#Indian Armed Forces preparation

[manasastuff-blog]

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[townpostin]

Jamshedpur Student Secures Coveted RIMC Admission

Vedanta Sharma clinches sole Jharkhand seat at prestigious military college Kavyapta Global School student Vedanta Sharma gains admission to the elite Rashtriya Indian Military College in Dehradun. JAMSHEDPUR – Vedanta Sharma, a student from Kavyapta Global School in Jamshedpur, has secured admission to the prestigious Rashtriya Indian Military College (RIMC) in Dehradun. Sharma, son of Snigdha…

[defenceguru9]

Dehradun, known for its serene environment and educational institutions, offers several coaching centers that specialize in preparing candidates for the CDS examination. CDS is a highly competitive exam conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) for recruitment into the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

[myladybelle]

𝐆𝐔𝐈𝐋𝐓𝐘 𝐀𝐒 𝐒𝐈𝐍? | chapter thirteen

𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠: art donaldson x female!reader x patrick zweig 𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: you’ve always been content being second place to your best friend tashi duncan, waiting for the day you can quit tennis. your world is upended when you meet art and patrick, and you’re forced to embrace a life in the sport you’ve been too afraid to claim for yourself. 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 6.7k 𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠(𝐬): challengers content warnings, descriptions of anxiety, swearing, use of y/n 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞: hi my loves i’m back!! thank you all for your patience while i was sick and preparing for the new semester, i appreciate all your kind messages so much x 𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐯 | 𝐧𝐞𝐱𝐭

𝐖𝐈𝐌𝐁𝐋𝐄𝐃𝐎𝐍 𝐋𝐀𝐃𝐈𝐄𝐒’ 𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐋 – 𝐉𝐔𝐋𝐘 𝟑, 𝟐𝟎𝟏𝟎 

“Newcomer on the professional tennis scene, Y/N Y/L/N surprised virtually everyone when she won the Ladies’ Semi Final two days ago,” an English-accented sports journalist said on TV as you waited for your cue to step onto the court for the finals. “She’s not only the most technically excellent player of her age, but she has the fastest serve on the WTA tour.”

“She’s a remarkable player,” the other journalist agreed. You watched them play back a clip from your most recent match, highlighting one of your aces. “But if she wants to win on Centre Court here at Wimbledon for the very first time, she’s going to have to start embracing her volleys. Maybe she should take a leaf out of her boyfriend’s book.”

“Patrick Zweig? He only made it to the second round!”

“Yes, but he played some very entertaining tennis this week. It was a joy to watch and very well suited to a grass court!” 

“It’s true, Zweig plays a sneaky game of tennis. He keeps his opponent on his feet.” 

“In any case, the whole world is sure to be watching Y/N Y/L/N tonight, eager to see her take on Anna Mueller.”

“Now, this isn’t the first time Y/L/N and Mueller have played. They faced off numerous times in junior tournaments, and Y/L/N already beat her at Indian Wells, Milan, Roland-Garros, and the US Open last year. They have yet to play each other in a final, though, and Y/L/N has no grand slam titles to Mueller’s two.”

“Will it be experience and longevity that give Mueller the win, or will new talent Y/L/N take the match with precision and speed?”

“We will soon see.”

You had never been this nervous before a match until your second time at Wimbledon. 

For the first time in your professional career, just a year and a half after entering the tennis world, you made it to the final round of a grand slam tournament. The other tournaments you had won within the last year put your name on the map, allowing you to garner attention and recognition from your peers and spectators.

But a grand slam title meant you would be a part of history.

It was everything you wanted, everything you worked and struggled for. Your heart pounded so quickly that you thought it might leap out of your skin, and your quickening breath made spots appear in your vision. The pressure mounted, not just because your life goal was an arm’s length away, but from all the people who had their eyes on you. Some scrutinising, some rooting for you. 

Bracing your hands on your thighs, you closed your eyes and tried to breathe deeply. It felt like you were losing control. Everything you did to maintain your anxiety felt like it was slipping through your fingers, just like your dream of becoming a grand slam winner. 

Tashi’s voice rang in your ears. You’re going to be fucking miserable, and you’re going to hate your life just as much as your mother hates the fact that she had you. Art’s voice joined Tashi. Everyone knows that tennis is more of a mental game than a physical game. You have a lot of anxiety, and…

The sound of your phone getting a text message interrupted your tornado of negative thoughts. 

PAT 💞: Don’t listen to any of those assholes, they don’t matter. I love you so much and I’m proud of you no matter what happens today. Hold your head up high and do your best, nothing else matters. Don’t forget to breathe, pretty girl. P x

As you stepped onto the court, the cheers of the crowd were deafening. You could feel the vibrations of their applause through the soles of your shoes; the energy was electric, and the buzzing of quiet chatter set you on edge. Remembering Patrick’s advice, you breathed deeply and waved to the crowd, smiling as you headed for your bench. Everyone on your team was sitting in the player’s box with Patrick and your dad, and it was a relief to see them there supporting you. 

“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to this final round match. This match will be played as the best of three sets,” the umpire said. “To the left of the chair, from Switzerland, Anna Mueller. To the right of the chair, from the United States, Y/N Y/L/N. Y/L/N won the toss and elected to serve.”

From his seat in your box, Patrick chuckled. “I bet Anna Mueller’s terrified right now,” he commented. “Going into a match against Y/N and having her serve first would push me over the edge if I was playing her.” 

Next to Patrick, your father happily declared, “If Mueller wasn’t nervous to play Y/N before, she will be once she realises how many aces she has up her sleeve.”

Mueller crouched behind the baseline, nervously twirling her racket between her hands. Her poker face wasn’t nearly as good as yours, betraying her fear as you bounced the ball and prepared to serve. Knowing that you had this effect on your opponent, even before the game had started, made you feel powerful. 

With a mixture of nerves and excitement coursing through your veins, you tossed the ball in the air and served it over the tennis net. Mueller ran in the wrong direction, expecting you to serve to her backhand, and cursed when she couldn’t change courses fast enough to return the ball.

Your first ace of the game. 15-love.

Mueller played nervously. She knew your baseline game was strong, but her mistake was assuming that you could only play from the baseline. You decided to play closer to the net, consistently hitting gently when Mueller expected you to go hard and fast, making it impossible for her to generate the power needed to return well.

When you took the first set 6-0, Mueller cursed and turned to her box to yell something at her coach. During the changeover, you could hear her muttering to herself, failing to compose her posture and expression. She looked panicked and angry. From experience, you knew that the right amount of anxiety could help you focus on the match, but anger would destroy a player’s self-control and concentration.

When you served an ace at the beginning of the next set, Mueller stomped her foot angrily and challenged the call. The call held up, declaring your serve was in and awarding you the point. You watched in shock as Mueller’s face twisted with fury, her eyes blazing as she smashed her racket against the ground. Over and over again, the crowd gasped and booed as the frame cracked and the strings bent out of shape. 

“Code violation, racket abuse. Warning, Mueller.” 

From his seat, Patrick smirked, applauding the action while you maintained professionalism. He was the type of player who occasionally broke his racket or committed other code violations, so Patrick admired your ability to hold back. There was something rewarding about watching your opponent fall apart as you waited for her to get it together so you could keep playing. 

The atmosphere of the game changed after Mueller’s outburst. Releasing her anger had done Mueller well, and one of her backhands shot forth like a lightning bolt, making it impossible for you to return. She got a few points in, making you run for it. Sweat glistened on your brows, and your heart pounded, a steady drum beat that echoed the rhythm of your feet as you struggled to return some of Mueller’s balls. The crowd watched in awe as she started finding her rhythm, pushing through the fatigue with a newfound unwavering focus. 

Mueller looked incredibly smug to have caught up with you. So, you let her win a little bit. 

Your father frowned when you served into the net twice, giving Mueller the point. “What’s she doing?” he muttered quietly. “Are the nerves getting to her?”

Patrick shook his head, chuckling as he realised, “She’s throwing the set on purpose.” A smirk graced his lips when he remembered how you used to do the same thing when you played Tashi. “She wants Mueller to think she’s beating her.”

You let yourself enjoy it, toying with Mueller and never letting her know what you planned next. When you volleyed the ball back to her, she sprinted to the net. Just when she got used to playing close to the net, you hit a flat groundstroke past her. Once Mueller realised your pattern, she stayed closer to the baseline, and you hit her with your drop shots, far too close to the net for her to return.

Quickly, you caught up, 7-7. You needed one last game to win the match, and it was your turn to serve. 

Two aces in a row. Mueller yelled in frustration and anger when she missed both serves, once to her forehand and once to her backhand. Your focus sharpened with each passing moment. Serving was your area of expertise. You had the match exactly where you wanted it. 

With each point you won, your confidence grew. Your movements were fluid and instinctive; your racket felt like an extension of your arm, sending powerful, precise shots that left Mueller scrambling to return them. Like always, your serves were lightning fast, unerring and spectacular, kissing the line every time without fail. 

Mueller chased down every ball, but exhaustion was setting in, and her anger had returned. She was irritated that you had let her win, annoyed that it had boosted her ego so much, and furious that she couldn’t get in your head the way you got in hers. 

You were playing the best tennis of your life, each moment a testament to your skill and resilience over the years. The beauty of your game captivated the spectators, leaving the crowd in awe of your mesmerising strokes and masterful returns. The more points you won, the closer you got to winning the tournament. Tension and excitement were palpable, mounting in a crescendo of enthusiastic applause and standing ovations.

“Match point.” 

The cacophony of cheers faded into the background as you bounced the ball in your hand. You were good at keeping the pressure of winning off your shoulders, but the enormity of this point pressed down on you heavily. With your stomach in knots, you adjusted your grip on your tennis racket. Amid all the stress, anxiety, and fear, you felt a spark of determination. 

You didn’t just want to win; you deserved it. 

You served her backhand, which Mueller anticipated and hit back with equal intensity. The ball hit the ground awkwardly on your side of the net, creating minimal bounce with little power. Regardless, you hit it hard. As the two of you rallied back and forth, you followed the sports journalist from earlier’s advice and used a trick shot Patrick had taught you. When Mueller hit your forehand, you pretended to miss the ball. She celebrated, prematurely stopping while you hit the ball back between your legs, surprising Mueller and making her trip as she tried to return the ball. 

As Mueller landed on the floor, the ball bounced on her side of the net for a second time, earning you the point and the Wimbledon Ladies’ Singles title. 

An overwhelming surge of triumph and disbelief hit you all at once. Your ears rang, drowning out the cacophony of the crowd’s ecstatic roars as you collapsed to your knees, dropping your racket. The weight of victory crashed upon you, and tears streamed down your face as you sobbed. Each teardrop released the intense pressure and emotion you had carried through the gruelling tournament. 

You cried for your mother, who you no longer needed to please; for Tashi, your former best friend who would not be here to celebrate this moment with you; and you cried for yourself, the person who got through it all and made it to the other side. 

When you wiped the tears from your cheeks and stood to shake your opponent’s hand, the world around you blurred back into focus. The cheers and applause of the crowd went from being a distant echo to a deafening roar. Mueller barely touched your hand before going to shake the umpire’s and—for a brief, solitary moment—you were enveloped by a profound sense of accomplishment. 

You did it.

After waving to the crowd and thanking the umpire, you turned to your player’s box. There, Patrick stood applauding your victory. His heart swelled with immeasurable pride and love for you, feeling an overwhelming admiration for your strength and dedication. You laughed, running across the court towards the box and excusing yourself as you squeezed past ball boys and line judges. Stepping up on one of the nearby benches, you lifted yourself closer to your boyfriend, who leaned over the railing, giggling.

Up close, Patrick’s eyes were misty, and a broad, genuine smile spread across his face. Every sacrifice you made, every early morning and late night, came rushing back to him in a flood of memories. He could hardly contain his excitement. 

“You just fucking won Wimbledon!” Patrick yelled. “You were incredible!”

“I love you,” you replied, equally breathless and giddy. “I couldn’t have done it without you, Pat.” 

Pushing up on your toes, you hooked your arms around Patrick’s shoulders and kissed him. The crowd cheered even louder around you, but you didn’t care. Nothing and nobody else mattered at that moment. All you knew was that you had just achieved something incredible and Patrick was the only person you wanted to celebrate it with. He held your head carefully and kissed you hard, expressing his passionate pride with every press of his lips.

“Thank you. For reminding me to breathe,” you acknowledged when you parted, gazing up at your boyfriend with sparkling eyes. “And for teaching me your favourite trick shot.”

Patrick chuckled, taking one of your hands and pressing several kisses to the back of it. “That was all you, gorgeous. I had nothing to do with it. This win belongs to you,” he said sincerely. “Fuck, I love you, pretty girl.”

Art Donaldson stood in the crowd, his heart heavy with pride and melancholy as he watched you give Patrick a final kiss before returning to the court for your interview. It was a privilege to watch every powerful swing of your racket and every point you earned. Art was reminded of the countless hours you had poured into your practice, the determination that had always driven you while you were at Stanford. He had once been the one to share in those moments of victory with you, celebrating every win with the joy you now showed on the court. 

But now, as Art saw the happiness in your eyes and heard the crowd’s cheers, a wave of sadness washed over him. He was no longer part of your triumphs. He was just another face in the sea of supporters, knowing your victory wouldn’t be shared with him.

Art’s gaze flickered between you standing on the court and Patrick sitting with your father in the player’s box. His former best friend looked happier than Art had ever seen him, and knowing that your memory of this day would always be intertwined with your relationship with Patrick filled Art with an ugly jealousy. 

He knew he had no right to your life and joy, but Art wanted to celebrate with you. He wanted to tell you that he was proud of you and always knew you had the talent and perseverance to succeed. In fact, there were a lot of things Art wanted to say, including a sincere apology for what he said the night you broke up. But you had moved on, and you were happy, and the last thing Art wanted to do was ruin any of that for you. 

So instead, Art got up and pushed through the crowd, making his way to the exit as he heard your voice thanking Patrick for his love and support over the loudspeakers.

𝐂𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐈𝐍𝐍𝐀𝐓𝐈 𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐍 – 𝐀𝐔𝐆𝐔𝐒𝐓 ����𝟑, 𝟐𝟎𝟏𝟎

It felt good. 

Sitting in the booth with Tashi was almost like when Art used to sit in the dining hall with her at Stanford, back when you, Art, and Tashi were all attached at the hip.

A month ago, Art and Tashi graduated and began working in the professional tennis world, but it meant nothing to either of them without their best friends by their sides. Neither of them could have guessed that you and Patrick would leave behind such a huge hole when you stopped being friends with them.

“Maybe you wanna jump ship?” Art said, half-joking as he signed the bill and paid for their meal. “Come be my assistant coach?” When Tashi stared dumbfoundedly at him, he grinned. “Oh, I get it. You want to work with someone who has a little bit more potential.” 

“No!” Tashi protested. “No. No, it’s not that. I mean, you have plenty of potential. It’s just–” she cut herself off, nervously observing the blond sitting in front of her. It had been years since you and Art broke up, but it felt like yesterday. “You think that would be a good idea?” 

“Why not?” Art retorted. Tashi gestured vaguely, referencing their complex shared past. “That was a long time ago–” 

“–It was not that long ago,” she disagreed, interrupting Art’s attempt at nonchalance. 

“Well, it feels like a long time ago,” Art mumbled. 

“So, you’re saying you’re not in love with her anymore?” Tashi argued, raising a questioning eyebrow at her old friend. 

Art schooled his expression, not wanting to give his lingering emotions away. But Tashi saw through it, recognising the familiar signs that indicated his love for you still ran deep. His features softened at the mention of you, and there was a faraway look in his icy blue eyes.

Back when you were dating Art—and Tashi and Patrick were casually seeing each other—Patrick used to describe the look on his best friend’s face when he first laid eyes on you. That look of pure, absolute adoration and love never once faded from Art’s face at the mention or sight of you. Tashi knew with certainty that it would never fade.

“Well, I’m not holding my breath waiting for her,” Art retorted. “That ship has clearly sailed.”

“Doesn’t mean you aren’t clutching the hull for dear life,” Tashi remarked, using Art’s ship analogy against him. “Did you see her at Wimbledon?”

“Of course I did,” Art replied, fiddling anxiously with the napkin on the table. 

“She was incredible, wasn’t she? I mean, I always knew she had it in her, but watching her win that final…” Tashi sighed.

If she was as good a friend to you as she always thought, she would have noticed that you used to hold back to help Tashi pursue her dreams of being the best tennis player in the world. Upon reflection, Tashi realised she would never be as good a friend to you as you were to her, and she should never have considered you to be less talented, hard-working, or capable than herself.

“It was like nothing I’ve ever seen before,” Tashi said proudly.

Art agreed, “She’s officially a grand slam winner, the whole world was watching her that day.”

Tashi nodded. “It’s weird, isn’t it?” Her lips curved in a disappointed frown, recalling all the times you and Tashi promised you would always be there to celebrate each others’ accomplishments when you were teenagers. “All of a sudden, the whole world feels entitled to a part of her. Instead of going through this journey with her, we’re on the outside looking in, just like everybody else.”

“It was pretty surreal,” Art affirmed. “I mean, I always knew what she was capable of. I remember all those late nights, talking about what she would do if she ever won a grand slam. And now that she has, I can’t help but feel a little lost.”

“Like you should be there with her,” Tashi guessed. She gave Art a sympathetic smile, her eyes soft with understanding. “I know exactly what you mean.”

Art sighed, leaning back in his booth. “We used to be the people who knew her best in the world,” he recalled. “And now, we aren’t a part of her life anymore. It’s not just about tennis or success, it’s about her. She didn’t just hold us all together, she was seeped into the essence of everything I did and everything I dreamed.” The vulnerable honesty in Art’s voice made Tashi swallow harshly. “What am I supposed to do without her now? None of my plans ever accounted for me reaching this point in my life without her in it.”

Art’s words rendered them both silent.

You used to take up so much space in their lives, filling a void neither of them knew existed until you left them. Thinking about you and reflecting on your absence was always bittersweet. There was so much warmth and joy in their memories of you, but they were constantly paired with painful reminders of how much they hurt you. You, who only ever wanted to love and be loved. 

“Maybe this is what we deserve for hurting her in the first place,” Tashi offered. “The things I said to her that day–” she inhaled sharply, pain filling her chest as she recalled the argument that ended your friendship– “I don’t blame her for wanting nothing to do with me.”

“The look on her face when I told her I went to see you the night you fought…” Art shook his head in disappointment, his jaw clenched tightly as the frustration simmered beneath the surface. “I should have told her I went to confront you for hurting her. I should have told her I was desperate to figure out why she was inconsolable, but I let her believe I went to you because I was on your side. I was so angry and frustrated during the break up that I told her things just because I knew they would hurt her. Who does that to someone they love?”

“Us, apparently,” Tashi said, grumbling like she couldn’t believe what they did to you. Reaching across the table, Tashi covered Art’s hand with hers, offering a small, bittersweet smile. “My mom says that Y/N was my life lesson,” she explained. “That losing her was supposed to teach me something.”

“Yeah?” Art met her eyes and frowned. “What did it teach you?”

“To hold on,” Tashi declared. “When you meet someone like her, someone who’s warm and loving and far kinder to you than you deserve, you hold on to her. Because going through life without her is unimaginably worse than when she’s by your side.” 

It hurt to reflect on how much worse life was without you. You had been everything to Art for so long, and his eyes stung with tears every time he thought of you. The emptiness you left behind felt insurmountable, a constant ache he couldn’t escape. Every moment without you reminded him of what he’d lost, of how your presence had once filled his world with light and purpose.

Now, that light was gone, leaving him to navigate the shadows of what used to be; the pain of your absence was a relentless companion.

Art pulled his hand away and cleared his throat, staring at his lap. “This is really stupid, but, uh… After your injury… I couldn’t help but just think about what would have happened if I had beaten Patrick,” he confessed. 

Tashi froze at the mention of how you met Art and Patrick. 

She knew Art well enough to understand that everything he did led back to you and how he lost you. No matter how badly Art wanted to change the past, Tashi knew you would always love him and Patrick throughout your life. 

In a way, Tashi, Art, and Patrick were the three great loves of your life.

One for a friendship that was supposed to last a lifetime, one for the boy who made you realise what it was like to be loved, and one for the man who would wait a lifetime just for a minute of happiness with you.

No matter how much you once loved Art, Tashi knew you would love Patrick in every life, too. It didn’t matter what order you met them in; you were the catalyst that changed each of their lives. 

Tashi thought she was the only objective spectator to your relationships with Art and Patrick. She was your best friend at Stanford when you dated Art, and she was practically a stranger now that you were with Patrick. Watching your romantic relationship unfold on TV and in newspapers and magazines was entirely different from having a front-row seat back in college, but Tashi knew you well enough to see how deeply and genuinely you loved Patrick, just as you had loved Art.

“So you want me to join your team because you couldn’t win Y/N’s number that day?”

Art lifted his head to meet Tashi’s gaze. “No,” he denied. “I want you to join my team because I want to win.”

Tashi suppressed a grin. She should have known that if it wasn’t about you, it was about Patrick. “I think you’d beat him now if you guys played,” she commented, sipping her coffee. “Don’t you think?” 

It was a challenge that Tashi knew Art would easily see through. 

Perhaps Art could beat Patrick if their history wasn’t complicated by you entering their lives. If the two of them were just best friends trying to make it in the tennis world, Art had the skills, practice, and tenacity to win now. After all, he had dedicated himself to the sport at Stanford and had an excellent team supporting him, while Patrick continued to rely on raw talent. As Art steadily climbed the ranks with every game, Patrick floundered somewhere in the lower 200s. 

But all of this was negated by one simple fact. Patrick had the one thing that Art truly wanted: you. 

If Art and Patrick played a match tomorrow, you would be in Patrick’s player box, cheering his name and applauding his wins. Your presence at the match—and in Patrick’s life—would be more than enough for Art to lose every time he faced his former best friend, just as he lost you. The only thing that could give Art a chance to beat Patrick would be having you on his side. 

“Don’t know,” Art replied cryptically. “We, uh… haven’t played professionally, and don’t keep in touch.” Tashi laughed, nearly choking on her coffee. “What?” 

She cleared her throat. “Just… She never saw it,” Tashi explained. “The rivalry between you and Patrick. Ever since that night we first met, she always assumed the two of you were after me.” She shook her head, visibly entertained. “She used to say that I was the sun and she was the moon. But, God, wasn’t she just everything? The moon and the stars and everything in between, that was her.” Tashi and Art shared a soft, sentimental expression. “I never understood why she couldn’t see it. Everything was over the moment you and Patrick met her, and I knew none of us would ever be the same.”

A small smile stretched across Art’s lips. “Yeah…” 

Tashi was right—you had been everything to him. 

Art felt it the moment his eyes first met yours, an instant connection that went beyond mere attraction. It was as if something within him recognised you, a deep and undeniable pull that resonated in both his body and heart. It wasn’t just about your smile or how you moved; it was how your presence seemed to complete something in him, filling a void he hadn’t even known existed.

You became his anchor, the one person who made everything else make sense, and from that moment on, he knew his life would never be the same without you.

“We joked that we weren’t homewreckers the night we met you, but…” Tashi trailed off, sighing as she set her mug on the table and crossed her arms. “I never thought it would come between me and her. I always thought I was a better friend than that. And I hate it, but running into you today is the closest I’ve felt to her in years,” she confessed.

Sitting there opposite your former best friend, Art couldn’t help but agree. So many parts of you lived on in Tashi, remnants of your lifelong friendship that had shaped both of you in ways he could now see clearly. The way she tilted her head when deep in thought mirrored your own, a habit you’d both picked up during your countless late-night conversations. That amused, all-knowing expression on Tashi’s face when Art tried to lie to her was uncannily similar to yours. 

Even her choice of words, the little phrases and inside jokes that only you two shared, brought you vividly to life at that moment, making it feel like a part of you was still there, sitting right across from Art.

“Yeah, me too,” Art agreed, trying to keep the sudden gust of sadness out of his tone. 

To make matters worse, seeing Tashi was the closest Art had felt to you and Patrick in a very long time. 

It brought back memories of his former best friend, who had once been his world. There was a time when the four of you felt inseparable, and now, sitting there, Art could almost hear the echoes of those days. The way Tashi absentmindedly rubbed her forearm was like Patrick used to, a nervous habit that always surfaced during serious conversations. Tashi’s honest recount of how much she missed you felt like a mirror image of how much Art missed Patrick. Being with Tashi now, it was impossible not to feel the empty space left by the absence of the friendships that had once defined them both.

That night, as Tashi stepped into Art’s hotel room, the invisible string that still bound them both to you seemed to tighten, pulling them a little closer to where you slept just a few floors away.

𝟐 𝐃𝐀𝐘𝐒 𝐁𝐄𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐔𝐒 𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐍 – 𝐀𝐔𝐆𝐔𝐒𝐓 𝟐𝟖, 𝟐𝟎𝟏𝟎

“I just got off the phone with Elora,” you declared, stepping into your shared hotel room with Patrick and finding your boyfriend lounging on the bed with the TV on. “I’ve been asked to play an exhibition match tomorrow. Just something quick and fun before the first round to boost ticket sales for the qualifiers. A bunch of American players from the tour will be there.”

You dropped onto the bed beside Patrick, kicking off your shoes and curling up in his awaiting arms. The two of you had been travelling together for over a year, sharing rooms while on tour and cohabitating in every aspect of your lives. It was like a reward after enduring a long-distance relationship during your final year at Stanford. Instead of just talking on the phone and occasionally getting surprise visits from Patrick, you went everywhere together and supported each other at every match and tournament you attended.

The two of you had slipped into an easy routine. Having the same profession meant that you were constantly going to the same places, and it made travelling and sightseeing so much more special. After working hard for over two weeks at each tournament, exploring new cities with Patrick was the ideal way to wind down and relax. There was something incredibly special and romantic about doing every day of your life with him.

Your relationship had been grabbing headlines ever since the press caught on to the fact that you were together over a year ago, but the attention ramped up exponentially after you won Wimbledon.

What used to be short articles about an up-and-coming, attractive couple in the tennis world had snowballed into detailed timelines of your dates and public appearances with Patrick. Luckily, the public adored you, and there was very little criticism or negativity surrounding your relationship. Other players on the WTA and ATP tour often teased you about being real celebrities, pointing out how rare it was to win public favour as much as you and Patrick did.

Even though this shift was odd, and you had yet to get used to the constant eyes on you, there were perks to having your picture taken professionally every time you went on a date with your boyfriend. You had framed your favourite newspaper clipping, a beautiful picture of you kissing Patrick after winning Wimbledon, with the heading The Darlings of the Tennis World written above it in a large, bold font.

“Great,” Patrick drawled, blinking lazily as he wrapped his arms around you. His hands gravitated under your shirt to draw circles on the bare skin of your midriff, immediately sending butterflies to your stomach. “Which unlucky girl’s getting her ass handed to her while you beat her in straight sets?” he joked, knowing any match you played would end in a crushing defeat for the other player. 

“Actually…” you trailed off, sending him your best smile as Patrick drew his head back to meet your gaze. 

He observed your innocent expression with quizzical, unsure eyes. Even though you were giving him your sweetest look, there was something mischievous about the glint in your eyes. When realisation hit him, Patrick sighed and said, “I’m the unlucky girl, aren’t I?” His distraught tone made laughter bubble from your lips.

“Smart and handsome? I really hit the jackpot,” you teased, buttering him up with compliments so that he would agree more readily. “Come on, Pat, it’ll be fun!” 

“Oh yeah, really fun!” Patrick agreed sarcastically, matching your energetic tone. “Like how a lion treats a lamb during slaughter!”

You rolled your eyes, stifling your laughter at your boyfriend’s dramatics. “Don’t worry, pretty girl, I’ll go easy on you,” you said, imitating his voice and tone. He had never used those exact words about playing tennis, but Patrick’s tone was always thick with the same arrogant confidence. “Think about it! If you play against me, you’ll get to see that winning serve of mine up close and personal.”

“Excuse me, I’ve been on the opposing end of your winning serve plenty of times during practice,” Patrick defended. “I always knew you were better than me, gorgeous, but I don’t remember agreeing to public humiliation when we started dating!”

“Drama queen,” you accused. “It really will be fun! We’ll be mic’d up and we can talk and joke the entire time. It’s the best of three sets and it’ll be just like practising together. Come on, what do you say?” At Patrick’s uncertain expression, you sat up in bed and swung a leg over his lap to straddle him. The fire that instantaneously burned in his gaze made you smirk triumphantly. “I’ll be really grateful if you do it,” you said suggestively, placing your hands on his chest and grinning. “Pretty please?”

“Well, since you said pretty please,” Patrick joked, unable to keep the wide smile off his face when you tilted your head at him. “Sure. What’s one more event where everyone thinks you’re out of my league?”

Happily, you exclaimed, “That’s the spirit!” 

“Wait–” Patrick frowned when you got up from his lap and began scurrying around the room looking for your phone– “I thought you were going to show me how grateful you are?”

You snorted. “Nice try. You can have your reward after the exhibition match,” you declared, chuckling quietly.

“You drive a hard bargain,” Patrick complained.

“Don’t act like you don’t love the chase,” you retorted, winking as you texted Elora that you and Patrick were happy to participate in the exhibition match. 

From his place on your shared bed, Patrick rolled onto his stomach and observed you. It was hard to imagine that he had only known you for four years. Your participation in his life felt so insurmountably important that it was like he had known you his entire life. You had seamlessly woven yourself into the fabric of Patrick’s daily existence, shaping his world with a depth and significance that defied the brevity of time. 

Unlike Tashi and Art, Patrick realised early on that you were someone he should hold on to. His life before you had been filled with disappointment from his family, and Patrick recognised what a rarity you were. Having already lost you before when his relationships with Tashi and Art ended, Patrick knew losing you meant losing something irreplaceable. Your presence filled gaps he hadn’t noticed before he met you, making it obvious that you were someone worth cherishing. 

As you picked up a phone call from your coach, Patrick went on his laptop and checked how much money was in his savings account. He won enough matches to pay for plane tickets, tennis equipment, and other daily necessities, saving an immense amount of money because the fat cheque you got from Nike every month more than covered your shared accommodations. Over the last year, in particular, Patrick had started saving for something very special. 

An engagement ring.

As much as Patrick wanted you to have the very best, an engagement ring from Harry Winston or Bulgari just wasn’t within his budget. He was entitled to a family heirloom ring, but Patrick didn’t want to give you something from his family. Any engagement ring he chose had to represent you and your relationship with him, rather than the generations of unhappy, reluctant marriages his family seemed destined to repeat.

After carefully perusing different stores and comparing the cost and quality of various rings, Patrick found the perfect one at Cartier. It was simple and classic, exactly the style you had mentioned you preferred offhandedly on several occasions. To his surprise, it didn’t cost an arm and a leg, and he had almost saved enough to get you the exact ring he wanted you to have.

After Wimbledon, you noticed and commented on the fact that Patrick was training harder than ever. To you, it seemed like he was finally starting to take himself more seriously. Instead of coasting on his natural talent, Patrick began seeing your physical trainer with you and even quit smoking to improve his stamina. What you didn’t know was that he was doing all of this to increase his chances of winning more matches at the US Open, where a significant amount of prize money was on the line.

In Patrick’s mind, the more matches he won, the more money he could take home, and the nicer your engagement ring could be. 

“Hey, do you know what ring size you are?” Patrick asked as casually as he could when your phone call was over. “Jess got a bunch of rings that don’t fit her and she was wondering if you want them instead?”

“That’s so sweet, I can’t believe she thought of me,” you acknowledged, grinning. Ever since you met Patrick and his extended family last year, you were constantly invited to spend time with his cousins Jess and Alex. While Patrick wasn’t best friends with them, they were the closest family he had, so you had accepted several invitations over the past year. “I would love that, Jess has amazing taste in jewellery! Tell her I’m an eight in ring size, but I’ll squeeze into anything she wants to give me,” you joked, not thinking much of Patrick’s question. 

With shaking hands, Patrick sent a text with your ring size to the sales associate at the Cartier store in New York, who had been keeping him updated on when the exact ring he wanted was available. Once the US Open was over, all Patrick had to do was head to Manhattan and pick up the ring. It had taken him almost four months to find the perfect one for you, and then it was just a matter of winning enough prize money to afford it. As long as Patrick won two rounds at the US Open next week, he’d have enough to buy your engagement ring.

Then he would have to decide how and when to propose to you.

[sophie-hatter-jenkins]

Part 22: Free

A March 2025 Hinny Microfic for @ginnystrophyhusband using Prompt 5

927 words (some of which were written for the original @hinnymicrofic November 2023 prompt 'Run', thought I never actually finished it)

All the March prompts that I write will be set in the same universe as, and form a prequel to, this fic.

Fair warning - it's going to be fluffy!

This little series has ended up with a lot more actual story than I expected, so if you'd like a bit more context to what's actually going on here, you might want to...

Read them all from the beginning on AO3

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

It starts innocently enough, with a throwaway comment he makes while they’re snuggled up together on the sofa on Friday evening. The remains of their Indian takeaway lies abandoned on the coffee table in front of them, and Ginny’s already in her pyjamas, checked flannel things that are at least two sizes too big (“What? I like to be comfortable!”). His arm is slung around her shoulders, and her feet, encased in those ridiculous fluffy slippers she loves so much, are curled up underneath her. 

Ginny snorts with laughter. “Don’t be ridiculous, Harry!” 

Her response surprises him, though he isn’t sure whether it’s her laughter or her incredulity that’s the most perplexing. “Of course I could!”

Ginny wriggles out from underneath his arm and swings herself around to face him, leaning against the opposite arm of the sofa with her feet in his lap. “Harry. I’m a professional athlete. There is absolutely no way you could beat me in a race.”

Her tone is similar to the one that he uses when he’s explaining things to Teddy, which only entrenches his position further. “I didn’t mean on a broom. I meant on foot. You know, a running race,” he tells her, trying not to sound like he’s annoyed. Which he isn’t. Well, not really, anyway.

She shakes her head. “I know what you meant. You’re still being ridiculous.”

Okay, now he actually is a bit annoyed. “I don’t know why you think it’s so stupid. Aurors have to be fit too.”

Ginny smirks at him. “Look, I’m not doubting you’re fit.” She leans a little closer, one hand sliding under his t-shirt and across his stomach. “I mean, I of all people know exactly how fit you are.”

He shivers at her touch, but forces himself to reach down and removes her hand anyway. “Nice try, Weasley, but you can’t distract me that easily. I absolutely could beat you.”

She cocks an eyebrow. “Alright then. Prove it.”

And that, of course, sets a fire under Harry’s competitive side. It’s yet another thing that the two of them have in common, because Ginny isn’t about to back down either. This, then, is how they come to be standing on the beach the following morning at what Harry thinks is a perfectly reasonable hour, and what Ginny rather more colourfully describes as the arsecrack of dawn, dressed in workout gear and ready to race.

Harry’s not annoyed anymore because firstly, of course he’s going to win and secondly, he’s about to prove himself right. It’s almost a shame, because Ginny’s bum looks spectacular in the shorts she’s wearing and coming home first means he’ll miss out on the view, but needs must; sometimes it’s a trial being so selfless.

They squabble good-naturedly about the distance for a few minutes. He favours a sprint, she wants something longer, and he eventually, magnanimously, concedes, because it doesn’t really matter. He’s confident either way. Twice up and down the beach is about two kilometres, first one back to their gate’s the winner. He’s got it in the bag. 

They both start cagily, keeping pace with one another, neither prepared to show their hand too early, which gives Harry the opportunity to appreciate the moment. It isn’t an understatement to say that he adores running, and he especially adores running here, so it isn’t long before he starts to really enjoy himself. 

It’s a beautiful morning, with a light breeze coming off the Atlantic to temper the summer warmth. The tide is out, and the sand is hard-packed, that air has a fresh bite of salt that feels soothing to his lungs, and the clear blue sky seems to go on forever. 

When he runs here, Harry feels so free. It’s the closest he’s come to the feeling of flying with both feet still on the ground. As he eases into his running, he feels all the stress, all the worry, just melt away. He enters a calm, meditative space that is otherwise closed to him. 

It’s just about as zen as Harry ever gets, and there’s a part of him that thinks maybe it doesn’t matter who wins. That same part knows that whatever happens, he’s already won, just being here with Ginny. 

The rest of him, however, suddenly realises that she’s pulled away from him, apparently noticing and taking advantage of his distraction to kick on and open up a lead of about twenty metres. He’s so annoyed with himself that he doesn’t even dwell on the fact that he was right about how fabulous she looks from behind, and instead picks up the pace, determined to catch her. 

It is… way harder than he thought it would be. He has to dig so deep to reel her in, kicking so hard in a final sprint that even he thinks he might be taking this a bit too seriously. But he’s so close now, just a few more metres and then…

“Fuck!” spits Ginny, as Harry lunges for the gate, touching it just inches ahead of her. “My stupid short arms! I would have had you!”

“Yeah, you would,” he admits, bending at the waist as he catches his breath. “That was close!”

“I should have gone out harder. You only won because you and your bloody long legs outsprinted me!”

He grins up at her. “Guilty as charged, m’lady.” 

As he’s hoped, her irritated demeanour cracks and she leans back against the gate. “I’ll get you next time, Potter,” she warns him.

He has no doubt that she’s absolutely right.

[worksby-d]

What are you gonna do about that?

Pairing: Ari Levinson x girlfriend!Reader

Summary: Ari being the softest boyfriend and asking a v important question. 

Warnings: None 🤭

Word count: ~600

 ҉　 ҉　 ҉　 ҉　 ҉　 ҉　 ҉　

You’ve surely lost track of time by now. Between the serene sounds of the water and the slight breeze rustling the trees and grass, it’s easy to do. You purposely found the quietest part of the beach to ensure you could relax without interruption — Or so you thought.

Although your eyes are closed underneath your sunglasses, you can feel a large shadow approach and cast over you. It feels familiar… The size and the quiet footsteps as it gets closer.

Your inkling is proven right when it speaks – “You look pretty.”

He expected you to jump, but you let out a laugh. You’d know Ari’s voice anywhere, it would never scare you.

“I’m just laying here.”

His eyes continue to wander, taking the sight of you in – Your skin, albeit due to a sheen of sweat, looks like it’s glowing under the midday sun. 

“Well, you look pretty laid out in front of me,” he teases. 

If your eyes were open, you’d roll them. “Huh, that sounds familiar…” As if he hadn’t said the same thing to you last night in bed. 

“Can I lay here?” 

Peeking an eye open, you see him pointing to the spot next to you. Patting the sand, you give him a nod. 

“It’s too hot for you to touch me,” you warn, closing your eyes again. “I hope that’s not what you’re thinking.”

“Not at all,” he laughs, laying next to you, keeping space between your bodies because he agrees, especially regretting the fact he didn’t come prepared with a towel to lay on instead of the scorching sand. 

Nevertheless, he can’t resist being this close to you and not touching you. His hand inches closer to yours, giving himself away when his pinky brushes against yours. 

“Can I at least hold your hand?” He whispers.

With an exaggerated sigh, you happily take his hand. “I suppose that’s fine. How was your morning?”

“You know how my morning was,” he smirks, tilting his head to see if he’s gotten you to crack a smile at the thought of how he woke you up this morning and kept you in his bed longer than you had anticipated.

“After that, I mean,” you laugh, flustered thinking back to it.

“Well, you know…” He sighs, recounting the few mundane things he did. Working out, second shower… “Missed you a lot.”

“Whatever,” you chuckle softly, suppressing the huge smile you’d break into otherwise. 

“I mean it,” he promises, voice low and serious. You can sense him roll onto his side to face you. He gently rests his hand on your cheek to get you to turn your head and look at him. “I hate watching you leave to go back to your place each morning.”

“Uh-huh,” you hum slowly, following along but forcing yourself to not look excited in case you’re just getting your hopes up. “So, what are you gonna do about that?”

“I’m gonna ask you to move in with me,” he smiles. “Would you wanna move in with me?”

“Really?” You finally let yourself get giddy. 

“Yeah, really,” he laughs, leaning down to finally give you the kiss he’s been dying to give you. “So?”

“Of course,” you whisper, wrapping your arms around his neck to keep him where he is. “I love you so much.”

“You’re so sweaty,” he teases, cringing as he uses a corner of your towel to wipe your forehead before quickly giving you another kiss, not giving you the chance to call him the three-letter word that was going to follow your gasp. “But I love you, too.”

 ҉　 ҉　 ҉　 ҉　 ҉　 ҉　 ҉　

Tag list: @patzammit @denisemarieangelina @thummbelina @pppsssyyyccchhhiiiccc @astheskycries @chris-evans-indian-fanfic @la-cey @turtoix @katiew1973 @harrysthiccthighss @tvckerlance @rocketrhap3000 @mrspeacem1nusone @murdcox @geminievans1 @doozywoozy @americasass91 @dwights-new-plague @wwwmarissa92 @redhairedfeistynerd @whxre4cevans @aubreeskailynn @white-wolf1940 @melchills-j @xoxabs88xox @before-we-get-started @chrissquares @christowhore @ice-dtae @mariestark @justile @rogersbarber @dilfbarber @livstilinski @payperhearts @vintagestarlight @gitasor @chaeycunty @miss-ariella @bemysugarbean @t-stark35 @seitmai @reginaphalange2403 @raelorns21 @mrsgweasley @pandaxnienke

[gretavanlace]

Sugar II (part 5)

Jake Kiszka x reader

18+ only! Minors do not interact!

Warnings: graphic sexual content, unprotected sex, angst, language, dirty talk, digital penetration, etc etc.

So sorry for the wait…I’ve been so busy and I’m scatterbrained as it is. I love you all and appreciate your patience as always! My lovelies, you all own my heart ❤️ Oh, and Happy Thanksgiving, I’ll add my taglist tomorrow, I promise. Tonight, I’m tipsy and in a turkey coma. xoxo

It’s early when your heavy eyes reluctantly drift open. Quiet. Silent. Save for the serene, rhythmic push and pull of his soft breath against the nape of your neck. In and out, in and out, like a whispered incantation sent to lull you into his placid waters.

Morning light is threatening to steal the darkness away, inching its way into the room, casting a muted, purple glow against the wall. You snuggle in closer to him and watch the moon prepare to fight the battle it wages ceaselessly. It loses to the sun again and again, and this morning will be no different.

How you wish the moon could win just this once. How you loathe the sun for refusing its slumber. How dare it steal this night away from you? How dare it force you to face the gravity of this life you’ve built without him? Of choice? Of pain either way?

Jake has insisted on sending the others along, promising he won’t be far behind. That he’ll take a car, or catch a short flight…vowing to appear on stage for sound check - the prodigal son returning to whichever arena is next on the list.

You hadn’t needed to hear the opposite end of the conversation last night to know that Josh couldn’t have been happy about it…but, even after all this time, you still know them both well enough to know that Jake’s heels were dug in and that Josh - knowing this, too - wouldn’t fight him too viciously.

“You awake?” His voice, gorgeously gruff with sleep, hushes against your skin just before his lips find a place there with a delicate kiss.

A hum rasps out of you as you stroke your fingers down his forearm, not trusting yourself to speak over the lump pulsing in your throat.

If he understands the reason for your quiet, he doesn’t let on, “God, how fucking perfect is this? You smell so good.”

He trails off, nestling in against you as his arms tighten their hold, tucking you right in until you can feel the drum of his beautiful heart tapping a steady beat against your shoulder blade.

“Do you remember the first time we woke up next to each other?” His lips graze across your bare shoulder gingerly as he whispers to you, calming your mind with his soothing cadence.

“Yes,” how could you ever forget? “It was the morning you told me you loved me. Then we went downstairs and Josh shoveled pancakes onto our plates until we were sick.”

His hand disappears beneath the sheets to feather along your breast..tickling over your nipple until it pebbles, “That was a beautiful morning with my beautiful girl, but it wasn't the first.”

Confused, you sift through memories rapidly. So many of them, and so many of them him…flashes of his face, so stunning and serene in his devotion, his voice, his laugh. Darkened eyes devouring you from above, owning you like a deity you are hopeless to deny, his hands, his heart, his love.

Suddenly, there it is - crystal clear as the spring you had visited that long ago weekend. The memory brings a nostalgic smile playing across your lips. You had all been so young then. So naive of what was to come. Untouchable laughter echoing off trees that had been standing, solemn and still, long enough to know it wouldn’t last. “The UP…camping at Indian Lake. You forgot your tent when we were packing up, and Josh had the most fun making fun of you about it because—“

He interrupts with a spot on impression of his twin, “Who the fuck goes camping and forgets their tent? That’s like—“

You chime in as well, “Going to the vet without your dog.”

“I woke up beside you and I just…” he falls silent for a beat and then marches on with a shaky breath, “You were sleeping so peacefully, so sweetly, like an angel - and he was out there by the fire causing chaos and frying eggs. I laid there beside you and pretended you were mine. Made up a little life for us in my head. We had three girls and a cat who sunbathed at their feet during tea parties in the backyard. They looked just like you. I loved you, and you loved me back.”

“Tell me more.” You urge so softly, you’ve hardly made a sound. “Tell me about our life.”

He cuddles in closer, cheek nuzzling into your tangled hair. “I buy you the most beautiful house you’ve ever seen. And it has a great big covered porch where we like to sit in the evenings. We hold hands on the swing and watch the girls make up elaborate games with the fireflies. Our youngest is the bossiest, and you say she reminds you of Josh. There’s a place in the side yard. I leveled it out just after we moved in so you could plant a garden, and I help you harvest tomatoes in the evenings because you always plant too many.”

“I do not plant too many,” your laugh is gentle, wistful. “I make salsa for your stupid brothers.”

“Yes,” he agrees, nodding along as he continues stroking over your chest, abandoning your breast for the thrum of your heart beneath his palm. “You make salsa for my stupid brothers. The girls complain and bargain for time when we tell them it’s time for baths, but you step in and order them inside because I can’t tell them no.”

“You’re no help at all.” You sigh, sinking into the soft domesticity of the picture he is painting just for you.

“Yes, I am.” He argues, kissing along your jaw. “I help with baths, and then I play them all the prettiest songs I’ve ever written for you until their eyes are hazy enough to drift away. And then I hold your hand some more down the hall, and I close our bedroom door, and I lay you down and remind you of how much I love you until you sound like all those pretty songs I’ve written for you.”

“Yeah?” You can’t help the girlish giggle that floats off your tongue. He turns you into liquid bliss so effortlessly, speaking to you like a lullaby until warm, worshipful devotion swells in your chest, leaving room for nothing but Jake.

“Yeah.” His tongue travels over the shell of your ear as he breathes promises into it, twisting and tightening your belly way down deep “And sometimes I remind you slow and sweet…sometimes I hold you like bone china and move gently, and softly, until you’re shaking and fluttering around me, all silk and velvet walls like flower petals. And other times, I give it to you nasty. Fuck you filthy, and dirty, and hard so you’ll remember who my pretty little fuck doll is…and you take my cock like a whore with my hand over your mouth so you don’t wake the neighbors.”

His touch remains far too innocent for the words dripping from his lips like salacious prayers. It’s still playing softly over your heart - perhaps just to feel the quickening of its beats, perhaps just because he has missed it so.

“Touch me.” you shiver as the plea rolls off your tongue, anticipating the way he will give into you, and the way it will feel when he does.

“I am touching you.” He’s burying his face in your hair, breathing you in, filling his lungs with everything he has missed so desperately.

“Don’t tease me.” There’s a pout edging its way into your tone, and he is positively weak for it. He’d like to think that you have never sounded this way for anyone else. He’d like to believe that he has never heard you sound this way…that you have never begged for him with such soft urgency on your tongue.

“Shh, sugar,” he soothes, and the way it slows your pulse like a drug…well, you can almost believe that nothing has ever been wrong with your world. You can almost believe that you’ve lived all of your lifetimes here in this room with him, wrapped up in the sheets, safe and so, so loved. “you know I’m gonna take care of my girl. You just close your eyes, baby, alright? Just close your eyes.”

Your eyes flutter shut as though he has willed them so, and then his fingers are winding the gentlest trail down your body, slipping like hot silk down your stomach, and then to your thigh to pull it to the side, opening you up for him.

“I think about this all the time.” he confesses, sweeping his fingertips against your entrance and then over your clit once his touch is slick and warm. “Lying with you. Talking with you in bed the way we used to. Feeling your hair tickle my cheek. Watching you sigh for me, wet and aching for me, for what I can give you…nobody else.”

“Nobody else, Jake,” you nod feverishly as he begins drawing delicate circles over your swollen clit. “Nobody else.”

“Do you think about me, too?” his mouth hovers over your pulse, tracing an S for his sugar against it. “When you’re all alone?”

His touch is picking up in pace, those goddamed fingers of his that seem to somehow vibrate, they know every inch of you…how to touch you. How to take you apart. How to play you. You are his favorite instrument.

“Yes,” it stutters out of you, inarticulate and clumsily, but he loves it all the more for it.

“Yeah?” there it is, that smug air in his tone that makes your entire body throb with want. “Does my sweet little girl touch herself when no one is around to see? Does my sugar call my name when she slips her hand between these pretty thighs?”

“Jake, please…” your grip has found its way around his wrist, tight and sure, to keep his hand where you so badly need it.

“Stop begging, baby,” he croons, pressing kisses against your temple, “I’m gonna take care of you. I’m gonna make you feel good. Gonna make you cum, soft and gentle, ‘cause you’re my beautiful fucking girl. And then you’re going to ride my cock filthy, fuck doll.”

A sound that you ought to be ashamed of claws its way out of your chest, feral and furious in your need as you rock your hips into his hand. His pace never falters, never varies, as he whispers praise and vulgarities into your ear, skilled fingers swirling and swirling and swirling over your clit until you’re right fucking there.

“Come on, pretty girl…” more kisses to your temple as adulation tumbles from his lips endlessly. “Give it to me, sugar, give it to me.”

It spreads itself out in your body like a heavy swallow of red wine. unfurling inside you like euphoric heat, curling your toes and prickling your scalp as it trips up your spine. It’s so delicate and light, his touch like a feather against your clit as it trembles and twitches…and just like always, he knows, and works you through it softly, gingerly, reverently, until the tide pulls back.

“You made a mess, baby.” he teases, whispering into the crook of your neck with a smile on his lips and his fingers now curling across the pillow of his tongue.

“Whose fault is that?” you pant back, working hard to chase down your breath.

“I’ll own making a mess of your pretty cunt any day, sweetheart…any fucking day.”

You roll your eyes without much conviction, for you adore his obscene prose “Poetic.”

He rolls onto his back, tugging you along for the ride until you are perched above and straddling him.

He looks like a fallen, arcane angel beneath you, with his hair snarled and knotted against the pillow, eyes clouded with lust and darkened with blown pupils, lips pink and tumid - parted and pretty.

“You’re beautiful.” you shake your head in wonder. He is exquisite. Ethereal. Flawless. Precious.

He shakes his head right back, cupping your cheek, “You’re beautiful. My beautiful, beautiful sugar. I have loved you forever and I will love you always.”

With your cheeks heating under his awestruck scrutiny, you bite down on your lip coyly…you haven’t forgotten that he likes a hint of innocence now and then. “Did I hear you mention something about riding your cock filthy, Jakey? Or did I misunderstand?”

His palm is wrapped around your throat in a breath, pulling your mouth down to his. He licks against your tongue with a menacing hum. “You wanna ride my cock, baby? You wanna fuck me dirty while I lie back and watch you do all the work like my good little girl?”

A shiver shimmies your shoulders as your gaze flutters away abashedly, inexplicably shy.

“Aw,” it isn’t taunting, he sounds genuinely starstruck by the bashful blush coloring the apples of your cheeks. “Look at my sweetheart. Does it still make you a little soft when I tell you what a good girl you are for me? You like that?”

You nod, and this time, when your teeth sink into your bottom lip, it isn’t contrived.

“I know, sugar…” he pets at your face like you’re fragile, made of glass and dear to his heart. “It always has. You are, you know? You’re my very good girl and I love you more than anything in this whole fucking world. Nothing even comes close.”

Emboldened and driven half crazy by the love he is wringing from his heart, you rise up on your knees and issue an order, which doesn’t make you a very good girl at all. “Put it in.”

A huff of wanton breath escapes him, and then, with one hand wrapped around his thick cock, and the other digging into your hip, he pulls you down and buries himself inside you.

“Oh fuck, sweetheart…” it’s a hitching groan that rattles in his chest. “Look at you, wrapped up sweet and pink around me. Pretty as a picture, aren’t you, baby? Taking this cock. So fucking tight. You feel so good.”

“Yeah,” you can’t manage much else as your nails dig into his chest for purchase, head tipping back as you begin to ride him fast and hard, forgoing an easy lead up…you need him too badly.

His tip, so thick and perfect, begins spoiling over the sweetest spot inside you when he angles your hips…knocking against it until the air is punching from your lungs with every downward swivel of your hips.

“That’s the spot right there, isn’t it, sugar?” he voice, rasping and strangled with pleasure drags you closer and closer. “Right there, huh? That’s where my girl needs my cock…right fucking there.”

“Yes! Right there…” you repeat, blathering on with your hands on your own tits, twisting and tugging at your nipples as your thighs burn and scream for mercy you don’t care to give them. “Right there right there right there…”

“Yeah? You want it right there?” his thumb drops to your clit as he drinks you in, savoring you as you work yourself into a frenzy above him. “You take it right there, pretty girl…you just fucking take it.”

You can feel him twitching and straining inside your clenching cunt, and you know desperate little spurts of precum must be steadily leaking from his cock…the thought only serves to make you coil around him even more viciously.

“Sugar,” there’s a frantic edge coloring his tone now. He’s close. “Please, baby…you’re squeezing me…so fucking…fuck, fuck…ease up, sweetheart, please. Relax that sweet little cunt for me. Baby, baby, baby…” he thrashes his head back and forth against the pillow, brow furrowed and tipped up as though he is anguished.

“No.” you’re wild and panting, sweating and clawing at his chest with unhinged need. “I’m gonna cum.”

“Oh god…” it hushes out of him, winded and ragged, like he’s afraid he won’t make it long enough to get you there. “C’mon, pretty girl, come on. Right on my cock. Soak it, sweetheart. I want you all fucking over me.”

“Fuck me back,” you’re clutching at his shoulders now, scrambling for purchase against his drenched, glistening skin. “Hard. Fuck me back.”

His hips begin driving up to meet you, hard and fast, slamming his cock into you over and over through gritted teeth and gutteral grunts of pleasure and agony as he fights his own release.

Arms up suddenly, he curls them violently around your shoulders, holding you still against his lap as best he can, but you continue to grind into him, working yourself back and forth over his cock, chasing and chasing and chasing that end you so badly need.

“Hold fucking still,” grits out through clenched teeth as your lips press and sway against his sweating forehead, “I’m gonna cum, sugar. Don’t move, don’t move!”

His palm lands hard against your ass in punishment for your disobedience, gripping and pulling at it, but it merely spurs you on.

“You said you wanted me to ride your cock filthy,” your words are airy puffs of taunting breath. “so fucking take it Jakey, take it.”

He doubles over into you, burying his face between your breasts and crying out into their rounded softness as he lets go inside you, painting you warm and wetter than you already were…biting and sucking, consuming you as if he wants to swallow you whole.

It’s your name, whimpering and keening out of him like a psalm that sends you tumbling along right behind him with a gushing pulse and a shaking inward pull of breath that exhales with his name to match your own still lingering on his lips.

A strange calm finds you both as you struggle to breathe wrapped up tight and tangled together in the ruined sheets and humid air. But it is a familiar calm…one that so often crept in between the two of you after you had lost yourselves the way you’ve just lost yourselves.

“No one,” his fingers tap down your spine and linger in the dimples that grace the base, “could ever make me feel the way you make me feel, sugar. No one. Ever.”

“Jake.” you sigh, and he hears a thousand words inside it.

“I know, baby.” he’s stroking through your hair now, pacifying you so all of that feverish energy will seep from your veins gently. “I know.”

~

The sun has bullied its way into the sky fully, washcloth he so lovingly swept over you now rinsed and folded over the bathroom sink, glass of water he carried in, sipped at and now lazily dripping condensation onto the nightstand.

Top sheet pulled over the fitted sheet in a half-hearted attempt to rectify the wrongs inflicted towards the bed, your bodies are twisted up below the soft, generic duvet.

“You’re going to leave, aren’t you?” He whispers, tracing his fingers along the bridge of your nose. “I can feel it.”

“What happens now, Jake?’ You stroke his nose right back. “I’m just going to walk away from my life and follow you around the world? Like nothing ever happened?”

“Yes.” He says it like it could all be just that easy, and how you wish that were so.

“It doesn’t work that way.” He’s a dreamer. Always has been.

“So, tell me how it works then, sugar.” He pulls you into a blink of a kiss. “You go back to him, and I go back to misery and that’s it for you and I? We wake up every morning for the rest of our lives wishing things were different? Aching for each other? You tell me how that makes fucking sense.”

“Because this is real life, Jake.” Do you even believe your own bullshit? You have to, right? “This isn’t some pretty little story you’re telling. We aren’t picking tomatoes in the garden.”

God, how you hate yourself.

“We could be though.” His promises would be so lovely to slip away into…if only it could be that simple. It’s as if he can read your mind when he says, “It could be so simple, sugar. None of this other shit matters. We matter.”

He can’t be argued with, so instead, you simply nestle your cheek against his chest and linger in this time you have left with him.

“Will you at least leave me your number before you go? So I can call to say hello every once in a while?”

He’s giving in far too easily. He’s lying. You know he is, and he knows it just as well. He isn’t going away, and he doesn’t plan on giving up.

He has decided to stand his ground this time around. This time, for you, he has decided to fight…

and god help anyone who tries to stand in his way.

Taglist: @gretasintrees @greta-van-chaos @celestialfauna @s0livagant @groggyvanfleet @kiszkathecook @brokenbellz @llightmyllovee @doodle417 @seventieswhore @jake-kiszkas-smirk @weightofdreams-gvf @imdepressedaf1996 @alisonwonderland29 @gretavanfleas @gretavangroove @sparrowofthedawn @xserenax-13 @tbagggvf @obetrolncocktails @jakeslovehandles @poofyloofy @70sgroupielovr @heatmyfleet @age-of-nyahh @sammiboo162 @gretasmokerising @spicedandicedtea @jakekiszkasleftnutsack @saoirsemaeve @mywickeddivinity @thelvnternskeeper @paintmyhouse @tripthelightfandomtastic @tripthelight-fanfic @mckenna4 @sarakay-gvf @theweightofjake @jakesgrapejuice @thewritingbeforesunrise @joshsmama @sammysvanfeet @rhythm-of-space @highladyofasgard @jordie-gvf-admin @calumspretty @sad1lynn @demolitionndann @gvfpal @starcatcher-jake

[whencyclopedia]

Battle of Queenston Heights

The Battle of Queenston Heights (13 October 1812) was a major battle in the War of 1812. A US army, under General Stephen Van Rensselaer, crossed the Niagara River in an attempted invasion of Canada but was repulsed by a British, Canadian, and Mohawk force. The British victory came at the cost of General Isaac Brock, killed in the fighting.

Death of General Brock at Queenston Heights

John David Kelly (Public Domain)

Background: Fall of Detroit

In late June 1812, shortly after the United States had issued its declaration of war against the United Kingdom, the US began preparing for an invasion of British-controlled Canada. Ostensibly, the purpose of the invasion was to deprive Britain of a staging ground from where they could launch their own attack into US territory. But many of the 'War Hawks' – as the prowar faction in Congress was called – envisaged a more permanent outcome, believing that the invasion would result in Canada finally joining the Union. The annexation of Canada would greatly increase the United States' dominion over North America and would, in the words of one war-hungry congressman, "drive the British from our continent" (Berton, 98).

The invasion was to be four-pronged. Brigadier General William Hull, sitting with his 2,500-man army at Fort Detroit, would lead the first thrust, crossing over the Detroit River into Upper Canada (modern-day Southern Ontario). He would be followed by Major General Stephen Van Rensselaer, who would cross the Niagara River to capture Queenston, and by Major General Henry Dearborn, who would sail up Lake Champlain to capture Montreal, while a fourth US army crossed the St. Lawrence River to wreak havoc in Ontario. Most Americans believed it would be an easy campaign, that the Canadians, oppressed by the tyranny of British rule, would welcome their southern brethren with open arms. As former President Thomas Jefferson predicted, the invasion was expected to be nothing more than "a mere matter of marching" (Wood, 677).

But of course, it would not be so easy. General Hull began his invasion on 12 July, crossing over the Detroit River and establishing a base of operations at the small town of Sandwich, where he issued a proclamation calling on all Canadians to either join him or remain neutral. But Hull soon lost his nerve; deathly afraid of Native Americans, he was disturbed by reports of more Indigenous nations joining the British side and, moreover, feared that the arrival of enemy reinforcements could cut him off from US territory. On 8 August, after nearly a month of dithering on Canadian soil, he retreated to Detroit, where he was soon besieged by an Anglo-Indian force under Major General Isaac Brock and the great Shawnee chieftain Tecumseh. Brock and Tecumseh utilized psychological warfare to convince Hull that their army was larger than it really was, leading the American general to surrender both his army and Detroit without a fight on 16 August. The Siege of Detroit not only thwarted the first part of the US invasion but also left the British in control of the entire Michigan Territory.

Hull was widely castigated for his defeat – indeed, he would later be court-martialed and sentenced to death, before the sentence was commuted to dismissal from the army. But he had at least set foot on Canadian territory, which was more than can be said about his counterparts. General Van Rensselaer had tried, but he did not have the necessary supplies or reinforcements to mount a successful crossing; what militia forces he did have refused to cross the Niagara, arguing that they were merely a defensive force and were not obliged to fight outside the United States. General Dearborn, likewise, was stuck at Albany, New York, unable to fill the enlistment quotas needed for an attack. "We have as yet a shadow of a regular force," his second-in-command would write, "inferior, even in numbers, to half of what the enemy already has in the field" (Taylor, 182). Dearborn was therefore relieved when, on 9 August, a British major arrived at his camp to offer an armistice. Dearborn readily accepted before passing along news of the armistice to President James Madison for his approval and instructing Van Rensselaer, his subordinate, to do nothing that might provoke the British. The invasion had, therefore, completely failed, leaving the US in a worse position as the armistice settled over the Niagara frontier.

Continue reading...

[gothicxreylover]

I just got an idea for a request. Yandere hashira plus kanao and Aoi and tengens wives with a foreign reader who was requested to come to Japan to slay demons by the master, except this reader isn’t a human, instead they are a naga, a mythological snake human hybrid creature from Indian mythology that protects humans from demons…additionally this readers body I built with a human upper half and snake lower half with their snake half being long enough to completely wrap up 10 people. Please and thank you

The Serpent Protector of Japan

Summary:

Summoned by the Master of the Demon Slayer Corps, a naga—a revered, mythological creature from India—enters the world of the Hashira. The naga’s duty to protect humans from demons aligns perfectly with the Corps’ mission, but their presence sparks a whirlwind of fascination, jealousy, and obsession among some of the Hashira and close allies.

The Arrival

The foreign naga arrives at the Demon Slayer Corps estate, their shimmering serpent tail gliding gracefully along the stone pathway. Their upper half is undeniably human—strong arms, a regal posture, and a face that radiates wisdom and authority. The lower half, however, is a strikingly long, iridescent snake body, coiled elegantly yet with enough force to crack stone if necessary.

The Hashira are gathered, the Master’s instructions to meet this “foreign protector�� piquing everyone’s curiosity.

As they step forward, the naga greets them with a deep, melodic voice. “I am [Name]. Your Master has called for my assistance to protect humanity from demons. My kind has fought these creatures for centuries.”

• Shinobu Kocho: The Insect Hashira’s calm demeanor hides a rapidly growing obsession. She’s fascinated by the naga’s physiology and abilities, her eyes gleaming with curiosity. “Such a unique creature… I must study you. For science, of course,” she says sweetly, but her thoughts are far from innocent. She becomes possessive, often requesting the naga’s presence in her laboratory under the guise of research.

• Sanemi Shinazugawa: The Wind Hashira tries to keep his distance, masking his obsession with sharp words and disdainful glares. However, he finds himself drawn to the naga’s unmatched strength and grace. He secretly follows them during missions, his heart racing every time he sees them in action.

• Mitsuri Kanroji: The Love Hashira is immediately smitten. “You’re so beautiful!” she exclaims, her eyes sparkling as she admires their majestic form. Her feelings quickly evolve into a deep infatuation, and she’s often found clinging to the naga, offering them handmade snacks and shy confessions of admiration.

• Muichiro Tokito: The Mist Hashira is quiet but intensely possessive. He’s intrigued by the naga’s enigmatic aura and often stares at them with an unreadable expression. His obsession manifests in subtle ways—he ensures no one else gets too close, often stepping in with a blank stare when someone tries.

• Tengen Uzui and His Wives: The flamboyant Sound Hashira and his three wives are captivated by the naga’s exotic beauty and power. Suma, Makio, and Hinatsuru each develop their own unique obsession. Suma is clingy and overly emotional, often wrapping herself around the naga’s human half. Makio is fiercely competitive, constantly challenging the naga to sparring matches to impress them. Hinatsuru, the calmest, uses her subtle charm to stay close, often offering to bandage wounds or prepare meals. Tengen himself finds their presence “flamboyant” enough to constantly praise, though his wives’ obsession soon stirs jealousy even in him.

• Kanao Tsuyuri: At first shy and reserved, Kanao watches the naga from afar. Her fascination grows into an intense attachment as she begins to mimic their movements and techniques. She secretly follows them on missions, ensuring their safety without revealing herself.

• Aoi Kanzaki: Though initially annoyed at the attention the naga receives, Aoi can’t help but be drawn to their protective nature. Her feelings shift from irritation to quiet longing, and she finds excuses to be around them, such as offering tea or helping with injuries.

Gyomei Himejima: The Stone Hashira is initially calm and reverent upon meeting the naga. He’s deeply respectful of their divine origins, often clasping his prayer beads and murmuring prayers in their presence. However, his admiration gradually twists into obsession. Gyomei begins offering prayers for the naga’s safety every day, becoming fiercely protective of them. He refuses to let them out of his sight during missions, insisting that it’s his duty to shield them from harm. “You are a gift to this world,” he says in a soft yet firm tone. “I will not allow anything, mortal or demon, to taint your purity.”

Giyuu Tomioka: The Water Hashira’s aloof demeanor hides a deep and growing infatuation with the naga. He’s mesmerized by their grace and power, though he struggles to express his feelings openly. Instead, he shows his obsession through actions, such as silently standing guard outside their quarters or leaving small, thoughtful gifts—a polished stone, a rare flower, or a perfectly prepared meal. When others try to approach the naga, Giyuu’s quiet nature turns icy. His piercing glare and clipped words are enough to make most back off. “You should leave. They don’t need you here,” he says, his tone calm but laced with menace. Despite his possessiveness, Giyuu’s subtle, protective gestures eventually make the naga take notice, though his inability to confess his feelings keeps them in the dark about the depth of his obsession.

Kyojuro Rengoku: The Flame Hashira’s fiery personality pairs with an equally intense obsession. From the moment he meets the naga, he’s completely enthralled by their presence. “You are magnificent!” he exclaims with his usual exuberance. “A being of legend, here to protect us all! I am honored to fight alongside you!” Rengoku’s admiration quickly turns into a burning obsession. He becomes the naga’s most vocal admirer, constantly praising them in front of others and insisting that they’re destined to fight together. His bright, cheerful demeanor hides a jealous streak—he becomes visibly irritated when others monopolize the naga’s attention.

Obanai Iguro: The Serpent Hashira is deeply intrigued by the naga from the moment they meet. The connection between his serpent motif and their snake-like lower half feels almost fated to him. However, his fascination quickly spirals into possessiveness.Obanai sees the naga as a kindred spirit and believes that only he can truly understand them. “We are alike,” he says one day, his mismatched eyes boring into theirs. “No one else could ever comprehend what it’s like to be seen as something other.” His jealousy is fierce, and he often uses his snake, Kaburamaru, to keep tabs on the naga. If someone else gets too close, Kaburamaru “accidentally” slithers into their path, disrupting their interactions. Despite his reserved nature, Obanai becomes more daring over time, often pulling the naga aside for private conversations. He speaks in a low, intimate tone, his words dripping with both admiration and a subtle warning: “You don’t need anyone else. They don’t understand you like I do.”

[bailesu]

The Beginning of the American Revolution

Today (April 18, 2025) is the 250th anniversary of the start of the American Revolution.

Tea Act of 1773—Allowed the importation of duty-free tea to Boston, gave a monopoly to the British East India Company

This lead to the Boston Tea Party, December 16, 1773. Colonists organized by men like Samuel Adams stormed the harbor disguised as Indians, seized the tea, and threw it into the harbor. This destroyed 342 chests ---10,000 pounds worth of tea. (roughly 588,600 dollars in 2007 dollars)

This led to the Intolerable Acts:

Boston Port Act closed Boston until the British East India Company was compensated for its lost tea.

Administration of Justice Act: Magistrates charged with crimes connected to their enforcement of British laws or suppressing riots would be tried in England; witnesses also had to be brought to England but would be compensated for expenses.

Massachusetts Government Act: The executive council was now appointed by the King, not elected by the people. Further, many civil offices (most importantly the law-enforcing Sheriffs) were now appointed by the governor. Town meetings could only happen once a year unless the Governor approved the meeting.

General Gage became governor of Massachusetts.

Quartering Act: Forced local communities to find spaces for soldiers to be housed at their expense.

Quebec Act: Enlarged the size of Quebec, created a no-assembly government with non-jury trials and full rights for Catholics.

Before the Shot Heard Round the World

First Continental Congress: This all led to the summoning of the FCC. 55 delegates from all colonies but Georgia. Sept. 5 to October 26, 1774.

Suffolk Resolves: Endorsed by the FCC. They called for the people to arm, general economic sanctions vs. Britain, and denounced the Coercive Acts.

Continental Association: Created to organize and enforce sanctions. Imports would be cut off after Dec. 1, 1774.

Whigs vs. Tories: Only a minority was ready to take up arms against Britain; most just wanted redress of grievances. But the Whigs, who counseled resistance of some kind, won out over Tories, who did not care about the fate of Massachusetts.

Massachusetts in Discord: After being appointed governor, General Gage dissolves the Massachusetts legislature. It defies him, forming the Committee of Safety to serve as executive in his place. Some communities form the Minute Men to be ready for war.

Lines are Drawn: In the winter of 1774-5, Whig organizations prepare for conflict, while Tories strive desperately to prevent it. The Whigs tend to be more effective and take control of the state governments, shutting Tories out of power.

Too Little, Too Late: Parliament resolves that Massachusetts is in rebellion, but also offers the Conciliatory Proposition: the colonies will not be taxed if they will voluntarily contribute to the Imperial coffers. It is too late to satisfy the Whigs (those Americans who support armed resistance to British demands, if not necessarily yet calling for Independence.).

April 18-19th, 1775: On the night of April 18, 700 British Regulars commanded by Lieutenant Colonel Francis Smith were ordered to march by night on Concord, Massachusetts to seize guns, cannon, and ammunition being stockpiled in Concord by the Committee of Safety. They also were under orders to seize John Hancock and Sam Adams, who had fled Boston to Lexington. Unfortunately for the British, Patriot spies were watching and sent riders to swarm through the night and warn everyone. Paul Revere, a pewtersmith of Boston, happens by chance to get the route to Concord and thus becomes a Revolutionary War hero. At Lexington, early in the morning, there is a brief dust-up between the British and local Minute Men. 18 Americans are killed or wounded. This marks the beginning of the American Revolution. Hancock and Adams, forewarned, had already fled. By the time the British reached Concord, the supplies had mostly been evacuated from the Concord Armory and the British rear guard came under fire. A huge swarm of militia now boiled out of the woods and farms and harassed the British with periodic attacks along the road home. A 1000 man rescue column had to come to their aid to avoid disaster. “By the time the column reached safety, 273 British soldiers were dead, wounded, or missing. The 4,000 Americans who had shot at them along the way suffered nearly 100 casualties.” (Give Me Liberty p. 142.) Thousands of militia now descended on Boston, placing it under siege. (The British initially had 4,000 men in Boston.)

[manasastuff-blog]

Indian Navy SSR Medical Assistant Syllabus#ssr#navy#trending#viral#syllabus

Welcome to our channel! In this video, we dive deep into the comprehensive syllabus for the Indian Navy SSR ( Secondary Recruit) Medical Assistant position Join us at Man Defence Academy, where are proud to top-notch training programs specifically for aspirants to excel in the Navy.

Our instructors will guide you through each segment of the syllabus covering the medical assistant exam. basic medical knowledge and fitness to understand the duties and responsibilities of a Navy Medical Assistant, and ensure every aspect is explained and understood.

Call: 77997 99221 Web: www.manasadefenceacademy.com

[sapphirerogers]

মনের মানুষ - Soulmate

[Steve Rogers x Indian!bengali!GN!reader

Summary: your heart is aching for a home that no longer exists. Steve finds you in the middle of emotional turmoil.

Warning: homesickness, childhood trauma if you squint, mention of political disturbance, fluff, cursing, Steve being an absolute sweetheart, Steve also getting the feels]

After the third round of knocking incessantly at your bedroom door, Steve huffed. He didn't want to intrude, in case you weren't decent or something.

"Sorry y/n," he muttered before twisting the handle, fully expecting to find it closed, unyielding.

His eyes widened, first in mild surprise at the ease with which he'd made it in: no locked doors. Then in shock, since his favourite person - you - was currently curled up on the floor, facing the sunset. Knees pulled up to your chest and tears streaming down your face as you whimpered softly now and then.

The next emotion was confusion at the music playing in the room - something that sounded like a folk song sung by a gravelly male voice in a language he didn't understand. However, he'd heard you speak or sing in it to yourself enough to know it was Bengali.

He joined you on the floor, quietly tapping your arm.

You turned your head to look at him, making no effort to wipe away the salty moisture on your cheeks. "I miss home."

Three words. Just three words from you tugged violently on his heart-strings, making him scoot closer and wrap his arms around you, pulling you closer. You let him engulf you, finding comfort in him.

He didn't bother asking any questions. He knew the answers. Unfair elections and totalitarian practices had completely destroyed the political opposition in India five years ago. You'd watched democracy fall apart slowly but surely within fifteen years. Your beloved state of West Bengal, safe from the ruling party till then, had been overpowered too.

You'd run. You'd wished you could stay and do something, be a patriot, but you'd run. Forced yourself to throw yourself and your best efforts into medical school, even if your heart had ached for a different subject instead. You'd clenched your jaw and survived five years of suffocating dictatorship (nobody ever called it that but that's what it was) and communal riots. Then, the moment you'd graduated, you'd packed your things and left your homeland for a stable future.

You hadn't taken anyone with you. Your family wasn't the best and you'd made the decision to go no contact with them while still in high school. You'd lied to them about where you would be living, promised them you'd call. At the airport, just before boarding, you'd sent your mother the final text you'd silently prepared beforehand, listing everything she'd done wrong and refused to make up for and why you felt wronged. You'd apologised for being so harsh, and for abandoning them, but explained that you needed to protect yourself and you couldn't do it while staying with them. Then you'd thrown away your phone.

It was for the best, for your best, but you still missed the carefree life of your early years. Carefree, not in the sense that you weren't being hurt over and over, but carefree in the sense that you were naïve enough not to realise you were being hurt. You were alone in this new environment. Yes, you'd found friends, you'd found Steve. But a part of you still felt lonely.

Steve knew all of this. He'd held you close the day you poured all of it out. And he held you close now as the homesickness returned.

"I'm a fucking coward," you sniffle. "I should've stayed and tried to fight. Spoken up. Done something. Said something. Anything. I didn't even try. Like a selfish bitch."

He pressed a kiss to your head, stroking your hair and shushing you. He'd save that conversation for later. Right now you didn't need a response from him, you needed to let your feelings out. He'd always be here to wipe your tears away and get you back on your feet.

You hugged him tighter, and he pulled you into his lap, leaning against the bed as he closed his eyes, focusing on the song playing on loop.

Weirdly, it felt like home. Nevermind that he understood nothing. There was something earthen and rustic about the song and its ambience, something that called to him. He thought of his mother. A little voice in him said she'd love this music too. He felt his own eyes water as well, and blinked to prevent them from spilling.

You turned in his arms a little so now your back was to his chest, and you both watched the sun go down in silence.

When you'd calmed down, he brought one of your hands up to his lips. "Do you feel like going out and getting some ice cream? Or brownies?"

You giggled - despite the surge of emotions earlier. "I'd love that. Thank you," you met his calm and loving eyes, genuine gratitude in your own.

"Of course, honey."

Minutes later, as you held on to him from behind while his motorcycle wove in and out of traffic, you felt some of the weight lifting off your chest. Life had been rough, but it was better now. You were better now. Safe and loved. You'd be okay, right?

You rubbed his arm softly. He found your hand and squeezed it three times at a red light.

Yeah, you'd be okay.

[AN: This is the direct product of me being homesick, while sitting in my hometown, and being terrified for the future. Steve is my comfort character so I wrote this solely to calm myself; this is the most self-indulgent piece I've ever written. I know most of you won't relate to this much, but I hope that for once, you can put yourself in my place and at least try to understand the emotions in this fic rather than agonise over the details which don't apply to you.

AN 2: India is quasi-federal in structural, meaning while there is a Prime Minister to govern the entire country, every state also has their individual Chief Minister and Cabinet of Ministers for the affairs of said state. The party in power at the Centre isn't always the ruling party in every state. West Bengal is one of such states where the part in power is different from the one at the Centre...so far.

Current affairs in the country are really bad. Abuse of legislation, silencing the national press, completely altering the Constitution, bribing the judiciary, rigging the polls - it's all happening. It's bad enough that the UN and even other countries have criticised the central administration here. This fic is me being super scared that what I mentioned here will actually happen. Elections are this month, and like many other civilians, I'm desperately praying it doesn't take a turn for the worse.

AN 3: The song linked above is the inspiration for the title. মনের মানুষ (moner manush) translates to "soulmate". It is one of the most popular Baul songs. Baul are a category of Bengali folk songs which have double meanings. Most songs, at first listen, appear to be aimed at a lover, however, they can also be meant for God. It depends on how you wish to interpret them. They're a highly respected part of Bengali heritage and can be easily identified by the sound of the ektara in the instrumental, a one stringed musical instrument.]

Tagging my desi friends:

@mainly-marvel @slut-for-henry-cavill @averageambivert

[newspatron]

Conquer the Battlefield: Your Ultimate Guide to NDA Exams

Unleash your inner warrior! Share your NDA exam dreams, questions, and tips in the comments below!

Step onto the Battlefield of Dreams: Cracking the NDA Exam with Confidence Ever dreamt of donning the olive green, of soaring amidst the clouds, or commanding the vast canvas of the ocean? The National Defence Academy ( NDA exam ) could be your gateway to transforming these dreams into reality. But conquering this coveted path demands not just unwavering ambition, but also a strategic roadmap…

[sivavakkiyar]

Speaking of which! (NDTV article):

New Delhi is preparing a grand welcome for all the South Asian leaders who will attend Prime Minister Narendra Modi's swearing-in ceremony on Sunday. PM Modi will take oath for a record third term on Sunday, and several heads of state will attend the ceremony, including Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu.

Relations between India and Maldives have deteriorated since Muizzu assumed office in November last year. During his election campaign, he often criticised India and demanded a complete withdrawal of Indian military personnel.

All Indian armed forces have left the nation and have now been replaced by civilians.

But India extended an olive branch inviting him to the swearing-in ceremony of PM Modi. President Muizzu expressed his gratitude to PM Modi for the invitation, adding that he would be honoured to attend this historic event.

"He also stated that he looks forward to working with the Prime Minister to further strengthen the close relations with India, noting that Maldives-India relations are heading in the positive direction, as would be demonstrated by this visit," the official release said.

This will mark the pro-China president's first official visit to India since assuming office on November 17 last year. Unlike his predecessors, who made the first port of call to New Delhi after assuming office, Muizzu had travelled to Turkey first and to China for his first state visit in January.

Ahead of his arrival in Delhi, a huge banner has been put up outside the Foreign Ministry which features both PM Modi and Muizzu.

[hylianengineer]

I'm up in arms again about how disabling food allergies, intolerances, and other dietary restrictions are, but are rarely recognized as such. It varies, of course, between people and allergens, but especially with a life-threatening allergy or one to an extremely common food (or both!), it can be incredibly isolating and difficult.

I am excluded from most social events involving food, because if I go I end up in situations like 'sit there awkwardly while other people eat' or 'be forced to explain why I'm not eating, provoking various usually-offensive reactions that make me feel pitied, like a space alien, etc.' Some people can't even do that because just being around the allergen is dangerous!

Do you know how many social events revolve around food? I recently graduated from college, where I would estimate a solid 50-75% of events involved food, and many of those were entirely based around it. Holiday celebrations often center around food. Birthday parties and hang outs over coffee and dinner with friends are all minefields for those of us with food restrictions. Lately I've been dodging workplace events.

I have to cook much more than people without dietary issues, because pre-prepared food which does not contain my allergens is both difficult to find and expensive. I am constantly paying the disability tax on this in terms of both money and time. Even with all that extra effort, I often do not get as much variety or quality in my food compared to people without food restrictions. There are many foods I would love to try but may never get to, because making safe versions is beyond my skill level, would require more time or equipment than I have, etc.

If I go anywhere that expects me to eat their food (e.g. sporting events, some museums, hospitals, college campuses), I get to spend a bunch of extra time and effort planning for that, whether I can find safe food there, bring my own food, or sometimes leave to eat my own food outside if the place does not permit outside food.

I am cut off from many important parts of my culture as I am allergic or intolerant to its two most common food ingredients. Sometimes I can approximate a safe equivalent of culturally important foods but this is not always the case, and even when I can it requires massive amounts of time, energy, and effort. Which I don't always have.

I am constantly having to juggle my needs against the preferences of my family and friends - my local restaurant options are limited to Thai, Indian, a few pizza places, and Chipotle. Want to have dinner together? Sorry, I have a very short list of places I can eat safely so we have to go to one of those. Sometimes I stretch the limits a little bit and do something like eating only a plain baked potato for dinner while my friends have a proper meal, and then scarfing down a protein bar before or after so I'm not so hungry I can't hold a civil conversation. It really hurts to see other people enjoying themselves while I eat my sad, boring, insufficient 'meal.' It feels unfair and frustrating and like my needs aren't being considered or respected. It feels like people don't care enough about me to make sure I get what I need - something as basic as food that won't make me sick.

When I travel, I devote hours of research to finding safe places to obtain food. If I don't have access to a kitchen or at least a microwave, it's even harder. The places I can go are heavily limited by whether safe foods are available there - I've skipped trips I would've loved to go on because I wouldn't have been able to get safe food there, or it was too uncertain and stressful to be worth the trouble.

I have layers of weird trauma about my food issues, including extreme nervousness and reluctance to eat in front of people I don't know very well, because I grew up with other kids insulting whatever I brought for lunch. They all wanted to know what gluten free food tasted like, and then if I let them try it they'd say it was gross. I've met people with much worse trauma than that, though - people who've had family and friends intentionally feed them things that will make them sick in some twisted attempt to prove they don't really need to avoid that food. That would traumatize anyone.

I have multiple disabilities including chronic pain, and I honestly can't decide whether that or my dietary issues upend my life more. I think the pain might be easier, actually.

[athena5898]

Axis of Resistance Summary: October 10, 2024 Al-Aqsa Flood's Harvest of Good Tidings

📍RED SEA Yemeni Armed Forces 🔻Targeted American oil ship ‘OLYMPIC SPIRIT’ with 11 ballistic missiles + 2 drones: direct, severe hits 📍INDIAN OCEAN Yemeni Armed Forces 🔻Targeted the ship ‘ST. JOHN’ with cruise missile: direct hit 📍EAST KHAN YOUNIS Al-Qassam Brigades 🔻Targeted reconnaissance patrol of 2 jeeps & 4 soldiers with suicide drone: success 📍NORTHWEST GAZA CITY Saraya Al-Quds Brigades 🔻Sniped soldier in Al-Tawam area 📍WEST JABALIA CAMP, NORTH GAZA Al-Qassam Brigades 🔻Destroyed tank with high-impact IED in Al-Zahraa neighborhood 🔻Targeted tank with an explosive device near Civil Defense 🔻Clashed with special zionist force at point-blank range: killed & wounded 📍CENTRAL JABALIA CAMP, NORTH GAZA Saraya Al-Quds Brigades 🔻Targeted vehicles with anti-tank shells + clashed with invading forces near Riyad al-Salihin Mosque at zero-distance Al-Qassam Brigades 🔻Targeted tank with tandem shell near Umm Al-Mu'minin Aisha Mosque 📍EAST JABALIA CAMP, NORTH GAZA Al-Qassam Brigades 🔻Bombarded forces with mortars 🔻Executed complex ambush, (1.) trapping mechanized infantry company of 12 military vehicles & truck of soldiers, detonating Shuath explosive on truck of soldiers, Ra'adiya explosive on Humvee + jeep with tandem shell, then (2.) advanced towards ambush area, eliminating remaining soldiers at point-blank range with light weapons + (3.) targeted several soldiers who fled towards house with anti-personnel explosive: killed & wounded 🔻Continued pre-prepared ambush, (4.) targeting with Tandem shell + Shuath explosive 2 tanks deployed with rescue force: success 🔻Sniped soldier Saraya Al-Quds Brigades 🔻Bombed soldiers & vehicles infiltrating Civil Administration area with mortars Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades 🔻Bombed stationed vehicles with heavy mortars Martyr Abu Ali Mustafa + National Resistance Brigades 🔻Targeted gatherings with mortars 📍FARA'A CAMP, TUBAS, WEST BANK Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades 🔻Fierce clashes with machine guns + explosives on forces storming the camp south of Tubas city 🔻Fierce clashes continued 🔻Ambushed force in the Shahin neighborhood, fierce clashes at point-blank range using machine guns 📍TULKAREM, WEST BANK Saraya Al-Quds Brigades 🔻Detonated explosive device on vehicles storming the town of Anabta: sleeve 🔻Violent clashes from point-zero with infantry forces: fatal injuries 📍NABLUS, WEST BANK Al-Aqsa Martyrs’ Brigades 🔻Fierce clashes using machine guns + Zoufi explosive devices on forces invading the east & Balata camp 📍NOUR SHAMS CAMP, TULKAREM, WEST BANK Saraya Al-Quds Brigades 🔻Detonated explosive device on military vehicle: confirmed injuries 🔻Fierce clashes with heavy bullets on invading forces 🔻Detonated high-impact IED bulldozer 🔻Targeted forces with heavy bullets 🔻Targeted forces across the camp with heavy bullet 🔻Detonated high-impact ‘Mario’ IED on bulldozer 🔻Fierce clashes with all strength & ability against forces & vehicles 🔻Targeted invading forces with heavy bullets in fighting axes 🔻Fierce clashes with infantry forces from point-zero in: direct casualties 🔻Resistance sniper unit targeted occupation sniper locations in a house Al-Aqsa Martyrs' Brigades 🔻Fierce clashes with machine guns + IEDs on forces & vehicles 🔻Targeted infiltrating forces 🔻Targeted invading forces with heavy bullets + IEDs 🔻Detonated IEDs on soldiers & vehicles: direct hits Al-Asifah Forces 🔻Detonated Asif type IED on military vehicles: confirmed casualties 🔻Targeted forces with barrages of direct gunfire 📍HAIFA DISTRICT, OCCUPIED INTERIOR Hezbollah 🔻Targeted "Zevulun" area, north of Haifa with a large rocket barrage 📍NORTHERN DISTRICT, OCCUPIED INTERIOR Islamic Resistance in Iraq 🔻Attacked vital target with drones 🔻Drone-attacked vital target for 2nd time Hezbollah 🔻Targeted "Kiryat Shmona" settlement with a large rocket barrage 🔻Targeted soldiers in "Beit Hillel" with a rocket barrage