#Event venue Toronto

[eventvenuetoronto]

Styld Spaces Events Studio 1320 Ellesmere Rd unit#5, Scarborough, ON M1P 2X9 Phone: (437) 260-1125

[crystalgrand]

Event Venue Toronto

You’ve found it! Crystal Grand Banquet Hall can meet all of your event-hosting needs. In addition, we offer a variety of spaces for events in Toronto. Also, we have the ideal setting to host a corporate event, a bridal or engagement shower. Check out all our incredible services and features that make us one of the premier event spaces in Toronto.

Visit Us: https://crystalgrand.ca/event-venue-toronto/

[canadianlucifer]

WHY DOES ALL THE COOL STUFF HAVE TO HAPPEN IN AMERICA WHY CAN'T I HAVE THE FUNDS TO FLY AT LEAST 5 TIMES ROUND TRIP EVERY YEAR 😭😭😭

[taratarotgreene]

February 1, Pure Imagination, Higher Love

Friday is Venus’s Day and this Friday and Saturday are some of the best days of the year for love, idealism, compassion, soul mate seeking and forgiveness. venus is on her Exalted degree at 27 PIsces January 31. She is conjunct her higher octave planet Neptune in Pisces is a particularly enchanting and mystical astrological aspect. This will perfect February 1 at 1:49 pm PST, 4:49 pm EST, 9:49 pm…

[parkviewmanor]

Timeless Elegance at Manor Wedding Venues for Your Special Day

Discover the charm and sophistication of Manor Wedding Venues, where timeless elegance meets modern luxury. Our beautifully designed venues offer breathtaking interiors and stunning outdoor spaces, perfect for both intimate ceremonies and grand receptions. With exceptional service, personalized planning, and exquisite catering options, Manor Wedding Venues ensure your wedding day is a flawless and unforgettable experience. For more details visit our website: www.parkviewmanor.ca

[dashcon-two]

DashCon 2 Venue Announcement, Vendor's Hall, and More!

The DashCon 2 team is thrilled to announce the concrete answers to all your biggest questions. Where it is, when it is, how to buy tickets, and more. You ready?

TL;DR

Where: DashCon 2 will be held at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre in North York, Toronto

When: July 5th, 2025

What: Tickets will go live on February 22nd. Vendor Applications will be open on February 1st, and Panelist Applications on February 10th.

Our Venue!!

[6 Sakura Way, North York, ON M3C 1Z5]

Image belongs to Bartman905 on Wordpress

The JCCC has previously hosted plenty of other fan conventions, notably the Anime North Halloween Event and Pretty Heroes. Given their experience with convention hosting and gorgeous venue space, we think they’re the perfect fit.

So, why did this take so long?

Well… the JCCC wasn’t our first pick. Our first pick, who we won’t name, dropped us unexpectedly after months of negotiations. Why? Original DashCon’s reputation. We literally got DashCon’d before the convention had even started!!

While we were expecting this and had backup plans, we were blindsided by a rejection this late into the negotiation process. After reaching out to our other contacts, we settled on the JCCC, but we had to restart the entire process. So much of our planning had to be restarted or paused, which set us way behind schedule. Naturally, we didn’t want to say anything about losing our venue spot until we’d adequately replaced it.

We’re happy to say that the Classic DashCon Venue Struggle is over and done with - and our rental with the JCCC is paid in advance. No $17k hostage situation necessary.

However, all this provokes another obvious question: why did you go public with the project when you hadn’t signed with the venue yet? In short: Strange Aeons’ DashCon: An Extensive Oral History video. We were already knee-deep in the project behind the scenes before finding out she was making a YouTube video about DashCon, pushing the story into the public eye again. The team was concerned that declaring we were organizing DashCon 2 soon after Strange Aeons’ video would imply it was a rush-job inspired by her video. We were far enough along in the initial venue negotiations that we decided to go public with the video rather than after it.

Date & Time

DashCon 2 will be held for one day: Saturday, 5th July 2025. We alluded to using the same weekend as the original DashCon when we first went public, but unfortunately this date wasn’t available at our venue. This does mean it’s pretty close to the American 4th of July - in our defense, we didn’t really think of that, we’re Canadian.

The convention will open to the public at 9:30 AM and close at 9:30 PM. All this information and more will be available on our website.

(These hours may be subject to minor changes, please always check our website for our most recent info!)

Admission

Ticket sales to in-person DashCon 2 will open on Feb 22nd! Mark your calendars…

We’ll be processing ticket sales through Simpli Events, an all-Canadian competitor to Eventbrite. You can click here to find the events page.

We’re working on the feasibility of expanding DashCon 2 into a hybrid event, with live-streams of the most anticipated panels/events and some other informal online panels hosted on a private Discord. More information on those will come at a later date.

Vendor and Panel Applications

DashCon 2’s Artist Alley/Vendor's Hall is a space for independent artisans who create print media, handmade crafts, or other merchandise. If you want the opportunity to sell your merchandise at DashCon 2, then you’ll be excited to learn that vendor applications will open on February 1st!

Please see www.dashcontwo.com/dealers-hall/ for more details about tables, prices, and merchandise. The link to the application form will be posted there.

We’re also happy to say that we’re opening panel applications on February 10th! We have a few guest panellists already lined up (including a few we can’t talk about yet), but we’re excited to open applications to everyone with a good idea! All DashCon 2 panels will be moderated by our volunteer team, and we’ll put out more info soon about volunteer sign-ups!

[sandhu-59]

Hilton's president and chief executive officer is Christopher J. Nassetta. In 2007, he became a part of the team.

Prior to this, Mr. Nassetta served as Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc.'s president and chief executive officer, a role he had since 2000. Executive Vice President when he first joined Host Hotels & Resorts, Inc. in 1995, he was named Chief Operating Officer in 1997.

Venue

A EVENT SPACE IN TORONTO

Private Parties

Community Events & Fundraising

Religion Events & Celebrations

Corporate Events

Anniversary Parties

Sweet Sixteens

Birthday Parties

Weddings and Private Bashes

Meeting type

Meetings and conferences at Hilton

Challenges

The Hilton Hotel in Reading creates a cozy environment that makes guests feel as though they are living in their own homes. The famous shopping center, the Thames River, and Reading's historic city center are all about four minutes away.

[news4nose]

Toronto International Film Festival 2023: The 48th Edition

TIFF’s inaugural edition in 1976, then known as the Festival of Festivals, featured a selection of films from other major festivals, and it quickly gained recognition for its commitment to quality cinema. Over the years, TIFF has grown into a cultural phenomenon, becoming a destination for filmmakers and cinephiles worldwide.

[reasonsforhope]

"The Hague made international headlines for being the first city in the world to approve legislation prohibiting marketing of fossil fuel-related products and services. This major ruling, issued earlier this month, seeks to limit the promotion of items with a high carbon footprint, such as gasoline, diesel, aviation, and cruise ships. The ban, which goes into effect at the start of next year, will affect both government and privately funded advertisements, including those on billboards and bus shelters throughout the Dutch metropolis.

This groundbreaking legislation establishes an important precedent in the global fight against climate change. Other cities have attempted to limit the reach of high-carbon items through council ordinances or voluntary agreements with advertising operators, but The Hague’s prohibition is the first that is legally binding. It is a major step forward for cities around the world that want to reduce carbon emissions and combat climate change head-on.

A response to global calls for action

The prohibition comes after UN Secretary-General António Guterres called earlier this year for countries and media outlets to take tougher action to combat fossil fuel advertising, citing parallels with existing tobacco advertising bans. Guterres stressed that, as with the tobacco industry in the past, fossil fuel businesses are contributing to a worldwide public health crisis—in this case, climate change. Governments can help change public behavior and prevent the normalization of high-carbon lifestyles by limiting their capacity to market.

Several cities have already made tiny moves in this direction. Edinburgh, for example, approved a council vote in May prohibiting fossil fuel-related ads in city-owned venues. The Scottish capital also prohibits enterprises that sell these products from sponsoring events or developing partnerships. However, unlike The Hague’s legislation, Edinburgh’s ban is voluntary and only applies to council spaces.

A legally binding first

The Hague’s new law is significant since it is legally binding. The restriction affects not only specific items, such as gasoline, diesel, and fossil fuel-powered vehicles but also businesses such as aviation and cruise ships. However, the rule exempts fossil fuel firms’ political advertising or efforts supporting a generic brand, allowing these businesses to keep prominence...

The impact of advertising on behavior

Advertising’s impact on consumer behavior is well-documented, and many experts say that fossil fuel marketing undercut climate legislation by encouraging unsustainable behavior. Thijs Bouman, an associate professor of environmental psychology at Rijksuniversiteit Groningen, stated that “fossil fuel advertising normalizes the use of high-carbon products and services, making it more difficult to change consumer habits.” ...

Catalyzing change worldwide

The Hague’s move may have repercussions beyond its borders, spurring similar actions in other cities around the globe. Cities such as Toronto, Canada, and Graz, Austria, are already launching campaigns to outlaw advertising for fossil fuels. In the Netherlands, both Amsterdam and Haarlem have outlawed marketing for climate-damaging products like beef, but these measures have yet to become legislation.

Sleegers believes that The Hague’s move will act as a spur for other towns to follow suit. “More cities have a wish to implement the fossil ad ban through ordinance, but they were all waiting for some other city to go first. The Hague is this city,” she said, predicting that more local governments will now feel empowered to act...

As the world grapples with the rising costs of climate change, The Hague’s pioneering move provides a potential model for other cities looking to minimize their carbon footprints. With cities like Toronto and Amsterdam keeping a careful eye on things, this legislation has the potential to start a global campaign to prohibit fossil fuel advertising. 

More cities may follow suit in the coming years, hastening the transition to a more environmentally friendly and sustainable future."

-via The Optimist Daily, September 26, 2024

[nigtmarcz]

⎯⎯ Emergency Intercom III

hamzah x reader

summary: y/n and hamzah bump into each other at a concert.

wc: 1.2k

a/n: hello! i don't really have the motivation to write. sorry if this is short and it sucks!

-

The air in Toronto had a crisp chill to it. Her hair danced in the wind, and the concert venue's lights cast a warm glow on her skin. She stood in line, waiting to get inside, clutching her black jacket tighter for warmth. She huddled closer to her manager and team, seeking comfort in their presence. y/n had already spent two days in the city for a runway show. After the thrill and chaos of the event, she and her team had been invited to watch 2hollis perform, with Nate Sib as the opener. y/n couldn't wait to let loose and dance like no one was watching.

She had just posted on Instagram, announcing her arrival in Canada, when she noticed the comments flooding in. Her mind started to race. Was she being too bold, showing up in Toronto right after revealing on the podcast that she liked Hamzah? Was she coming across as a stalker? Trying to push the thoughts aside, y/n chose to ignore the comments, but her heart skipped a beat when she remembered Hamzah had commented on her post.

After the podcast, y/n noticed Hamzah’s friends—Martin, Mandy, Chase, and Claire—had all followed her. She couldn’t help but fangirl a little, adoring their content. 

As the crowd began flowing into the venue, y/n and her team entered, making their way toward the stairs that led to the balcony where they could enjoy the concert. The hard bass of the music vibrated through the venue as strobe lights flashed intensely, adding to the electrifying atmosphere. The song transitioned from "Need That" to "Crush," and y/n and her team were jumping around.

After a while, y/n decided to take a break from dancing. She scanned the venue below, captivated by the energy in the room. She pulled out her phone and took a picture of the crowd, noticing how tightly everyone was packed, moshing with wild enthusiasm. Slipping her phone back into her pocket, her gaze wandered over the balcony, and that’s when she spotted a familiar face nearby.

She wasn't sure if it was really him, the flashing lights making it hard to tell. She remembered that Martin and Hamzah had shaved their heads, but the man in front of her had a buzz cut and freshly bleached hair. He wore a blue and red Nike windbreaker, and despite the lights, she could still make out his muscular frame, tall stature, and tan skin, with a black mesh face mask concealing his features. Another figure stood next to him, also wearing a mesh mask that covered their entire face. They were both bobbing their heads to the beat of the music.

As y/n examined the two men, one of them noticed her gaze. She froze. The man grinned at her, then tapped the shoulder of the one in the Nike windbreaker, pointing towards her. The man in the windbreaker turned to look and gave her a smile, but then quickly realized he was wearing a mask. He took it off, grinning as he waved at her again. y/n gasped quietly, her smile widening as she waved back. 

There he was, Hamzah.

Hamzah gestured for her to come over to the balcony where he was standing. y/n nodded and raised a finger to signal she needed a moment. She turned to her team, telling them she’d be right back. She adjusted her black jacket, fluffed her hair, and began walking towards him, a mix of nervousness and excitement bubbling inside her. This is it, I’m finally meeting him. She wondered if he might think she was a freak, especially since she had openly admitted to having a crush on him.

As she got closer, the other man in a mask started to remove his, revealing himself to be Martin. He grinned widely and reached out his hand to greet her. “If it isn’t the one and only y/n! It’s so nice to meet you, I’m Martin!” he said enthusiastically.

She grinned back and gave him a handshake. “Hey, Martin! It’s awesome to finally meet you!”

Hamzah, on the other hand, shyly waved and nodded at her. “It’s really nice to meet you, y/n.”

y/n noticed how awkward Hamzah seemed and shyly waved back. Martin placed a hand on Hamzah’s shoulder. “No need to be shy, man. Go ahead and talk to her.” Martin chuckled and nudged Hamzah closer to y/n. Hamzah stumbled forward slightly, smiling awkwardly.

y/n giggled. “I saw you guys and instantly knew it was you! I didn’t realize you both listened to 2hollis,” she said, trying to keep the conversation flowing and avoid the awkwardness.

“Yeah, we like his stuff. He’s really good,” Hamzah replied, glancing over at the stage.

“Hamzah even dressed up as him once, but he looked like a Temu version,” Martin teased, laughing.

Hamzah gave Martin a gentle nudge, signaling him to stop embarrassing him. Martin chuckled and turned his attention back to the concert. y/n couldn’t help but giggle at their playful interaction. Hamzah scratched the back of his neck, leaning closer to her ear since the music was so loud. Being much taller, he had to bend down a little, which y/n noticed immediately.

"I saw your Instagram post about being in Canada. What a coincidence that we ran into each other! We should definitely hang out sometime when you're free," Hamzah said.

y/n grinned and nodded enthusiastically. "I’m down! Is this your way of asking me on a date?" she teased with a playful tone.

Hamzah smiled, a slight blush creeping onto his face. "I didn’t say that... But if that’s what you think, then yeah," he admitted.

y/n’s smile grew wider. "Then yes. I’m down. I’ll text you," she replied.

Hamzah started nervously rubbing his hair. "How? You don’t even have my number."

"Give me your phone, I’ll put it in," y/n offered with an outstretched hand.

With a gulp, Hamzah nervously pulled his phone from his sweatpants pocket, unlocking it and handing it to her. y/n quickly entered her number, saving the contact as "y/n <3," and returned the phone to him.

Hamzah glanced at it and smiled before slipping his phone back into his pocket.

y/n grinned. "Just text or call me anytime. I’m free whenever."

Hamzah nodded, looking a little flustered. "Well, I gotta go now! It was nice meeting you guys," y/n said, smiling as she waved.

"It was great meeting you too!" Martin called back with a big smile.

"I’ll text you," Hamzah said, giving her one last smile.

y/n blushed, then turned to head back towards her team.

Hamzah turned back around to face Martin, and the two of them began jumping up and down, grinning from ear to ear. “Ayy, I did it, bruh!” Hamzah exclaimed. Martin chuckled. “Bruh, that only happened because I made you talk to her. You were acting like a pussy.”

Hamzah rolled his eyes dramatically. “Don’t start with that.”

Martin grinned mischievously. “You better not start stuttering when you see her again.”

Hamzah laughed, just as a man in a fedora, sunglasses, and a construction worker vest approached them, holding a cup in his hand. “What did I miss?” Freddie asked, looking between Martin and Hamzah with a confused expression.

“He got y/n’s number!” Martin shouted.

“Ayyy!” Freddie cheered, and all three of them started jumping around in excitement.

[eventvenuetoronto]

Website: https://www.styldspaces.com/ Email Address: info@styldspaces.com

[crystalgrand]

Banquet Halls Toronto

Planning an unforgettable event or wedding in Toronto? Don’t stress; Toronto boasts an extensive variety of banquet halls and event spaces to accommodate. Crystal Grand Banquet Hall stands out as an architectural jewel at the core of the city. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll investigate Toronto’s premier banquet halls In addition, we offer special attention to Crystal Grand Banquet Hall – while providing insight into its offerings.

Visit Us: https://crystalgrand.ca/banquet-halls-toronto/

[xoxorealitygalore]

Always A Bad Girl (3)

Jey Uso x Black OC

Once a bad girl, always a bad girl.

Summary: When a group of girls shows up to fight his nieces and their friend, Joshua is stunned to find that his niece’s friend’s mom, Divinity, is the woman he’s been unable to forget after a one-night stand. The chemistry between them is undeniable, and Joshua quickly realizes he wants more with her. But as their connection deepens, he’s about to learn that Divinity’s wild side may be more than he bargained for.

Taglist: @xbriexx @christinabae @blackchickinthedesert

Masterlist

Previous: Chapter Two

divinityhadid 8h

Divinity had always been known for her extravagant tastes and flair for the dramatic. And when it came to celebrating the holidays, she spared no expense.

This year’s Galentine’s Day was no exception. From the moment the guests arrived, they were enveloped in a scene so perfectly crafted, that it felt as though they had stepped into a dream.

The venue was bathed in a soft, warm glow, a sea of candles flickering on every surface. Each table was draped with luxurious linens in hues of red, pink, and white, with delicate centerpieces of roses and glittering accents scattered like confetti. The very air was imbued with the scent of fresh flowers and vanilla candles, setting the mood for the night ahead. Divinity had thought of every detail. Gold-rimmed plates, crystal glassware, and glittering napkin rings created an atmosphere of pure elegance.

Above the tables, strings of balloons in various shades of pink, white, and crimson floated, adding a playful yet sophisticated touch. The balloons hung from the ceiling like clusters of joy, their reflections dancing in the soft candlelight. For added charm, every guest was handed a whimsical “Galentine” party hat upon arrival, a small token of fun that complemented the evening’s carefree, celebratory vibe.

As if that wasn’t enough, sunglasses and "girl power" necklaces were handed out, transforming every guest into a fabulous, fierce, and empowered individual. Divinity had outdone herself, and the night was just beginning.

Her closest friends, sisters, and a few other lucky guests had gathered to celebrate this global holiday that celebrates women's friendship. The sound of laughter and conversation filled the air, but amidst the joy, there were deeper currents of connection, some of which, Divinity herself had been navigating for months.

At a nearby table, Jenova was deep in conversation with her best friends, Jayla and Joelle. They had been marveling at the setup. The room had undoubtedly impressed them, but it was what Jenova had to share that made the night truly intriguing.

Jenova leaned in closer, her voice lowering slightly as she began telling her best friends about an unexpected turn of events. "You won't believe it," she started, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "Ulrich Chomche from the Toronto Raptors, slid into my DMs today on Instagram." The mention of the NBA player was enough to grab their attention.

“Wait, what?” Joelle gasped, her eyes wide with disbelief. “Ulrich Chomche?”

Jenova nodded, her lips curling into a grin. "He wants to send me something for Valentine’s Day."

Jayla raised an eyebrow, skepticism etched on her face. “How old is he?”

Jenova didn’t hesitate. "He was born December 30, 2005."

Joelle’s face twisted into a mock frown. “So, he’s... older than you?”

Jenova chuckled, brushing a lock of hair from her face. “Yeah, but only by two years. I don’t think it’s a big deal.”

Jayla interjected with a question that had been lingering in her mind. “Does your mom know about this?”

Jenova sighed, her expression softening. “No. And honestly, I don’t think she’d be thrilled about it. She has this... thing against athletes. She thinks they all cheat. And I get it; her history with my dad wasn’t exactly smooth.”

Joelle asked, “Does that mean she thinks Uncle Josh will cheat too?”

Jenova shrugged, unsure of the answer herself. “Probably. I don’t know. But that’s why she’s giving him such a hard time. You know how he practically stalks me just to get updates on her since she’s been ghosting him for months.”

Joelle was quick to chime in. “I thought after we went to the Royal Rumble, they were good. I mean, they were talking, right?”

Jenova’s face shifted with confusion. “I thought so too, but... I guess not.”

“Well, you thought wrong,” Jayla said, her tone blunt yet playful.

Jenova pouted, the frustration clear in her voice. “I was really hoping we’d be able to be cousins through marriage.”

Joelle reached across the table and placed a comforting hand on Jenova’s. “Hey, we’re still best friends.”

Jayla leaned back, a thoughtful expression crossing her face. “But we still need to do something to get them back on track.”

The three friends paused, their eyes meeting as a collective plan began to form in their minds.

“What are we going to do?” Joelle asked, her curiosity piqued.

Jayla’s grin was mischievous. “Let’s call Uncle Josh. Let’s set something up.”

Meanwhile, Divinity was still amid her hosting duties, moving around the room with grace and poise. As the evening unfolded, she presented carefully chosen gifts to each of her guests: a Large 3-Wick Candle, a Waffle Knit Robe, perfumes, a Multi-Use Silk Headbands Set, Women’s Saturday Slippers, a Spa Gift Basket, and a stunning Kali Tennis Bracelet. Each gift was a token of appreciation, a way to show her love for the women who had been there for her through thick and thin.

Divinity, however, could not ignore the undercurrent of tension that ran through her own life. She found herself in a photo booth with Galina, who had been watching her closely throughout the night. Galina’s eyes sparkled with concern as she turned to Divinity, her tone gentle but insistent.

“So, Divinity,” she began, her voice careful but direct, “why aren’t you giving Joshua a proper chance?”

Divinity let out a breath, her gaze drifting toward the far corner of the room as if searching for an answer in the decorations. “Because I don’t want to be tangled up with the likes of Jaida Parker and whatever other women he’s messing with,” Divinity admitted, her voice tinged with doubt.

Galina shook her head, the concern evident in her eyes. “That situation with Jaida is old news. He’s not involved with her or any other woman since he met you at the club. You’re the only woman on his mind.”

Divinity’s expression hardened slightly. “You know my history. You’ve seen how I behave on reality television. I’m not an easy woman to handle, and honestly, I don’t think Joshua can handle me.”

Galina’s gaze softened, and she placed a hand on Divinity’s shoulder. “Girl, you didn’t even give him the chance to show you if he can handle you or not.”

Just then, Trinity appeared, joining them in the photo booth. “What are we talking about?” she asked, her voice light, a smile playing at the corners of her lips.

“Joshua,” Galina answered, her tone heavy with implication.

Trinity’s eyes widened, and she grinned. “Okay, I have to advocate for my brother-in-law here. You’re tripping if you don’t give him a chance. He’s been stuck on you since y’all met at the club. He talks about you all the time. I know that stunt Jaida pulled has you feeling some type of way, but you don’t have to worry about her anymore.”

Divinity sighed, her frustration apparent. “I’ll think about it. I just don’t want to end up like how I did with my ex-husband. I don’t want to question everything or feel like I’m always the bad girl, putting my hands on people when things get out of control.”

Trinity’s voice softened, understanding in her eyes. “I get that, but Joshua would never put you in that position. He’d never make you feel like you have to be Divinity, the bad girl.”

Back over at the table, the trio of Jayla, Joelle, and Jenova had been brainstorming ways to get Divinity and Joshua together, they were certain that love was in the air for Joshua and Divinity, and they intended to do whatever it took to make sure they saw it.

Joelle raised an eyebrow as she looked over at Jenova. “So, who’s paying for all of this?”

Jenova didn’t even look up from her phone as she typed a message. “I am.”

She was texting her mother’s assistant, arranging a special romantic dinner by the water for Divinity and Joshua on Valentine’s Day. She added a final note: Don’t mention it to her.

The friends exchanged knowing glances, their excitement building. They knew that the road ahead would be tricky, but they were ready to do whatever it took to bring Divinity and Joshua together, no matter the obstacles.

As the night continued, the magic of Galentine’s Day lingered in the air, and Divinity couldn’t shake the feeling that, for better or worse, something life-changing was about to happen.

divinityhadid 20m

The evening air hung with a soft, cool breeze, the scent of the water blending with the earthy aromas of the garden path leading down to the water’s edge.

Divinity and Joshua stood side by side, walking slowly, their footsteps muffled by the soft ground beneath them. Joshua’s hand, holding a bouquet of roses, hung loosely by his side.

He glanced over at Divinity, his expression a mixture of hope and uncertainty, as though every step they took was tethered to a thread of anticipation that could snap with a single misstep.

The roses, delicate and vibrant, seemed to pulse with the sentiment that Joshua had harbored for what felt like an eternity, a hope, a longing, an unspoken connection he was now daring to make tangible.

Divinity glanced at them, a small smile curving her lips, her eyes softening despite herself. She had always been wary of romantic gestures, suspicious of the pretense they sometimes carried but there was something in the sincerity of his gaze, in the weight of the bouquet he held for her, that made her want to give in. For a moment, her usual walls wavered.

“These are for you,” Joshua said, the words simple but thick with meaning, as though they were more than just an offering of flowers. He was offering something deeper, a gesture of emotion, of wanting to be seen.

Divinity’s smile deepened, her lips parting as she took the bouquet from his hands. “Thank you,” she said, her voice soft, touched with a gratitude that surprised her.

It was hard to admit, but there was something undeniably charming about Joshua which was something that made her feel like she might, just might, let herself believe in what he was offering.

But as she stood there, holding the roses, a flicker of unease passed through her mind. She didn’t have the luxury of indulging in fleeting emotions. Life had taught her that much. So much had happened between them, so much uncertainty, and that lingering question in her heart, the one that Jenova had stirred up, remained unanswered.

Her daughter’s devious, sweet attempt to set them up like this, to push them into a romantic scenario that felt more like a scripted fairytale than real life, left Divinity with a growing sense of frustration.

"Jenova really did this, didn’t she?" Divinity muttered, half to herself, her gaze turning toward the path ahead, where the flickering glow of candles cast an ethereal light. The path seemed to wind almost too perfectly down to the water’s edge, where a table for two awaited them, set with a display of chocolate fondue, plates of delicate foods, and more candles than Divinity could count.

Music played in the distance, an instrumental lull that was both relaxing and romantic. The illusion of a perfect evening, curated with an air of orchestrated precision.

Joshua followed her gaze, the corners of his lips twitching upward as he chuckled. "I think everyone but you sees our potential," he said, his voice teasing but gentle, an attempt to cut through the weight of Divinity's skepticism.

Divinity shook her head, but her smile softened. "I know," she replied, exhaling slowly as she walked alongside him. "Jenova has always been a little... overzealous about this whole romance thing." She glanced at him sideways, the roses still in her hands. "I appreciate the effort, but it’s not that simple."

They walked on, the path leading them closer to the small table by the water, the soft flicker of candlelight illuminating the area like some sort of dream. Divinity felt an odd sensation flutter in her chest. She couldn't deny the thought that Jenova’s grand plan for them was... cute.

But it also felt like an intrusion, as if they were expected to play a role in a story that wasn’t truly theirs.

"It's cute that she tried," Divinity murmured with a half-laugh, setting the bouquet on the edge of the table. "Slash annoying," she added quickly, the humor laced with an edge of disbelief.

Joshua smiled, leaning slightly toward her. "You can’t be mad at Jenova for trying," he said. "She’s just hoping for the best."

Divinity shrugged, sitting down at the table. "Maybe. But I don’t know if I’m ready for any of this. For her version of ‘happy endings.’"

Joshua followed suit, sitting opposite her. He gazed at her for a long moment, the soft golden glow of the candles reflecting in his eyes. "I get it," he said quietly. "But maybe you should give me a chance. A real chance."

The words hung in the air between them, heavy with the promise of something deeper. Divinity felt the weight of them, but as much as she wanted to believe in what he was saying, the walls she had built up around herself were not easily torn down. Too many times before, she had allowed herself to hope, only to watch as those hopes crumbled.

"I'm not mad at Jenova," Divinity said slowly, taking a sip of the drink that had been set before her. "It’s just… this isn’t how I imagined things. I never thought I'd be here, like this, with you. And I can’t just pretend it’s easy when everything feels complicated."

Joshua reached across the table, his hand hovering for a moment before resting gently atop hers. His touch was warm, and grounding, as though he was silently reminding her that she wasn’t alone in this. "I understand," he said. "But I’m not asking you to pretend. I just want you to take me seriously. I wouldn’t push you into anything you’re not ready for."

The setting sun casts a golden hue over the water, the fading light a perfect backdrop to the conversation. The steady rhythm of the waves lapping at the shore was the only sound now, a soft, continuous reminder of the passage of time. And yet, for all the beauty surrounding them, Divinity couldn’t shake the tightness in her chest, the wariness that lingered beneath her composed exterior.

"I know you wouldn’t," she said, her voice tinged with uncertainty. "But this thing with your… with her, it threw me off. I’ve been here before. I don’t want to be in a position where I’m fighting with women over a man. I’m not interested in repeating that part of my life. I left my ex-husband for a reason. Why would I put myself in that situation again?"

The vulnerability in her voice, so rarely heard, made Joshua pause. He leaned back slightly, his gaze never leaving her face. "I would never put you in that position," he said firmly. "You have to believe me."

Divinity took a deep breath, trying to calm the storm that swirled within her. "I don’t know that," she said, her voice soft but resolute. She looked away, out at the water, feeling a pang of frustration. It wasn’t fair to doubt him. And yet, it wasn’t fair to herself to pretend she wasn’t afraid of being hurt again.

Joshua was quiet for a long moment, his gaze searching hers. Finally, he spoke again, his voice low and earnest. "Then let me show you. Let me prove that I’m not like your past. That I’m not like your ex-husband or the women you’ve had to fight off. I want you to see that I’m serious about us. And that I’m not going anywhere."

Divinity closed her eyes briefly, the weight of his words sinking in. She had always prided herself on her independence, on being able to stand on her own. But in that moment, as the sun dipped below the horizon and the evening sky darkened, she realized that perhaps she didn’t have to fight everything on her own. Maybe, just maybe, it was okay to trust someone again.

But it was a fragile thought, one that would take time to build. The path they were on wasn’t simple, and she wasn’t sure it ever would be. Still, for the first time in a long while, she allowed herself to entertain the possibility.

“I don’t know what the future holds,” she said quietly, her voice almost lost in the soft hum of the evening. "But I’m willing to see where this goes."

jenovahadid 2h

The sun hung low in the sky as the soft light filtered through the window, casting long shadows across the dining table. Divinity sat, poised as ever, her dark eyes scanning her daughter, Jenova, who sat across from her. It was a quiet morning, the calm after the storm of emotions and minor chaos that had erupted the night before.

They had both just finished breakfast, the dishes cleared away and the faint aroma of freshly brewed coffee lingered in the air.

Divinity’s thoughts lingered on the events of last night, the surprise Valentine's Day dinner orchestrated by Jenova. It had been romantic, to say the least, though it had caught Divinity off guard. She had been taken aback at first, unsure whether she should be flattered or skeptical.

But in the end, she had appreciated the gesture. Still, there was a lingering sense of discomfort. Divinity had never been one for meddling, nor had she ever enjoyed having her personal affairs displayed for others to comment on. Yet, here she was, in the aftermath of what felt like a well-executed intervention by her daughter, trying to make sense of it all.

“Well, your dinner was so romantic,” Divinity said, breaking the silence. She leaned forward, her expression light, though the underlying tension in her voice was palpable. “But please don’t meddle in my love life again. Let me figure it out on my own.”

Jenova nodded her head. Jenova had always been a bit of a schemer, but it was clear she meant well. Her bright eyes sparkled with an almost mischievous glint, a reflection of the unspoken plans that undoubtedly resided within her. “I just wanted you to give him a chance,” Jenova replied softly, her voice full of genuine care.

Divinity smiled softly at her daughter’s earnestness. She couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride for Jenova. The girl had a way of seeing things others might miss, and despite her occasional stubbornness, there was a pearl of wisdom behind her actions. “And I think I will give him a chance,” Divinity said, her words carrying a sense of resolution. “Because if my baby girl has to go through this much scheming and plotting, then she sees something I don’t.”

Jenova smiled, satisfied with her mother’s response, though her attention shifted to the dining table. Divinity noticed the shift in her daughter’s gaze and followed it. Sitting neatly in the middle of the table were several vases filled with vibrant red roses, their petals lush and soft, their scent a heady reminder of romance. Alongside them were bags from the prestigious brand, Chanel, their iconic logo unmistakable.

Divinity’s curiosity piqued, and she raised an eyebrow. “Who are those from?” she asked, her voice betraying a mix of surprise and suspicion.

Jenova let out a nervous laugh, the sound just a little too high-pitched to be entirely natural. “Ulrich Chomche,” she replied, her tone both defensive and a little embarrassed.

Divinity’s brow furrowed, the name familiar to her. She knew the world of basketball, so she knew who he was immediately. “Why would he send things here?” she asked, genuinely confused.

“Because he likes me,” Jenova answered, her tone steady but tinged with the excitement of a young girl on the cusp of something new, something exciting.

Divinity frowned, her protective instincts flaring up. “He’s twenty, isn’t he?” she asked, her concern evident in her words.

A part of her had always been wary of the men who seemed to gravitate toward her daughter, especially those with a public profile.

And now, this Ulrich Chomche though she hadn’t heard much of him, but him being a professional basketball player in the league sounded like exactly the kind of person she was hesitant about her daughter dating. “A little old for you, isn’t he?” she added, her voice laced with a hint of worry.

Jenova shook her head, clearly eager to downplay the difference in their ages. “Nineteen. Two years apart,” she corrected, her voice carrying a hint of defiance. She didn’t want her mom to start questioning her decision.

Divinity paused, the weight of the conversation settling on her shoulders. “I don’t know how I feel about you dating an NBA player,” she admitted, her tone serious. “It’s not like I think you’re incapable of making good choices, but...”

Jenova quickly interrupted, her confidence shining through as she attempted to reassure her mother. “It’s not like I’m going to marry him or anything,” she said, her tone light. “We’re just talking.”

Divinity sighed softly, her expression softening. She knew she couldn’t control every aspect of Jenova’s life, and at the end of the day, she trusted her daughter’s judgment. Still, she felt a need to set boundaries. “Just be careful,” she said. “I know I can’t stop you from talking to him because you’ll easily just do it secretly, but I want you to be open with me about what you guys talk about. You’re still a minor, and I don’t want him to take advantage of you.”

Jenova’s face softened a brief flicker of understanding passed through her eyes. She didn’t often show her vulnerability, but in this moment, she could see the depth of her mother’s concern. “Okay,” she said quietly, her tone yielding.

The conversation shifted as Divinity, noticing the slight discomfort lingering between them, decided to change the topic. There was no use dwelling on the potential dangers of dating someone she didn’t know, what mattered now was keeping the lines of communication open between herself and her daughter.

“Your car is ready to be picked up,” Divinity said, her voice carrying a change in direction. She gestured toward the front door, a playful smile tugging at her lips. Jenova’s car was one of the things Divinity had relished buying for her daughter. It had been a symbol of independence, a way for Jenova to take on the world in her own right.

Jenova, always a girl with an eye for style, had given her Range Rover a sleek makeover. The once glossy black SUV was now a matte black beauty, its new look making it appear even more intimidating and chic. It suited her perfectly. “I thought dad was bringing it over for me,” Jenova said, her voice light, as she looked up at her mother with a playful grin.

“Your father has an away game,” Divinity explained, her voice matter-of-fact. “So it’s up to you to go pick it up.”

Jenova’s response was to pull out her phone, as though she were already planning her next move. She dialed a number, holding the phone up to her ear while idly picking at her nails. A few moments later, the voice on the other end came through loud and clear.

“Hello?” The voice was deep, familiar, and unmistakable.

Divinity’s heart skipped a beat, though she was quick to conceal her reaction. She immediately recognized the voice—Joshua.

“Hey, Uncle Josh, can you take me to pick up my car from the shop?” Jenova asked, her voice lighthearted, yet there was a slight smirk playing on her lips as she glanced at her mother.

Divinity’s face softened as she noticed the way Jenova referred to Joshua. The term “Uncle” was a sign of respect, but Divinity couldn’t help but notice the comfort, the closeness, and the ease between them. There was an unspoken understanding there, one that had begun to develop over time.

Joshua chuckled from the other end. “Sure, let me know what time you want to go,” he said, his tone warm.

Jenova’s grin widened as she shot a teasing look at her mother. “Thank you. I’ll let you know. And oh, my mom said hi.”

Divinity, feeling her patience thin, picked up a nearby pillow and tossed it at her daughter. “Hi, Divinity,” came Joshua’s voice through the speaker, his tone casual and friendly, though there was something else in his words. Something deeper.

“Hi, Joshua,” Divinity replied, her voice cool but cordial. Her heart, however, seemed to stir with a strange, familiar feeling.

There was a pause before Joshua’s voice cut through the quiet tension. “After I take Jenova to the shop, why don’t we have dinner at my place?”

Divinity blinked, her gaze drawn to the phone as though she were contemplating the offer. “That would be nice,” she said, her voice holding a note of surprise.

Jenova, ever the perceptive one, grinned widely, teasing her mother without mercy. “What are we eating for dinner?” she asked, her voice sing-song and lighthearted.

Joshua chuckled, clearly at ease with the playful banter. “Umm... surf and turf with mashed potatoes and asparagus,” he said.

Jenova’s teasing reached its peak. “Oh, momma, he likes you,” she said, her eyes glinting mischievously.

Joshua didn’t hesitate. “I do like her,” he admitted, his voice unguarded.

Divinity’s breath caught in her throat for a moment, and though she tried to compose herself, the weight of the moment hung in the air.

The door to her heart, which had been tightly shut for so long, felt like it had cracked open just a little. And as her daughter teased her, the reality of the situation began to settle in.

The truth was, Divinity had always been careful about matters of the heart, but now, just maybe, she was ready to take the first step toward something new, something she hadn’t quite anticipated, but something her daughter had nudged her toward all along.

Next: Chapter Four

[taratarotgreene]

Weekly Astrology Jupiter Retrograde, Pluto Direct

Oct. 7- October 14 Oct. 7 Saggy Moon minor moon Saturn square aspect. It’s the one-year anniversary of the Hamas-Israel attack. Sagittarius rules International Politics. Asteroid 4332 Milton is currently at 22° Sagittarius. opposite a Stationing Jupiter at 21° Gemini, the midpoint of Saturn and Neptune in Pisces. Jupiter, the thunder and lightning sky god in an Air sign, definitely creating…