon. When the world was open, the clouds didn’t bug me so much. But now I look forward to the sun like no other.

10. BLAZER GAMES. Omg. I have not missed a game this season. It gives me something to look forward to & they are so fun to watch.

Anna B.

1. My health

2. Friends

3. Intuition

4. Abundance

5. Setting boundaries

6. Mindfulness

7. Family

8. Frank

9. Creativity

10. Feeling safe

DAY 39 MARCH 27 SATURDAY

Jon R.

10 things I’m grateful for.

1. Friendship with genuine connection

2. Like minded individuals/creatives

3. My family (we’ve been dysfunctional for years but a new leaf has turned over and we’re all making a strong effort to be a better unit)

4. My litter brother finally making the choice to better his life and get off the streets

5. God!

6. My girlfriend

7. You. (we can go months without talking but we always pick up where we left off. Since day 1 you’ve been an honest friend who’s opinion I value and I love you dearly)

8. Fashion

9. Music

10. Good health

DAY 40 MARCH 28 SUNDAY

Allie G.

Hey Christina!!! Hope you are doing swell(: hmmm 10 things?

My friends

My house

The weather today 🔆

Healthy body

Healthy mind

Avocados

Live music

Laughter

The ocean

And YOU for allowing me to sit and think about that

DAY 41 MARCH 29 MONDAY

Ray T.

I’m grateful for the almost 25 years of friendship with Christina Chow Mein

Ann K.

Hi Christina,

I hope you’re doing well!

Today I am thankful for:

1. the Hubs (today is our anni)

2. having all our needs met everyday

3. healthy kids

4. getting to and from work safely

5. growing garden seedlings

6. COVID vaccine

7. teachers

8. consistently having work to do

9. longer hours of daylight

10. friends that remind me of God’s goodness

#grateful #lent #lent2021 #love #blessings #God's grace

0 notes

iamamurdervictim · 4 years ago

Text

1/3/2020

It was a normal day. I woke up, got ready for the day, and off I went to work. I remember my boyfriend was home from work that day so he watched my son for the day. I remember we had plans after work to go out to dinner just the three of us. I was at work when I all of a sudden started getting a really bad migraine. That’s really nothing new for me. I’m a frequent migraine sufferer. But this one was different. It hit me harder than any other one before. I asked work if I could leave a couple hours early. They said it was fine, so I was on my way home. I remember trying to call my mom on my way home, but she didn’t answer. Weird. She always answers. Must be on the phone with my brother, I thought to myself. We have a weird thing that even though we live on opposite sides of the country that we call her at the exact same time. I arrived at home. Was just happy to be home because it was a Friday and I got to see my little man and my boyfriend and spend the night with them. I walked through the door and I could tell things were just off. The feeling of the house was just weird. Something was up. I greeted my boyfriend with a hug and a kiss, but it wasn’t the same. He had this look on his face like something wasn’t right. I asked him what was wrong, but he replied “nothing”. So I just assumed it was a not so great day, which was normal sometimes. Then I remember sitting in the kitchen and all of a sudden my doorbell rings. Strange. We weren’t expecting anyone, at least not that I knew of. I go to the door and standing there is my Dad and my stepmom Debbie. I greet them, surprised that they are there because they live far away. They come into the house, I knew something was weird because they never just show up out of the blue. I remember Debbie took my son upstairs to play and my boyfriend took our German Shepherd Piper outside. My dad was just standing there. My mom tried calling me. I thought she was just trying to call me back, so I ignored the call and texted her really quick to tell her that I’d call her back. My dad just got there, I didn’t want to be rude. My dad looks at me and says “you need to take that call, Kelsey”. I immediately say “What’s going on? What happened?”. I start panicking. Did something happen to my mom. My stepdad Jim. My grandparents. What’s happening, this isn’t normal. I take the call. I can hear my mom’s tears through the phone like she’s standing right in front of me. She said “Something happened to Arty.” I said “What, what happened?!”, thinking that he got into an accident on his bike, skateboard, or God forbid a car accident. He was always goofing around. She didn’t want to tell me over the phone, but she knew I needed to know. She lives six hours away from me, so it’s not like she could have told me in person. Then she said the one thing I’d never thought I’d hear in my whole life that shattered my world...”Kelsey, Arty was murdered.” She was sobbing. I looked at my dad. I dropped to my knees in my dining room and started to scream. I didn’t know what else to do. It’s like something took over my body. I didn’t even realize I was screaming until my dad told me to try to hold it in so I don’t worry my son. I felt like someone’s hands were around my neck, suffocating me. I couldn’t breath. Gut wrenching pains in my stomach like someone’s gutting me alive. I sobbed, right there, in the middle of my dining room. Uncontrollable sobbing and hyperventilating. I couldn’t catch my breath. How did this happen? And to my cousin of all people? I hung up with my mom after a few minutes. I went into denial. This can’t be happening. This isn’t right. This is one big huge mistake. I googled his name. That confirmed it. The headline read “Egg Harbor Township NJ Homicide: Man Found Dead in Atlantic County home had been shot multiple times, Identified as Arty Barrera III.” I was in complete shock. Now I knew the reason that my boyfriend was so silent when I came home. It wasn’t a “mood”. My mom had called him earlier that day to tell him what happened, so that she could know when I was home. She didn’t want me to find out while I was at work. That’s why she didn’t answer when I tried calling her. She called my dad so that he could be there for me when she told me the news. I love her for trying to protect me as much as she can from this.

Moving on from that, the next few days were a blur. I don’t remember much of it. I zoned out a lot, not knowing what to think. All I wanted to do was have some alcohol, but I knew that wasn’t a good idea. So I didn’t. I just sat there, numb to it all. My boyfriend and I watched a whole season of a show in one day, and I don’t even remember what show it was. I couldn’t focus on anything but the knots in my stomach and the aching feeling to go home to NJ to see my family. I went to work on Monday in a daze. I sat down at my desk trying to focus on my work. I knew the funeral would be soon, though, so I had to let my boss know what happened so I could get time off. She asked me what was wrong, I uttered the words out slowly, stumbling on every word. And then it clicked in my head. This is it. This is ACTUALLY happening. This is what my life is now. Her jaw dropped. She couldn’t believe it either, and she didn’t even know him. She gave me the days off without any hesitation. Told me to take the time that I needed, and if she could do anything to let her know. I thanked her.

I got on a plane on Wednesday, 1/8/2020 to head to NJ. I didn’t want to drive. Although, I thought it would clear my head, I wanted more time with family. I remember my mom picked me up from the airport in Philly, and I broke down in the car. Both of us did. I’ll finish the rest of the story later.

I want to leave it off with this thought. I chose the username I am a murder victim for a reason. My cousin was murdered. In cold blood. In his own home, at the hands of someone else. But when someone is murdered, it isn’t just the person that’s gone that was murdered. It’s the entire family. None of us will be the same ever again. We all have a piece of us missing. A big piece. My aunt, uncle, and little cousins (his brothers) the biggest pieces of all. My heart aches everyday thinking of this. I have suffered from the worst anxiety and depression I have had my whole life. I have been having nightmares of the events. I have been having panic attacks in the middle of the night after waking up from said nightmares. I am a murder victim, too. Even though I’m still living.

Please visit www.justiceforart.com

Bring awareness to this ongoing murder case. We’re all waiting for justice. Still waiting, still praying. We won’t give up until we find it.

-KC

#justiceforart

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ethanblogsforpt · 4 years ago

Text

PEACE OF MIND AMIDST THE CHAOS IN THE WORLD

Source: The Breck Life

The coronavirus pandemic drastically changed the way we live life. We don’t get to interact with friends physically that much anymore, and we hear negativity everywhere. From the moment we open our phone and log in on social media, we get bombarded with the chaos happening all around the world, from the growing number of COVID-19 cases, issues of social, racial and gender inequality to brewing disagreements between two countries. It affects our mental health negatively, and our spirit may be deflated much as a result, leaving us to think that there is little hope that there will be a time where peace rules over the world, and that there might be no room for change in our society. With that being said, it is now more important than ever that we need to boost our morale, and keep ourselves mentally and spiritually healthy as the front-liners search for a vaccine and a cure to this seemingly never-ending misery. Although we need to have faith, just as the others say, because it is essential to keeping a spiritually healthy mind, we also have to show it through our actions, particularly in various routines, because it usually represents how you value your wellness as a human being. In this blog, I’ll talk about some of the things that I do daily, that helps me balance my time and health this quarantine, and maybe you can take note of one of the things in my routine, and apply them in yours too.

MONDAY – 7:30 AM

NEW WEEK, NEW SET OF BIBLE VERSES

Source: history.com

Since the new normal classes started, I woke up at 7:30 every morning, to prepare myself for every class, synchronous or self-paced. As soon as I’m awake, I usually pray, to thank God for giving me another day to live, since this year made us realize that life is too precious, and that nothing is promised, not even tomorrow. I thank Him for giving me all the things that I am able to enjoy today, and I also ask for His guidance in every aspect of my life. It may be making decisions that may affect my future, or my character. Afterwards, I read some bible verses that help keep me on track and stay unfazed from the negativity that I see whenever I open my social media accounts.

After everything else, I then get to reflect on all the blessings that I received, and it made me appreciate all the little things even more. I admit, one of the biggest mistakes I’ve made in my life, is that I took some things for granted. Waking up early in the morning and going to school is something that I really took for granted, something that I wouldn’t thought I’d miss it soon enough. Another, is going out everyday after school for a short bike ride around the neighborhood, or perhaps playing basketball with my friends. For now, I have to wait a bit longer before I get to do these again, like the normal days. I’d also reflect on the dreams that I get last night, if I can recall them. They do symbolize things sometimes, and it may be referring to you, your situation in life right now, or what you need to do in order to get yourself past a difficult situation, if you’re facing one currently. Also, they have hidden messages, which are usually about what you feel towards a certain situation. I’d go for a few reps of some exercises after, to make sure that I’m fit, since this is the right time to invest more of your time in exercising to stay fit. Alright, it’s time for me to start my classes. I’ll write again tomorrow, but until then, I must finish everything I need to do for this day.

TUESDAY – 10:03 PM

ONE RAINY NIGHT

Source: depositphotos.com

Another day, yet today is rainy unlike yesterday. It’s my favorite weather, because for some reason I find it relaxing, and it allows me to focus more on what I’m doing, much like how praying to God everyday realigns my focus towards everything I do for the day. Pairing it with hot chocolate and doughnuts probably would be what I call a great start to a rainy morning, that would eventually last until evening. I still have a lot to do today, since there are still assessments and tasks that I didn’t get to finish yesterday. I’ll carry on with my usual routine after that, taking a bath, then maybe taking a break from all the school stuff that I’m working on. I often play games and watch anime after I finish several tasks. Maybe I’d watch about 5 episodes, then do another set of tasks again. I’d also listen to music, depending on what genre I’d like to listen to in a day. It helps me focus, although I admit I’d be singing it at some part. But hey, if it’s effective, why not?

Anyways, I’m tired right now. I sleep late like almost every day. I never forget to pray before I sleep though, because when I was still a 9 year old kid, I frequently had nightmares whenever I forgot to pray before I sleep, which would then be my routine every night. Alright, I’ll write again tomorrow. I’m hopeful that tomorrow will be an another opportunity for me to be better emotionally, spiritually, physically and mentally than I am yesterday.

WEDNESDAY – 8:00PM

DE-STRESSING IN THE MIDDLE OF SCHOOLWORKS

Source: verywell.com

It’s already Wednesday, and things are kind of getting stressful enough. It’s hard, especially for me, considering that I still have tasks to do, and that I have a schedule of learning how to code after classes. I usually finish some difficult tasks around 4PM, and I get to unwind from all the stuff that I’ve been doing. Usually, I watch anime or play games with my friends. I even read some bible verses to keep my faith in God strong. However, this day was different. I just wanted to take a nap, considering that I slept late because of my daily late-night talks with my dad, who’s working abroad. I somehow did, I prayed before sleeping and now I’m energized enough to continue doing the tasks that were unfinished now.

I think now is the time to take care of ourselves mentally more than ever. That’s why I’m doing everything one step at a time. I unwind when I feel like I need to. I constantly get reminded of that too, because sometimes I could spend the whole day just working on schoolwork, without taking a break. I’d give myself an hour to refresh my mind, make sure that it stays healthy when I continue to study and do tasks. A lot of us are already stressed today, with the immense pressure that the pandemic gives us, as we hear a plethora of news with one common subject: the coronavirus. I don’t want anything to add up to it, that’s why I try to finish everything that I can possibly do in a day. I was taught once in Grade 4, that what you can do today, do it now. Tomorrow is never promised, so do everything that you need to do today, when you have the time and the resources. It avoids us from rushing to finish something on time, with only little time left. Despite all of that, it is also important to relax once in a while, since the challenge that the pandemic has brought to us today is not only being healthy physically, but testing our mental toughness, which I believe is the key to keeping ourselves productive this quarantine.

THURSDAY – 10:38 PM

LESS STRESS, MORE ENJOYMENT

Source: pushsquare.com

It’s Thursday already, and I’m feeling a bit too excited because it’s almost weekends. I still have a lot to do, but I’m making good progress. I’ve already finished almost two-thirds of what I need to do, and it’s only a matter of time before self-care week is around. Today is just another usual day for me, the typical unwinding through playing games and talking with friends. It’s like I can’t miss a day without communicating with them, and it has been a part of our routine ever since. I just finished praying, and as I was about to take a spoonful of my food, I suddenly remembered one moment in my life where I was showing a bit of ungratefulness towards everything I have, and it was me being ungrateful about the food that was served on our table.

That gave me time to reflect again, on how I developed and matured as a person, and participating in Bible Studies that our neighbors held really helped in molding me into the person that I am today. I really appreciate the fact that I’m surrounded with the right people, who lead me in the right path. I also appreciate my relatives letting me join them with every religious practice and seminar that they attend to. It really helped me strengthen my faith in God, which I keep on recalling whenever I notice myself being stressed or losing faith in God. If it weren’t for them, who knows what may happen to me? My parents might get a call saying that I got into trouble for any mischievous stuff that I did in school or someplace else. The book that my mom bought for me that allows me to point out my bad habits, and how to replace them with the good ones certainly helped. But the main reason why I am what I am right now, is because of my upbringing. My parents never spoiled me with expensive stuff, and although there was a point where I wished I have them, I just focused on the ones that I have right now, because it’s still a blessing, and I am still fortunate enough, unlike other children who had a rough childhood. I don’t get to appreciate them unless if those things were taken away from me. It’s a privilege, and I’m grateful enough for that. Alright, that’s it for now. We’re about to pray together as a family, and we’ll continue to pray that this pandemic finally ends, and we could all go back to our normal lives.

FRIDAY – 9:59 PM

THE POWER OF ONE PRAYER

Source: foxnews.com

Praying every day doesn’t really consume that much of your time. I know I’ve reiterated this over and over in my past entries, but one of my prayers got answered, and it’s related to the wellness of my family. I kept on praying that my dad is going to be alright, considering that he becomes anxious sometimes, and the only thing that could make it go away is when he talks to us. I’m also grateful that he’s my dad, because he still spends time communicating with us. Along with that, I’m glad that my mom didn’t contract the disease, because she constantly goes out to buy food and other stuff. I also recited one bible verse from the Book of John 3:16 which is “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” It reminds us that everything in the world happens for a reason, and that God has a plan for each and every one of us. Despite all of the chaos happening in the world, I’m sure He’s letting us try to realize something through those happenings, and that is being grateful for getting a chance to live, since many are already suffering from the disease the COVID-19 virus brings. Before I move on into the weekends, I usually reflect on what I did this week, to determine whether I have been productive or not. I try to stay productive in anyway possible, and for the upcoming self-care week, I plan to practice more in playing the piano, because I plan to pursue music too, and it’s what I love. I just find joy in playing instruments, and I could go as far as making my own covers and my own compositions too. I also want to read books related to the economy, the stock market and finance, since I also desire to become an investor someday, just like my dad, although his job is really an Electronics Engineer, he also invests in the stock market whenever he has time, along with the family time he spends with us.

These are my routines every day, and although it may not that much, I’m sure it’ll give you something to do to remain productive during these days. Our mental and spiritual health is now more important than ever, and it’s only fitting to do these. In praying, it could be before and after meals, waking up and before going to sleep. As for the bible verses, you could incorporate them into your schedule once a day. It’s not enough though, if you don’t really apply the lessons that the verses convey in your life. Such example is when we encounter a situation that’s left us with uncertainty to decide on something. God and the Holy Spirit will surely help us provide the strength and wisdom, to do what’s good and proper. Reciting one also helps us calm down and think through it wisely. We have to be ready for these situations in life, and this quarantine provides us plenty of time to do so, for our character development and our decision-making skills, because one wrong decision later on in life will really change everything, which will then cause us to regret doing it.

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generalgemini-booknerd · 7 years ago

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Growth Opportunities: Chapter Five

A/N: Let this be a lesson to all of you: be complementary to a writer and her work, and you might get a new chapter!

if you need a refresher, chapter 4 is here: http://generalgemini-booknerd.tumblr.com/post/159939212239/growth-opportunities-chapter-four

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“Honor! Hold up a sec, will you?”

So much for a quick getaway, she thought to herself. After the meeting had let out, Honor wanted nothing more than to get the hell out of there. Grimacing to herself, she paused mid-stride and slid her headphones down the back of her head, letting the thrumming base line of The Black Keys vibrate gently against her neck. She didn’t know if Professor Evans knew she’d had her music on or not, but she guessed he didn’t really care. If she’d feigned ignorance and tried to act like she hadn’t heard him, he would have stopped her another way. God forbid. A frisson of something hot and electric streaked up her spine at the thought.

Finishing up his conversation with a laugh and a wave, Professor Evans sauntered over to where she stood. Without breaking his stride, he motioned for Honor to follow him, stating, “We’ve got some housekeeping to handle. Let’s head up to my office, shall we?”

With that he set off at a brisk pace, heading for the stairs. His tone brooked no arguments, and Honor was forced to scramble after him. Of course, because it was just the way her life went, Professor Evans appeared to be in excellent shape and mounted the stairs as if he was bouncing on the fluffiest of clouds. Honor, burdened by her too heavy backpack, was out of breath after the first floor. Refusing to let Professor Evans see her sweat literally or figuratively, she grabbed the handrail for ballast and charged forward. By the time she reached the fourth floor, Honor felt like she had just reached the finish line of a 5k. Worse, Professor Evans was already halfway down the hall, unlocking his office door.

Grimacing, Honor reached into the side pocket of her backpack, pulling out her water bottle. Taking a healthy swig, she attempted to delay the inevitable: facing the fact that she was actually working for him. The “”I’m-cooler-than-you, and smart, interesting AND gorgeous” Professor Evans. Too bad he was also a jerk. And took advantage of his position of authority. As she stopped at a nearby water fountain to refill the now-empty bottle, she tried to give herself a pep talk. “Suck it up, buttercup. You took the job, being miserable is only going to make it worse.” She had almost gotten herself together, prepared to be amiable, when she turned to face him. He stood in the open doorway of his office and gestured for Honor to precede him with that smirk on his face. Her fledgling goodwill vanished as she muttered, “Got something against elevators?”

“I do, actually. Claustrophobic. Feel free to take the elevator and meet me next time.” He said it easily though, conspiratorially, as if he were trusting her with one of his biggest secrets. Honor immediately felt like an asshole, and an out of shape asshole at that. She ran around after small children for the better part of everyday. Shouldn’t she be in better shape than this? With a sigh she plunked down into one of the chairs across from his desk. Reaching into her backpack, she withdrew a notebook and rooted around for a pen.

“Relax, Honor. I’m not testing you. You don’t need to take notes.”

Honor threw a withering glance in his direction, but put the notebook back in her bag. She didn’t want to tell him she felt naked and ill at ease without them. She needed something, anything to do with her hands. Feeling his eyes on her, she finally settled for crossing her arms. It was better than sitting on her hands like a five year old, and at this point, she honestly didn’t care if her pose made her look like a defiant teenager in the principle’s office.

“So,” he began, “I just wanted to get together today to go over some expectations I have of you as my TA, and what you might expect of me. I also wanted to go over scheduling, it said on your TA application that you had excellent time management capabilities, but that you needed flexibility. I need a clearer picture. As a rule, we understand that we need to work around TA’s class schedules, do you mean above and beyond that?”

Honor took a deep breath before she began. Straightening in her seat, she replied evenly, “Yes, Professor Evans, I do mean above and beyond my school schedule-”

He interrupted. “Call me Chris, please. I’m not your professor anymore. Go on,” he encouraged.

Honor sighed. Call me Chris. There he was walking that line between nice guy and annoying asshole. It made it hard to get a read on who he really was.

“As I was saying, I have another job besides this job. I’m absolutely willing to work, but if possible, I’m hoping, depending on the work you want me to do, that I be able to-if for instance I were grading test for you-possibly bring it home with me, or early mornings would work too? Afternoons and nights are difficult for me because that’s usually when I work.”

Chris paused as if digesting this news, one hand scratching his jaw. Honor could hear the rasping of his beard from where she sat. After several moments pause he replied, “Where did you say you work?” His voice sounded odd, tight and several notches higher than it usually did.

Honor shifted in her chair. This part was always awkward. “Um. I didn’t. I work at Wee One’s daycare? My technical title is ‘Childcare technician’ but most people just call us babysitters. I work the after-school and nightshift, you know, for parents that work from like, three to eleven pm?”

Chris leaned back in his chair, expelling a huff of laughter that rattled the papers on his desk. “A daycare worker! That’s what you do! Of course!” He shook his head as he continued to chuckle.

Honor cocked her head, gazing at him curiously. “What did you think I did?”

Chris stopped laughing suddenly, and sat upright again, as though chastened. “Um, nothing. I just, you know..you said you worked afternoons and nights, and I just sort of assumed…” He made a vague notion with his hands.

Horror-struck, Honor finally realized what he was trying to say. “You thought I was a stripper! Are you kidding me? Do you know who my family is? My father? Never mind that I hardly have the body to work a pole. Oh, sweet ever-loving Christ on a bike!”

Chris held up his hands in mock surrender. “You’re right, I’m sorry. I should never have said anything. By the way, they prefer to be called erotic dancers. Or so I’m told.”

Honor glared balefully at him. “Don’t you think, if I were a “erotic dancer” or whatever they like to be called, bless them, that you would have heard about it by now?” She was referring, of course to her father. Honor did her best to stay far away from his limelight, but unfortunately it was far-reaching. If she did anything too “public” it was known. And discussed. And if in anyway negative, resulted in a call from her very disappointed Mama, who no doubt had gotten an earful from the big man himself. “God forbid he actually pick up the phone and call me himself,” she thought.

Chris shrugged dismissively. “I don’t know. Wigs, makeup, costumes, all that can do a lot to disguise your identity. And it’s been my experience that no one really pays attention to faces in places like that.”

Honor arched an eyebrow at him and shot back, “And you know this how, exactly?”

He cleared his throat and at least had the decency to look a little bit bashful. “Let’s move on shall we? I’m not a huge stickler about time, as long as your work is done and done well. We can adjust your schedule accordingly, and I’m sure I’ll have work you can bring home throughout the semester. Depending on how your class schedule works out, I would like at least one day that you are here in office during the day. Do you know your class schedule yet?”

Honor nodded, digging in her bag. Pulling out her planner, she flipped to January, where she had already written out her class schedule on the calendar. After a moment’s consultation, she announced, “Wednesdays are my only day that is almost totally open. I have class from 8 to 10 a.m., and then I’m free after that. I have half days available on Mondays and Fridays, but I have to keep one of those open each week for my front office shift, right?”

He nodded in the affirmative. “This is a good start though. Like I said, I have no problems with the scheduling thing, just as long as I know from week to week what you have planned for hours. I expect, however,” he paused meaningfully, “that you don’t take advantage of my leniency. I have high standards for my TA’s in regards to the work you do. You are an extension of me, and I work hard to be a dependable professor. I test when I say I’m going to, and hand back papers when I say I will, which can be difficult at times, given the class selections that I’m teaching. So, any questions?” He reached forward grabbing a pen, and opening a desk drawer.

Honor took this to mean that the meeting was over. She shook her head, bending to put her planner back in her bag. As she stood to leave, she heard Chris clear his throat. Taking that as her cue, she turned back to face him expectantly.

Sliding a small piece of paper across the plane of his desk, he stood up, as if to walk her to the door. A feeling of deja vu washed over her as she remembered the last time this happened.

“So, got any big plans for the winter break?”

Honor shot him a quizzical look. She shifted awkwardly as she mumbled, “Um, no. Just working. You?”

He shrugged. “No rest for the wicked. I’m teaching a course during the winter hiatus, so I just have the week of Christmas and New Year’s off.” He paused, as if considering his next words carefully. “Hey, I don’t suppose you’d be interested in starting work early? I could use the help, and I could pay you myself?”

Honor didn’t know how to respond. She was sure that she could probably make more working at the daycare center, and probably enjoy it more too. On the other hand, if he was willing to work with her schedule like he said, the extra money could come in handy. Finally she just shrugged and asked, “Let me think about it?”

Chris nodded. Picking up the paper from his desk, he handed it to her. “My cell phone number. If you change your mind, or if you decide you need me for anything. Anything at all.” He winked at her. And just like that another zing of something unknown and unwelcome rocketed through her body.

She nodded, at a loss for words. She was halfway out the door when she snapped out of her haze long enough to practically shout, “Wait! You don’t have my number!” As she streaked back into his office and scrabbled for a pen, she was only vaguely aware of Chris laughing at her.

Reaching out, he closed his hand over hers and squeezed gently, replying, “Honor, I’ve already got yours. It was on your application, remember?”

Honor felt like smacking herself. “Right,” she replied stupidly. “Right. I’ll um, see you later then I guess.” She pulled her hand away from his and turned on her heel, practically running out of his office before she could make any more a fool of herself.

As she walked home she mulled the events of the day, and everything she had heard at the meeting, as well as the events in her office. She had stupidly let her guard down for a moment. It had almost been nice talking to him, like something she could enjoy. But what if what Maggie had said was true? What if under all that niceness was just another lecherous professor? If there was anything Honor took as fact in this world was that the biggest jerks in the world could also come across as the nicest guys to get what they wanted. So who was to be believed, and what was the truth? And the biggest question of all, why did any of it matter so much to Honor?

#growth opportunities #chapter 5 #ChrisXHonor #Chris Evans fanfic #my writing #professor Evans AU

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the-warmest-hands · 6 years ago

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weekend, r4w1

saturday: tilden botanical with hank, then lunch at cafe m in berk emily arrived in the night which is always amazing and the best

sunday: cleaning house. breakfast at royal coffee ground. more cleaning. windowshopping (past perfect) and groceryshopping (grocery outlet). more cleaning. dinner with tala, then dessert cafe with tala. return home and windowshopping for lamps online. slept very late

monday: section 7 day 1!!!!! so nervous but it was cool. tory is cool! and so smart and my brain hurts from thinking. learned so much. tomorrow i will bring a notebook. trashpick, sprayed bowling greens with iron plus, i got to drive the large toro thing that pumps out the stuff to spray, then touring the beat and learning about the everyday maintenance as well as longerterm plans to solve problems. inspiring. IPM - 8 voted at union hall, then fabric outlet cuz we were in the hood, now cleaning and purging.

tuesday: prep edge of bowling green for planting by filling with soil. mostly worked with eduardo, who is super cool and nice LM - 8 went to RWC to buy lamp, now home made bread also my nose is fucking killing me i don’t know if i am sick or allergies

wednesday: i was(am) sick. i took day off from work cuz i legit cannot breathe. bread was ok. got slightly better but still crumb not right we continued cleaning and listing things on craigslist, requested new internet services and canceled old one, then went out to buy groceries from safeway and pick up a printer (no more living with this god-awful printer), then over to building resources to check it out, and also showed emily esprit and potrero, and then over to omnivore bookstore and olive this olive that! and then home. kept craigslisting and cleaning.

thursday: still sick. got new internet. went to doctor. went to home depot to buy rollers for painting and related items. forgot to bring the chip for colormatch. rented *ford explorer* from getaround. bought couch. finished spackling walls.

friday: started prepping walls. went to offload clothing and kitchen crap at thrift stores. bought frames from dollar tree. had fil-am bbq sticks for lunch. returned home, sanded walls. got paint from sherwin-williams. set up dropcloths. painted. made food, did laundry. took apart dropcloth setup. cleaned. moved furniture. cleaned. remade bed.

saturday: now that the walls are done, everything else is a breeze. started bleaching the sofa cover in tub dropped off yellow bike for frankie at buena vista breakfast at kantine (eh. the experience was good though), then ikea for a slew of things, then target (wow i love the children’s collection #pillowfort!!!), then home depot, then back over the bridge to go to sports basement and buy a saddle (sq labs holla) and then home to offload all the shit washed everything, set up curtains, moved furniture and set up bike rug, started putting photos in frames for gallery wall, ran over to shermsonia to wash and dry all the bedding and the bleached stuff (spiral twist wring strategy) dinner at gaspare’s

sunday:

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mastcomm · 5 years ago

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Your Wednesday Briefing – The New York Times

Hong Kong limits travel to curtail outbreak

As the number of known cases of the Wuhan coronavirus rose by nearly 60 percent on Monday night into Tuesday, Carrie Lam, Hong Kong’s chief executive, said the territory would strictly limit travelers from mainland China starting on Thursday.

The move followed days of rising pressure from health care workers, experts and even lawmakers who support Mrs. Lam’s government, and reflected distrust of the mainland as evidenced both from recent protests and the 2003 SARS crisis, in which nearly 300 people died in Hong Kong alone.

Elsewhere, officials in Germany and Japan reported the first known cases of human-to-human transmission of the virus — meaning countries now have to worry not only about quarantining infected travelers, but also about keeping the virus from spreading within their borders.

Toll: At least 106 people have died, China said on Tuesday, and the number of cases increased to 4,515 on Tuesday, from 2,835 on Monday, according to the National Health Commission. The youngest confirmed case is a 9-month-old girl in Beijing.

What’s next: China has extended the Lunar New Year holiday to Feb. 3, and some major cities have gone further, telling businesses not to open until the next week.

Britain declines to bar Huawei

The Chinese telecommunications giant can be part of Britain’s new high-speed 5G wireless network, the British government said, despite intense American arguments that Huawei could be used by the Chinese government as a channel for control and surveillance.

Both the U.S. and China, vying for tech supremacy, had tried to sway Britain’s decision. A Trump administration official said the U.S. was “disappointed.”

The decision did not name Huawei, specifying instead that “high-risk vendors” posing “greater security and resilience risks to U.K. telecoms networks” would be able to provide equipment in some portions of the network, like antennas and base stations, but not parts of the nerve center like servers.

Implications: Britain’s membership in the so-called Five Eyes intelligence-sharing group, along with Australia, New Zealand, Canada and the U.S., gives the decision added significance. And it comes as Germany is also deciding whether to work with Huawei.

Boris Johnson’s balancing act: The prime minister is risking a rift with President Trump ahead of negotiating a new trade deal with the U.S., but the potential of 5G makes the gains from a deal look paltry.

How an N.B.A. star dazzled Asia, too

Over his two-decade career with the Los Angeles Lakers, Kobe Bryant played an important role in the basketball league’s international expansion.

His stature as an international celebrity, honed by both the N.B.A. and Nike, crystallized during the opening ceremony of the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, when he was swarmed by fellow athletes. In China, he routinely had the highest sales of shoes and jerseys.

Bryant was a frequent visitor to China for basketball camps and promotional stops, and he appeared in commercials, like one with the Taiwanese pop star Jay Chou. He was also popular in the Philippines.

The investigation: All possible causes for the helicopter crash on Sunday that killed Bryant and eight others are still being considered, but the hillsides around the flight’s destination near Los Angeles were enveloped in a nearly blinding fog at the time. The helicopter was not carrying a cockpit voice recorder, and federal investigators aren’t expected to reach a conclusion for months. Here are the latest updates.

Another angle: We spoke to a high school teacher that Bryant considered a mentor and “muse” about their remarkable friendship: “He has left such a void behind,” she said.

Long awaited, Trump peace plan favors Israel

President Trump unveiled his Middle East peace plan on Tuesday in the presence of only one party to the conflict, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Israel.

What Mr. Trump called a “win-win” proposal would give Israel most of what it has sought and create a Palestinian state with limited sovereignty. The Palestinian leadership immediately rejected the plan, which discards the idea of a full-fledged Palestinian state.

Analysts saw the document as a distraction offered by a president under impeachment working with a prime minister under criminal indictment.

The details: The plan would guarantee Israeli control of a unified Jerusalem as its capital and not require it to uproot any West Bank settlements. Mr. Trump promised to provide $50 billion in international financing for the new Palestinian entity and to open an embassy there.

At the impeachment trial: The president’s legal team made its last oral arguments on Tuesday. Senators will now have 16 hours to ask questions of each side.

A vote on whether to hear witnesses in the trial is expected on Friday, with a few Republican senators appearing to favor calling John Bolton, the former national security adviser whose book manuscript corroborates a central accusation: that Mr. Trump tied Ukraine’s military aid to politically motivated investigations.

If you have 6 minutes, this is worth it

Japan’s skateboarders roll out of the shadows

Japan has an Olympic skateboarding team that is likely to win more medals than that of any other country in the first such competition. But most of its members would not dream of taking out their boards on Japan’s streets, where the sport has long been seen as a pastime of unruly children.

This year’s summer Olympics could give its Japanese adherents something new: everyday acceptance.

Here’s what else is happening

India: A state visit by President Trump is planned for late February, according to Indian officials. The visit could be seen as an endorsement of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent policies that have deeply divided India and set off deadly nationwide protests.

Belgian king: After a court-ordered DNA test to resolve a decade-long paternity claim, King Albert II, 85, conceded that he was the biological father of the artist Delphine Boël, 51, who has long said she was conceived during an affair between her mother and Albert before he ascended the throne.

Snapshot: Above, a Syrian asylum seeker at a migrant camp in the Turkish-controlled part of Cyprus. The tiny island now hosts the most refugees per capita in the European Union, the result of a loophole within its vexing political situation.

What we’re looking at: These photos in The Atlantic of the locust swarms in East Africa. “For those keeping track of the plagues hitting the planet,” writes Andrea Kannapell, the Briefings editor.

Now, a break from the news

Go: Momcations, a getaway designed for tired mothers, are on the rise. While some see it as profiteering, others say it’s a sign of “the mainstream telling moms they deserve a break.”

Smarter Living: Breaking up with a therapist can be nerve-racking. But doing it with these tips in mind can turn it into an opportunity for growth.

And now for the Back Story on …

Reporting in Wuhan

Chris Buckley, our chief China correspondent, is reporting this week from the city of Wuhan, the epicenter of the coronavirus outbreak. Mike Ives, on the Briefings team, spoke with Chris by phone.

What is it like with these unprecedented restrictions in place?

It may be difficult to envisage just how thoroughly people have retreated from the streets and from public life. I had to cross one of the big bridges across the Yangtze for my reporting. And there I was, on one of these Chinese share bikes that are everywhere, on an almost completely empty bridge, spanning one of China’s biggest cities, crossing its biggest river. And there were just two other people on the bridge.

A lot of people wonder how long the shutdown can last. Even now people are worrying about the jobs they may lose, the businesses that will close, the school semesters that they might miss.

You’ve reported that the anger on Chinese social media is intense.

Yes, and you hear that here as well. People erupt with a kind of anger and exasperation over how it was that this dangerous pathogen was among them but they didn’t understand, in many cases, how serious it was or what was going on until the city was shut down.

But that’s leavened by a sense among many people that the most pressing thing is to get through this crisis — so that as few people die as possible and life can return to a kind of normality as soon as possible.

What else are you seeing there?

You see a combination of reactions when you approach people to talk. First of all, there’s a natural wariness about getting close to anybody. But once you reassure them — you’re outside, at a distance of a good 10 feet — they can be very open and also very generous.

How does that compare to the response you normally get?

The reaction you get as a foreign reporter varies quite a bit across China. But I think these circumstances, where people feel that they — and, in a sense, we — are all in this together, and that you’re there somehow experiencing this as well, make it easier to create that connection.

That’s it for this briefing. See you next time.

— Melina

Thank you To Mark Josephson and Eleanor Stanford for the break from the news. You can reach the team at [email protected].

P.S. • We’re listening to “The Daily.” Our latest episode is about the ripple effects of John Bolton’s coming book. • Here’s our Mini Crossword, and a clue: What causes Pinocchio’s nose to grow (five letters). You can find all our puzzles here. • Jason Polan, a New York sketch artist, produced hundreds of illustrations for the print edition of The Times. He died on Monday at age 37.

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anjiieeelikes · 6 years ago

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Dubai is one of the fastest growing cities in the World. Being highly progressive it is a different city every time you visit. From sparkling skyscrapers, distinctive arts, expansive deserts, stunning landscapes, breath taking beaches, thrilling adventure activities, variety of dine ins, beautiful parks, luxurious experiences and ongoing entertainment events, Dubai sets the standards in all categories. It can be rightly said that Dubai has become a favorite destination for many major events and celebrities. Here’s a list of best things to do and the most essential places to visit in Dubai.

Savings Tips :

Dubai has an efficient rapid transit rail network, the Dubai Metro, that makes commutation to major tourist spots very easy and reliable. Use the metro services to save both your time and money.

Save money by purchasing a Dubai Explorer Pass which offers discounted admission at selected attractions in Dubai including many of the ones below.

Burj Khalifa :

Standing at the height of 829.8 meters (2722 feet), Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the World. This iconic structure has Observation Decks at the 124th and 148th floor showcasing incredible panoramic views of the city. The glass walls at these observation decks allow you to take a fascinating picturesque tour of the Dubai’s skyline. Sunset is the most worthy duration to catch the glimpses of the amazing illuminating transition of Dubai from the Burj Khalifa.

Opening Hours :

The Observation Deck at the Burj Khalifa is open from 8:30 AM to 11 PM. The last entry is 45 minutes prior to closing.

Entrance Fees :

Level 124th and 125th : AED 135 (USD 37) per person

Level 124th, 125th and 148th : AED 525 (USD 143) per person

Nearest Metro Station :

Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall Metro Station.

Savings Tips :

To avoid the long waiting queues, make sure you purchase the tickets for the observation deck ‘At the top‘ in advance. If purchased from the ticket counter for the same day visiting, the tickets may get expensive or the slots will get filled.

Get an access to the 124th, 125th and 148th floors featuring an outdoor terrace, luxury lounges and get served with Arabic Coffee and Dates by booking your tickets here.

Reserve your tickets here, if you are looking forward to viewing sunset from the tallest building in the world – Burj Khalifa.

If you fantasize a special dine featuring Dubai’s amazing views and the mesmerizing Fountains at the 124th level of Burj Khalifa, make your reservations here.

Dubai Mall :

Dubai Mall is the world’s biggest shopping mall. It had also been declared as the most visited building in the year 2011, attracting over 54 million visitors each year. The Dubai Mall comprises of about 1200 shopping stores, a huge Ice Skating Rink, Dubai Fountains, numerous restaurants, cafes, world’s largest sweet shop ‘Candylicious’, an exotic Aquarium, Kidzania, Dinosaur fossil, 22 screen cinema and much more. There are so many activities within the mall to keep you entertained making it a must visit in Dubai.

Opening Hours :

10 AM to 12 AM everyday

Nearest Metro Station :

Dubai Mall / Burj Khalifa Metro Station

The Dubai Fountain :

The Dubai Fountain is the world’s largest choreographed water fountain show. It’s wonderful and mesmerizing to see the fountains shoot up high in the air and dance on the musical tunes. The fountains also have a perfectly synchronized and coordinated light effect during the evenings. You can view these fountains by getting a good place at the lake promenade or reserve a place at one of the restaurants surrounding the Dubai Fountains. You can also take a 30 minute ride in a traditional Abra (boat) at the lake and view the illuminated Dubai Fountains.

Show Timings :

The Dubai Fountain show takes place from 6 PM to 11 PM with an interval of 30 minutes between each show.

Entrance Fees :

Free

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo :

Take a trip to one of the largest aquariums in the world, the Dubai Aquarium. Located centrally at the Dubai Mall, this enormous aquarium is a home to 140 different aquatic species, more than 300 rays and sharks. It also has world’s largest collection of Sand Tiger Sharks. You can feed the fishes and also take a glass bottom boat ride that gives you an up close views of about 33000 marine species swimming below your boat.

Opening Hours :

Sunday – Wednesday : 10 AM to 11 PM

Thursday – Saturday : 10 AM to 12 AM

Entrance Fees :

Aquarium Tunnel and Underwater Zoo : AED 120 (USD 33) per person. Book your tickets here to avoid the huge queues.

Explorer Experience including Aquarium Tunnel Underwater Zoo, Glass Bottom Boat Ride : AED 175 (USD 48) per person. Book your tickets here to avoid the long waiting queues.

Burj Al Arab :

Dubai’s most famous landmark, Burj Al Arab is an extremely luxurious and the third tallest hotel in the world. Visitors who have reservations at any restaurant within the hotel or the ones who have arrived to stay there are allowed to enter the hotel. The restaurants in Burj Al Arab provide world class dining experiences. The Al Mahara restaurant in Burj Al Arab is surrounded by a large aquarium and is accessible through a simulated submarine voyage. Doesn’t that sound dreamy? The SkyView Bar at the 27th floor is also a famous restaurant that offers luxury dining while overlooking the gorgeous views of the city’s coastline.

Savings Tips :

Here are some great deals if you are looking for dine in at the restaurants in Burj Al Arab;

Lunch at Burj Al Arab with amazing views of the Arabian Gulf.

Dinner at Burj Al Arab with amazing views of the Arabian Gulf.

Experience a culinary tour at all the major restaurants at Burj Al Arab course by course with round trip hotel transfers.

Nearest Metro Station :

There is no direct metro to Burj Al Arab. The closest station is the Mall Of The Emirates Station from where you can hire a cab to reach Burj Al Arab.

Jumeirah Beach :

When you are in Dubai, the beaches are gonna be the highlights of your entire trip. One of the best and picturesque beaches in Dubai is, The Jumeirah Beach. The soft sands, clear waters and a stunning view of the iconic Burj Al Arab Hotel makes it a must visit place in Dubai. You can also indulge in some adventurous and thrilling beach activities such as parasailing, scuba diving, jet blading, speed boating and more. There are many cafeterias serving Arabic and Italian cuisines at the beach side where you can treat yourselves with delicious snacks.

Opening Hours :

Saturday – Wednesday : 7:30 AM till 10 PM

Thursday – Friday : 7:30 AM to 11 PM

Note : On Mondays the Jumeirah beach is open only for Women and Children from 7:30 AM till 5:30 PM.

Entrance Fees :

Free

Nearest Metro Station :

There is no direct metro to the Jumeirah Beach. The nearest metro station is the Business Bay Metro Station, from where you can take a cab to reach the beach. It’s just a 10 minutes drive from the station.

Here are some of the best adventure activities At Jumeirah Beach :

Go Parasailing at the Jumeirah Beach and get awed by the stunning views of Dubai City’s skyline.

Get guided by a professional Scuba Diving Instructor and also get your pictures clicked underwater. Book this amazing deal on Scuba Diving activity at the Jumeirah Beach now.

Fly above water with this exciting Jet Blading experience at the Jumeirah Beach.

Go for a thrilling Fly Fish activity supported by a speed boat over the clear waters at the Jumeirah Beach.

Desert Safari :

Spending a day at the desert is one of the unique things you get to do when you are in Dubai. You can go for Sand Boarding, Dune Bashing, Camel Riding, Over Night Camping, Quad Biking and many more fun filled activities at the desert. You will be welcomed with many Arab delicacies and also be entertained with many Arabic traditional performances from expert artists. A BBQ dinner set up under the twinkling stars at the middle of the desert also create lovely memories that you take with yourselves.

Here are some of the best deals that can help you plan a perfect Desert Safari to look forward to;

Premium Evening Desert Safari including all the major activities with exclusive access to Al Khayma Desert Camp. Book this tour now.

A perfect Afternoon Desert Safari with all the major activities and sunset viewing. Book this tour now.

A Jeep Safari Tour at the Desert with all the major activities, Quad Bike Tour, Sunset Viewing and visit to Camel Farm. Book this tour now.

Sunset Camel Trek including all the major activities at the Desert. Book this tour now.

Heritage Dinner Safari at a Retreat, Wildlife Tour to Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and Bedouin Camp Dinner. Book this tour now.

A 3 Hour Morning Desert Safari with Quad Biking. Book this tour now.

An overnight Desert Safari including all the major activities with Camping Gears. Book this tour now.

Note : All the above mentioned Desert Safaris consist of BBQ or Buffet Dinners including both vegetarian and no vegetarian options.

Atlantis the Palm :

Visiting Atlantis the Palm is like a trip to a whole new world in itself. It’s a 5 – star hotel and resort in Dubai located at the top of the iconic Palm Jumeirah Island having marvelous views over the Arabian Gulf. Unwind yourselves at the relaxing Nasimi Beach which also hosts many concerts, explore the marine life at the world class aquarium named the Lost Chambers, enjoy distinctive water rides at the Aquaventure Water Park, stroll through the lavish interiors of the hotel, swim with dolphins at the Dolphin Bay and treat yourself at a variety of dining options. It’s not important to stay at the hotel to have access to all the activities.

You can pre-book your preferred activities and plan a day trip to Atlantis the Palm to spend a wonderful time at the Palm Jumeirah. Entry to the Aquaventure Water Park and The Lost Chambers is complimentary to hotel guests.

Opening Hours :

The Lost Chambers, Atlantis The Palm : 10 AM to 10 PM everyday

Aquaventure Water Park, Atlantis The Palm : 10 AM to 5:30 PM everyday

Dolphin Bay, Atlantis The Palm : 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM everyday

Entrance Fees :

The Lost Chambers, Atlantis The Palm : AED 110 (USD 30) per person

Aquaventure Water Park, Atlantis The Palm : AED 289 (USD 79) per person

Dolphin Bay, Atlantis The Palm : AED 761 (USD 207) per person

Savings Tips :

Avail this amazing deal including super saver combo tickets to Aquaventure and Lost Chambers.

Swim with the Dolphins at shallow water depth by availing this offer. It also includes a complimentary day access to Aquaventure Waterpark.

If you are looking for some deep water interactions with the dolphins, here’s the deal you should be opting for. This also includes a complimentary day access to Aquaventure Waterpark.

Nearest Metro Station :

There is no nearest metro station to Atlantis The Palm. The best way to reach there is by hiring a cab.

Dubai Marina :

Dubai Marina is an artificial canal city comprising of spectacular skyscrapers, scenic promenade, waterfront restaurants, one of the largest shopping malls, a lovely beach and exciting yacht tours. The Cayan Tower ( a.k.a. Infinity Tower) known to be world’s tallest twisted tower can be seen from many places at the Dubai Marina. A yachting trip from the Dubai Marina Promenade gives brilliant views all the stunning skyscrapers including the iconic Burj Al Arab and Atlantis.

Nearest Metro Station :

Damac Properties Metro Station.

Madinat Jumeirah :

The Madinat Jumeirah showcases an impressive outlook of the traditional Arabic architecture comprising of elegantly designed souq, various wind towers, windy alleys, shiny lamps, lots of palm trees and a bridged walkaway over a lake. The delightful and calm ambiance at Madinat Jumeirah makes it an ideal retreat for visitors. You can also catch the glimpses of the Burj Al Arab from few restaurants or while taking an Abra (Boating) tour at the lake. There are many restaurants, bars and cafes that make Madinat Jumeirah more vibrant and lively.

Opening Hours :

10 AM to 11 PM everyday.

Entrance Fees :

Free

Nearest Metro Station :

The nearest station is the Mall Of The Emirates metro station from where you can higher a cab to reach Madinat Jumeirah.

Dubai Miracle Garden :

Dubai never fails to surprise anyone. The Miracle Garden is an example of one such surprise. It’s hard to even imagine having a garden in a desert area. But, for Dubai nothing seems to be impossible. The Dubai Miracle Garden is one of its kind and also world’s largest natural flower garden showcasing over 45 million flowers and 250 million plants. It is a must visit place for all visitors. The entire garden is very beautifully decorated with different themes each year. There is a Butterfly Garden too located adjacent to the Miracle Garden which is the world’s largest indoor butterfly garden and sanctuary for over 15,000 butterflies from 26 species. This one is a must visit too!

Opening Hours :

The Miracle Garden is seasonal and opens from October till April when there are temperature drops in Dubai.

Sunday-Thursday : 9 AM till 9 PM

Friday-Saturday : 9 AM to 11 PM

Entrance Fees :

Dubai Miracle Garden : AED 40 (USD 11) per person

Dubai Butterfly Garden : AED 50 (USD 14) per person

Savings Tips :

Book a combo ticket to Dubai Miracle Garden and Dubai Butterfly Garden here. It includes round trip transfers to and from your hotel or desired location. This will save you few bucks and time.

Nearest Metro Station :

There is no nearest metro to the Dubai Miracle Garden. However, there is a direct bus service from Mall Of The Emirates Metro Station to the Dubai Miracle Garden.

Ski Dubai :

You can visit Dubai for Skiing! Yes, you got it right. Ski Dubai is an indoor Ski resort located in the Mall Of the Emirates. It is a beautiful arena of snow having igloos, slides, slopes and a snowy mountain. There you can go for various activities such as skiing, snowboarding, tubing, tobogganing, bob sleighing and much more. There is s a ‘Snow Penguins’ show to at Ski Dubai which is a visual treat for those who love penguins. You can also book for Penguin Encounters to meet the little penguins after the show.

Opening Hours :

Saturday – Wednesday : 10 AM to 11 PM

Thursday – Friday : 10 AM to 12 AM

Entrance Fees :

Snow Park : AED 190 (USD 52) per person

Slope Pass for Skiing and Sandboarding : AED 200 (USD 55) per person

Penguin Encounters : AED 230 (USD 63) per person

Savings Tips :

Book your tickets in advance here to avoid long queues and get some great deals.

Nearest Metro Station :

Mall Of The Emirates Metro Sation.

Dubai Creek :

Dubai Creek used to be an important part of Dubai that divided it into two sections Bur Dubai and Deira. Historically, it was the only port in Dubai from where major sea transportation to and from other countries took place. At present, there are many traditional Dhows (ships) and Abras (boats) that sail across the Dubai Creek giving it’s visitors a new perspective of Dubai. Taking a tour through the Dhow cruise and Abra Ride is a great way to explore the old side of Dubai. Almost all the Dhows provide buffet lunches, dinners and luxury dine ins as well with lots of live entertainment activities.

Take a look at some of the best Dhow Cruises here.

Nearest Metro Station :

Al Fahidi Metro Station.

Al Bastakiya :

Explore Dubai city’s heritage and culture at Al Bastakia also known as the Al Fahidi neighborhood. Taking a heritage walk along it’s narrow alleys, artsy walls, houses with traditional wind towers and banks of the creek gives you an idea about the ancient traces of Dubai’s origin. Many of the houses at this locality have been converted into art galleries, souvenirs shops, museums and cool cafeterias. The Dubai Museum located adjacent to Al Bastakia showcases rise of Dubai from a small fishing village to one of the most extravagant cities in the wold.

To book a heritage tour of Al Bastakiya : Click here.

Opening Hours :

Al Bastakiya Art galleries and museums : 9 AM to 6 PM everyday

Dubai Museum : 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM

Entrance Fee :

Al Bastakiya : Free.

Dubai Museum : AED 3 (USD 0.8) per person

Nearest Metro Station :

Al Fahidi Metro Station.

Hub Zero :

Hub Zero is the region’s first immersive gaming theme park where the virtual world of gaming comes to life. It is located at City Walk which has a plethora of restaurants and some live entertaining activities. There are many adventure games with well equipped with the high end simulators, lazer tags, and amazing virtual techniques. Apart from the gaming zones, there is a kids play area, some retail stores and eateries too. So, if you are looking for a place to unleash a thrilling and fun side of yours, you must visit Hub Zero.

Opening Hours :

Saturday – Wednesday : 2 PM till 10 AM

Thursday – Friday : 2 PM till 12 AM

Entrance Fees :

Premium Pass : AED 165 (USD 45) per person

To book your tickets to Hub Zero : Click Here

Nearest Metro Station :

There is no direct metro station to Hub Zero. The nearest metro is Dubai Mall / Burj Khalifa Metro Station from where you can hire a cab to reach City Walk where Hub Zero is located.

Travel Tip : To check out current airfare prices, head over to search and compare flights on JetRadar and find the best deals on flights.

Have you been to Dubai or making plans on visiting there? If you have any queries or suggestions do let me know in the comment box below.

If you haven’t already, like Cheerful Trails on Facebook for more travel diaries and photos!

Top Things To Do & Places To Visit In Dubai – Best Of Dubai Dubai is one of the fastest growing cities in the World. Being highly progressive it is a different city every time you visit.

#Dubai

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alittlenomadchristina · 6 years ago

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56 Free Things To Do In Amsterdam

This article was originally published here: 56 Free Things To Do In Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a unique little city, probably my favorite in Europe because it’s just soooo cute. It’s full of tasteful art exhibitions, street galleries, shops, bars, restaurants and beautiful homes nestled along canals and bridges. Though the capital of the Netherlands is not as expensive as London or Paris, it’s always nice to save some money while still trying new things in the city. Luckily, there are a great number of options for tourists and locals alike – I found a total of 56 Free Things To Do In AMsterdam. That way, you’ll have more money to spend on “Pataat Special” and “Pannekoeken” (food) – and isn’t that what we all want?

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure page for more information.

Here we go, 56 Free Things To Do in Amsterdam:

1 – Art Galleries on Nieuwe Spiegelstraat

If you have a love for antiques – go to Nieuwe Spiegelstraat street. This street is lined up with antique shops with each store dedicated to a different style of collections. There is one shop in particular, Thom & Lenny Nelis Antiques, which holds a unique collection of globes, telescopes, and other nautical instruments. It’s a cool, free thing to do in Amsterdam, especially if you like discovering old treasures.

2 – Red Light District

3 – Free Ferry Rides

Take a free ride across the IJ river. The ferry is located just behind the Central Station and it’s completely free and open to the public. Enjoy the views on the water or explore the areas that the ferry takes you to. There are 3 different routes: Buiksloterweg (goes just across the river), IJplein (residential area with shops) and NDSM Werf (the longest route with sights of the industrial harbor). Take a look here for the Ferry departure times and trip information.

4 – Flower Market

5 – Central Openbare Bibliotheek Amsterdam (OBA)

If you are a book lover, visit the Main Library of Amsterdam, the Central branch of Bibliotheek. They house 1.5 million books, periodicals, CDs, games and DVDs as well as a theater and comfy workplaces. It’s open to the public meaning and completely free. The public library also has a top-floor restaurant with a terrace that offers beautiful views of the city. Monday-Sunday 10:00am-10:00pm. Oosterdokskade 143, 1011 DL

6 – Vondelpark

What is a better free thing to do than going to the park, especially in summer? Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s most popular city park. It offers a lot of activities with great scenery – going for a walk, cycling, playing a ball game, or you can have a little picnic here. Maybe you’ll even get lucky and an open-air concert will be going on. Van Baerlestraat & Vondelpark, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

7 – NEMO Science Museum

NEMO Science Museum has a 22m high panorama terrace on its roof with free admission. From the terrace you can enjoy spectacular views and sitting. There is also a cafe if you get hungry or need something to drink. Open Tuesday-Sunday from 10:00am-5:30pm. Oosterdok 2, Amsterdam, Netherlands

8 – Canal Ring

Amsterdam is known for having many canals flowing throughout the city. Since the waterways are protected by the UNESCO World Heritage Center, touring around them is like exploring through a live culture and nature exhibit. Most of the beautifully designed Canal homes can be found on Herengracht, Keizersgracht and Prinsengracht. Located around the old city center.

9 – Multatuli Museum

The Multatuli Museum is actually a patrician house located in Old Amsterdam centre. The museum is dedicated to one of the most honorable Dutch writers, Eduard Dekker. Entry for visiting the house is completely free and it’s a great opportunity to check out memorable manuscripts and objects linked to the writers past. Open Saturday & Sunday 12:00am-5:00pm and Tuesdays 10:00am-5:00pm. Korsjesportsteeg 20, 1012 LK, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

10 – Amsterdam’s Chinatown

Amsterdam’s Chinatown is made up of some city blocks with lots of Asian markets, souvenir shops, and restaurants. It’s located right beside the market square of Nieuwmarkt and the Red Light District. It’s going to be hard not spending some money on food here though – I warned you

11 – Fo Guang Shan He Hua Temple

While visiting Amsterdam’s very own Chinatown, don’t forget to see the modern and beautiful temple. It’s the largest Chinese-inspired, Buddhist temple in Europe. It is open to the public so another free thing that you can do in Amsterdam. If you’re like me and fascinated by religious temples, it will definitely be worth the trip. Zeedijk 106, 1012 BB, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

12 – NDSM Area

With the ferry right behind Central Station you can get to NDSM Werf. There you will discover a ravaged area where an underground culture emerged. This area is full of street art worthy of checking out. You will also find many cultural events, cafes, and art exhibitions. What’s a better free thing to do in Amsterdam than discovering an interesting area with cultural artwork?

13 – Cultural Park of Westergas Factory

The Westergasfabriek used to be a factory constructed to produce gas that was needed to illuminate the street lights of Amsterdam. Since then it has turned into a cultural haven with several attractions such as restaurants, clubs, bars, art galleries, and shops. You can get to Westergasfabriek from the Central Station. It’s a lovely idea to go for a walk or bike ride around and explore, from Haarlemmerdijk, following the shopping street of Haarlemmerstraat to the end. Across the bridge on the right you will enter Westpark. At the end of Westpark is where you will find Westergasfabriek. Westergasfabriek BV Pazzanistraat 33, 1014 DB Amsterdam, Netherlands.

14 – Walking Tour by SANDEMANs New Europe

SANDEMANs holds a free walking tour brought to you by young, local and talented guides. It is one of the best ways to discover Amsterdam city and learn about it’s interesting history. It’s a completely free thing to do, but tips for the guides are recommended. Tours are offered every day at 10:00am, 11:00am, 1:00pm, & 2:00pm. Meeting point is in front of the Old Church (Oude Kerk) that’s located in the heart of the Red Light District.

15 – Artisplein at Royal Artis Zoo

Artisplein is an open space for the public at the Royal Artis Zoo. You can go to check out views of animals and surroundings without spending a penny. At Artisplein you’ll find a great sitting area where you can sit, enjoy watching the animals, and have something to eat and drink. Open from 7:00am-11:30pm. Artisplein, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

16 – Lunch Concert at Concertgebouw

Watch a 30-minute public performance as artists rehearse for their evening performance. Don’t miss out a chance on viewing one of the best orchestras in the world rehearse for their performance of ensembles of the Dutch Conservatory and chamber music by young and talented artists. Every Wednesday at 12:30pm, from mid-September through June. Concertgebouw of Museum Square.

17 – Muziektheater Opera

Are you a fan of opera music and ballet? Artists from the opera and Dutch Philharmonic also have free lunchtime gigs located at their Mod venue. You’ll see talented, well-known performers and dance troupes. Every Tuesday at 12:30pm, September through May. Boekmanzaal, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

18 – Bimhuis for Jazz

Another freebie for people who appreciate some talented musicians. The Bimhuis are famously known in Amsterdam for their jazz music. Enjoy some free jamming blues at their Eastern Dockland venue. Every Tuesday at 10:00pm. Piet Heinkade 3, 1019 BR, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

19 – Take a photo at the “I” Amsterdam Sign

The huge slogan “I amsterdam” is probably the most popular city icon. People love visiting the sign, especially because it is the perfect opportunity to take a classic picture. And hey, it doesn’t cost a cent, so why not? Located at the back of the Rijksmuseum on Museumplein.

20 – Go to the Beach

Some of you will be surprised to know that although Amsterdam is not famous for their beaches, they still have a beautiful coastline that offers plenty of activities and entertainment. The three main beaches are Zandvoort aan Zee, Bloemendaal aan Zee, and IJmuiden aan Zee.

21 – Vrije University Botanical Garden

If you’re a fan of gardens and want to enjoy a relaxing day, visit the Botanical Garden at Vrije University. This garden offers over 6,000 species of plants, amongst these are some really rare and endangered species. It also could be a great, romantic idea for couples to come and it is completely free to visit. Monday-Friday from 8:00am-4:30pm. Van der Boechorststraat 8, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

22 – EYE Film Museum

The EYE Film Museum can be easily recognized by its unique architectural design. The museum’s purpose is to preserve and present Dutch and other films that were screened in the Netherlands. The building itself is pretty remarkable and makes for a great picture. Although there is an entry fee, there is a basement that is open to the public where there is a Panorama room displaying around 100 movie clips and scenes. There are also cool, futuristic viewing pods, that are neat to check out. Basement is open everyday 10:00am-6:00pm. IJpromenade 1, 1031 KT, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

23 – Vondelbunker

Vondelbunker has a unique history that’s worth checking out. It was originally built for the purpose of a bomb shelter in the 1940’s and in the 1960’s became a nightclub spot. Now the Vondelbunker is a place for concerts, cinema nights, different performances, art exhibits. It is free to enter, that is if you can find the entrance that is tucked away under a bridge in Vondelpark. Vondelpark 8a, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

24 – Albert Cuyp Market

A traditional Dutch market with over 300 booths along both sides of Albert Cuyp street. Go and explore the Albert Cuyp’s market, you can find a variety of things such as cheese, fish, fruits, spices, clothes, cosmetics and linens. It is always free to window shop Open Monday through Saturday from 9:30am to 5:00pm. 1072 CN.

25 – Nine Streets (Negen Straatjes)

This small network of streets in the heart of the historic center of Amsterdam is famously known as the Nine Streets. It’s one of the best areas to explore and walk around as there are many unique boutiques, the best restaurants, and bars. Window shopping and exploring new areas is one of the best enjoyable and not to mention free things that you could do.

26 – Wind Down at Begijnhof

Begijnhof, essentially a small square of charming, historic buildings with an enclosed courtyard and garden. It is reached through a tiny passageway and you will find a peaceful place where you can wind down, read a book and just take a look around. Gedempte Begijnensloot, 1012 RM.

27 – Westerkerk Church

Visit the largest church in Amsterdam, built in the 1600’s. The Protestant church is a special landmark in the Old City centre. It can be recognized by the tall Westerkerk tower. Inside, the church is designed by rich modern interior. Explore the inside of the church, or climb to the top of the tower and enjoy views of the city. Although entry of the church is free, you’ll have to pay a small fee to go up the tower. There even is a free carillon concert: the 48-bell carillon plays every Tuesday from 12pm – 1pm Open everyday except Sunday from 11:00am-3:00pm. Prinsengracht 281, 1016 GW, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

28 – Jordaan’s Many Hofjes

An area similar to Begijnhof’s peaceful oasis can be found in Jordaan. There are many hidden hofjes (courtyards) surrounded by historical houses. The historical homes are a must-see; they are designed beautifully! The gardens are quiet and relaxing and most are open to the public, just make sure you are allowed to enter, just in case.

29 – Walk Around Zaanse Schans

Another street that is wonderful to come and look around, Zaanse Schans St. This street is actually a residential area that is influenced by the 18th and 19th century. On this street you will find all kinds of cool places like a bakery museum, a warehouse where clogs are made, many windmills, a cheese factory, and different kinds of workshops.

30 – Rembrandtplein Square

Rembrandtplein square is named after the famous Dutch painter, Rembrandt Van Rijn. It is a great free thing to do in Amsterdam and around you will also find other attractions worth seeing such as a classic theater building from the 1920’s. Rembrandtplein is famous for its bars and clubs. So you can also check out a place you want to go out to later in the night. Rembrandtplein St.

31 – Walk around Schuttersgalerij

Visit Schuttersgalerij for an impressive Civic Guard gallery. The gallery has a passageway that is open to the public. You will find 15 huge paintings of Amsterdam Civic Guards from the 17th century. Where else can you see huge paintings hanging in the street? It’s a completely free thing to do in Amsterdam and it’ll be a cool sight as well. Every day from 10:00am-5:00pm. Kalverstraat 92 1012 PH.

32 – Stadsarchief (Amsterdam City Archives)

Amsterdam City Archives have a length of over 32 kilometers. It’s an interesting place to visit as it collects and protects official documents relevant for the city of Amsterdam. Some cool treasures can be found here such as the report of the theft of Anne Frank’s bicycle in 1942, a letter by Charles Darwin to Artis Royal Zoo dated from 1868 and a 1976 portrait of Dutch entrepreneur Freddy Heineken. Tuesday-Friday 10:00am-5:00pm & Saturday-Sunday 12:00pm-5:00pm. Vijzelstraat 32, 1017 HL.

33 – Rijksmuseum Garden

The Rijksmuseum is a famous museum dedicated to the arts and history of Amsterdam. Although there is a ticket fee to enter the museum, there’s a closed garden with free public access. The garden is a peaceful and pleasant place to sit and with a lovely water fountain. A great spot to wind down and have a good relaxing evening while enjoying beautiful nature. Open daily from 9:00am-5:00pm. Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

34 – Visitors Center of Dutch Central Bank (DNB)

The Dutch Central Bank has a visitors center located across from the bank’s main headquarters. At the visitors center you’ll find interactive displays regarding the bank’s tasks and impact on people’s daily lives. Although the ground floor is free of entry, the first floor is with a guide and will need to be reserved in advance. Open on business days 9:00am-5:00pm. Sarphatistraat 1.

35 – De Poezenboot: The Catboat

Calling all cat lovers to visit the Poezenboot floating cat sanctuary! It hosts stray cats, pet cats, abandoned cats, and more cats. It is completely free to visit so if you love cats, this is your place to be. Singel 38 G, 1015 AB, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

36 – Monnickendam and Marken

Monnickendam and Marken is a marvelous island about 30min from Amsterdam. It’s worth a trip as it’s a beautiful historical area with preserved houses and specialized shops. Its beautiful scenery means it’s perfect for photography. You can also head over to Edam, where you’ll find a cheese factory and museum.

37 – Walk Around Dam Square

The popular Dam Square is just a 5-minute walk from Central Station. There are several things to go and see at Dam Square with many shops, restaurants and great booths. Not to mention, there are many historical sights in the area such as the Royal Palace, Madame Tussauds (world’s famous wax museum), New Church (Nieuwe Kerk), and Beurs van Berlage (old Stock Exchange building). Dam Square, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

38 – Sample Amsterdam’s Best Cheese

De ReyPenaer is not like any other cheese shop around. It’s authentic and famously known as having the best cheese in Amsterdam. Luckily, they have a tasting room that is open to everyone. Come and take a look at their mass variety of cheeses and enjoy their free samples. Singel 182, 1015 AJ, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

39 – Gassan Diamond Tour

Gassan’s factory of diamonds offers free tours open to everyone. It’s a very captivating tour as you’ll have the chance to see up close how technicians work on the diamonds. You’ll get to learn about the variety of cuts and about the clarity, color, and carats of diamonds. You will definitely appreciate this experience, after all, diamonds are a girl’s best friend, right?Everyday from 9:00am-5:00pm. Nieuwe Uilenburgerstraat 173-175, 1011, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

40 – Mezrab for Storytelling and Comedy Fun

Looking for some free entertainment? Check out Mezrab – The House of Stories. They have a variety of events at their venue, including storytelling, comedy nights, and music nights. Entry is free but they do accept donations. Check out their website for showing times: http://www.mezrab.nl/#aboutus. Veemkade 576, 1019 BL, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

41 – The Giant Chess Board

There’s a Giant Chess Board dedicated to chess player Max Euweplein, and it’s completely free to play. The chess board comes along with over-sized chess pieces, perfect for you and your friends to come and enjoy and take some funny pictures. Max Euweplein Square, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

42 – Jordaan District

Jordaan District is located in the city center of Amsterdam. You can come and look at the beautiful homes situated on small streets and canals. There are many bridges to explore, and it will make for a perfect picture. Or walk around and tour the many art galleries, antique shops, and different types of markets.

43 – Workout at Rembrandtpark

Another great park to visit, but the coolest thing is: Rembrandtpark has an outdoor gym. Perfect for you if you’re traveling but looking to use some weights and workout machines to stay fit. Rembrandtpark also has large green areas so you can sit and enjoy the sunset while having a picnic. Jan Tooropstraat 6, 1062 BM, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

44 – Bridge of 15 Bridges

The only place in Amsterdam and possibly even the world where you’ll see this amount of bridges in a row – 15 if you include the bridge you’re standing on. It’s an amazing thing to see, that is if you find out which spot to stand at for the perfect view. It’s the bridge crossing the Reguliersgracht on the corner of Herengracht, you stand on the odd side of Reguliersgracht. 561 Herengracht, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

45 – Sunday Market

Weterpark Area (Westergasfabriek), features a big market on the first Sunday of every month. There you’ll find many booths with Dutch souvenirs. Or you can just have a look around with many vendors sampling free food and drinks. Haarlemmerweg 8-10, 1014 BE, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

46 – Free Coffee at Albert Heijn Supermarket

Albert Heijn, the main local supermarket chain in the Netherlands, gives away free coffee and tea for their customers! They also sometimes offer free samples of cold cuts and cheeses. There are many locations that you can visit that are close to other attractions on this list, like the Flower Market area, and Central Station. Koningsplein 4 (Flower Market area). Prins Hendrikkade 20 (Opposite of Central Station).

47. Northern Market

Northern Market is in an area within the Jordaan District. This area holds a weekly organic farmers market. It’s most popular for its display of fresh bread, vegetables, fruit, milk, cheese, meat and flowers. Every Saturday from 9:00am-4:00pm.

48 – Museum Vrolik

If you don’t get spooked out easily by skeletons and human mutants, stop by the Museum Vrolik. They have a large anatomical collection of human mutants. Entry is free without a guide. Open Monday-Friday from 10:00am-5:00pm. J0-130, Meibergdreef 15, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

49 – Goat Farm at the Amsterdamse Bos

Amsterdamse Bos is a large park that covers a massive area of 1,000 hectares that features pools, biking and hiking trails and a river. Luckily for those on a budget, there’s free entry to their goat farm. It’s a great place to visit if you have kids – you can see lambs, chickens, pigs, cows, horses, and goats. There’s also a lovely cafe and terrace in the area. It’s only a 20min bike ride from Museumplein. Open daily from 10:00am-5:00pm. Nieuwe Meerlaan 4, 1 182 DB Amstelveen, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

50 – Seven Countries-Houses

3min from Museumplein, close to Vondelpark, you’ll find seven houses in the styles of seven different countries, like Russia and France. They were built in 1894 and make a great photo spot!

51 – Barrel Organ Musicians

If you’ve wandered around the streets of Amsterdam before, you’ve probably heard a barrel organ before. They’re as Dutch as it gets and belong to the vibrant streets of Amsterdam. If you’re specifically looking for one, your best bet will be to go to Dam Square or Kalverstraat. The musicians do appreciate a tip but it’s not required, of course. If you’re lucky, you might even see this guy playing on his boat in the canals (when he’s not touring all over Europe).

52 – The Narrowest House in the World

You’ve probably already noticed the special architecture in Amsterdam or the Netherlands in general. The houses are usually pretty narrow and you can look from the front window straight through the house into the garden very often. The Dutch took it to an extreme though: The narrowest house in the entire world is in Amsterdam, and only one meter wide. They also have the narrowest house in Europe which is ca. 2m wide and 6m deep. Singel 7 & Oude Hoogstraat 22, Amsterdam

53 – Friday Night Skate

Every Friday at 8pm (as long as the streets are dry) the Amsterdammers meet at the Vondel CS restaurant to go roller skating through the city. Whether you rent skates from http://www.skatedokter.nl/ or just watch the parade, this is a special experience for sure.

54 – Skinny Bridge

Probably the most beautiful bridge in Amsterdam, the Old Dutch wooden drawbridge from 1672 attracts romantic lovers and night photographers alike. It’s beautifully illuminated and makes for some amazing long exposure shots. Brugnummer 242 bij Amstel / Amstel 81

55 – Cannabis College

We all know Amsterdam isn’t just famous for the delicious cheese – the capital is most known for its coffee shops and the permission to smoke cannabis without prescription or punishments. There’s even a cannabis college you can visit for free. Two floors full of information about marihuana, now that’s unique! Oudezijds Achterburgwal 124

56 – Waterlooplein Flea Market

The Dutch LOVE their flea markets, so you’ll always find one, no matter when you visit. The Waterlooplein flea market has more than 300 vendors offering everything from secondhand clothing and antiques to leatherware. Open: Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm; Saturday: 8.30 am –5pm. Waterlooplein 2

This article was originally published here: 56 Free Things To Do In Amsterdam

#traveling #tour #touris #tourism #amsterdam

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