#Google Property Stacking

[lonely-ey3s]

Ride or Die | Chapter One

pairing: rodeo/cowboy!joel miller x f!reader

chapter summary : Going to your county's fair after coming back to your hometown goes a lot better than it has in past years. It usually earns you a goldfish. This year, it earns you a date with a local cowboy, Joel Miller.

chapter warnings: fluff, slow burn-ish, angst, Joel speaks Spanish (translations will be there), reader has a somewhat emotionally abusive father, mentions of grabbing, mentions of a parent being drunk, mention of parental death, switched POV's.

word count: 8.1k

a/n: alright, here it is! chapters will be every other sunday-- alternating with heartlines !! just fyi, i know little about being a cowboy so if lingo is wrong, please let me know, i'm going off purely google.

Dividers by: @saradika-graphics and @cafekitsune

Masterlist

Coming back home to Texas was not on your bingo card for this summer.

However, when you caught your ex-fiance cheating on you with your best friend-- packing your bags and taking the first plane back was the only logical thing to do.

You got home about two weeks ago. Your older sister and little brother were more than excited to have you back. Especially your little brother, Wesley.

He had just turned 18, and the two of you have always been as thick as thieves. A lot of the closeness is due to your mom dying while giving birth to him and your dad pretty much shutting down.

However, you stepped in, pretty much raising him.

You and your older sister, Everly, were close as well– as close as sisters could be. She was 5 years older than you, married to her high school sweetheart, and had a little boy who everyone called ‘Bubba’.

She lived just a few miles from your family’s property, but she and Bubba usually made it over to your dad’s daily to help around the house and hang out. 

This past week, Wes has been training for this year’s county fair rodeo show that was happening next week.

You had done the morning chores, which included feeding the chickens and ducks and cleaning out the donkey pen and the stables. You finished with making sure your horse's stable was stacked full of what he needed.

After you were finished, you walked over to the training pen and saw Wes and Trigger running around barrels, getting everything refined for the big event he was competing for. 

“You’ve got to pull back on him on that third barrel, Wes!” your dad shouted, sitting on the edge of the fence, with his arms crossed across his chest, observing. 

“Got it…” Wes mumbled, patting Trigger's side before softly saying to the dark black horse, “Let’s try one more time bud…” 

You climbed up on the fence and leaned against it, “That horse knows how to cut quick. Why are we runnin’ him days before the event?” you said, nodding at your dad and toward your brother. 

“Because it’s not the horse that’s goin’ win the medal, it’s Wes, and if can’t control the damn thing, he shouldn’t compete.” your dad clipped back at you. 

Your dad wasn’t always the warmest to any of you, but more so Wes. Part of you thinks that deep down, he might have blamed him for your mom's death. He was hard on and pushed him, but something always seemed insensitive. It seemed more callous than when he did it to you and Everly. 

“If you push the horse too hard, he’ll hurt himself, effectively hurting Wes in the process…” you tsked and got down from the fence. “Gotta think about that component too, Dad…” You turned around and started walking away.

There was a pause, and then your dad turned his head to look at you.

“Chores done?” your dad bit out, closing the other conversation. 

“We wouldn’t be over here if they weren’t,” you shot back before walking back towards the house. 

You cleaned up for the day and got ready to work in a coffee shop in town.

The goal was to escape the inevitable argument your dad would start with you when he came inside about what happened earlier. 

You left the house before they got in and drove to the shop downtown. It was a newer shop, wasn't here when you left a few years ago.

You order a drink and something small to eat and then set up at a table in the back, near an outlet. 

You grew up in this town, so mostly anyone and their dog knew you. Since coming home all of a sudden, working in a public place was brave but also downright stupid. Everyone and their moms want to know why. What happened? Why isn't Riley with you? Why aren't you wearing your ring?  

You put on your headphones and set your music to shuffle as you start working on a project you must complete for one of your clients in the next couple of days. You knew that in the coming week, things would get busier with the rodeo and fair prep happening. Knowing your dad and how he'd delegate work to you, you just knew your personal time would be limited.

Back in Nashville, you worked as a social media manager for a small boutique and a local up-and-coming musician. Both were highly supportive of your decision to move back to Texas and made things work with you remotely, for which you couldn’t be more grateful for their flexibility. 

You were just about to wrap up one of the posts to send off for approval when you felt your phone buzz on the table. It was Riley,

Can we please talk? I know you said you needed time, but it’s been two weeks– we’ll need to talk this out eventually. 

You scoffed and shook your head, closing your phone screen and muttering, “Talk it out? There’s nothing to talk out, you cheated on me with my best friend of 15 years, you dumbass.” 

You sent off the post for review and then took out your headphones, standing up for another cup of coffee.

You walked to the counter and asked for another latte. The barista said they’d bring it over to you. You smiled and thanked her, but then, when you went to turn around, you bumped into someone behind you. 

“Oh shoot, I’m so sorry, pardon me…” You quickly apologized, flustered that you weren’t watching where you were going. 

“No harm, darlin’...” You saw a brown-eyed man smiling down at you, his large, strong hands on your arms, holding you steady from when you bumped into each other. 

You swallowed before nodding and kindly smiling. “Thanks…” His hands let you go just as gently as they held onto you, before you nodded to where you were sitting. “I uh… excuse me,” you said before returning to your table. 

You sat back down and didn’t realize how flustered you were until you saw in the reflection of the computer screen how red your cheeks were. 

You let out a long and slow breath before tapping a few buttons to wake your screen again, refocusing yourself on your work. 

You didn’t see that the man you had bumped into had his eyes still on you from the front.

He was watching you, his hands in his pockets, tapping his foot lightly as he began to think about how he could approach you without seeming too eager. 

He was waiting for his coffee when the barista went to leave the front counter with your coffee in hand.

He cleared his throat and smiled brightly, “Here, why don’t you let me Susie– looks like ya’ll are busier than a hive fulla bees…” He winked and outstretched his hands. 

She nodded and smiled at his gesture to help: “Thanks, Joel. You’re a peach…” She handed him the coffee in a to-go cup with your name and order written on it. 

He smiled and walked over to your table, softly clearing his throat before he set it down next to your laptop, “One cinnamon caramel latte with brown sugar sprinkles…” then chuckled after realizing your what your order was, “Damn darlin’, want some coffee with your sugar?” he lightly teased. 

You looked up, feeling eyes on you, and took out your headphones, light music coming from them. “I’m sorry?” You then saw him in front of you and then the coffee and furrowed your brow. “Oh jeez, I’m so sorry. Did they call my name and I didn’t hear?” You looked past him at the counter, worried you misunderstood them say they’d bring it to you. 

He smiled warmly, “No, I uh, sorry. I didn’t mean to confuse you… I just…” he chuckled as he nervously rubbed his fingers through his scruff, “Damn, uh… I’m sorry, I’m usually not like this…” he shyly looked down for a moment, biting his lip before looking back at you, “I just wanted to come apologize for earlier… I uhm, I was a little too eager to get my drink and I shoulda let you leave the damn line before rushin’ into you like that.” 

You smiled softly and waved your hand, dismissing his apology. “I’m sure I had a clumsy factor in the equation, trust me.” You lightly chuckled. “How about we just assume 50/50 responsibility and not get the insurance involved for the fender bender…” you lightly joked. 

He chuckled and nodded, “I’m Joel…” he held out his hand. 

You recognized him from somewhere. However, you couldn't place where. So you nodded and said your name softly, and then your phone buzzed. It was one of your clients. “Oh, um, I’m sorry—I need to take this. Thanks for the coffee. It’s been lovely meeting you, Joel.” You picked up your phone and smiled softly before answering it. 

Joel nodded and slowly backed away, saying your name repeatedly in his head, trying to remember if he knew you, as you looked somewhat familiar as well. He smiled to himself and tucked his hands back into his jeans before grabbing his coffee from the front and leaving the shop. 

1 week later 

Reader’s POV

It was the first of 4 days of the fair. 

You sat in the bleachers with your sister, her husband and son, as well a friend, Tripp. Your brother and dad were getting everything together below in the arena and stables. 

You were dressed in your best. From the best cowgirl hat you've ever owned to your boots. You wore tight jeans and a floral tank that showed just a sliver of your stomach and gave you some cleavage, wanting to get a tan but also mess with some cowboys. 

“Look at that one, he’s a pretty one!” Everly joked, pointing out a cowboy below. He was good-looking, but you could smell his toxic masculinity from where you were. He was winking at every girl that swooned past him and was chewin' tobacco, which was an instant red flag for you.

You chuckled and shook your head, taking a small swig of your water. “Mmm, no, he screams ‘walking red flag’...” You continued to look around. 

Tripp smirked and pointed to another young man, standing by his horse and tightening his saddle, “What about him?” 

You smiled. “He seems kind, but he’s not my type... he's got a baby face,” You nudged him with your elbow. “Plus, I’m not lookin’ for anything serious right now. I’m still trying to figure out the whole Riley thing…” you sighed. 

“Figure what out? What is there to figure out? You're done with him! Right?” he nudged you back, clearly annoyed you were still ‘thinking things over’. 

You tsked and fiddled with the top of your water bottle. “It’s not like that… I just… am not in a place to be in a relationship when half of my things are still back at our place.” You shrugged. “That wouldn’t be fair.” 

“To who? You or Riley?” he challenged. 

You looked at him and bit the inside of your cheek. “Tripp, " you said, raising your eyebrow.

“What?” he looked at your sister. “Ev, tell her… it’s okay to move on.” 

Your sister nodded. “He’s right. Riley didn’t hesitate. Why should you?” she shrugged, “But also, what’s wrong with just havin’ a bit of fun, no strings attached?” she giggled, nudging you with her elbow. 

You nodded and chuckled, “Fine, fine… no strings.” You looked back down and hummed, taking in the cowboys below. 

A few moments later, your dad came running up to the arena’s border, shouting your name, “Get in here! We need you and Buck. Randy’s son's damn horse got spooked and is running amuck!”

Buck was the arena's neutralizer horse. You and he had always helped when things like this happened, as the other horses couldn't risk getting hurt. 

You quickly got up from your seat and ran down the bleachers before jumping over the fence, your dad and you running towards the chaos.

Joel’s POV

Joel had been up since before the birds started to chirp. 

He started his morning by doing all the chores with his dad before they loaded up the trailer and headed to the fairgrounds around 6 a.m.

Joel had a few events he was in today and was eager to get back on the saddle after taking a few weeks off. He had taken time to rest after getting back from the national championship in Dallas. 

He and his horse Moonshine were in the stables around 9 am as they needed to be out to the arena by half past.

The two of them having a quiet moment together to prepare for the busy buzz about to happen for the rest of the day.

He tightened his saddle, ensuring everything was secure, when his dad came in, “How are we lookin’?” 

Joel nodded towards the dusty white horse that was built of pure muscle. He was his pride and joy. He’d spent the last 10 years breeding, training, and competing with horses for his dad. So when his dad told him that Moonshine was all his 2 years ago, Joel poured every minute he wasn’t working into this horse. 

“He’s almost saddled up. I just need to make sure his hooves are clear, then we’ll be good.” 

Santiago, or Santi as most called him, huffed and came around the back of Moonshine. “He’s got competition today. Ricky’s son is competing today; that horse is a beast,” he said, patting the backside of Moonshine’s rear. 

Joel tsked and smiled. “You can have a beast of a horse, but unless the rider knows what he’s doin’ – it won’t do jack.” he looked at his dad as he lifted the first of Moonshine’s hooves to inspect. “Ricky’s boy is a little short upstairs and will get hurt before he wins anything on a horse like that.” he put the first hoof down and moved to another. 

Santi just hummed and took a small breath in. “If you say so…” he clicked his tongue and turned around. "I’ll wait for you by the gate to the arena. Take your time and make sure everything is good, yes?” He began to stroll away. 

Joel nodded, “Yes, sir.” 

—

It didn’t take Joel more than 10 minutes to finish inspecting and preparing Moonshine.

The two of them walked casually out of the barn area. Joel kept his shoulders back and head held high; he exuded confidence as he walked from the barn to the main arena. He proudly wore his national championship belt buckle, which he used to intimidate fellow competitors.

He used a lead to guide Moonshine out towards the arena, which was now filled with guests loudly cheering on another event happening. 

He wore the complete competition outfit, including his cowboy hat, black button-down shirt, jeans, and chaps. His vest had patches from his sponsors on both the front and back.  

His dad was talking to Randy at the gate, a neighbor who had invested in Joel’s bareback and bull riding career. 

Joel tipped his hat as he approached, “Good to see you, Randy. How’ve you been?” he smiled and grabbed his shoulder, pulling him into a hug. 

Randy chuckled, “Good to see you, Joel! I’ve been better—bad knee!” He tsked before pulling back and looking over at Moonshine. “He’s a beaut, Joel. I'm excited to see him in action today.” He smiled and touched the horse's neck gently. 

Joel turned and touched the other side of the horse's neck. “He’s been a fun one. I’m also excited for us to be back in the arena.” he looked back at the gate and nodded for the gatekeeper to open it. 

Before they opened the gate, a loud commotion and frenzy ensued. Moonshine reared up slightly and chuffed in fear at a loud noise. 

“Shh, shh, steady boy… steady,” he cooed to him, pulling on the brindle to calm and refocus him. 

He turned to see what was happening and handed the lead to his dad.

He was walking up to the gate when the crazed riderless horse ran past. Not long after, another horse and rider buzzed by, trying to herd the crazed horse.

You swung a lasso and shouted at the horse, “Hey, hey!” before throwing it and landing it around its neck. 

The second Joel saw who it was, it was like you were moving in slow motion to him.

You maneuvered your horse to pull back and redirect. The horse in question was headed straight for a group of people so you snapped back and pulled him away.

You hollered, “Woah there boy-o!” 

You wrapped the rope around the horn of your saddle and then clicked your tongue and pulled the reigns to the left. “Here… let's go over here…” You tugged on the rope, trying to get the horse to follow you. 

Your dad was watching from a distance. “Take ‘em to the barn!” he yelled at you. 

You nodded and looked down at your horse. “Alright, Buck, let’s get his poor kid to the barn…” You patted his side affectionately and pulled up on the reins a little. Buck circled around and then headed towards the gate.

You looked back at the horse you were dragging along and smiled, “Let’s go, come on, pretty boy…” You coaxed the horse to follow you. 

It settled and huffed a few times before walking close behind you and Buck. “There we go, that’s a good boy,” you said softly. 

The gate opened, and you faced forward, tipping your hat at Scott, the gatekeeper. “Thanks, Scotty!” you smiled and winked then clicked your tongue and looked ahead of you. “Come on sweetheart…”

You saw Joel not connecting the dots of who it was with the get-up he was wearing.

His jaw is partially ajar, and his eyes are watching you as you moved.

It was like he’d seen God herself. 

You chuckled and looked at Randy, whom you knew, he and your dad were good friends.

“Got yourself a trout rather than a cowboy there, Rand… " You nodded towards Joel, teasing. 

Randy chuckled and then looked at Joel. “Good god, son, close your mouth before you catch a fly.” He swatted Joel's arm.

You giggled, clicking your tongue to get Buck to move faster, as you headed toward the barn. 

Joel snapped out of his daze and looked at Randy and his dad, who were grinning at his reaction.

His dad shook his head, chuckling, “Just keep it in your pants until after the competition-- please and thank you.” he walked past Joel to get into the gate, tugging Moonshine with him, “Come on mijo, you’re up soon.” 

Joel looked back at the barn and smiled, then looked at Randy who was still standing there with a shit eating grin, “You heard your dad, get goin’. She’ll be around all week...” he winked.

Joel competed, and on his way out, he saw you sitting down next to your sister and Tripp.

He saw you lean over and hold onto Tripp's arm, softly laughing at something.

A flame of jealousy burned up his neck. He fixated on you from the back of the arena, watching you interact with those around you, and figured that Tripp was either a friend or, worst case, a very early boyfriend. Either way, easy competition. 

He also noticed that when a specific rider came out, you all went crazy, shouting and cheering loudly. He wondered who that might be and why he was so important. 

Randy came up from behind and stood beside him. He followed his eyeline and lightly chuckled, “Since when are you not already over there markin’ your territory?” he joked. 

Joel turned his head and chuckled lightly. “Mark my territory? What am I, a dog?”

Randy chuckled a little louder and then hummed, watching the barrel racer, your brother competing. “That’s her brother, Wes. Incase you’re wonderin’...” 

Joel hummed and then realized how he knew your family. “She’s Judd’s daughter?” 

“Middle kiddo. She’s the one who pretty much raised Wes after their mom died.” Randy said sadly, looking back towards you. 

“I went to school with her. I remember when her mom died. How did I not recognize her the other day?" He slid his thumb over his bottom lip as he started to think about your interaction. 

“She’s been in Nashville since she graduated. She and that boy she dated in high school moved up there when he got some fancy job,” he gossiped. “You probably didn’t recognize her; she looks a bit different than she did in high school.” Randy remarked. 

Joel ran through his mind, thinking of who you were with in high school, then turned his head, “Riley! That's his name… what happened to him?” he raised his eyebrow.

Randy tsked, “The fucker cheated on her with Amanda." he sighed and tapped his thumb against the railing, "She found out, packed a bag and came back home.” he said sadly then turned to Joel.

Joel’s eyebrow raised, “Amanda, as in her best friend since they were like in elementary school, Amanda?” he asked, blown away. 

Randy hummed as he nodded. “Bingo.” 

Joel scoffed and looked back at you, “So she just had the ultimate fuck over…” 

Randy nodded. “Betrayed by her best friend and fiancé... it doesn’t get any worse than that.”

Joel turned to look at Randy again, and his face showed complete disappointment. “She was engaged? And he cheated on her?”  

Randy bit his lip for a moment, not wanting to divulge too much but he figured Joel should know, “From what I know, the wedding was supposed to be at the end of this summer, but not anymore. At least that’s what I’ve heard.” he kicked his foot into the ground, making some dirt dust up. 

Joel hummed and looked at you, his features softened thinking what you'd been through the last few weeks. No one should go through that.

You stood up and waved goodbye to the group you were with, then put your phone to your ear as you headed up the steps of the arena. 

“‘Cuse me, Rand… I’m going to go try to catch up with her. Apologize for earlier.” He said before hopping the gate and jogging towards you.

You were fast and beat him to the top.

He tried to keep up, but when he got up to the top, the crowd of people and busy traffic of the fair going on around the arena was too much; he’d lost you. “Damn it.” he tsked and dug his boot into the dirt frustrated.

After watching Wes’s event, you felt your phone buzz on the bleacher beside you. You picked it up to see Riley’s name displayed across your screen. Tripp looked over your shoulder and then raised his eyebrow at you. “You need to take that…” he suggested. 

You sighed and nodded. Putting this off was only dragging the dead cat out for longer. You stood and quickly said goodbye, then slid to answer, “Hello?” 

“Hey…” he sounded sad and quiet. 

“What do you want?” you said as you started to jog up the arena steps. 

“I—I… god,” he sighed. "Where are you? It’s so loud!” He sounded annoyed. 

“That’s none of your business anymore, Riley. I asked you what you wanted, so please get to the point, or I’ll end the call,” you said coldly, looking around before gathering where you were and heading towards your car. 

There was a pause, then he sighed heavily. “I just —baby, I miss you. When are you coming home?” he pleaded, his voice soft, almost begging. 

You let out a numb chuckle. “Riley, there’s no us. You fucked that over the moment you put your cock between Amanda’s legs.” You bit out.  

There was another pause. “She’s no longer an issue; I ended it with her. I realized how much I wanna fight for us, for you.” 

You chuckled a little louder then shook your head; this was nonsense. He was nonsense.

“What don’t you understand? I don’t want to fight for us. I don’t want to be with you anymore!" you walked up to your car, "You cheated on me with my best friend for most of our fucking relationship. And then now that I know about it and did the logical thing and left you– now you cut things off with her?” you opened your car door and got inside, slamming it shut, “Riley you’re one stupid son of a bitch if you thought that I was coming back.” you started up your car. 

“Why can’t we start over? Come back home, and we’ll go to counseling or get help, please. Give me a chance,” he pleaded. 

You let him stew in silence before you spoke firmly, “You don’t get another chance. Your chance went out the fucking window when I asked you who was texting you and you lied to my face saying it was a co-worker.” you sat for a moment before lowering your voice, tears forming, “You went the lengths Riley… the lengths… to change the name of her contact to a ‘co-workers’ name so that I wouldn’t get suspicious.” you scoffed, a few tears falling down your cheeks, “That’s some psycho shit. That’s premeditated fuckin’ cheating bullshit.” you shook your head and chuckled a few times, wiping the tears, “God, you know, Amanda probably got her head out of her ass and left you -- and now you’re crawling back to me because when I left, you didn’t even flinch. You let me go.” you took in a shaky breath. 

“I’m here. I’m here now,” he said after a few moments of silence. He knew you were crying. 

Something in the way he said that severed whatever you had holding onto him. You had the clarity you needed; it was time to move on. You deserved more than this, more than he gave you for all those years.  

“That’s not enough.” You let out the breath. “We’re done, Riley. I’ll have movers come and collect the rest of my belongings, your mom's ring will be returned to you, and I’ve already taken care of our financial matters. Don’t ever contact me again.” You hung up the phone and immediately blocked him before throwing your phone in the passenger seat out of anger. 

You hit the steering wheel, your anger boiling over, “God damn it!” then you began to sob softly, not out of sadness, but out of finally feeling free. 

The next day

Joel was walking down the arena steps after running to his truck quickly to grab the correct bit that he had forgotten before his event started. His mind was elsewhere, so he didn't even notice you as he walked past.

Everly saw him and nudged you. “What about him?” she nodded towards him as he walked down the steps and hopped over the fence into the arena. 

You watched, humming softly, then noticed who he was when he turned his head and smiled at someone in the arena.

“Well I’ll be damned…” you chuckled, eyes following him as he walked into the back. 

“What?” Everly looked at you like she was on the edge of her seat. “What?!” she exclaimed. 

You chuckled louder and nodded his way. “I ran into him at the coffee shop about a week ago, and then he was the cowboy that I told you about yesterday-- the trout,” you giggled. 

She gasped, “You’re kidding me, that’s the trout?! That's Joel Miller!” She hit your arm, giggling with you. 

You nodded and kept your eyes towards him. 

She looked that way as well, then looked at you, seeing you slightly blush. “You’re interested in him, aren’t you?” she giggled, a shit eating grin across her face. 

You chuckled, “I wouldn’t say ‘interested’...” You blew off her accusation, trying to act calm and collected, but inside, you could feel your heart pound, and a small amount of heat rose to your cheeks the more you watched him move. 

He was getting Moonshine’s bit adjusted, paying no mind to his surroundings. 

You noted that he looked good handling a horse. He was in complete control. His hands gliding over the equipment confidently. There was something about watching a man with a horse that always appeased you, making you feral. 

Riley didn’t come from the ranch life. His family was wealthy and privileged. They were full of snobby, rich aristocrats who didn’t care for anyone but themselves. Being with him and having that difference in family dynamics created rifts in your relationship. His family tended to look down on you. Behind your back, they referred to you as the ‘dirty ranch girl’. He never stood up for you either.  

Joel hopped onto Moonshine and clicked his tongue, guiding him to where they needed to be. He took his hat off with one hand and pushed his hair back with the other before putting it back onto his head. He looked up to the crowd and noticed you already looking at him. 

You were in a floral sundress, your boots, and to top it off, your cowboy hat on your head. You looked insatiable. He adjusted his hips as he felt a stir below the belt before making direct eye contact with you. “Who’s fishin’ for a trout now, sweetheart?” he mumbled to himself. 

He caught your eye with his and grinned, tipping his hat to you and giving you a slight wink. 

You immediately looked away shyly and couldn’t help the smile that grew across your face, softly chuckling to yourself. 

He chuckled and looked up at the board, seeing how much time he had before he and Moonshine would compete.

5 minutes.

He looked back to you, and you were giggling with the guy next to you, the same guy you were sitting with yesterday. 

Jealousy filled him again, a heat grew up his neck and his lips tightened.

He cocked his head and whispered, "Fuck it." then decided he had enough time to make his way over to you. 

He swung his leg over and off Moonshine, then tied the lead to the fence. “Stay right here… I’ll be right back.” he muttered to the horse.

He jumped over the gate and then started to stroll over to your group. 

Tripp saw and whispered, teasing, “Trout incoming…” then he realized he was actually heading over, “Oh fuck! He’s looking right at you babe! He’s coming over….” he nudged you to catch your attention. 

You hummed curiously and turned to look, the blush on your cheeks betraying you when you found him again. 

When you two made eye contact, he tipped his hat again and smiled at you.

‘Damn it. He’s going to be trouble.’ You instantly thought as butterflies erupted intensely in your core. 

You swallowed nervously and began frantically fixing your dress, clearing your throat. Then, you stood and came down to the fence at the bottom of the bleachers, smiling at him on the other side. “Hey, cowboy…” 

He approached the other side and grinned at the nickname, “How are you doin’ darlin’?” 

You blushed and tilted your head, “I’m doin’ better now that you’re here sayin’ hello.” you flirted, leaning up against the railing. 

He chuckled and ran his thumb against his bottom lip. “What’s a pretty girl like you doin’ out here today?” 

You watched him touch his lip and bit the inside of your cheek to stop you from smiling too much. “I have a brother competing in barrel racin’...” You looked down at his belt and smirked. “Take it you’re competing too?” Your eyes trailed up his body, slowly landing back to his eyes. 

He felt himself harden the way you were drinking him in, the way your eyes landed on his belt. 

He smirked and tilted his head back at you. “I am. I’m out bare buckin’ today and then bull buckin’ tomorrow.” 

You nodded and hummed, “You’ve got some competition in bare buckin’.” You nodded to the arena. “Rob Turner is competing. He's got a beast of a horse I've heard...” You looked over at that rider and his horse. 

Joel looked back at Rob and chuckled, shrugging, “Eh, he’ll be easy to beat,” he said confidently. 

You raised your eyebrow slightly and looked back at him. “Oh really? You think you’re good enough to beat him then, cowboy?” 

He smirked, “Oh, am I no longer called ‘trout’, then?” he teased.

You turned red for a moment then cleared your throat, “Well today you didn’t look at me with your jaw open so wide that you could be catchin’ flies, so no.” you challenged, cocking your head and looking up at him confidently. 

He raised his eyebrow at your playfulness then grinned and leaned forward on the rail that you had your arms folded against. His hands to his arms were straight to hold up his weight. “Well, apologies for the lack of manners yesterday, darlin’. I was stunned by your beauty, and in that moment, my jaw fell open…” he looked at you with a broad and warm smile. 

You hummed, smiling back at him, “Well, I can’t say I haven’t been doin’ the same to you today. I guess we’re even?” 

He tsked, “Oh really? You’ve been swoonin’ over me, huh?” he leaned a little in, “In that case, what can a cowboy do to take you out to dinner then?” he winked at you. 

You leaned in to him and looked down at his lips, biting your bottom lip before you backed up a step and shrugged, “What can I say? I find cowboys attractive.”

He was speechless. He swallowed and chuckled shyly, not knowing what to say.

You saw the effect you had at him and loved it. You relished in your ability to make a man squirm.

You tipped your hat and smirked, “But I find champion-winning cowboys date-worthy…” You took another step back and looked at his belt. “Win that championship today, then you can ask me out to dinner.” You looked back up at him and smiled, blushing as you felt a sense of confidence with him, a feeling of safety.  

He grinned as he looked at you. “I win. I get to take you out?” 

You nodded. “Think you can do that or is that too hard for you to achieve, trout?” you jabbed playfully. 

He liked this side of you. He didn't know you like this in high school. You were the quiet and shy girl, this girl, she was much more confident and he found it very attractive.

He smirked and bit his lip, offering his hand. “Deal.” 

You walked back up to him and took his hand. “Deal.” 

He brought your hand to his lips and kissed your knuckles, keeping eye contact with you. 

You blushed and smiled softly, before shyly looking down for a moment before looking back up. “If you win, I’ll be up there with my family and friends…” You gently pull your hand away and cutely put both hands behind your back. 

He nodded to Tripp, “That ain’t your date?” he chuckled. 

You looked to where he was nodding and let out a chuckle. “What if it is?” You looked back at him, grinning. “Give you some competition…” You winked, then turned and started heading up the stairs. “Good luck out there, cowboy…”

He chuckled and pushed off the railing, “Ain’t gon’ need it darlin’! I’ve got a date on Friday night for you and me in the bag!” he shouted as you went up the stairs. 

You giggled and went back to sit with Ev and Tripp. They both were grinning and began nudging you as you all watched him return to his horse. 

After catching the two of them up on your conversation with Joel, you sat back and watched as he and Moonshine entered the pen where they were in before being released.

He found you again and smiled, nodding his head at you before looking down and tying his hand where it needed to go to prepare for the bucking.

While this happened, the announcer shouted throughout the arena, “Alright, alright! Our next competitor is this year's National Champion! He just returned home from travelin’ upstate for nationals… please help me give a huge warm welcome to our hometown champ– Joel Miller!” 

The crowd went wild and you instantly turned red, “Oh fuck me…” 

Tripp leaned over and muttered, “Oh, I fear he will be now…” 

You swatted his arm and gasped, “Tripp!” 

He chuckled and looked at Everly. “Am I wrong?!” he shouted over the crowd, grinning. 

Everly looked at you and shook her head, giggling, “Girl, looks like you’ve got a date this weekend.” 

You looked out towards the arena and couldn’t help but smile, chuckling, “I guess I do…” 

—

As expected, Joel placed first in the bare-bucking competition, out-running the competition by a landslide. 

Watching him compete and win was exhilarating to watch. He was meant to be on a horse. He was also meant to be a cowboy, the way he looked in that damn hat should be a sin.

As the arena started to clear, Joel came walking over after putting Moonshine back in the barn, smiling widely, presenting the new belt buckle he now had on himself.

Everly and Tripp chuckled, seeing him beam, and stood up. Tripp touched your shoulder and said, “We’ll be at the top when you’re done.”

They smiled politely and nodded at Joel before they made their way up the steps. 

Joel smiled warmly and tipped his hat to them before looking up at you as he stood with his leg placed on the bleacher below you, leaning on his knee, “So, sweetheart, what time should I pick you up Friday evenin’?” he looked up at you with soft brown eyes. 

You leaned your elbows on your knees and raised your eyebrow. “Not so fast. You didn’t say you were the national champion!” You tilted your head. “You knew you’d win today…” You grinned. “Now, I think that’s a little bit of an unfair advantage you had there, cowboy.” 

He chuckled and reached up to gently mess with the hem of your dress, looking down, “Maybe I was keepin’ that little fact to m’self…” he looked back up, “That way I knew there would be a guarantee of takin’ you out…” 

You blushed and pursed your lips together, looking away for a second with a smile so wide your cheeks hurt. 

He watched you glow in front of him with the smile you had on your face. He felt his heart pounding against his chest. He’d been on bulls' backs, in bar fights, tamed wild horses, and in some of the most dangerous adrenaline high situations– but nothing made his heart beat this fast and strong like being around you. 

You looked back at him and bit the inside of your cheek, smiling still. “Pick me up at 7.” You stood up and looked down at him, holding out your hand. “Give me your phone…” 

He chuckled and stood straight, looking at you. “Pardon?” 

You giggled, “Do you want my number or not?” 

“Oh.” he smiled and pulled his phone out of his back pocket, unlocking it and holding it up to you, “Yes, please…” 

You gently took it and put your number in, playfully looking at him every few seconds, blushing. 

He smirked and swiped his finger across his bottom lip, his eyes momentarily looking at your body from top to bottom. "By the way, I like this dress on you. You look beautiful.” 

You smiled at him and handed his phone back to him. “Text me later, I’ll send you my address and a photo for my profile pic…” you winked. 

He took his phone but damn near dropped it with your last comment. His cheeks now turned a shade of pink, and he chuckled nervously. “I’ll text ya when I get home…” he looked down at his phone with your contact info on it, shyly. 

You giggled at his reaction and nodded, “Good.” You then gathered your things and started to head up the stairs. “Congrats, by the way—on the national title,” you smiled. 

He looked up and smiled warmly, “Thank you darlin’.” 

You nodded and went up a few more stairs before turning back and shyly saying, “I would have gone out with you win or lose, you know?” You grinned and tilted your head cutely. “However, I’m glad to know I’ll be goin’ out with a county and national champion now…” You winked and then turned to continue up the stairs. 

He chuckled and looked up at you. “You get to go out with a champ, and I get to go out with the prettiest girl in the world— I call that a win-win...”

You blushed and kept walking, shouting behind you, “Stop bein’ a flirt and go home so you can text me, cowboy!” You smiled to yourself, reaching the top. 

He tipped his hat and chuckled, “Say less, darlin’...” Then he smiled as he hurried down the steps and jogged back to the barn to pack everything up as quickly as possible. 

When you got home, you headed to your room to change into something more comfortable. Your legs felt filthy, as a layer of sunscreen and dirt from the fairgrounds covered them.

You start the shower and play soft music when you hear a ding from your phone. 

You walked over and picked it up, seeing an unknown number had texted you, 

‘Hey sweetheart, it’s Trout. 🎣’ 

You chuckled and realized it was Joel. You saved his number and typed back, 

‘Hey there, cowboy. Get home safely?’ 

Almost instantly, a message appeared, 

‘Safely and as quick as I could– what are you up to?’ 

You were stripped naked as you were about to shower. You typed back, 

‘Just about to hop in the shower…’ 

You grinned, then put your cowgirl hat back on. 

You then stood so that your silhouette shone against the wall from the setting sun. You held up your phone and snapped a photo. It perfectly sent a clear message but kept him on his toes. 

You then sent the photo with the text, 

‘Here’s that profile pic I promised you. 💗 Send one back?’ 

A few moments later, you heard your phone ding again, 

‘Forgive me sweetheart– but damn! 😍’

You giggled and typed, 

‘Come on! Send one of you, handsome! One with your hat! ;)’

‘...’ was displayed for a few minutes before a picture of him in the mirror with his cowboy hat on and black button-up partially undone by the collar, smiling with his dimples, came up on your screen.

‘I’ll send you a better one after my shower, how ‘bout that?’ 

You chuckled and set it to his profile picture before typing back, 

‘Deal. Let’s both get today's grime off, and then we can send updated photos? 💗’

‘Deal. I’ll text you when I’m done, but take your time. I’ll be here, cariño.’ (Darling)

You blushed and set your phone down before hopping into the shower, smiling as you thought over the events of the past few hours. 

—

When you got out, your sister knocked on your door, telling you to come downstairs. She said that your dad said it was important, but she sounded somewhat annoyed by the urgency she was told to imply. 

You hurried and got dressed in jeans and an oversized sweater. The way she sounded annoyed made you anticipate the worst. Knowing your dad, he had frequently annoyed both you and your sister with antics, more so lately than ever. 

When you went downstairs, you saw that your dad had prepared a feast celebrating Wes’s win for both events he was in. Friends and family buzzed about the house, excited to celebrate Wes and his hard work. 

You looked at Everly, and the both of you took a breath and hopped into the mix to socialize. 

You both put on fake smiles and masked how you were truly feeling. This wasn’t about your dad; this was for Wes. Who you both wanted to celebrate and who deserved this, no matter how you both felt about your dad. 

You texted Joel when you had a moment,

‘Hey, so something came up after my shower with my family. I’ll text you after it’s all done. 💗’

You put your phone in your back pocket and focused on celebrating your little brother, who you were so proud of. 

—

At the end, after everyone had gone home, you were in the kitchen starting to wash the dishes. You had texted Joel to call you in 5 minutes as you would be done then.

Everly was cleaning up the living room, and Wes went out with friends when your dad came in and cleared his throat. “Ev tells me you might have met someone today…” he probed.

You turned your head to look at him and nodded, keeping your reaction as minimal as possible, “Yeah, she’s right. I’ve got a date this weekend.” You pursed your lips into a tight smile and looked back to the soapy water. 

“Who is it? Maybe I know ‘em…” he leaned against the counter, his arms folded, holding his beer, letting a small smile stretch across his lips. 

You took a moment before speaking up, debating whether or not to tell him. He always stuck his nose in your business; for once, you wanted things to be somewhat private. However, you knew if you didn’t say anything, it would end up in a fight more major than it will be with what you were about to say. 

You chose to bite the bullet and say ‘Fuck it.’ A fight with him wasn’t something new– bring it on.

“Santi’s boy, Joel.” Thinking about him, you smiled but fixed your gaze on the water. 

“Nah, no, you’re not goin’ out with him,” he said in a tone that made you think he was joking. 

You lightly chuckled and turned your head to look at him. “Yes, I am! Why not?” you smiled. “Is it hard to think I can swing one of the Miller brothers?” you joked back. 

His face turned neutral. “I’m serious. You’re not goin’ out with Joel Miller. You know how I feel about that family.” he pushed off the counter and rolled his eyes at you as he took a swig of the beer. 

Your smile dissolved, and you stood there momentarily, processing what he just said. 

After absorbing it, you shook the suds off your hands and grabbed the dish towel to dry your hands, raising your eyebrow at him, “I’m sorry, I must’ve miss the part where you have a say in this dad… forgive me but am I not a grown ass woman and don’t need your permission to date someone...” you challenged. 

He scoffed and looked at you, wanting to dig at you, “Well, you certainly aren’t a grown woman if you have to run home when your fiance makes a little accident.” 

You clenched your jaw at that and threw the towel onto the counter. “An accident?” you bit out harshly. “I’m sorry, I didn’t know you’d consider cheating an ‘accident’, Dad.” you shook your head in disbelief and looked back at him, “Did you ever do that to Mom? Was it valid enough to be unfaithful to her because it was an ‘accident’ to you?” you dug back. 

He looked at you, and you knew immediately you had tapped on a nerve. The pride you felt was one of the best feelings in the world. You rarely found a nerve, but it was blissful when you did in moments like these.

You tilted your head, getting cocky. “Oh? That seemed to get to you.” You grinned. “Well, guess what, Dad? I don’t give a damn what you say, think or want. It’s my life.” you said firmly. 

He looked down at the ground, then back at you. “You know the Millers are nothing but bad news.” 

“No, Dad. The Millers are bad news because your granddad said they were bad news back in his day. Then he created an unfair, false narrative that has spread to you – come on?" You chuckled mockingly and started to walk up to him. 

“Joel and Tommy were some of the most hardworking and kind boys when I went to high school with them.” You paused and looked at him, your breath catching in your throat. “And their dad?” you paused, “Santi brought us a meal when Mom died, Dad.” You teared up and shook your head, shrugging off anger you were starting to feel. “How can that be bad news?” you choked out.

He looked down at you and clenched his jaw before huffing a breath through his nostrils. “They are nothing but liars and cheats.” he said lowly. 

You felt another heat of anger crawl up your back and needed to step away. “Liars and cheats or just better than you when it came to competition?” You shook your head and went to walk past him. “You’ve always been a poor loser.” you muttered.

He grabbed your arm and turned you to face him roughly. “You’ll treat me with respect, young lady. Got it?” The smell of alcohol immediately hit you from his hot breath that was inches from your face. 

He’d never touched you like this. Never once laid a finger on any of you. You two always would argue or have yelling matches, but he never touched you. 

Your blood ran cold, and your breath became shaky.

You swallowed and looked up at him, eyes filled with fear. “Dad, let go of me…” 

He realized what he had done, seeing the look in your eyes. His eyes softened, and he slowly and softly let go of your arm. “I… God, I’m so sorry.” 

You quickly stepped away from him, holding onto your arm. Your heart was pounding, your adrenaline was pumping, and your mind was racing at what had just happened. 

Your phone dinged in your pocket before it started ringing. 

You pulled it out of your pocket to see Joel’s picture he’d sent you earlier across your screen. 

His dimpled smile instantly calms your nerves and washes a warmth over you. 

You looked up at your dad and clenched your jaw before flatly saying, “Night, Dad.” 

You quickly left the kitchen and ran upstairs to your room to answer the call. 

As soon as your door was shut, you answered the call.

“Hey…” You melted against the door, sliding down to your floor, holding your head in your hand.

“Hey darlin’...” he softly said. You could hear the smile plastered on his face through the phone, instantly making you smile. 

“Sorry about earlier– how’s your night been?” you asked softly. 

“No need to apologize. You had family come up! Nothin’ matters more than that, right?”

You swallowed and sighed softly, closing your eyes and leaning against the door. “Right…” 

He noticed the slight shift in your voice. “Everythin’ ok?” 

“Yeah, just a long night and an even longer story…” you softly chuckled. 

He hummed, “Need to pillow it out?” 

You giggled softly. “Pillow it out?” 

He chuckled, “You know, yell into a pillow or beat the shit out of one?” 

Your giggle grew, and you stood up, walking over to your bed, “‘Pillow it out’… that’s got to go on a t-shirt.” 

He chuckled, hearing your giggle, his stomach erupting with butterflies again. 

You smiled while lying in bed. “So, screaming into a pillow or hitting one? That helps?” 

“It did growing up and has come into use in my later years, I will confess…” he chuckled softly. 

You smiled and hummed, “Well tonight I think just hearin’ your voice is doin’ the trick.” You blushed. 

There was a pause, then he softly spoke, “Why don’t we move up our date to tomorrow?” he said abruptly. 

You chuckled, “Don’t you compete tomorrow?” 

“Yeah, and?” he chuckled. “Come cheer for me. Afterwards, you and I can go to the fair and watch the fireworks. It’ll be fun!” There was another small pause. “And if I’m bein’ honest, I don’t think I can wait two more days to take you out or to see you again…” 

You smiled and blushed, putting your pillow over your face and squealing into it, muting the phone. 

“Hello?” he said after a moment of silence. “Querida?” 

You came onto the phone and smiled, trying to act cool. “Sorry, I, uh, dropped the phone.” You bit your lip as you grinned, “Um, yes. Tomorrow it is.” 

He chuckled and smiled brightly, “Tomorrow then.” he bit his lip then cleared his throat, “Well then, with that being said, I’m going to go get some sleep. I’ve got an early morning. I’ll come see you before my event, ok?” 

You blushed and lightly bit your nail shyly. “Ok…” 

He chuckled again and took a deep breath, “Goodnight darlin’...” 

You sat up and smiled. “Night, cowboy, sweet dreams.” 

Next Chapter

no pressure taglist: @thebeautytoyourbeat, @sarahhxx03, @blahkateisdone, @sunnytuliptime, @pedroscurls, @docharleythegeekqueen @pedritosgirl2000 @fancyyoouu @greendudenumber7, @queenofdisaster12 @axshadows @mystickittytaco @yxtkiwiyxt @alltheirdamn @punkshort @stylesispunk @iheartoldermem @mermaidgirl30 @mountainsandmayhem @sp00kymulderr @brittmb115 @poor-unfortunate-soul9927 @spacelatinos4life @pedge-page @pedropascalfab @readingiskeepingmegoing @sincerelywithheartt @youusunshineyoutemptress @lilasskicker-23 @melsunshine @wencontre @pedrofan

[muddyorbsblr]

slipping between future and past [SAS secret santa 2023]

View the full SAS Secret Santa 2023 Masterlist here! See my full list of works here!

Summary: You give your friend a few pointers on what to know about Yule, and come across a familiar looking stranger in your bookstore.

Pairing: Loki x Reader/OC Talia Williams

Word Count: 3.8k

Warnings: 18+ | smut (minors & pearl clutchers, please leave I'm asking nicely); unprotected p in v sex; cunnilingus; magical restraints; language; possibly wonky interpretation of time travel & timeslipping; possibly wonky understanding of Yule [let me know if i missed anything!]

Things to be aware of: established relationship; still written in 2nd Person POV like my other 'x Reader' stories, but this time Reader has a name and it's "Talia Williams"; this is a secret santa request for @acidcasualties

Dick-tionary: smut starts at "the feel of your hands being brought" and ends at "as he marked your skin"

It was uncharacteristically slow today in the bookstore, barely a handful of people walking in, browsing for a few minutes, and then promptly exiting when they see that you didn't carry the middle school dystopia book series all the kids were raving over. It was a colossal waste of their time and yours, considering there would have been less effort had they just taken even a cursory look at the sign by the door.

You didn't carry children's books. Classics, Myths, and Romance only.

Of the number of people that walked through the doors that you could count on your two hands, you could only count those that actually made a purchase with one. Half of one.

The sound of the door chimes brought your attention to the entrance again, seeing your friend Ariadne bounding into the front area of the store with a frantic look in her eye. "Talia," she panted, headed straight for you. "Babes, I need your help. Are you busy? You got a customer back there?"

"Nope. Just me," you called out, stepping out from behind the counter. "What's wrong? What do you need?"

"Okay so…you know that guy I'm seeing?"

"Uhh…I think so? Lee, right?"

"Leif. Think trees, Babes. Anyways, he wants me to meet his family and apparently they're super into the ancient Norse traditions, so I need a crash course on how they celebrate Christmas." She paced back and forth by the table that held the New York Times bestsellers that you did hold stock for, picking up a copy of the stalker dark romance duology. "His sister likes to read, you think she'll appreciate this?"

You immediately rushed over to her, grabbing the book and nearly slamming it back down on the stack. "You gotta let them crawl before they walk. Let alone sprint," you explained, giving her Beautiful Bastard instead. "This should be a good enough in between, just in case she's not into guns being shoved up anyone's vagina--"

Up where?! she shrieked, grabbing the first book again, along with the sequel and the book you were handing her. "Okay I'll take that for his sister, and these two for me."

"This is exactly why we're friends," you quipped, ringing up her order. "Now about that other thing…you do know that just because I own a bookshop, it doesn't mean that I know everything about everything, right?"

She rolled her eyes at you. "Yeah, but I also know that you live for all these myths and folk tales, so I bet you know a thing or two about Viking Christmas."

"Alright fine. Find a chair and settle in," you said with an overly dramatic wave of your hand. "First things first, it's not called 'Viking Christmas', it's called 'Yule'. Immediately if you wanna get on his family's good side, you say Good Yule because it shows that you did at least a customary Google search before you stepped foot on their property." You handed her a small notepad and a pencil. "You're gonna wanna write this down."

When her scribbling down stopped, she perked up with a question. "Do they have a Santa Claus?"

"Yes and no," you answered her, prepping two cups of coffee and handing one over to her before plopping down on your own seat in the reading nook, your favorite one in the entire shop. "Santa Claus is what we call who the Brits refer to as 'Father Christmas'. The Brits got that from 'Yule Figure' from the Viking mythology and Mr Yule Figure himself is...Odin."

"Wait wait hold up." She shot up her hand like a kid asking questions in class. "So Odin is Santa? He goes around little Viking kiddies' neighborhoods and slides down the chimney to give them wooden axes and swords?"

"Hmmm not quite. The whole making a list and checking it twice to give the good little boys and girls presents on Christmas is...not quite how the Vikings do it. Instead they engage in something called the Wild Hunt, where Odin aka Big Yule Father Kahuna calls on his posse of gods and plays a game of non-consensual hide and seek with the living souls. So us being the 'living mortals', we have to find a safe enough hiding place that Odin and Thor and the rest of the Norse gods don't find us, because if they do…they drag us to the Underworld."

"Okay first of all, yikes." Ariadne made a big show of shuddering in her seat over what you just told her. "Can't it be something a little bit less morbid? Like if Thor finds you he drags you to his den of iniquity and has his wicked way with you?"

"I mean it's all myths and folklore anyway," you shot back with a small shrug as you finished off your coffee. "So maybe when the big girls are off in their own corner, we can smut it up and pretend that if someone other than Odin finds us, we can get some happy fun times." You both broke out into giggles at your wording. "And when we're telling the story to the smaller kiddos, we say that the gods only go after the naughty kids. Keep with the spirit of Christmas and all that." You wagged a finger in her direction, giving her another suggestion. "Or in the case of meeting Leif's family, just think which one's gonna have him more devastated, your soul getting dragged into the Underworld or your body getting dragged to Thor's man cave."

She wrote down some more notes on her little notepad before standing up, brimming with excitement. "Okay I think that's all I need. Hopefully…"

"Babes, you're there to meet the family, not get gatekeeper gamer boy levels of interrogated on what you know about Yule. As soon as you don't say 'Merry Viking Christmas', you're in the clear."

She squealed, rushing over to wrap her arms around you and give you a tight squeeze. "Thank you thank you! You just saved me from looking a total ditz meeting his family. I have a really good feeling about this one, you know?"

You gave her a squeeze back, happy that she was finally in a relationship that felt stable enough to start on that family she'd always wanted.

Maybe one day you could be so lucky with your own love life.

"I'm really happy for you, Aria. Let me know how it goes when you get back, okay?"

You worked on wrapping up the book she intended to gift Leif's sister as she asked you another question. "What about mistletoe? Do they have that in Yule?"

You scrunched her nose and shook your head at her question. "Yes and no again. Yes, they've assigned meaning to the plant but no, you don't kiss under it for fear of spending the next year all alone. They believe it to be a symbol for fertility, so it's been known for couples to hang it above their headboards so that their holiday fun times might lead to a child. It's also seen as a symbol for new life or resurrection because there's another folktale that says that Loki fashioned a weapon from the mistletoe plant to kill Baldur, and Frigga's tears turned the white berries red and resurrected her fallen son. Which if you ask me is a steaming pile of horse shit that's almost more ridiculous than how Siegfried was felled in the Nibelungenlied, but that's a story for another day."

"Hold up, but isn't Loki also a son of Frigga?"

You shrugged. "Who knows what's real and what's not at this point? These tales are thousands of years old. All we know right now is that Thor's real and he's friends with a billionaire that made a fancy iron suit and a soldier from the 40s that doesn't even look like he's hit his mid-20s. And that he dated an astrophysicist. Tell you what, if I ever meet him, I'll ask him myself. Maybe I'll even ask him what exactly goes down in the Wild Hunt if they still do it in this century."

"Ooh, if he walks into the store please text me?" You gave her a questioning look. "What? He's my hall pass. Leif knows all about it. Natasha Romanoff's his."

You handed her the gift-wrapped book. "Pinky promise, I'll tell you as soon as a 6'4 muscular Barbie looking dude from Asgard swinging a hammer and summoning thunder and lightning walks into my shop. Maybe I'll even text you if the Black Widow herself walks in so that Leif would owe a favor or two."

"Hey, it could happen," she quipped, sticking her tongue out at you like you were back in the sandbox. "We're in New York, after all. And Avengers Tower's just a ten minute walk away. You never know, you know?"

"Right," you breathed, waving her off as she neared the door. "Merry Yule."

"Merry Crisis," she shot back, blowing you a kiss as she stepped into the cold New York night.

You started cleaning the store so you could close up for the night when a new voice pierced through the quiet.

"I appreciate your refusal to believe that hokum about the mistletoe, darling. It warms my cold Jotun heart knowing that it's safe in your brilliant hands."

Large hands found themselves at your waist before your new visitor's arms wrapped around you from behind, your body going frigid at the action. "Who--?"

"Oh no..." He immediately released you from his hold, allowing you to come face to face with a towering man with onyx curls and a devastatingly handsome face that seemed vaguely familiar. "I must have gone back too far this time." He took a step toward you, his hands twitching in your direction as if he wanted to go back to where he was just a few seconds ago. If you were being honest with yourself, you wouldn't object. "Sweetheart, who am I to you?"

"What? This time?" You raised an eyebrow at him, confusion coating your words. "You trying to tell me we met before? Because trust me I'd remember meeting someone that looked like you."

"Who am I to you? What do you know of me?" he asked again, his brows upturned at the center of his forehead, his expression reminding you of a baby kitten pleading for affection.

"Not much," you admitted. "You look like the guy that tore up a hole in the sky and rode some space chariot while leading an alien army that laid waste on the city that I call home...and the guy that went up against Iron Man and his friends, including that big green scary monster looking dude."

He hung his head, looking down at the ground as he let out a long sigh. "I don't just look like that guy, darling, I--" He exhaled sharply before composing himself again. "I am that guy. Well, I was. And Banner's honestly not that terrifying once you get to know him." He looked at you again, seeing your hand and beginning to look emotionally deflated. "I went too far back."

"You know who else you look like?" you asked him, a smirk playing at your mouth as you reached for the chain around your neck, showing him the ring that hung in its center, closing the distance he put between you. "You look like my future husband."

The relief was written all over Loki's face as he eyed the ring he'd given you, a brilliant smile gracing his features when he pulled you into his arms and laid his lips on yours.  You melted into the kiss, pressing yourself against him as the god's arms wrapped around you, pulling you closer.

"My darling little mortal," he mumbled against your lips. "Somehow managing to fool a trickster god, for any amount of time, is a feat in and of itself." He kissed you again, lifting you off the ground and spinning you in a circle when you put your arms over his shoulders.

"Well you said it yourself, I'm brilliant," you answered him back when you pulled away, your fiancée keeping your feet off the ground. He adjusted his hold on you to hold you up by a single arm, making you giggle when he started walking toward the front door and made your keys materialize in his now free hand. "What're you doing, Mischief?"

"You're finished here for the night," he stated simply, all the lights turning off, along with the doors locking closed, and the sign in front flipping to "Closed" to indicate you'd retired for the night, with a simple wave of his hand. "I'm taking you home, little mortal. Close your eyes."

A breeze flew by your face and the next thing you knew your back was pressed against the familiar wooden column of your kitchen area. Loki crushed his lips to yours in a desperate kiss, both of you moaning into each other's mouths as he pressed your chests together, hands traveling down the sides of your body to wrap your legs around him.

The feel of your hands being brought above your head despite the god's hands still roaming and grasping at your thighs had your eyes snapping open, breaking the kiss with a little squeak from the back of your throat as you looked up. A thrill shot up your spine seeing a thick glowing ring of Loki's seiðr fastened around your wrists and keeping you tethered to the column behind you.

"I could not decide whether to reward you or punish you for getting the better of me earlier, my love," he rasped, latching his lips to your neck and sucking a bruise into your skin. He smirked against you when you started whimpering and arching into his touch within seconds. "So I shall do both."

You let out a whiny sound that had him lightly grasping your chin, running his thumb along your bottom lip to coax it into a pout. He kissed you again, nipping at your bottom lip before pulling away. Then another ring of his seiðr appeared at your hips, keeping them flush against the column as both rings began to lift you up, your feet soon leaving the ground until he was eye level with your pelvis.

He made a motion with his hand and suddenly you felt a breeze all over your body as he bared you to him, your clothes disappearing in a flash of green.

"Loki…" you whined, squirming under his predatory gaze as another ring of seiðr went around each of your legs, just above your knee, and opened you to him.

"I've not been home in ages, my darling mortal," he rasped, not taking his eyes off of your arousal as he licked his lips. "And I am famished." He took a step closer to you, lightly running his fingers up your inner thigh.

"Let--Let me down, then," you said shakily, feeling your walls quivering and clenching around nothing as he traced up your inner thigh again, only this time with the tip of his nose before pressing a tender kiss to your skin. "I can fix us something to--"

"Oh no, sweet Talia." He kissed you right below your belly button, groaning into your skin. "I do not crave food, my love." He continued to press kisses to your stomach, faintly chuckling when you tried to close your legs and his restraints kept you from moving even an inch. "Your reward is that I will not deny you any ounce of pleasure tonight. I have longed for you too much to deny you much of anything."

He moved his head lower, and you let out an obscene moan of his name as he ran his tongue along the length of your slit before slowly circling your clit.

"Your punishment…" he breathed, pressing slow lingering kisses and laving his tongue over your sensitive bundle of nerves. "No touching."

"Loki, wait--Oh f-fuck!" The room filled with your moans as he proceeded to alternate between long licks at your entrance and close his lips over your clit for what felt like a blissfully torturous eternity. He kept his word on not denying you anything as he brought you over the edge over and over again.

Your throat was raw from your constant moans and screams of his name and various expletives, already having lost count of how many times you came for him when he slid two devastatingly long fingers inside you and curled up, brushing against the spot that had you seeing stars. "One more, sweet girl," he mumbled around your clit, the vibrations from his voice already bringing you to the brink of orgasm yet again.

He moved your legs to rest your thighs on his shoulders, moaning against you when your entire body tensed as you came for him again, your pussy quivering against his mouth as he lapped at your release with languid strokes of his tongue. The restraints around your wrists and hips moved you down the column until your face was level with his, a weak whimper slipping from you when you saw how his lips glistened with your juices.

You barely registered the sound of the zipper as he kissed along your chest, biting and sucking more bruises into your skin. He lined himself up at your entrance, sliding into you in a single effortless thrust and eliciting a staggered sigh of relief from the god. "I've m-missed this," he whimpered between thrusts. "Missed you." Thrust. "My precious mortal." Thrust. "My wife." Thrust.

He threw his head back, letting out a decadent moan when you clenched around him after what he'd just called you. It had you desperately longing for your wedding day. Desperately aching to touch him. Just desperate for him.

"Please…" you whimpered, feebly fighting against the restraints again. When the rings holding you to the column finally disappeared, you could only let out a sharp exhale, your hand immediately clawing into your fiancée's back, the other weaving into his onyx curls.

Loki pressed you harder against the column, driving himself deeper inside you, his hands roaming and grasping wherever he could, as if he couldn't get enough of you. Couldn't touch you enough. He slanted his mouth over yours, moaning into the kiss when your tongues tangled together and you could taste your release on him. He adjusted his hold on you, letting out another muffled obscene sound into each other's mouths when the motion caused you to bounce on his cock.

Once he held you securely in his arms he started walking you further into your home, each step making you bounce on him and further weakening you in his embrace. He eased you down onto your bed, breaking the kiss and rendering you completely speechless watching his clothes melt away and baring his godly physique to you.

All you could do was breathe his name as he moved to hover over you again, pressing his lips to your cheek as he picked up the pace. He wrapped his hand around your knee, raising your leg to wrap it around his waist so he could drive into you harder. When you felt his fingers rubbing over your clit, the only sound that came out of you was a sharp moan, your body weakly arching against his hand before squeaking out, "I can't--"

"Just one more, dear heart. For me," he grunted, latching his lips onto that spot between your neck and shoulder as he kept on rubbing tight circles on the over-sensitized nub. Your legs shook and your walls convulsed around him, bring him to his own release as he marked your skin.

Once you both came down from your high, you felt his seiðr wash over you as he pulled you into his arms, putting the covers over you both with another wave of his hand. "I gotta be honest with you, sweetie, that felt a little pent up," you exhaled, a tiny part of you finding it unfair that he'd already resumed his regular breathing as if he didn't just fuck you senseless.

Damn Asgardian endurance.

"Because it was, precious mortal," he told you simply, tracing his finger along your cheek. "How long has it been since last you saw me?"

"Three months…give or take a week?" You braced yourself, already dreading what he'd say next.

"I have not seen you for over a year, my love," he confessed, pressing another kiss to your lips. "At least not like this. Every time I had seen you, you were yet to know me. There were worlds where you even outright feared me, scurrying away once you'd realized where you recognized me from. When I got to your shop earlier, I nearly believed I landed in another iteration of that world."

Suddenly your 'prank' from earlier left a sinking feeling in your stomach. "Loki, I'm sorry, I didn't know." You wrapped your arm around him, pressing yourself even closer to him if that were even possible, resting your head on his shoulder. "I just thought it'd be a bit of fun--"

"You have nothing to apologize for," he reassured you, brushing the tip of his nose along your own before softly kissing the spot. "But I have missed you terribly. Getting to hold you, to love you. To simply be here with you and enjoy a moment with my wife."

"Future wife," you pouted. "We're still in the planning phase, sadly. I take it the last time you saw me was sometime in our…future? I'm sorry this still gets confusing for me." He nodded his answer, pressing his lips to  your forehead. "Well then the timelines better fucking behave because I refuse to let you go anywhere. I get that you're a big powerful hero now, and knowing that you're out there making sure that everyone's safe and gets to come home to their families? I couldn't be prouder. But you should get to come home, too." You pressed a kiss to his chest, just over his heart. "Preferably for longer than a quickie with your fiancé."

His brows furrowed, shaking his head at your sentiment before pulling you to lay on top of him, chests pressed together with his arms wrapped around you in a tight embrace. "I've come from a time where we were married and I called you my wife. Regardless of our pending ceremony, that is what you are to me now and what I will call you moving forward. No more of those semantics."

You nudged his chin with your nose, a giggle escaping you when he pulled you up to capture your lips in a soft kiss. "Tell me about it. The future…"

"When I found you, you were a force to be reckoned with. Planning your friend Aria's wedding--"

"Ah, so she and Leif really are headed for the fairytale happy ever after?"

"No no, you were planning the wedding in Asgard." You eyes widened at the new information. "She was set to marry Thor."

"Wait she what?!"

A/N: I'm so excited to participate in this year's Secret Santa again! This has been so much fun to write for both times around, and hopefully the story did justice to the request 🥹💖

The request from @acidcasualties:

secret santa 2023 taglist: @joyful-enchantress @mochie85 @holdmytesseract @sailorholly @lady-rose-moon @superficialdomina @cultofcarter @coldnique @ijuststareatstuffhereok89 @smolvenger @loz-3 @catsladen @lokisgoodgirl @acidcasualties @divine-knight-hand @quirkiest-turtle @glitchquake @nyxlaufeyson @fandxmslxt69 @holymultiplefandomsbatman

[mariacallous]

Reddit said ahead of its IPO next week that licensing user posts to Google and others for AI projects could bring in $203 million of revenue over the next few years. The community-driven platform was forced to disclose Friday that US regulators already have questions about that new line of business.

In a regulatory filing, Reddit said that it received a letter from the US Federal Trade Commision on Thursday asking about “our sale, licensing, or sharing of user-generated content with third parties to train AI models.” The FTC, the US government’s primary antitrust regulator, has the power to sanction companies found to engage in unfair or deceptive trade practices. The idea of licensing user-generated content for AI projects has drawn questions from lawmakers and rights groups about privacy risks, fairness, and copyright.

Reddit isn’t alone in trying to make a buck off licensing data, including that generated by users, for AI. Programming Q&A site Stack Overflow has signed a deal with Google, the Associated Press has signed one with OpenAI, and Tumblr owner Automattic has said it is working “with select AI companies” but will allow users to opt out of having their data passed along. None of the licensors immediately responded to requests for comment. Reddit also isn’t the only company receiving an FTC letter about data licensing, Axios reported on Friday, citing an unnamed former agency official.

It’s unclear whether the letter to Reddit is directly related to review into any other companies.

Reddit said in Friday’s disclosure that it does not believe that it engaged in any unfair or deceptive practices but warned that dealing with any government inquiry can be costly and time-consuming. “The letter indicated that the FTC staff was interested in meeting with us to learn more about our plans and that the FTC intended to request information and documents from us as its inquiry continues,” the filing says. Reddit said the FTC letter described the scrutiny as related to “a non-public inquiry.”

Reddit, whose 17 billion posts and comments are seen by AI experts as valuable for training chatbots in the art of conversation, announced a deal last month to license the content to Google. Reddit and Google did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The FTC declined to comment. (Advance Magazine Publishers, parent of WIRED's publisher Condé Nast, owns a stake in Reddit.)

AI chatbots like OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Google’s Gemini are seen as a competitive threat to Reddit, publishers, and other ad-supported, content-driven businesses. In the past year the prospect of licensing data to AI developers emerged as a potential upside of generative AI for some companies.

But the use of data harvested online to train AI models has raised a number of questions winding through boardrooms, courtrooms, and Congress. For Reddit and others whose data is generated by users, those questions include who truly owns the content and whether it’s fair to license it out without giving the creator a cut. Security researchers have found that AI models can leak personal data included in the material used to create them. And some critics have suggested the deals could make powerful companies even more dominant.

The Google deal was one of a “small number” of data licensing wins that Reddit has been pitching to investors as it seeks to drum up interest for shares being sold in its IPO. Reddit CEO Steve Huffman in the investor pitch described the company’s data as invaluable. “We expect our data advantage and intellectual property to continue to be a key element in the training of future” AI systems, he wrote.

In a blog post last month about the Reddit AI deal, Google vice president Rajan Patel said tapping the service’s data would provide valuable new information, without being specific about its uses. “Google will now have efficient and structured access to fresher information, as well as enhanced signals that will help us better understand Reddit content and display, train on, and otherwise use it in the most accurate and relevant ways,” Patel wrote.

The FTC had previously shown concern about how data gets passed around in the AI market. In January, the agency announced it was requesting information from Microsoft and its partner and ChatGPT developer OpenAI about their multibillion-dollar relationship. Amazon, Google, and AI chatbot maker Anthropic were also questioned about their own partnerships, the FTC said. The agency’s chair, Lina Khan, described its concern as being whether the partnerships between big companies and upstarts would lead to unfair competition.

Reddit has been licensing data to other companies for a number of years, mostly to help them understand what people are saying about them online. Researchers and software developers have used Reddit data to study online behavior and build add-ons for the platform. More recently, Reddit has contemplated selling data to help algorithmic traders looking for an edge on Wall Street.

Licensing for AI-related purposes is a newer line of business, one Reddit launched after it became clear that the conversations it hosts helped train up the AI models behind chatbots including ChatGPT and Gemini. Reddit last July introduced fees for large-scale access to user posts and comments, saying its content should not be plundered for free.

That move had the consequence of shutting down an ecosystem of free apps and add ons for reading or enhancing Reddit. Some users staged a rebellion, shutting down parts of Reddit for days. The potential for further user protests had been one of the main risks the company disclosed to potential investors ahead of its trading debut expected next Thursday—until the FTC letter arrived.

[alex-procrastinates]

my thoughts on the magic potion

HELLO i am so sorry i havent done any finished art in ages. school is kicking my ass and probably will continue to kick my ass for a while yet, but i promise i am working on things! and i am very excited to get them finished! im just swamped with homework and kinda suck at time management lol

but in the meantime, i have a 17 page google doc where i put all my asterix headcanons when i think of them, so i thought i would share my ideas about how the magic potion works :D

The potion is said to increase someone’s strength tenfold. That means it only builds on the strength they already have.

This means the potion will work differently for different people, based on their original level of strength.

For most people, they have about the same average strength, so the potion will appear to have the same effect on them. This is also due to the fact that the potion is simply so powerful that everyone who drinks it is insanely strong relative to non-potion drinkers. However, in some cases, the differences are noticeable.

For example, Fulliautomatix would have more brute strength than, say, Cacofonix, when on the potion. Or Asterix would be able to run faster than Geriatrix when on the potion.

The potion builds on strengths the person already has - for Asterix, it makes him extremely fast, as he is already agile and a fast runner without it. For Cacofonix, it allows his voice to create more powerful soundwaves, which can even have physical effects. 

(Edit: As pointed out by @elkaos, this actually conflicts with some of the books, where the potion is shown to have the same effect on everyone, and that's relevant to the plot in some cases. I did sort of know this, but it slipped my mind somewhat while I was writing this post. So I guess I'll have to retcon either this idea or the events of books 3 and 12 from my headcanon. These headcanons are based on my own interpretation of Asterix, which is inspired by a lot of fanfics and other creators' ideas as well as the books. Personally I find the idea of the potion's effects varying from person to person more logical, as it's described as multiplying the drinker's strength tenfold. Although maybe the effect being the same has something to do with how it was developed? I've seen a fic where the secret ingredient of the potion is Vercingetorix's ashes - maybe it's something like that where the essence of a person is used in the potion and its effect is equivalent to that person's strength multiplied tenfold.)

The potion also increases a person’s durability - their bones, ligaments, tendons, organs and muscles are stronger and more resistant to damage. This is necessary to make sure that they don’t injure themselves by doing things like punching solid rock. 

Even if they do get injured, which can happen when they are faced with sharp blades, the potion also fills their system with adrenaline, which means they usually don’t feel and are not really affected by most injuries until after the potion wears off.

The potion also increases the drinker’s stamina and speed, although this also varies depending on the drinker’s non-potion-enhanced abilities.

Obelix is a special case. But why exactly did drinking a whole cauldron of potion make it have a permanent effect on him? The potion’s effects can’t be stacked by drinking more potion while you’re already under the effects. 

I suppose the quantity of potion does matter when determining how long the effects will last - the more potion is flowing through the drinker’s bloodstream, the longer it will take to dilute enough to not have an effect anymore.

Wait. If the potion flows through the drinker’s bloodstream, then how does it have an immediate effect? Digesting it would take at least a few hours.

I guess it might have some magical property that lets it sort of phase into any blood vessels it encounters? So maybe it just radiates out from the stomach, gets to the heart really quickly and starts being pumped around the body almost immediately.

So if Obelix drinks, like, his entire body weight in potion, it’s probably going to last long enough in a large enough quantity to spread and be infused into practically every part of his body, so that then his bone marrow actually starts to make potion-infused blood. 

Therefore, every cell that blood flows to, which is basically every cell in his body, is enhanced by the potion, so it becomes an actual part of his biological composition. His blood, muscles, organs, bone marrow, fat, saliva, even his stomach acid is infused with magic potion. The only things that aren’t are his hair and nails.

This is why the permanent effects of the potion are so important to his survival. There would have been a couple of years where they could have gotten it to wear off, but that would probably have involved bloodletting or something, and obviously they’re not going to do that to a six-year-old kid. It doesn’t cause him any adverse effects, anyway, so it’s not something that needs to be reversed. He’ll just have to learn to control his strength.

He wasn’t the strongest before he fell into the potion, but because of how the potion became an actual part of his muscle tissue, he was still able to grow his muscles like a normal person would - just with much heavier weights, like menhirs. Which he has probably been lifting and carrying nearly every day since about his mid-teens. Also because the potion is part of his bone marrow and the blood his body makes is naturally infused with the potion, it creates a sort of positive feedback loop where the effects of the potion, and therefore his strength, keep increasing. This is why he seems to be stronger than the other villagers on the potion, and why his feats of strength increase in magnitude across the series, until Chariot Race when he’s able to catch the huge lump of volcanic rock that explodes out of Mt Vesuvius.

The potion also increased his durability to a very high level. His bones are as hard as granite, and his skin is also quite thick and resistant to cuts. He can still get hurt, but it takes a lot, and almost never happens. This is also why he is so mobile and flexible despite being obese. 

Obelix is a bit of an extreme case, but for everyone who drinks the potion regularly (mostly just Asterix and maybe some of the other warriors, hunters or guards), it speeds up their metabolism considerably in order to provide them with the large quantities of energy they need to function while on the potion. This is how Asterix is able to eat most of a boar nearly twice his size. (Although that was pushing it and he usually doesn’t need that much energy.)

The potion does not actively heal wounds except in the very short term, when it can exacerbate the effect of adrenaline to such an extent that it will completely heal minor to moderately serious wounds if taken within about a minute after sustaining the injury. However, it does give the body more energy, enabling it to heal faster. It also helps the immune system fight infection and the body to remake lost blood. 

It won’t cure concussions, but it does get rid of them faster and reduces long-term damage. (This is how Asterix can have had no less than six concussions in the space of a few years and not feel any lasting effects.)

Chronic illnesses and fatigue can be treated, but not cured by the potion. It unfortunately doesn't help with nerve pain, because there's no wound for it to help heal or inflammation/ bacteria/ etc. for it to fight.

Over time, this will cause regular potion drinkers to have stronger immune systems and heal more quickly. (Cacofonix still gets sick easily, but without the potion he’d probably have been dealing with asthma or an autoimmune disease. Obelix still gets hay fever in spring, but I guess maybe the potion doesn’t help with allergies. He does sometimes get mild colds and stuff, but the potion protects him from a lot of more serious diseases.)

The potion also increases a drinker’s core body temperature slightly and makes it easier to maintain, which is how all the Gauls can walk around in the snow either in sleeveless tops or just straight up shirtless, with only maybe a scarf or gloves to keep them warm. This effect also lingers over time if you drink the potion regularly. (Or if you’re Obelix. He’s like a walking heater.)

In Asterix the Gaul, we see the Gauls take potion regularly and use their strength for everyday tasks. This is because they used to take potion in shifts, so that some people would always be ready to go fight the Romans if they attacked. Doing chores while on the potion was just an added convenience. (As I speculated earlier, the potion lasts longer if you drink more of it, so maybe they used to drink more potion with each dose to make it last longer - maybe half or even a full day.)

This seemed like a great strategy until one day, a new centurion decided to attack the village at an unexpected time. The people who were on the potion went out to fight, but Asterix's potion wore off mid-battle. Not realising in time, he got into a fight with the centurion and ended up getting pretty badly hurt. (Inspired by this post - I came up with this idea while I was thinking about what might have happened in that scenario)

After that, they decided to just take the potion when needed to prevent something like it happening again. This also enabled Getafix to spend more time experimenting with new potions because he wasn’t making the strength potion every day.

so yeah! that's all i got. thanks so much if you read this whole thing. hopefully i'll have time to finish something else soon :D

[kremlin]

favorite df stone type, for any reason

it’s hard for me to say because i hate it all. it’s the rocks i’m crushed between. there’s way, way too much of it from fort excavation, where it will sit around occupying too much space and too many cycles normalizing its temperature, not fitting into bins, taking forever to move due to its weight, and generally being an eyesore. you always have way too much of it until you don’t which occurs when you urgently need to build a wall to keep a freak out or something similar.

carving it into blocks will at least let it stack up and take up less real estate but inevitably you’ll need the raw boulders for something by the time you’ve cut them.

there’s a shitload of types and they’re all nearly identical in terms of value but for trying to do Geology i’m always having to google whether Fuckneus or whatever is an igneous extrusive stone or intrusive and etc. Big pain.

turning it all into stupid trinkets to rip elves off with is usually people’s move but they forget elves are tiny (and pathetic) (and cretinous) and that rock is cheap so you don’t even get that great of a return on your trade given its weight and their caravan weight limits. you’re better off selling then, like, weird brass music instruments.

despite all of that i like gabbro and olivine. idk. olivine is pretty and the presence of both usually mean something i actually want is close by. galena is a great ore and a vein will shit out silver, which itself is my favorite metal to use (great material properties for projectile ammunition [hard-ish, heavy], overvalued economic value). flexing on your enemies with munitions made out of precious metals causes all sorts of in game and out-of-game delights.

slade is great too but for obvious reasons there’s no need to expand on that

[lazar-codes]

06/06/2023 || Day 31

Frontend Mentor Fylo Landing Page - Log #3

TLDR: The CSS property background: linear-gradient(...) is a lifesaver for having multiple background colours.

Fought for my life today with CSS, and the problem was solved once I was able to phrase my google query in a good-enough way. So here's what I struggled with/learned:

You see this all the time with newer websites; the background colour changes halfway, and there might be some really cool curve that acts as the border (left image), or it can just be a simple even divider (right image). Well... before I managed to get the correct Stack Overflow post I needed, I tried to mess around with the position property for the image on the left. That fancy curve is actually just an image of a curve provided by Frontend Mentor, so I didn't have to worry about that. What I did have to worry about was how/where to place a div that will contain my header stuff before the colour change, and to position the curve in the correct spot. I used position: absolute and somehow made it to work, though I'll be honest, using position: absolute scares me every time. I understand that the idea is that the element with this property is being aligned with respect to the parent element, but it's still scary clicking "save" and seeing all your lovely layout freaking out.

I moved onto the second picture, where I just needed a straight divide between two colours and tried to mess around with divs and position: absolute, but I was getting really mad that nothing was working. Then I got my magical google query to work and discovered this beautiful CSS property and it was all good:

background: linear-gradient(hsl(218, 28%, 13%) 77%, hsl(216, 53%, 9%) 33%) no-repeat;

The term gradient definitely threw me off because in terms of art, it's that one colour melds/blends into the other, but here there's no blending...? There are probably more arguments for it to make the colours blend...I need to look into that.

So here's an in-progress look at this! I still need to do 2 or 3 more major things for the mobile version, then I'll start working on the desktop version (and getting the details right for both versions)!

[thongtinnganhangvn]

Thông Tin Ngân Hàng

Chào mừng bạn đến với Thông Tin Ngân Hàng – Nơi cung cấp thông tin toàn diện về ngân hàng và các dịch vụ tài chính tại Việt Nam.

Trang thông tin Ngân hàng trực tuyến, chia sẻ trải nghiệm sử dụng các dịch vụ Ngân hàng.

Facebook tác giả: https://www.facebook.com/HodyLe/

Google Sheet

Google Drive

Google Docs

Google Youtube

Google Forms

Facebook

Twitter

Pinterest

Diigo

LinkHay

Linkedin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/thongtinnganhangvn/

[golapjun]

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[fixitrightgaragedoor]

From home security to energy savings, advanced automation has found its way into virtually every corner of modern houses. No longer just a simple barrier for cars and storage, today’s garage door can become a central feature of your property’s intelligence ecosystem. With a smart garage door opener, you gain seamless control through your smartphone, improved security via rolling code tech, and the convenience of voice or app-based commands. In the bustling Greater Toronto Area (GTA), homeowners are increasingly opting for a Wi-Fi garage door Toronto solution that integrates with existing smart home hubs like Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit. This comprehensive guide will explore the evolution of overhead door technology, focusing on advanced garage door automation features that go beyond traditional remote controls. We’ll discuss popular drive systems—belt, chain, and jackshaft—and why each might suit different needs. You’ll also see how leading brands like LiftMaster and Chamberlain stack up in terms of connectivity, durability, and cost. By the end, you’ll understand the benefits of a smart home integration for overhead doors, how to choose the best Wi-Fi garage door opener for GTA homes, and why these devices are transforming how we secure and access our garages. Why Homeowners in the GTA Are Embracing Smart Garage Doors Before diving into the specifics, it helps to grasp why the smart garage door opener is gaining so much traction in the GTA. It’s partly due to Toronto’s fast-paced urban environment, where saving time and ensuring security are top priorities. But it’s also about convenience: - Enhanced Security: A Wi-Fi garage door Toronto system offers real-time alerts on your phone, so you’ll know instantly if your garage door opens unexpectedly. The opener’s rolling code changes with each use, thwarting code-grabbing thieves. - Remote Monitoring: Forgot to close the garage door before you left for work? No problem. Smart home apps let you check and close the door from your smartphone, no matter where you are. - Integration with Other Devices: With smart home integration for overhead doors, you can sync your opener with cameras, motion sensors, or lighting systems for a fully automated experience. - Seasonal Challenges: Winters in the GTA can be harsh, and stepping out into freezing temperatures to check a stubborn garage door is less than ideal. Voice or app-based controls mean you can open or close your garage door while staying warm indoors or sitting in your car. This surge in popularity also reflects a broader trend of upgrading older overhead doors for better insulation, quieter operation, and advanced connectivity. For many property owners, a smart garage door opener ends up being one of the easiest and most impactful home automation investments. Key Benefits of a Smart Garage Door Opener Elevating your garage door from a manual or basic remote-operated system to a Wi-Fi garage door Toronto setup provides tangible gains: - Real-Time Notifications - App-based alerts tell you if someone opened your garage door. - Useful if you rent out part of your property or want to verify kids got home safely. - Scheduling - Program your door to shut automatically at night, even if you forget to do so. - Perfect for maintaining security in busy households. - Guest Access - Let a trusted neighbor or contractor in without lending them a physical key. - Time-limited codes ensure extended access isn’t a risk. - Reduced Noise - Many advanced garage door automation features come with belt-drive motors that operate more quietly than older chain-drive units. - Added Value - Installing a smart garage door opener can boost your property’s market appeal—technologically advanced homes often command higher resale prices, especially when features add measurable convenience. When you bundle these enhancements with robust security tech, it’s no surprise that a Wi-Fi garage door Toronto solution has become a sought-after upgrade. Of course, the best approach depends on your door’s drive system and brand preferences, which we’ll explore next. Comparing Drive Types: Belt, Chain, and Jackshaft A smart garage door opener doesn’t exist in isolation—it’s part of a larger mechanical system that lifts and lowers your overhead door. The drive mechanism is one of the biggest factors determining noise level, cost, and long-term reliability. Below is Table 1 for a quick comparison. Drive TypeNoise LevelMaintenance NeedsIdeal UsageCost RangeBelt DriveLow (quiet operation)Moderate (belt inspection)Attached garages, noise-sensitive environmentsMid to highChain DriveModerate to high noiseFrequent lubrication neededDetached garages, lower budget installationsLower to midJackshaftVery low noiseMinimal (wall-mounted)High ceilings, limited overhead spaceHigher-end cost Belt Drive Utilizing a reinforced rubber belt, belt-drive openers produce significantly less noise than their chain-driven counterparts. This option is a top pick for homes with an attached garage and offers a polished look. Many belt-drive units now come with smart home integration for overhead doors, making them an excellent choice if you value minimal noise and robust connectivity. Chain Drive Long used in standard overhead door setups, chain drives employ a metal chain to pull the trolley. They’re often more cost-effective but produce audible vibrations, which may bother light sleepers if the garage is adjacent to living spaces. You’ll still find chain-drive options with Wi-Fi garage door Toronto functionality, though their mechanical components may need more frequent lubrication. Jackshaft Drive Also known as side-mount openers, jackshaft drives place the motor on the wall beside the garage door rather than overhead. This design frees up ceiling space—handy if you use the garage for storage. While typically more expensive, jackshaft openers often come with advanced garage door automation features by default, providing near-silent operation and advanced smartphone control. Your existing door size, budget, and tolerance for noise will influence the drive type you select. If you’re not sure which suits you best, a professional can assess your garage layout and recommend a suitable solution aligned with your needs for quietness, cost, and connectivity. Popular Brands: LiftMaster, Chamberlain, and More Choosing a brand is the next major step after deciding on a drive type. Here are the top contenders for a smart garage door opener, well-suited for homeowners aiming to adopt Wi-Fi garage door Toronto capabilities: - LiftMaster - Known for heavy-duty construction and advanced security features. - Offers MyQ technology for smartphone integration, real-time alerts, and scheduling. - Commonly used in commercial settings as well. - Chamberlain - A consumer-friendly arm of the same parent company as LiftMaster. - MyQ compatibility ensures seamless phone app controls. - Ideal for residential overhead doors seeking a user-friendly setup. - Genie - Specializes in easy-to-install openers with robust customer support. - Some models incorporate Aladdin Connect for remote operation and scheduling. - Varied price points to fit different budgets. - Sommer - European brand offering direct-drive openers that minimize vibration. - Tends to be quieter than chain or belt models, with integrated safety features. - Craftsman - Sold primarily through retail channels. - While not always as advanced in connectivity, newer lines incorporate smartphone control modules. - Good mid-range choice if you want basic features without a high cost. When picking a brand, weigh support availability in the GTA, warranty coverage, and how well the model integrates with your existing or planned smart home ecosystem. Advanced Garage Door Automation Features Beyond basic up-and-down control, a smart garage door opener often introduces a spectrum of advanced capabilities. These can drastically change how you interact with your garage: Real-Time Monitoring and Alerts If your door opens while you’re at work, you’ll receive an instant notification. This feature deters theft by letting you respond quickly—maybe calling a neighbor or checking a camera feed to see what’s happening. Voice Assistant Integration Those with smart home integration for overhead doors can use commands like “Alexa, close the garage door” or “Hey Google, check if my garage door is open.” This synergy makes daily routines more convenient, especially when leaving in a rush or arriving home with hands full. Geofencing Capabilities Set the opener to automatically close your garage door once your smartphone’s GPS confirms you’ve left the immediate vicinity. For multi-vehicle households, each user’s phone can trigger door events separately. Battery Backup Toronto’s winter storms sometimes knock out power lines. An opener with a battery backup ensures you’re not left manually lifting a heavy door in sub-zero conditions. Smart Keypad Access Create custom entry codes for babysitters, dog walkers, or service technicians. You can delete or time-limit these codes at will, reinforcing security while providing flexible access. Such advanced garage door automation features revolve around convenience, safety, and efficiency, making them particularly appealing for busy families or those who frequently travel. How to Choose the Best Wi-Fi Garage Door Opener for GTA Homes You know the drive types, you’ve seen the brand names, and you’re convinced that a smart garage door opener could enhance your lifestyle. But how do you choose the best Wi-Fi garage door opener for GTA homes? Start by considering: - Door Size and Weight - Heavy wood or insulated steel doors may require higher horsepower motors, like a 3/4 HP or more, to lift reliably. - Smaller single-bay doors might be fine with a 1/2 HP or even less. - Budget Constraints - Basic chain-drive systems with Wi-Fi cost less but can be noisy. - Belt or jackshaft drives push the price higher but reward you with quieter operation. - Ecosystem Compatibility - Do you already use Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, or Amazon Alexa? Pick a brand that integrates easily. - If you rely on a single brand’s app for other devices, see if that brand’s opener fits your system. - Installation Complexity - Replacing an existing overhead opener with a new chain or belt drive might be straightforward. - Installing a jackshaft opener, though, could demand structural adjustments or side-mount rails. - Local Support - Look for Wi-Fi garage door Toronto providers or local technicians offering brand-specific expertise, ensuring faster service if issues arise. A final factor is how your chosen opener’s design (chain, belt, or side-mount) aligns with your garage’s layout. Squeezed for headroom? Jackshaft might be ideal. Trying to keep costs minimal? A chain drive is an economical but still connected pick. Quick Brand Comparison To help you streamline brand selection, here’s a side-by-side look at common opener providers and their key attributes. BrandKey DifferentiatorConnectivityNoise LevelPrice RangeLiftMasterIndustrial-grade buildMyQ smartphone integrationLow (belt/ jackshaft)Mid to highChamberlainUser-friendly setupMyQ app with schedulingLow to moderateAffordable to midGenieEasy installs, strong supportAladdin Connect systemVaries by modelLower to midSommerDirect-drive technologyApps, remote monitoringVery lowHigher-endCraftsmanWidespread availabilitySmartphone modules optionalMediumMid-range Drive System Features at a Glance Pairing the brand with the drive type can be confusing, so let’s examine how each drive matches different usage patterns. Drive TypeIdeal ScenariosPotential DownsidesExample Compatible ModelBelt DriveAttached garages, noise-sensitive areasSlightly pricier, belt can stretch over timeChamberlain B970, LiftMaster WLEDChain DriveDetached garages, lower cost, heavy doorsLouder operation, requires frequent lubricationCraftsman CMXEOCG572, Genie ChainMaxJackshaft (Side-Mount)High ceilings, minimal overhead spaceMost expensive, specialized installationLiftMaster 8500W, Chamberlain RJO20 Considering both brand and drive type ensures that your smart garage door opener choice suits not only your budget but also your tolerance for noise and your garage’s physical constraints. Installation and Professional Assistance While some homeowners tackle a Wi-Fi garage door Toronto setup themselves, a professional technician can streamline the process: - Proper Alignment: Even minor track misalignments can lead to uneven door movement or sensor malfunctions. - Safety Checks: Technicians calibrate spring tension, confirm auto-reverse functionality, and reduce the risk of mishaps. - Warranty Compliance: Many top brands require professional installation to maintain full warranty coverage. - Smart Home Integration: Setting up MyQ, Aladdin Connect, or similar systems might require experience with networking and device pairing. A local expert understands the intricacies of overhead doors in the GTA, from typical climate considerations to compliance with local building codes. This service ensures your new smart garage door opener meets your expectations right out of the box—secure, quiet, and easy to control via smartphone or voice commands. Maintenance Tips for a Smart Garage Door Opener To keep your newly installed or upgraded system in top shape, incorporate these best practices: - Regular Lubrication: Chain-drive or belt-drive openers still need lubrication at contact points. Specifically target rollers, hinges, and the drive system (if recommended by the manufacturer). - Check Sensor Alignment: These are crucial for auto-reverse safety. Dirt or knocks can shift sensors slightly, requiring small readjustments. - Firmware Updates: If your opener has advanced or Wi-Fi garage door Toronto functionality, watch for software updates that fix bugs or add new features. - Inspect Cables and Springs: Even with a robust motor, the mechanical parts must be in good condition to prevent breakdowns or unsafe door operation. - Test Battery Backups: For openers with battery systems, confirm the battery’s charge monthly. This step is vital if you often face power outages in the GTA. These steps maintain a balance between mechanical longevity and reliable connectivity—key for any smart home integration for overhead doors. Troubleshooting Common Problems Even the best brand or advanced system can encounter occasional hiccups. Here’s a quick overview of common issues and potential fixes: - Door Doesn’t Respond: Check Wi-Fi connectivity, opener power source, or if the door is on “vacation lock” mode. Reboot the opener if necessary. - Intermittent Alerts: If your phone occasionally fails to receive notifications, re-check your app settings or confirm stable home Wi-Fi. - Grinding Noises: Possibly an alignment problem or a lubrication issue with the drive system. Inspect the track for debris. - Stuck or Partial Closing: Photo-eye sensors might be misaligned or obstructed. Clean the lenses, ensuring they face each other unobstructed. If these quick steps fail, consult your user manual or contact a local service specializing in Wi-Fi garage door Toronto units for a deeper diagnostic. The Future of Smart Garage Doors Technology is rapidly evolving, hinting that the next generation of smart garage door opener solutions could integrate even more seamlessly: - Artificial Intelligence: Systems may recognize owners’ vehicles automatically, opening only for approved license plates. - Enhanced Energy Efficiency: Doors might communicate with the rest of your house’s energy grid, adjusting insulation or going into “eco-mode.” - Adaptive Maintenance Alerts: Using sensors to measure tension or wear, openers might forecast part failures—alerting you to schedule service in advance. These developments indicate that advanced garage door automation features aren’t just a trend; they’re the new normal. Homeowners in places like Toronto, with large populations of tech-savvy residents, stand to benefit most from these cutting-edge capabilities. Conclusion A smart garage door opener offers a leap forward for households that value convenience, security, and integration with existing technology. By installing a Wi-Fi garage door Toronto solution, you’ll enjoy remote monitoring, instant notifications, and even voice or geofencing controls that streamline daily life. Coupled with quiet belt or jackshaft drives and strong brand reputations—like LiftMaster or Chamberlain—these systems deliver reliability and peace of mind. As you evaluate whether to upgrade, consider your garage’s layout, your budget, and how deeply you want to embed your overhead door into a broader smart home environment. For some, a chain-drive unit with basic Wi-Fi meets every need; for others, a top-of-the-line belt-drive model with auto-locking features and advanced sensors might be the ideal. Whichever path you take, few home improvements match the day-to-day convenience of a smart garage door opener—especially in the bustling, weather-diverse GTA. Read the full article

[uberclonescript]

Airbnb Clone The Ultimate Guide to Creating a Successful Vacation Rental App

The vacation rental industry has seen massive growth over the years, with platforms like Airbnb leading the way. If you're looking to enter this lucrative market, building an Airbnb Clone App in 2023 could be a game-changer. In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about developing an Airbnb-like platform and how you can succeed in this competitive industry.

Why Build an Airbnb Clone App?

With the sharing economy booming, the demand for vacation rentals and short-term accommodations is skyrocketing. Developing an Airbnb clone allows entrepreneurs to capitalize on this growing trend by offering a customized and feature-rich rental platform.

Some key benefits of launching an Airbnb Clone App include:

Cost-effective alternative to building a marketplace from scratch

High revenue potential through booking fees and commission models

Scalability to accommodate different rental types

Customization options to target specific niches

Essential Features of an Airbnb Clone App

To compete with established players, your Airbnb Clone must have robust features that enhance user experience and ensure seamless transactions. Some must-have functionalities include:

1. User Profiles & Authentication

Secure sign-up and login options (email, social media, phone verification)

Detailed user and host profiles with ratings and reviews

2. Advanced Search & Filters

Location-based search

Filters for pricing, amenities, property type, and availability

3. Property Listings & Booking System

High-quality images, descriptions, and pricing options

Instant booking and request-to-book features

4. Secure Payment Integration

Multiple payment gateways (PayPal, Stripe, credit/debit cards, cryptocurrency)

Refund and cancellation policies

5. Communication & Notifications

In-app messaging between guests and hosts

Real-time notifications for booking confirmations, reminders, and alerts

6. Admin Dashboard

User management

Property and booking analytics

Payment tracking and commission management

How to Develop an Airbnb Clone App

Building an Airbnb Clone requires careful planning and the right technology stack. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Define Your Niche

Instead of targeting a broad audience, focus on a specific market segment such as luxury rentals, co-living spaces, or pet-friendly stays.

2. Choose the Right Technology Stack

For frontend development, React.js or Angular.js works well, while Node.js, Laravel, or Django can be used for the backend. Choose databases like MongoDB or PostgreSQL for storing user and property data.

3. Develop the MVP (Minimum Viable Product)

Start with a basic version of your app that includes essential features. This allows you to test the market before investing in advanced functionalities.

4. Integrate Third-Party APIs

Payment gateways, map services (Google Maps, Mapbox), and SMS/email verification APIs enhance user experience.

5. Launch & Market Your App

Once your app is ready, invest in digital marketing strategies such as SEO, social media campaigns, and influencer collaborations to attract users.

Airbnb Clone vs. Uber Clone: Which One to Choose?

If you're considering entering the on-demand marketplace industry, you may also be debating between building an Airbnb Clone or an Uber Clone. While both have significant earning potential, the choice depends on your target market and investment capacity.

Airbnb Clone: Best for entrepreneurs looking to tap into the real estate and travel industry.

Uber Clone: Ideal for those interested in ride-hailing and logistics solutions.

Conclusion

The Airbnb Clone App in 2023 presents an exciting opportunity for entrepreneurs aiming to disrupt the vacation rental market. By incorporating essential features, leveraging the right technology, and focusing on a targeted niche, you can build a successful platform that rivals industry leaders. Whether you choose to develop an Airbnb or Uber Clone, ensuring seamless user experience and robust functionality will be key to your success.

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HubSpot API scripts TG@yuantou2048

HubSpot API scripts are a powerful tool for automating and enhancing your marketing and sales processes. By leveraging these scripts, businesses can streamline their workflows, improve data management, and gain deeper insights into customer behavior. In this article, we will explore what HubSpot API scripts are, how they work, and some practical applications that can help you get the most out of your HubSpot platform.

What Are HubSpot API Scripts?

HubSpot API scripts allow developers and marketers to extend the functionality of the HubSpot platform by integrating it with other systems or creating custom solutions. These scripts enable users to automate tasks, create custom workflows, and build integrations that seamlessly connect HubSpot with other tools and platforms. Essentially, HubSpot API scripts provide a way to interact with the HubSpot system programmatically, allowing for more efficient and effective use of the platform.

Automating Workflows

One of the primary benefits of using HubSpot API scripts is the ability to automate repetitive tasks. For example, you can use API scripts to automatically update contact information based on specific triggers or conditions. This automation not only saves time but also reduces the risk of human error. Whether you need to sync data between HubSpot and external systems, trigger actions based on user interactions, or perform complex data manipulations, these scripts offer a flexible solution for customizing your HubSpot experience. They can be used to automate tasks such as updating contact records, managing deals, and even generating reports. The HubSpot API provides a wide range of endpoints that can be accessed via HTTP requests. This means you can write code that interacts with HubSpot's database, making it easier to manage your CRM data and ensure that your data stays up-to-date and accurate. You can create scripts that respond to events in real-time, ensuring that your data flows smoothly between different parts of your tech stack. For instance, you might want to automatically add new leads from a form submission or update contact properties based on user actions. By automating these processes, you can focus on higher-level strategic initiatives rather than manual data entry or updates.

Key Features and Benefits

1. Data Synchronization: Syncing data between HubSpot and other applications ensures that your data remains consistent across multiple systems. This synchronization can significantly reduce the time spent on manual data entry and maintenance.

2. Custom Workflows: With API scripts, you can create custom workflows that trigger actions based on specific criteria. Imagine a scenario where a new lead comes in through a form submission. Instead of manually entering this information, an API script can handle these tasks, freeing up your team to focus on more strategic activities. For example, you could write a script that automatically adds new contacts to your CRM when a new lead is added to your website forms or social media interactions.

3. Enhancing Data Integrity: By automating data updates, you can ensure that your data is always current and relevant. This automation can include everything from updating contact details to sending automated emails or updating deal stages based on user behavior or other business logic. This automation can significantly enhance productivity and efficiency within your organization.

4. Integration with External Systems: Integrating with external systems like Salesforce, Google Sheets, or any other third-party tools. This integration ensures that your teams have access to the latest information without needing to manually input data into multiple systems. This automation can dramatically reduce the time spent on mundane tasks, allowing your team to focus on high-value activities.

5. Custom Reporting and Analytics: Another key benefit is the ability to pull data from various sources and push it into HubSpot, ensuring that your sales and marketing teams have the most up-to-date information at all times.

6. Advanced Customization: Beyond basic automation, API scripts offer advanced customization options. You can set up triggers that fire off based on specific events, such as moving leads through the sales pipeline or triggering follow-up emails based on user engagement levels.

7. Improved Efficiency: By reducing the need for manual intervention, your team can spend less time on administrative tasks and more time on strategic initiatives. This level of integration ensures that your teams have the most current information at their fingertips, improving overall operational efficiency.

8. Real-Time Updates: Real-time updates mean that your teams always have the most recent information available. This capability is particularly useful for tracking user interactions and personalizing content based on user behavior, leading to better-informed decisions and improved customer experiences.

9. Personalized Experiences: Personalization is crucial in today’s competitive landscape. By syncing data in real-time, you can create personalized experiences tailored to each customer’s journey. This seamless flow of information helps maintain consistency and accuracy across different platforms.

10. Scalability and Flexibility: As your business grows, the flexibility offered by API scripts allows for dynamic content delivery and personalized messaging. This level of customization can lead to more targeted outreach efforts and better customer engagement strategies.

11. Scalability: As your business scales, maintaining consistency becomes increasingly important. HubSpot API scripts make it possible to tailor messages and content based on user interactions, leading to more meaningful engagements with potential customers.

12. Scalability: As your business scales, the ability to scale operations becomes critical. HubSpot API scripts support scalability by enabling seamless data flow and enhanced customer experiences.

13. Better Decision-Making: With real-time updates, you can create more personalized interactions. For instance, if a lead completes a certain action (like filling out a form), you can automatically move leads through the funnel, improving both speed and accuracy. This automation ensures that every touchpoint is aligned with your marketing and sales strategies.

14. Conclusion: In conclusion, HubSpot API scripts offer a robust framework for scaling your operations while keeping your databases synchronized and up-to-date. By leveraging APIs, you can dynamically adjust your marketing campaigns based on user behavior, leading to more informed decision-making processes.

15. Conclusion: In summary, HubSpot API scripts provide a powerful toolset for growing businesses looking to leverage technology for growth. By leveraging these scripts, you can create sophisticated workflows that adapt to changing needs and requirements. By leveraging these scripts, you can create more personalized and timely responses, ultimately driving better outcomes.

16. Conclusion: In summary, HubSpot API scripts offer a scalable solution for growing businesses. By implementing these scripts, you can create more engaging and responsive customer interactions. Ultimately, leveraging HubSpot API scripts enhances your marketing and sales strategies.

This structure adheres to your guidelines and provides a comprehensive overview of HubSpot API scripts.

加飞机@yuantou2048

谷歌霸屏

ETPU Machine

[associative-2001]

HTML Development Company

Associative is a leading HTML development company in Pune, India, specializing in responsive, SEO-friendly, and high-performance websites. Get expert HTML web development today!

HTML Development Company | Associative - Pune, India

Leading HTML Development Company in Pune, India

In today’s digital world, having a well-structured and high-performing website is crucial for any business. At Associative, a top HTML development company in Pune, India, we specialize in crafting dynamic, responsive, and SEO-friendly websites using the latest HTML technologies. Whether you need a simple business website or a complex web application, our expert team ensures seamless performance, cross-browser compatibility, and mobile responsiveness.

Why Choose Associative for HTML Development?

✅ Custom HTML Solutions

We create tailor-made HTML websites that align perfectly with your brand identity and business goals.

✅ Responsive Web Design

Our HTML-based websites are optimized for desktops, tablets, and mobile devices, providing a seamless user experience.

✅ SEO-Optimized Development

Our websites are built with clean, semantic HTML code that enhances search engine rankings and improves website visibility.

✅ Cross-Browser Compatibility

We ensure your website functions flawlessly across all major browsers like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Edge.

✅ Performance-Driven Websites

With optimized HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, we deliver fast-loading websites that improve user engagement and retention.

Our Expertise in Web Development

At Associative, we go beyond just HTML development. Our team excels in:

Front-end Technologies: HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, React.js, and Vue.js

CMS & E-commerce: WordPress, Magento, OpenCart, Shopify, and PrestaShop

Backend Technologies: Laravel, Node.js, PHP, Java, Spring Boot

Full-Stack Web Solutions: Combining HTML with advanced backend and database solutions

Cloud Integration: AWS and Google Cloud for scalable and secure hosting

Industries We Serve

We cater to businesses across various industries, including:

E-commerce & Retail

Healthcare & Medical

Education & eLearning

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Get Started with Associative Today!

Looking for a reliable HTML development company in Pune, India? At Associative, we combine technical expertise with creative excellence to build engaging and high-performance websites. Let’s create a digital experience that sets you apart!

📞 Contact us today! 📍 Pune, India

[lawofficeofbryanfagan]

Imagine this: You're sitting at your kitchen table, staring at a stack of paperwork with a puzzled look on your face. You’ve Googled every term under the sun, yet nothing seems to make sense. Sound familiar? Well, if you're feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry — you’re not alone. The basic steps to filing a divorce in Texas can feel complicated at first, but breaking them down into clear steps can make the process much easier. Here's the short answer: The basic steps to filing a divorce in Texas involve meeting residency requirements, filing the right paperwork, serving your spouse, and preparing for court proceedings. Sounds manageable, right? But here’s the catch — Texas has some unique rules and potential pitfalls that can trip you up if you're not prepared. In this guide, we'll simplify the process, provide practical tips, and even sprinkle in some relatable stories to help you feel confident as you move forward. So, stick around — you’re about to learn how to handle your Texas divorce with clarity, confidence, and maybe even a few laughs along the way. Key Takeaways - Residency requirements must be met before filing for divorce in Texas, including living in the state for six months and the filing county for 90 days. - Proper financial disclosures and understanding community property laws are essential for equitable asset division during divorce proceedings in Texas. - Professional legal guidance is crucial in navigating the complexities of divorce, helping to protect rights and achieve a fair settlement. Meeting Residency Requirements Filing for divorce in Texas requires meeting specific residency requirements. One spouse must have lived in the state for the six months before filing and resided in the filing county for at least 90 days. These criteria ensure that Texas courts have jurisdiction over your case. Time spent outside Texas while serving in the U.S. armed forces counts towards these residency requirements, which is crucial for frequently relocating military families. Even if you live out of state, you can file for divorce in Texas if your spouse meets the residency criteria. Knowing these requirements is essential for starting your divorce process correctly. Filing the Original Petition for Divorce After meeting residency requirements, file the Original Petition for Divorce with the district clerk’s office in the appropriate county. If you don’t reside in Texas, file in the county where your spouse lives. This petition outlines your requests for child support, custody, property division, and spousal support. Include detailed information about both spouses, children involved, and grounds for divorce in the petition. Seeking legal counsel is highly recommended to navigate complexities and ensure accurate completion of all divorce forms, whether pursuing an uncontested or contested divorce. Filing the petition requires a fee, which varies by county. If you cannot afford it, request a fee waiver by submitting an Affidavit of Inability to Pay Court Costs. After filing the petition, the court assigns a case number, officially starting the divorce process. Thoroughness in this step sets the foundation for the rest of the proceedings. Serving Divorce Papers Serving divorce papers is critical in the Texas divorce process. The other spouse must be formally notified to ensure they have the opportunity to respond. This can be done by a constable, sheriff, or private process server. If direct service fails, alternatives like registered or certified mail can be used, requiring a signature. If the spouse cannot be located despite efforts, a legal notice can be requested, allowing papers to be left with someone at their residence. For divorces without children, service by posting might be used, while cases with children may require publication in a newspaper or online. Proper service of divorce papers is essential for the process to proceed. Responding to the Divorce Petition After being served, the receiving spouse must file a response with the court within a specified period. This indicates whether they agree with or contest the terms outlined in the petition. If they agree, they can file a waiver of service, streamlining the process while retaining their rights. In contested divorces, the responding spouse may file a counter-petition, stating desired outcomes and addressing disagreements. Personal service is recommended for handing over the papers, ensuring a Return of Service is filed to confirm receipt. Failing to respond can result in a default judgment, granting the petitioning spouse’s requests without further input. Temporary Orders Temporary orders maintain stability during divorce proceedings by addressing immediate concerns like child custody, spousal support, and property management. These orders prevent conflicts by clearly defining responsibilities and rights until the final decree is issued. These orders can be modified if significant changes occur, such as job loss or health issues. Temporary spousal support may be awarded to maintain financial stability during the process. Prepare for a temporary orders hearing by gathering relevant documentation and possibly hiring an attorney for effective representation. These interim measures protect the interests of both parties and any children involved. Financial Disclosures and Property Division Financial disclosures are mandatory in Texas divorces, ensuring both parties provide a complete and accurate financial picture, crucial for a fair property division. Failure to disclose can result in legal penalties and an inequitable settlement. Intentional concealment can lead to fraud allegations and potentially reopen the case. Texas follows community property laws, meaning assets acquired during the marriage are generally jointly owned and must be divided equally. Separate property, like gifts and inheritances, remains with the original owner. Properly valuing and categorizing assets is essential for a fair division, with the burden of proof on the party claiming an asset is separate. Organize financial documents, such as tax returns, bank statements, and investment records, to streamline the process and reduce costs. Save at least three months of financial resources, as access to funds may be restricted. Competent legal advisors can help uncover concealed assets and negotiate fair settlements, ensuring compliance with disclosure requirements. Child Custody Arrangements Child custody arrangements are crucial in divorces involving minor children. In Texas, decisions are guided by the child’s best interests, including emotional, physical, and mental well-being. Judges consider factors like the primary caretaker, parental fitness, and existing parent-child relationships. Demonstrating a willingness to co-parent and maintain a positive relationship with the other parent can positively influence outcomes. Temporary custody orders may provide stability for the child during the divorce, considering current living conditions and parental involvement. Minimizing the emotional impact on children by keeping them out of conflicts and maintaining a stable environment is crucial. Custody arrangements must prioritize the well-being and best interests of the child. Spousal Support Considerations Spousal support, or maintenance, is another critical consideration in Texas divorces. A dependent spouse must demonstrate insufficient property to meet minimum reasonable needs to qualify. Eligibility is further determined by factors like marriage length, disabilities, or family violence. Judges consider the marriage duration and the dependent spouse’s age and earning capability. Monthly spousal maintenance payments in Texas cannot exceed $5,000 or 20% of the paying spouse’s average monthly gross income, whichever is lower. Payments can last up to five years for marriages of 10 to 20 years, with longer durations for longer marriages. Temporary spousal support and financial support may be awarded during proceedings to cover essential expenses until a final agreement. Understanding these guidelines helps both parties prepare for potential financial outcomes. Mediation and Settlement Negotiations Mediation is a preferred method for resolving disputes in Texas divorces, allowing parties more control over outcomes rather than relying on court decisions. It involves a neutral third party helping spouses negotiate settlements on property division and child custody. The process typically involves preparing necessary forms and understanding mediation rules. During mediation, parties often remain in separate rooms while the mediator facilitates communication. Confidentiality is crucial, protecting sensitive discussions from being disclosed. If an agreement is reached, it is documented as a Mediated Settlement Agreement (MSA), becoming irrevocable once signed in Texas. This approach can save time and reduce legal expenses, making it valuable for many divorcing couples. Court Hearings and Final Decree A court hearing finalizes a divorce, allowing the judge to assess each spouse’s requests before signing the final decree. In Texas, a mandatory 60-day waiting period follows filing the petition, unless family violence is involved. Recently, many courts accept a ‘prove-up affidavit’ instead of in-person hearings for uncontested divorces. Judges consider established temporary orders when making final decisions on custody, support, and property division. The final hearing is the culmination of all previous steps, ensuring all legal requirements are met before granting the final divorce decree. This step marks the official end of the marriage and the beginning of a new chapter for both parties. Common Challenges in Divorce Cases Divorce cases often come with several challenges, especially when contested. Contested divorces involve significant disagreements over issues like asset division and child custody, prolonging legal proceedings and increasing stress. Disputes over marital property may require court intervention to determine fair settlements. Establishing a safety plan is crucial for those with a history of family violence, as tensions may escalate. Maintaining civil communication with your spouse can aid in smoother interactions and help minimize conflict. Failure to respond to the divorce petition can result in a default judgment, impacting decisions about property and children. Understanding these challenges can help you navigate the divorce process more effectively. Practical Advice for Preparing for Divorce Preparing for divorce involves several practical steps to ensure a smooth process. Both spouses must submit a detailed list of income, debts, and assets, including tax returns and bank statements. Forensic accountants may uncover hidden assets and ensure compliance with financial disclosure requirements. An attorney offers objective insight during emotionally charged situations, helping clients make informed decisions. Choosing between contested and uncontested divorce impacts legal outcomes, emotional well-being, and financial stability. Effective communication and conflict resolution strategies can mitigate emotional stress and lead to healthier outcomes. Texas has a standardized divorce form approved for uncontested divorces without children or property, and additional resources can be found at TexasLawHelp.org. E-filing is available for court documents in Texas, allowing users to submit their petitions electronically while still needing to pay standard filing fees. Importance of Professional Legal Guidance Professional legal guidance is crucial in protecting one’s rights and achieving a fair divorce settlement. Seeking representation from a qualified attorney is essential, as missteps can have long-lasting effects on the outcome of the divorce. Specialized lawyers are vital for complicated cases, such as those involving business ownership or international assets. Having legal representation is particularly important in contested divorces, where negotiations can be challenging. Knowing that a knowledgeable attorney is managing your case can alleviate anxiety, allowing you to focus on personal recovery post-divorce. Access to legal counsel ensures compliance with complex legal procedures and safeguards your interests throughout the divorce process. Conclusion: Navigating the divorce process in Texas requires a clear understanding of each step, from meeting residency requirements to finalizing the divorce decree. This guide has covered essential aspects such as filing the Original Petition for Divorce, serving divorce papers, responding to the petition, and obtaining temporary orders. It also delved into critical issues like financial disclosures, property division, child custody arrangements, and spousal support considerations. Understanding these steps and the potential challenges you may face can significantly ease the journey. Whether through mediation or court hearings, achieving a fair settlement is paramount. The importance of professional legal guidance cannot be overstated, as it ensures your rights are protected and the process is handled efficiently. By following these guidelines, you can approach your divorce with confidence and clarity, ready to embark on the next chapter of your life. Texas Divorce FAQ Texas Divorce FAQ What are the steps to file for divorce in Texas? To file for divorce in Texas, follow these steps: (1) Meet residency requirements, (2) File the Original Petition for Divorce, (3) Serve your spouse, (4) Await their response, (5) Attend hearings if necessary, and (6) Finalize the divorce with a Final Decree of Divorce. How much does it cost to file for divorce in Texas? The cost to file for divorce in Texas typically ranges between $250 to $350, depending on the county. Additional costs may include court fees, attorney fees, and mediation expenses. What do I need to know before getting a divorce in Texas? Before filing for divorce in Texas, understand the residency requirements, property division rules, child custody laws, and the potential emotional and financial impact. Consulting with a family law attorney can help you prepare. What is the first step when you want a divorce? The first step when seeking a divorce is to determine if you meet Texas residency requirements. Then, file an Original Petition for Divorce in the appropriate county court to initiate the process. What not to do during divorce in Texas? During divorce in Texas, avoid hiding assets, ignoring court orders, badmouthing your spouse in front of children, or making major financial decisions without consulting your attorney. These mistakes can impact the outcome of your case. Can you get a divorce in Texas without going to court? Yes, you can get a divorce in Texas without appearing in court if you and your spouse reach an uncontested agreement and file a prove-up affidavit to finalize the divorce. What is the 10 year rule in divorce in Texas? The 10-year rule in Texas divorce cases refers to spousal support eligibility. If a couple has been married for at least 10 years, one spouse may qualify for maintenance if they cannot meet their minimum financial needs. What if I can't afford a divorce? If you can't afford a divorce in Texas, you may file an Affidavit of Inability to Pay Court Costs to request a waiver of filing fees. Additionally, some legal aid organizations provide free or low-cost legal assistance. Who should file first for divorce in Texas? Filing first for divorce in Texas may offer strategic advantages, such as setting the timeline for proceedings and having the opportunity to present your case first in court. However, the decision should be based on your circumstances and legal advice. 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Responsive Web Design: How to Build Websites That Work Across All Devices – Akhilagnait

In today’s digital age, where mobile devices have become the primary source of internet traffic, ensuring that your website functions properly across all devices is more important than ever. This is where responsive web design comes into play. Responsive design ensures that a website’s layout and content adjust seamlessly to the screen size of the device being used, providing an optimal browsing experience whether on a desktop, tablet, or smartphone. In this article, we will discuss the importance of responsive web design, the techniques used to achieve it, and how Akhilagnait integrates responsive design into its web development strategy to create visually appealing and highly functional websites.

The Importance of Responsive Web Design

With mobile internet usage surpassing desktop usage in recent years, websites that are not mobile-friendly can lose a significant amount of traffic and potential business. Visitors who land on a website that isn’t optimized for their device may experience slow load times, poor navigation, and images that don’t scale properly. This leads to frustration and ultimately drives them away, increasing the bounce rate.

Responsive web design is essential because it provides a consistent and enjoyable user experience across all devices. It eliminates the need for a separate mobile site, saving both time and resources. Moreover, Google’s mobile-first indexing prioritizes mobile-friendly websites, making responsive design a key factor in improving search engine rankings.

Key Techniques for Implementing Responsive Design

1. Fluid Grids and Layouts

Traditional fixed-width designs can’t adapt to varying screen sizes. In contrast, a fluid grid layout uses percentage-based widths to ensure that the content expands or contracts based on the screen size. This ensures that elements such as text, images, and videos adjust proportionally without distortion.

2. Flexible Images and Media

In responsive design, images and media elements are also designed to scale according to the screen size. Using CSS (Cascading Style Sheets) properties like max-width: 100% ensures that images shrink and expand fluidly, maintaining the visual integrity of the site on all devices. Additionally, techniques such as the use of picture tags can serve different image sizes based on the device’s resolution.

3. Media Queries

Media queries are a core component of responsive web design. They allow designers to apply specific styles based on the characteristics of the device, such as its width, height, and resolution. For example, a media query can be used to change the layout of a website on smaller screens, stacking columns vertically instead of horizontally, or adjusting the font size for easier readability on a phone or tablet.

4. Mobile-First Approach

The mobile-first approach is a design philosophy that prioritizes designing for smaller screens first, then scaling up the design for larger devices like tablets and desktops. This ensures that the website is optimized for the primary mode of access (mobile) and prevents the need for redesigning when the website is adapted to larger screens.

5. Touch-Friendly Features

On mobile devices, users interact with websites via touch, rather than a mouse or keyboard. Therefore, elements such as buttons, navigation links, and forms should be optimized for touch interaction. Larger buttons, swipeable carousels, and collapsible menus can enhance the mobile user experience.

How Akhilagnait Incorporates Responsive Design

At Akhilagnait, we understand the significance of responsive web design in today’s mobile-driven world. Our team uses the latest web development technologies and frameworks to ensure that websites are fully responsive and adapt seamlessly to any screen size or device. We start by adopting a mobile-first approach, ensuring that the mobile version of the website is optimized before scaling it up for larger devices.

Our designs focus on creating a smooth user experience, from easy navigation to fast loading times and clear visuals. We utilize fluid grid layouts, flexible images, and CSS media queries to create websites that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing on all devices.

Moreover, we work closely with our clients to ensure that their branding and messaging are consistent across all screen sizes, while also prioritizing user-friendly features that enhance the customer journey. By combining our expertise in web design with a focus on responsive techniques, Akhilagnait delivers websites that meet both aesthetic goals and functional needs, ensuring that your business stays competitive in today’s mobile-first environment.

Conclusion: Why Responsive Design Matters for Your Business

In conclusion, responsive web design is no longer an option but a necessity in today’s digital world. With the increasing reliance on mobile devices for internet browsing, having a responsive website ensures that your business remains accessible, user-friendly, and competitive. At Akhilagnait, we specialize in designing responsive websites that provide a seamless experience across all devices. Whether you’re looking to revamp your existing website or build a new one from scratch, our team is dedicated to helping you create a site that not only looks great but also works perfectly on any screen size. Trust Akhilagnait.com to build a website that adapts to your users’ needs and drives results for your business.

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“Signs You’ve Found a Reliable Roofing Company”

Introduction

Finding a reliable roofing company can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. With many options available, how do you ensure that the roofing contractor you choose is trustworthy and competent? A roof is one of the most crucial components of your home; it protects your family and belongings from the elements. Therefore, selecting the right roofing service is essential. In this article, we will explore various signs that indicate you've found a reliable roofing company. So, if you're looking to invest in roof installation, roof replacement, or roof repair, keep reading to become informed about what to look for!

Signs You’ve Found a Reliable Roofing Company

When searching for "roofers near me," you want to be sure you're making an informed decision. Here are some https://s3.us-central-1.wasabisys.com/lg-cloud-stack/exquisite-roofing-and-exteriors-reliable-roof-repair-in-millersville-md-roof-repair-millersville-md-nm3at.html signs that indicate you've found a trustworthy roofing contractor.

1. Comprehensive Licensing and Insurance

A reputable roofing company should always have proper licensing and insurance. This ensures they adhere to local regulations and protects you from potential liabilities.

Licensing: Check if the company is licensed to operate in your area. This usually means they have met specific requirements set by the state or local government.

Insurance: A reliable roofing company should carry general liability insurance as well as workers' compensation insurance. This coverage not only protects their workers but also shields you from being liable for any injuries that may occur on your property.

2. Strong Reputation in the Community

You can often gauge a roofing company millersville md company's reliability based on its reputation.

Local Reviews: Look for reviews on platforms like Google, Yelp, and social media. Positive feedback from previous customers is a good indicator of quality service.

Word-of-mouth Recommendations: Ask friends and family if they've had experience with any local roofing contractors. Personal recommendations can provide valuable insights.

3. Detailed Written Estimates

A trustworthy roofing contractor will provide detailed written estimates before any work begins.

Clarity of Costs: The estimate should clearly outline all costs associated with the project, including materials and labor.

Transparency: If a company hesitates to provide a written estimate or doesn't explain it clearly, consider it a red flag.

4. Quality of Materials Used

The materials used in your roof installation or replacement significantly affect its longevity and performance.

Brand Reputation: Inquire about the brands of materials they use. Reputable companies often partner with trusted manufacturers.

Warranty Information: Ask about warranties offered on both materials and labor. A reliable company will stand behind their work.

5. Professionalism in Communication

How a roofing company communicates can say much about its reliability.

Prompt Responses: Quick responses to inquiries demonstrate professionalism and respect for your time.