#Lifesaving Technology

[bulletines-news]

Tesla’s Full Self-Driving System: A Lifesaving Journey

Introduction In the realm of automotive innovation, few names resonate as powerfully as Tesla. The electric vehicle (EV) giant, led by the enigmatic Elon Musk, has consistently pushed the boundaries of what’s possible on the road. But it’s not just about sleek designs, ludicrous acceleration, or zero emissions. Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (FSD) system has quietly been making waves, and its impact…

[microwaveango]

don't know if there's an official way to get rid of the clown but i used my adblocker to remove it from sight. maybe you could try that?

thank you oh my god that worked perfectly !!

[webgeekist]

.

[vendettavalor]

// AU where Padmé lives bc Aurelia helped with the delivery of the twins and has extensive experience with delivering far more babies in far worse conditions + basic understanding of pre/intra/postpartum and pre/postnatal care

// Bonus: She, Alfie, and Obi-Wan help keep Padmé safe and allow her to raise her own babies (with help from the canon adoptive parents) while they’re all basically hiding from Anakin and the Empire. Maybe even helps her find someone who’s actually worth her time too-

[d--t]

Or! Instead of shelling out $30+ for a pair of loop earplugs, you could go over to etymotic and get a 2 pack of their high fidelity passive earplugs for around $20! Each pair come in an extremely practical and low profile carrying case (I keep mine on my keychain and the spares with my jewelry at home). They can be washed with regular soap and water. They're basically invisible when they're in. They're friendly to pierced ears. They sound great, like they're turning the volume on the world down without dulling or muffling it. I've been using them for ~15 years to quiet situations ranging from annoying fan in the office to big power tools in the machine shop to snoring bedmate and they win every single time.

this is an accessibility aid post for neurodivergent people, because I feel bad keeping this information to myself.

https://us.loopearplugs.com/

^ these are loop earplugs and they help you manage sound, these work great for migraines and people with sound sensitivity bc of autism/trauma/anxiety, etc. they come with multiple sized ear tips and the sound muffler silicone ring. I bought the loop engage plus, I'm a very burnt out + overwhelmed person. these make my annoying clock go away without me having to take out the batteries.

https://www.flareaudio.com/en-us/collections/calmer

^ flare earplugs, but I consider them more ear funnels? they allow more airflow into your ears for clearer sound. these work great for tinnitus, anxiety and autistic people. I haven't tried these yet and they have a lot less reviews on tiktok compared to loop.

if you need to search out cheaper brands I've only seen alternatives similar to loop on Amazon, look into decibels and your daily life needs, especially if you work. I feel my engage pro is great for daily home life with older children, pets, natural noises in your day, school, or work. but in a louder work setting like a factory, construction, daycare, or a theme park, I'm afraid these wouldn't work as good as experience might. I recommend checking out tiktok + reddit reviews if you're unsure.

[plugincaro]

Saif Sea Electric Water Buoys

Amazing indeed… this can also be used during flood conditions… but for this to be effective it needs to be much bigger… so as to save 10 people at a time… wonder if this can be shaped in cylinder shape… like a banana boat…with gps capabilities for tracking… Saving 1 person at a time… with 1 device is too less… In India people’s lives have lesser value than in foreign countries… govt will not…

[technobroo]

Lost in the desert? Not anymore! 🌵☀️ Giant solar-powered lasers have been installed in the Saudi desert to guide lost travelers to water sources. This groundbreaking technology is set to revolutionize desert survival and help save lives. 🔍🚶‍♀️ #desertsurvival #solarpower #lasers #technology #SaudiArabia #water #lifesaving #innovation #travel #adventure #survival #emergencyservices #rescue #sustainability #renewableenergy #cleanenergy #environment #desertlife #explore #discover #safety #outdoors #nature #safetravel #guidance #discovery#solarpower #laser #desert #navigation #rescue #sustainability #SaudiArabia #water #innovation #technology https://www.instagram.com/p/CpXTxu8tc7c/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[nenelonomh]

how to take better notes during fast-paced lectures

taking better notes during fast-paced lectures can be challenging, but here are some tips to help you keep up:

abbreviations and symbols: create a personal shorthand system. for example, use “w/” for “with,” “b/c” for “because,” and arrows (→) to show relationships. this can significantly speed up your note-taking.

focus on main ideas: listen for key points and concepts rather than trying to transcribe everything. lecturers often emphasize important information through repetition, changes in tone, or visual aids. pay attention to these cues.

structured methods:

cornell method: divide your page into three sections: a narrow left column for cues, a wider right column for notes, and a bottom section for a summary. during the lecture, jot down main points in the right column. after the lecture, add cues and a summary.

outline method: use headings and subheadings to organize information hierarchically. this helps in understanding the relationship between topics.

mind mapping: create a visual representation of the lecture content. start with a central idea and branch out with related concepts. this method is particularly useful for visual learners.

leave space: if you miss something, leave a gap and move on. you can fill in the details later, either from the textbook, recordings, or discussions with classmates.

record the lecture: if your lecturer allows it, recording can be a lifesaver. you can listen to the lecture again to fill in any gaps in your notes. just make sure to review the recording soon after the lecture while the material is still fresh in your mind.

review and revise: go over your notes as soon as possible after the lecture. this helps reinforce the material and allows you to clarify any points you didn’t fully understand. consider rewriting or typing up your notes to organize them better.

active listening: engage with the lecture by asking questions and participating in discussions. this not only helps you understand the material better but also makes it easier to remember.

use technology: apps like evernote, onenote, or notability can help you organize and search your notes efficiently. some apps even allow you to record audio and sync it with your notes.

do you have any specific challenges with note-taking? let me know in the comments.

❤️ nene

image source: pinterest

[psychotrenny]

Maybe this is just a product of the social circles I'm in, but there seems to be a pretty disproportionate amount of transgender (and especially transfem) anticivs out there. And like yeah, various social categories and personal identities that we today would understand as and classify as "transgender" have existed long before we had even the beginnings of modern medical transition (since before recorded history in fact). And no form of medical transition is necessary in order to be transgender even when it is available; someone who lives their life without any surgery or hormone replacement or anything can be every bit as "transgender" as someone who's gone through every medical intervention under the sun.

But like you have to realise that this technology is a massive boon for transgender people as a whole; a literal lifesaver in many cases. Not merely as a way for someone to better assimilate into cisnormative society, try to protect themselves from structural transphobia, but as a way to live as version of themselves they much prefer, a path to personal happiness which in many cases is quite outside the bounds of cisnormativity. There's a reason why this technology was invented in the first place and why so many trans people fight so hard and sacrifice so much in order to access it. So like the abolition of the social structures and economic basis which make this technology possible is very directly against the interests of the trans community

But maybe you don't care about all this medical bullshit; you're on that "Bronze Age Femboy Priestess" grindset and so this aspect of your ideology doesn't personally affect you. Very selfish but whatever. But it honestly hurts my brain whenever I see someone who is engaged in medical transition while opposing it's very physical basis. Like even the whole "make estrogen from horse piss" requires equipment that can't be viably produced without a socio-economic structure that would (as much as the word has any meaning) doubtless count as "civilised". The body you have cannot physically exist in the the world you are trying to create. Your ideology is self destructive in the most literal way

[mirai-e-jump]

Ohsama Sentai King-Ohger Character Book: We're KING!!!!!

PROLOGUE

Jeramie Brasieri was troubled. After ending the conflict between humans and the strange looking creatures, Bugnarak, and with the turning point of becoming king, he wanted to create a new story.

However, he couldn't come up with anything that could surpass, "The Legend of King-Ohger," which he himself had written, and was known to everyone in Chikyu. And so, he decided to make a proposal to the 5 kings, who were also his figthing comrades…or so it goes.

Gira Hasty

"I'm going to rule the world!"

Taisei Sakai guesses what's going on in Gira's head! 50% Children from the orphanage 20% The people of Shugoddam 15% The kings and citizens of the other countries 10% What I was like when I was young 5% Food

My Favorite Point: The Cloak "I was worried in the beginning on whether it would look good on me, but now, it's my favorite!" (-Sakai)

Yanma Gast

"You guys, just shut up already and follow me. I'm not going to lose to anyone!"

Aoto Watanabe guesses what's going on in Yanma's head! 80% Technology and research for the sake of the country's future 15% When it comes to N'kosopa, how I should act as a king 5% Space to think about other stuff

My Favorite Point: Cuff Earring "I like that it has alot of decorations, including N'kosopa's emblem and the jagged edges." (-Watanabe)

The Jacket "I can understand why Yanma loves it, The key point is that it's got alot of texture!" (-Watanabe)

Hymeno Ran

"I'll do as I want and follow my own path!"

Murakami Erika guesses what's going on in Hymeno's head! 40% Cute things and beautiful scenery, fashion and other things including the "arts" 30% Lifesaving and medical research for the sake of Ishabana's people 20% Romantic stories 10% Daydreaming about the future

My Favorite Point: The Spiral Curled Hair "With this hair, I love the novel style of it being tied up and the tiara attached to the knot." (-Murakami)

The Immovable King and Moffun

A Special photoshoot with Rita Kaniska and Moffun has become a realization! With their mask removed, Rita enters a relaxed mode, and is being healed by and carefully brushing the fur of Moffun.

"Together with Moffun" is a long running animated series that depicts Panpy, a cryptid hunter, meeting the legendary yetis Moffun and living in "Mofu Village." The white, cute and fluffy visuals, the love of humans, and the willingness to be hugged so tightly…The healing nature of Moffun is very popular among both children and adults, and is known to have achieved the highest viewership rating in Ishabana of 90.9%, which is run by Hymeno Ran.

One of the reasons for the love of this series, was the proof of bond between the queen of Ishabana and her people. Having lost her parents in the "Wrath of God" tragedy 15 years ago, Hymeno, who became queen at such a young age, had suffered greatly…It was at this time that the people of Ishabana rose up. They made the show with the hopes that she would smile as much as possible, and Hymeno, who grew up watching it, turned into a wonderful queen and doctor.

Another big fan of this show, which is currently airing all across Chikyu, loves it. It's the King of Gokkan, Rita Kaniska. Rita's "Moffun Love " is becoming apparent to Hymeno, while Rita doesn't show any emotion due to their duty as king…If Moffun's charm, which has won the hearts of the two kings, spreads any further, is it possible…the future of Chikyu could become brighter?!

Rita Kaniska

"Even if the earth were to split or the sky falls, Rita Kaniska will not be shaken!"

Hirakawa Yuzuki guesses what's going on in Rita's head! 90% Trials and other work that has to get done 10% Wanting to play with Moffun

My Favorite Point: The Collar "They usually wear a collar that covers their face, so scenes where they show their face are appealing." (-Hirakawa)

Kaguragi Dybowski

"We'll eliminate these pests for a bountiful harvest"

Kaku So guesses what's going on in Kaguragi's head! 75% Toufu 10% The other countries kings 10% Suzume 5% Racules

My Favorite Point: The Furisode's Patterns "I like that the design shows off the various emotions. This costume is a must for Kaguragi!" (-Kaku)

Jeramie Brasieri

"Humans, Bugnarak, and everything else, I rule over all and determine the fate of the world. The king of inbetween, the story of what I do will be passed down forever."

Ikeda Masashi guesses what's going on in Jeramie's head! 80% Peace 20% Stories

My Favorite Point: The Forehead Makeup Instead of using a sticker, I have the patterns drawn on instead. It's the switch that gets me into the role! (-Ikeda)

[crippled-peeper]

no matter how advanced or “helpful” / “lifesaving” technology is for a disabled person they should still be allowed to hate it

[aziraphales-library]

Hi there!!! I was wondering if you happened to have any fics where Crowley calls Aziraphale ‘sweetheart’? Any other pet names are amazing (including angel of course) but I’m just very in love with the idea of Crowley calling Aziraphale sweetheart

Thank you so much for all you hard work!! This blog is a lifesaver <3

Hello! We have a #pet names tag you might enjoy, but here are some fics in which Crowley calls Aziraphale sweetheart...

Four times Crowley called Aziraphale "sweetheart" without noticing (and One time he did) by TheLadyZephyr (NR)

"Sweetheart" (1290) - A person who is very dear to another; one who is loved. From sweet (adj.) + heart (n.) Over the years, Crowley has called Aziraphale "sweetheart" on at least four different occasions. He just hasn't actually noticed himself saying it.

In love, I am, with everything you do by 2ambiace (G)

Following the phone call with Crowley during lockdown, Aziraphale contemplates the letter he wrote and whether he should've taken Crowley up on his offer to 'slither over' and watch him eat cake. Aziraphale finds the courage in his love for Crowley to invite the demon over and cake and love confessions and kisses are shared.

Let Our Epilogue Be Soft And Sweet by Tenoko1 (T)

Crowley hit his palm against the steering wheel. “Of course I’d get upset, angel! Those bastards have tried to kill you twice, Aziraphale! Twice! I spend every damn day worried they might try again! Now-- Now-- your conveniently found and rescued angel is on the loose,” the road forked, and they veered off to a smaller country road, flying past a sign Aziraphale didn’t need to see to recognize, though Crowley gestured wildly to it, “in a god-forsaken national park? Well outside of London where no one can hear you scream? This mystery angel that just so happens to be leaking grace and emoting a distress signal so loud you can still sense it?” Crowley dragged a hand down his face. “Angel, sweetheart. Wake up and smell the trap.”

Waking Up Married by Caedmon (E)

"So you’re telling me that my options are either to convince this man I just met and drunkenly married to stay married to me for six months or lose two thirds of a billion pounds?” “That’s exactly what I’m telling you,” Fergus said. “Fucking shit,” Crowley spat. He hung up the phone and stared at it for a moment before rubbing his eyes with his fists. Now his job would be twice as hard. He needed to talk Aziraphale into staying married for six months. Should he try begging or bribing? This was a huge ask, and Aziraphale would be well within his rights to tell Crowley to fuck off. But Crowley was prepared to offer him pretty much anything, up to half of the trust, if that’s what it took. He didn’t care. But that was only part of his concern. Even if he got insanely lucky and Aziraphale agreed to stay legally married to him for the next six months, how the hell was he going to talk Aziraphale into dating him during that time? And was it foolish to even try? One thing at a time, he decided. First, he needed to convince Aziraphale to stay legally married to him. Then he could set about wooing his husband. He hoped.

flightless by viperinz (T)

Crowley finds Aziraphale injured and without his wings long after he stops the Second Coming all on his own. He just didn't expect their reunion to be so morose, and so final.

Sugar And Spice by ladydragona, SylWritesStuff (E)

Queer technology giant Anthony J. Crowley is just about ready to throw in the towel after relationship after relationship has failed, but there's a new barista at the company coffee shop and he's cute and sweet and Crowley's never been able to resist blond hair and blue eyes. The tabloids will have a field day, they always do, but his assistant is getting married and a temp is needed. A temp who really isn't very good at making complicated coffees, has past experience in reception, and absolutely no idea that the latest complicated coffee order came from the owner himself. Aziraphale only knows that he's handsome, patient, and was the first person who told him he was doing well. How could he refuse the temp position? Or, he soon discovers, more.

- Mod D

[derinthescarletpescatarian]

Hi Derin!

I'm just about to start a new dnd campaign and I think much of the plot is subconsciously inspired by TTO:U.

There were a group of arcane scientists who pioneered shrinking technology, and sent ten scientists and project financers to be shrunk down, but they disappeared. Two weeks later people start vanishing in the forest behind the lab.

Turns out when you get small, time passes faster (ye just go with it) and so for them, 300 years have passed. They've forgotten they used to be big. They call big people "gods" and have various legends about how the gods have forsaken them, especially after their anthill was destroyed. They'd used the ants as steeds and farmed aphids like ants do, and used the tunnels as their own. And the whole anthill came down after one of the gods poured something on it. They can't use metal cause its too sharp and unweildy this small, and they can't use fire, so they've had to get creative.

So when another god approaches, they strike first in self defence, and moving thousands of times faster, they manage to take it down. Then they realise they can imbue the bones and blood with magic, and the bones can be used as tools and building materials, and the blood can be used to heal and filter substances.

So the killing of the gods is a lifesaver for this little community, who've struggled for generations just to get by, but if the rest of the population found out where their new tech had come from, they might not like it. So the dozen or so combat-trained persons who'd taken down the god in the first place, are sworn to secrecy, and the exact source of their new technology is unknown to most of the community.

When they find out, though..

Our heroes have shrunk down to the same size, about half a mm tall, and going to unravel this mystery one clue at a time. What they do once they discover the truth is up to them. This being dnd, yknow,,

Have fun!

[syoddeye]

the meeting

ceo!price x reader / ~3k words

Folks seemed to like the first installment of this maybe-series, so I cooked up a second part in between drafts of the next chapter of For the Record (shameless plug). Not sure if this will be a whole thing or a series of vignettes. Enjoy!

CW: red flags everywhere, power imbalance, alcohol (mentioned)

You lay low after the company Christmas party and losing the drama wager to Jordan. Heads down, nose to the grindstone, and so forth. You never found the courage to respond to Mr. Price's direct message over the holidays. The shock from receiving a response at all kept you up at night. The message was supposed to get lost in his notifications, buried beneath the hundreds of messages he supposedly got a day. And he had not only replied, he insinuated he wanted to grab drinks. You checked it a hundred times.

johnprice - invisible Hi, Mr. Price. I was wondering what you want for Christmas? > World peace. > I'd settle for a drink, though.

You could be reading into it. Flattering yourself. Profile photos were required on the chat app to help put faces to names, so he could have recognized you as the punch girl from the open bar. Most likely, he was making a joke and humoring an underling.

Whatever the reason, his simple reply plagues you well into the new year.

The first quarter is always hectic for The 141 Group. New regulations go into effect, and projects and initiatives kick off, setting the year's foundation. Since your boss Kyle is VP of Finance, it's even busier for him with budget meeting check-ins, payroll reports, and financial policy updates. And if his life is busy, your life is busy because his success is your success.

"Need you to bump everything I have today after three to tomorrow," He murmurs when you collect a stack of documents to copy.

"This is the second time you'll have pushed the meeting with technology directors," You remind him, but make a note anyway. "They'll complain to Mr. MacTavish."

Kyle glances up. "Let them. He's clearing his schedule this afternoon, too."

"Oh?"

"Big man's bringing the C-Suite and a few of us lucky VPs in for a meeting."

A practiced EA, you keep the instant surge of dread from reaching your face. It isn't strange for Kyle, though technically a subordinate to the CFO, to attend such meetings. Mr. Price frequently pulls him into special projects. You simply hoped to avoid the 'big man' for as long as possible. On the bright side, when Kyle never reprimanded you for flippantly messaging the CEO upon return from holiday, you assumed Mr. Price never said anything. Hopefully, he forgot about your message altogether. 

"Need me for notes?" You ask, hovering in the doorway to his office.

"Please. Something tells me it'll be tense." Interesting.

With a nod, you tuck the folder under an arm and pat the doorframe. "Got it. Lunch'll be here soon. I ordered Indian and Thai. Whatever you don't want, I'll eat."

"You're a lifesaver."

"I know."

~~

Conference Room Bravo isn't the biggest meeting space in the building, but everybody knows it's Mr. Price's preference. With an unobstructed view of the water and natural light, you like it, too. Especially since the small group of assistants who attend the more critical meetings sits on a long bench built into an alcove in the wall with a good view of the windows.

You and five other EAs ensure every seat at the main table is set with the appropriate accoutrements. Tea and coffee are on standby. With a three-hour window allocated, everyone will need a spot of caffeine at some point. Fifteen minutes before the scheduled start, you chat and make personal preparations.

"Did MacTavish seem stressed about this?" You ask Jordan as she takes the seat next to you.

She shakes her head. "No. You know him, though. It takes a bit to work him up."

"What about Laswell?" You lean forward and look down the bench at Oliver, the Chief Information Officer's right hand.

The younger man looks up from his laptop. "Same as Mr. MacTavish, kind of. Hard to tell, but she didn't take a smoke break, so…"

"Right."

The conversation drifts to weekend plans until Lucy, the newest EA to Mr. Shepherd, pipes up.

"Isn't it strange Mr. Price doesn't have a permanent assistant?"

It's a fair question for a new person. Since you started at The 141 Group, the desk outside Mr. Price's office has functioned as a revolving door. Guiltily, you stopped trying to learn their names about ten temps in, and since then, it's a coin flip if anyone's there at all. The general rule is if you have something to deliver to Mr. Price, you leave it on the empty desk. 

"Nah, nobody's good enough," Jordan answers. "MacTavish once told me Price is a workaholic with impossibly high standards. Not a good combination for an assistant."

Oliver agrees. "Laswell said as much, too. Apparently, at his place, he has a whole recreation of his office and gets right back to work when he gets home. And, his only staff are the bodyguards."

You would feel sad about that if Mr. Price wasn't a gazillionaire. An older man, hunching over a computer, completely alone in his home…when he could certainly afford staff and delegate.

Still, if he kept himself so busy, it made the fact he responded to your DM quite interesting.

The conversation dies when the attendees trickle in.

Kyle arrives with Mr. MacTavish, the latter of whom flashes a grin at Jordan and you. Close behind is the hulking mountain of a CSO, Mr. Riley, who, as usual, wears a black surgical mask. (The rumors around that accessory are practically 141 Group lore.) Other members of the C-Suite file in and Mr. Price arrives last, followed by his guards who post up at the door. He shuts the door behind him, the click silencing the room.

Your eyes glue themselves to the computer in your lap. Jordan elbows you a little, obviously enjoying the lingering effects of her wager.

As Mr. Price sits down, you finally steal a glance. He's wearing the hell out of a charcoal suit with a blue tie that makes his eyes pop, even across the room. His expression is stern, borderline grim, and thankfully, like everybody else at the main table, doesn't even glance in your direction. He's straight to the point. "Thank you all for making time in your schedules on short notice. Let's get started, shall we?"

~~

An hour and a half in, Price calls for a break. As the most senior EA on the bench, you lovingly pass on refreshment duty to Lucy and Desmond, the most junior. You follow Kyle to the hall.

"Need anything?" You ask when you're a reasonable distance down from the conference room.

"Do you think you can clean up the notes and send them to me by nine tonight?"

Your brows raise. Rarely does the man ask you to work late. He usually doesn't need to, as you pride yourself on efficiency. "Of course. I'll make a physical copy, too. What's your read on it, by the way?"

Kyle gives a tired smile. "You aren't paying attention, are you."

"I take down everything I hear to ensure you have impeccable notes. Listening gets in the way of that," You offer a grin, then glance down at his tie. Crooked. You fix it without thinking and chat more about his schedule tomorrow. A few people pass by in the hallway to use the restroom or stretch their legs, but you don't pay them mind.

"Mr. Garrick?" You both turn to see Jordan's head sticking out of the door. "They're resuming."

Kyle sighs quietly and starts back toward the conference room. You follow.

Settling back into your seat on the bench, you feel eyes on you, but when you look around, there's nothing. Weird.

~~

The meeting concludes on the dot at six. The attendees leave first, as do the rest of the assistants when you volunteer to clean up. Jordan waves goodbye when Mr. MacTavish departs alongside Mr. Riley. You sigh in relief when Price walks out with Shepherd and Laswell, leaving you and Kyle. Your boss swipes through his phone as you collect the trash and dishes, leaving everything for janitorial.

"Do you need a ride?" Kyle asks when you collect your laptop. "I'm heading your way."

"No, I think I'll finish the notes here, wait for rush hour to die down."

Kyle walks out with you and frowns. "If you stay past eight, please text. I'll have a car come back for you."

You suppress the urge to roll your eyes. Kyle is merely protective. "I'll take the train or call a rideshare myself."

He pushes the matter when you return to your corner of the executive floor, but you don't give in. You plan to stop for food on the way home and aren't keen to make his driver wait. When he finally leaves, you find yourself alone on the floor. Most folks leave at five, so everyone else cleared out when the meeting ended at six.

You clean, format, and summarize the meeting notes in an hour and a half. Due to Kyle's earlier comment, you make an effort to read into business. As far as you can tell, it's another big new project with lots of money on the table. The name of a new contractor company for extra hands mildly raises your interest. The usual choice, Chimera Company, must be busy. Other than that, everything's a slog to read. You trust that if something's important and need-to-know, Kyle will explain.

You email Kyle the notes a few minutes shy of eight and send them to the printer. Languidly stretching as you go, you walk to the copy room. At this hour, most overhead lights are on a timer and won't turn back on until morning to conserve energy. So, it's natural your eyes flick to Mr. Price's office at the end of the long hallway. There's a sliver of light beneath the door, beckoning like a golden gate. Turning into the darkened copy room, picturing Mr. Price at his desk distracts enough you don't realize you're not alone until a low, growling curse cuts through the silence.

Hunching over the copier is none other than Mr. Price himself. The low light glints off a silver watch band, encouraging the eye to a pair of thick forearms exposed by rolled shirt sleeves. You get a whole second of the uninterrupted sight before he notices.

A silent alarm goes off, and you're hopeful the lack of light saves you: Please don't recognize me. Please don't recognize me. Please–

Mr. Price does not move, and his focus returns to the copier. "Didn't realize anyone else worked this late."

You're unsure if you're supposed to respond, but you need those notes. "I usually don't. I was finishing up…Is there–Is there something I can help with?"

He answers when you tiptoe closer. "Everything's coming out with streaks," He grumbles, fiddling with random panel doors that open into the machine's guts.

This is not your first battle with the cursed thing. "I can fix that."

"Can you, now." Price mutters, barely audible.

You swallow. You might be several pay levels lower, but you aren't a pushover. "Mr. Price, please let me try." 

Again, he delays, but after an exasperated sigh, he concedes and slams a panel door shut.

After he steps back, you examine the failed jobs resting on the tray, then address the angry, blinking digital display. A few screens and taps later, you trigger the self-cleaning process and the machine whirs to life.

"All fixed?" Price asks, reminding you he's but a few steps behind you.

"We'll see," You move a short distance away, afraid if you stand any closer, it'll be enough for him to remember who you are and your dumb message. "It's self-cleaning. It will take two, three minutes, then produce a test print."

Price hums in acknowledgment, and then the glow of his phone screen illuminates his profile. You glance out of your periphery, almost relieved to see the steely expression on his face. Seems he really is a workaholic, taking advantage of any spare moment.

You lean against the supply cabinets and cross your feet at the ankles. You left your phone at your desk, so you settle for watching the copier hopefully fix itself.

Then, to your utter horror, Price says your name.

You look up without thinking.

"Thought I recognized you." He holds up his phone, and there you are, your profile picture in the workplace chat app.

You are going to murder Jordan. But first, you need to apologize.

"Mr. Price, I am so–"

Price cuts you off. "You're Kyle Garrick's assistant, yeah?"

Relief washes over you. Your message is forgotten. Definitely. All you are is an assistant. "Yes, sir."

With a hum, he pockets his phone, then steps forward to better see you. A hand plants itself on the counter, mere centimeters away. "You were at the meeting earlier." 

"Yes, sir."

"Would explain the swift fix," He muses, and his gaze drags down you in a more than perfunctory look before meeting yours once more. "Normally, I'd use the copier in my office, but it's due for maintenance. Seems this one is, too." 

He has his own copier? It would explain why I've never seen him in here, making his own copies since he apparently hates help.

"Guess so," You lick your lower lip, stomach flipping with nerves with how close Price stands. Between the proximity and the near darkness, it's all you can do to keep your imagination in check.

A cheerful beeping from the copier saves you. Price lingers a moment more, then returns to the printing tray as the machine spits out a test page. 

Price chuckles, which you take to mean the issue is fixed. He restarts the delayed jobs. "Well done, love."

"It's nothing," You say quietly, rooted to where you lean. 

A minute passes, and Price collects the first completed stack of papers. His brow furrows. "Think these are yours."

You finally push off the cabinets and venture closer, reaching for the notes. Only, he does not hand them over.

"Forgot Gaz prefers hard copies," Price murmurs. 

Gaz? 

"This is the kind of work I wish I had received from my past assistants."

If it was not the CEO speaking, you would be the defender of the voiceless, the fired employees of 141 past. If the man's gone through as many assistants as you think he has, he's the problem.

"You like working for Garrick?"

It feels like a trick question. From the outside, it appears he and Kyle like each other. For all of Price's talks on 'openness' and 'camaraderie,' he has his favorites, and your boss is one of them. Though that could be an act, and Price is actually looking for some kind of blemish on Kyle's record. Either way, you can be honest because you genuinely like Kyle.

"Mr. Garrick is a joy to work with." Anxiety flushes half of the English language and all creativity out of your brain.

Price huffs in amusement. "A joy to work with," He repeats. "That's all? You appeared quite friendly during the break."

The comment gives you pause, and you shove back through the day's events. The meeting, the break – was it because you simply straightened Kyle's tie? It's a harmless gesture, you think. No one's ever batted an eye before. You can't help but feel a little affronted. "That's because we are friends, sir. Kind of happens when you work for someone for nearly five years."

Price lifts the notes in a placating manner, then out to you. "No harm meant. It's nice to see, is all. I understand we struggle with retention."

An understatement for him. Your imaginary hackles lower. "We work well together."

Price smiles. "Clearly. And five years, eh? Should get something for that, I think."

Inwardly, you cringe. The last thing you need is another branded mug, t-shirt, or keychain. "That isn't necessary, sir."

"Nonsense. We've got to reward loyalty."

You stiffly nod, figuring it's worthless to protest. It makes sense why he's in charge. He's a steamroller when it comes to what he wants.

"Do you have somewhere to be? Someone waiting for you?"

In this context, a darkened office, alone with a man with the power to make or break your career, it's a borderline sinister question. At least, it should be, yet instead, all you feel is a brief thrill.

"No, sir."

"Then, how about that drink?"

Oh, god. "'That drink'?" You ask dumbly. You know exactly what he means.

He chuckles and sets his gaze on you again. It's heavy, somehow both a blanket around the shoulders and a cinder block to the chest.

"While you are a capable woman, I doubt achievin' world peace is within your power. But a drink? Think you can fit me into your schedule this evening?"

You will kill Jordan for the bet. Then Kyle will kill you for losing it. But do you really have a choice?

"Yes, sir."

"Please, after hours, call me John."

~~

Mr. Price's–John's bodyguards do not seem fazed when you meet them at the elevators. You watch John whisper something into the taller one's ear on the ride down, and the man hails a cab. Meanwhile, John ushers you out to a waiting town car, and the shorter guard takes the passenger seat. 

When he takes the seat beside you, shuts the door, and drapes a big arm over the back of the seats, you think to fake an illness. A forgotten appointment. Something. Then he gives you another grin, a note of triumph in it, and the thoughts of escape vanish.

~~

Your salary affords you nice things like hardcover books, daily coffees, and frequent takeaway. And until ten seconds ago, you could count stylish yet comfortable office attire among said things. Yet, walking through the awning-covered entrance to an unmarked bar, you lose that delusion quickly. The bar's host lights up at the sight of Mr. Price, then openly examines you and the pencil skirt you thought was expensive.

"Welcome back, Mr. Price. Your usual table, I presume? Is this lovely creature your date?" 

"Yes, and yes."

A firm, warm hand at the small of your back flexes. It's a silent suggestion: do not correct him. You don't.

A cocktail later, that same hand lands on your knee beneath the table. 

[cloudcountry]

flaming & flustered

Genre/Tropes: Mutual pining AGAIN SIGH don't lie I know all of you love this. Unestablished relationship.

Summary: Your shitty laptop from Crowley stopped working, so you called the smartest person you know to fix it.

Author's Comments: Idia's hair turning pink when he's embarrassed is everything. Also Idia literally RUNS from you LMAO

~~~~~

“Idia, help! You’re the only one I can count on! My shitty laptop from Crowley stopped working and I need to do my assignments before tomorrow!”

Idia couldn’t help but leave his dorm just this once for you, pulling his hood over his head as he ignored the gawking stares of other students. Of course they would stare at him, he never left his room and yet he was leaving for a magicless Prefect that probably didn’t even care about him as much as he cared about them. But that was fine! He didn’t care! I mean, of course you called him, technology was the one thing he was good at and if you called anyone else to help you with it that would mean you doubted his genius and that he would once again be second choice because of course you wouldn’t want to see him-

“Idia!” you cheered, throwing the front door to Ramshackle open the second he stepped onto the front porch, “Oh, thank you so much for coming! You’re a lifesaver!”

He squeaked, face aflame as his hair turned pink. You didn’t comment on his flustered appearance, already leading him inside.

He was inside Ramshackle! He was going to die!

“Seriously, no one else is as good at technology than you. I’d be in your debt big time if you fix this for me. Please? I swear I’ll pay you back!” you pleaded, as if he hadn’t already agreed to help you out.

“It’s fine! Just let me work.” he huffed, eyes darting away from your puppy dog expression, “And I don’t need anything, okay? I just want to get back to my dorm...”

“You’re the best!” you cheered,  patting the seat next to you on the couch, “Come on, take a seat! I don’t bite.”

He flushed again, awkwardly sitting down next to you. He took the laptop in his hands and silently thanked you when you didn’t watch him work, opting to scroll through your Magicam feed. Eventually he was able to tune out your presence entirely, hyper focused on running updates on your laptop and checking out the software. Humming thoughtfully to him, he chewed on his bottom lip as he rebooted your machine. Hoping that would fix the problem so he could just go back to his room and play games, he nudged you gently.

“I fixed it.” he mumbled, placing the laptop in your lap.

You had the same look on your face that Ortho did when he wanted to give Idia a hug, but you didn’t make any sudden moves towards him. His heart fluttered at the show of respect for his boundaries as your laptop screen turned on, the background illuminating the screen.

“I know I keep saying this, but seriously. Thank you so much. You’re so smart.” you beamed, setting the laptop aside as you stared adoringly at him.

Idia felt the puff of smoke that came off of his head at your words, face turning bright red.

“It’s...It’s nothing!” he squeaked, jolting up from the couch, “Just-! Um-!”

“Idia?” you said, staring up at him with that smile on your face, “I can stop by the Board Game Club and play something with you, if you’d like.”

Why were you still trying to pay him back!?

“Um, yeah. That’d be fine!” he yelped, scurrying towards the door, “I’m gonna go now!”

“Okay! See ya, Idia! Thank you!” you called, the giggle that left your lips almost making the poor boy trip down the steps as he booked it back to his dorm.

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