#Michigan State student apartments

[life-in-east-lansing-mi]

The Rocks Apartment in East Lansing, MI

There are many factors to consider in searching for a college apartment. The essential things to consider are community amenities, apartment amenities, accessibility, safety and more. These days, people struggle in finding reliable 4 bedroom apartments near MSU service providers at present. At The Rocks Apartment, they understand that it is necessary to provide excellent student home these days. First, the apartment is located near the university premises. Second, it has many restaurants nearby. These dining places include Applebee's Grill Bar, Golden Harvest Restaurant, Little Caesars Pizza, P.F. Chang’s, Subway, and Spartan Hall of Fame Café. The said place is also walkable.

East Lansing, MI

There are many ways to study the economic development of the East Lansing, MI location. One of the best ways is to discuss the past economic progress in the city. Besides, those who are planning to move to East Lansing, MI are aware about this. East Lansing has seen the job market increase by 1.3% over the last year. Aside from that, future job growth over the next ten years is predicted to be 36.3%, which is higher than the US average of 33.5%. In addition, the average income of an East Lansing resident is $19,256 a year. The US average is $28,555 a year. Lastly, the median household income of an East Lansing resident is $33,064 a year.

The Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum

Are you planning to visit a famous East Lansing, MI area travel destination at present? How about The Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum? The said tourist spot is remarkable. Many people go there for sightseeing and learning new things. The Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum, is a contemporary art museum at Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan. It opened on November 10, 2012. One of their guests shared a review online that "The space is very clean and has tons to offer for the whole family to enjoy." Another visitor admitted, "We love the architecture and unique shape of the building."

Wedding expos and bridal shows take over Mid-Michigan

Are you interested to know the interesting news reports in East Lansing, MI? Let’s discuss the latest report in the city about wedding events and bridal shows. As reported, newly engaged couples started planning their dream wedding over the first weekend of January. A couple of wedding expos took place in Mid-Michigan. One was in Jackson on Saturday at the Jackson County Fairground hosted by radio station, K105.3. On Sunday, the Lansing Winter Bridal Show will happen in Bath Township. It will be a one-stop shop for wedding planning with vendors for dresses, tuxes, food, flowers, and more. Lastly, interested individuals can check out this show on Sunday from 1:00 noon until 4:00 in the afternoon at the Eagle Eye Banquet Center.

Link to Map

Driving Direction

Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum

547 E Circle Dr, East Lansing, MI 48824, United States

Head west on E Circle Dr

0.4 mi

Turn right onto Abbot Rd

2.5 mi

Turn left

 Destination will be on the right

0.1 mi

The Rocks Apartments

16970 Chandler Rd, 

East Lansing, MI 48823

[anthemofgvf]

Teacher’s Pet: Sam Kiszka x Reader Fanfiction

description: when college becomes more interesting from your history with your music professor, you decide to take him up on a private piano lesson to rekindle what once was.

word count: 6.6k+

trope: student reader x professor sam (college au!)

taglist for future fics

warnings after cut…

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warnings: large amount of plot, angst, smut (18+ minors dni!), voyeurism, soft dom! sam, fluff, teacher x adult reader, inappropriate relations, swearing, begging, fingering, oral (fem! and male receiving), handjob, overstimulation, praise kink, unprotected sex, minimal aftercare

a/n: this may not be everyone’s cup of tea, and that’s okay! would also like to reiterate that reader IS a legal adult. i figured that would be clear considering this is a college au but i just wanted to state it once before the story itself does. all actions are consensual, and i do not condone un-consensual acts. with that being said, enjoy;)

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Starting college at Michigan State University at the age of twenty-one, you walked onto campus with a sense of anticipation and determination that set yourself apart from your younger peers. Your journey to this point had been conventional, marked by years of playing piano at home purely for joy, and finding an intense passion for music itself. Now, as a music theory major, you were ready to immerse yourself in the academic study of music, eager to delve into the intricacies of composition, harmony, and the structures that underpin the art form you love. Your path to college might have been delayed, but your passion for music had only grown stronger with time, making your arrival at the university both a new beginning and a cumulation of years of dedication.

But you were gifted a surprise on your first day in your "Music Theory 101" class when you sat near the front - only a few rows back on the far left, and your professor walked in. The cool fall air of Michigan allowed for him to wear a navy blue long-sleeve and a multicolored-purple scarf, with grey plaid dress pants. He clearly was taller than most, but the boots that he paired with his outfit granted him a few extra inches.

You started to analyze the features of his face, seeing something so familiar in him that you couldn't quite pinpoint. His long, brunette hair that held a light wave with a well-kept mustache and goatee. Something about his eyes were the most recognizable to you with the way they scanned the room slowly, then focusing in on papers on his podium. And as soon as he began to speak and introduce himself to you and your peers, the memories came flooding back into your brain, and you had to hold yourself back from gasping. But you couldn't contain your eyes from widening.

"Hello everyone," he began, "welcome to 'Music Theory 101.'" He said with a smile. "I'm Professor Kiszka, and I'll be teaching this course. I've been teaching music theory for about three years now."

You knew who he was. He was Mr. Kiszka, or Sam, as back then you were able to call him that because he wasn't the hugest fan of being called 'Mr. Kiszka'. He was your student teacher your senior year of high school in your band class. He would help your teacher as if he were a teacher's aide, yet also helped teach the class and was a mentee to your teacher. You couldn't even believe your chances of having him as an actual teacher, let alone even seeing his face again. And God, how he has changed from the guy you once knew. But he'd always be 'Sam' to you, whether you'd call him by his first name or not. You preferred not to take your chances anyways.

You and he had created a small friendship, or better described as a mutualistic relationship, but it went nowhere beyond because being friends would cross the boundaries that the school board had put into place. But it was more than likely for the better, because you had a massive crush on him that accumulated over time with the semester. You were keen to his wit, his attention to detail - his talent in music. Not to mention he had a great sense of humor and was outgoing that paired perfectly with his great looks. You remembered being saddened that you were not going to see him again after your last class of the semester, and while although he gave you a hug and a smile, he had said to you,

"You'll see me again, y/n, I'm sure of it," with a wink.

And somehow, he had predicted the future.

After he gave the class a short introduction, which you surely had missed from reminiscing about the past, he had begun to read down the list of students for attendance. Your heart began to bang against your ribcage with anticipation, with wonderance of if he would even remember you. After all, you were just another student he saw in the school day.

"Y/n L/n?" He had called out, searching for you amongst the crowd.

You shot your eyes up, looking at him as you lightly raised your hand and said, "Here."

He smiled at you, the same smile he always wore. His eyes lightly squinted, and his face lit up with a knowing expression.

"You went to Frankenmuth High School, right?" He pointed his pen out to you with his teeth still on display.

"Yeah, yeah I did." You nodded.

You felt everyone's eyes on you - all 40 something students that filled the lecture hall. He remembered you, and you had forgotten how nervous you would get when his eyes lingered upon you for too long. Surely your face was flushed pink for the whole class to examine, but you were praying the lights were dim enough to hide your complexion.

"It's nice to see you again, y/n." He nodded towards you, closing his mouth to soften his smile and focus his attention back onto the list and calling out other names.

The entire class all you could do was watch his facial expressions, the way he walked and used his hands in conversation and lecture. The way his hair flew with his head whenever he changed directions, the way his voice articulated words. And, surely watching him give the class a demonstration on the piano was going to be the death of you. Time had made him more attractive, and his knowledge of you was somehow a worser fate than going unknown.

He put his whole body into his demonstration, leaning into the keys and throwing his head back every so often. His shoulders would raise in a rigid motion, then relaxing back down whilst his fingers danced along the white keys. You began to press your thighs tightly together and place your fist over your mouth as you watched him intently. You were unsure of how you were going to survive this class for a semester.

But after that first day, he had called you over to his podium. Although the conversation was light, asking you how you've been, wondering what you were going to college for exactly, you couldn't help but feel unprepared to talk to him. He always had a way with words, and anything that came out of his mouth was pure poetry. You just felt like you were blabbing nonsense to him. But he cared what you had to say. He laughed at your jokes, nodded along to show you he was listening. He had not changed one bit after all these years, other than time aging him only enough to present himself as more of a mature adult, but his striking personality stayed intact.

As the semester went on, and you stopping by Sam's desk every so often after class, assignments were assigned. One big project that was presented was to perform a cover on the piano that showcased your level of talent on the keys - 30 measures to be exact. A different assignment was given to those who were incapable of playing the piano, which was to compose a piece instead on an instrument of their choosing, but you took the route of playing on the instrument you enjoyed the most.

With this assignment, he had allowed students to make appointments with him during his office hours for free lessons and guidance on their piece. And as soon as he had announced this, you had booked an appointment.

And that's where you were headed right now: A one-on-one meeting with Professor Kiszka. To say you were nervous was an understatement. His attention was all yours, and there was no avoiding his gaze by sinking into your chair. The only thing that you had repeated in your head was that he was no stranger, and you knew how to hold a conversation with him. Act normal, you said to yourself, act normal.

You pushed open one of the large doors of the classroom that groaned and creaked as it allowed your entrance. Sam had his back to you from across the lecture hall, hunched over as he played a song that was unrecognizable to you on the piano. Whatever it was, it sounded beautiful.

The doors slammed shut behind you as you walked in, which caught Sam's attention. He whipped his head over his shoulder as his fingers relaxed from the keys, and he lifted his wrist up to examine his watch.

"Guess it is that time, huh?" He said out loud, although he was mainly speaking to himself. "Come on in, y/n."

"Forgot I was coming in, Professor Kiszka?" You said with a smirk.

"I'm always forgetting the time as it passes," he chuckled lightly, "surely you'll forgive me."

You walked over to him as he rose from the bench with a light smile, extending his arm towards the piano to motion for you to sit. He wore an ironed white button down, and worn-out jeans that have seen better days. Casual attire: a bit astray from what he normally wears.

You stopped in front of him. "I guess just this once I will." You said to him, then taking your seat on the bench and keeping your posture straightened.

"Alright, y/n," he shook his head with a smile, "what's your song of choice then? Can't pick anything you've played for me before."

You cocked your head to the side as you gave him a pondering look. "There's no way you remember anything I played three years ago."

He pressed his lips together and thought for a moment, then looking down to you with a smile.

"Maybe I do, or maybe I don't. Just seems like you're trying to stall on playing your piece for me." He said to you. "There's nothing to be nervous about, y/n."

You shook your head with a light sigh. "I'll have to test your memory another time then."

He nodded at you. "So, what piece of music did you choose?"

"I chose 'Rhapsody in Blue,' sir." You spoke to him. "I remember you performing it for the class after finals were over, and I've been in love with the piece ever since."

He seemed almost shocked that he had made such an impact on you, one that was still intact after all these years. He gave you an earnest, genuine smile as he placed his hand on his heart.

"It means a lot to me that I played an influential role in your musical journey. Did you learn it after I performed the piece?" He asked.

You nodded with a giggle. "Embarrassingly yes, yes I did." You refrained from eye contact as you felt your face becoming hot.

He raised a brow. "So, this is a piece you're familiar with?" You looked back to him with a singular nod. "Then what is your reasoning for spending time with me during my office hours, y/n? I never knew of you to not be confident in yourself."

You stuck your tongue into your cheek. "Just wanted to make sure that I was playing the piece up to par, and I so happen to enjoy our conversations. Figured we'd be able to catch up a bit during this meeting."

"Is that so, y/n?" He smirked at you. His tongue ran across his bottom lip as he looked down at you. It was almost as if there were words that lingered upon his tongue, yet he was unable to muster the courage to let them roll off smoothly. He had opened his mouth for a moment, then shut it with a grin. "Well, then how about we see how well you can perform this piece, huh? If there's enough time after, I don't see anything wrong with catching up a bit more." His grin was near seductive, although he was talking about a topic pure as white. Something about the way his eyes captivated yours that had your body telling you to either look away flustered, or to hold onto his eyes to match his intimidating gaze.

But rather than look at him any longer, you chose to take in a deep breath in preparation to perform for him. You straightened yourself up once more and saw him leave your sight from the corner of your eye.

"Just a bit too tense, y/n." He said softly to you, placing his hands onto your shoulders gently. "Relax for me."

As if that sentence alone didn't have you feeling even more tense, you closed your eyes and found it within yourself to relax, and to forget that it was Sam's doing for making your nerves skyrocket.

You began the piece, fluttering your eyes open and playing it as you learned it. Some of your mannerisms matched the way Sam played the piece - at least back then, just because you admired how beautiful he looked whilst performing. You were certain that if he hadn't become a teacher, he'd be on a stage performing in front of thousands.

You were lost in the music, lost in your motions and the way your fingers traveled alongst the keys in perfect harmony. So lost that you hadn't realized Sam's hands had left your shoulders, moving to stand near the front of the piano, watching you perform. All you could do was focus on playing as perfectly as you could for him, because if you were to look up and see his admiring stare, you would have forgotten the rest of the piece.

And so, you finished, watching your fingers dance along the last few keys and resting your hands onto your thighs, keeping your eyes down only for a moment before cautiously allowing yourself to look up and see his chin resting into his palm, wearing a large grin that he never seemed to wipe from his face.

"That was," he began to stride slowly towards you, "near perfection."

You followed his movements with your eyes. "Near?"

He sat next to you on the bench, holding onto your eyes. "You lost yourself a bit with the tempo, is all. I'm not shameful to a bit of artistic expression, but that would be for another project. But it's nothing that can't be fixed quickly."

"So, then it's a good thing that I made this appointment, hm? Without your expertise I wouldn't have known to slow down a bit." You said to him.

He huffed a laugh with an amused expression. "What's your game here? Sarcasm or flattery?"

You took a glance at his parted lips, locking eyes with him again. "Your guidance, Professor Kiszka."

He shook his head at you with a knowing look yet dismissing your counter remark and sliding closer to you.

"Well, for one, you should raise your arms a bit higher above the keys." He slid his hands under your forearms and raised them up slightly, being ever-so gentle with his touch. With how close he peered over your shoulder, you were certain if you were to turn to him, your nose would brush against his.

However, you wouldn't have been bothered by it if it were to occur. The opportunity presented itself when he had willingly brought himself even closer to you. Whether you would dare to do it was not on your mind right now, as you were tuning into the feeling of his coarse hands holding your forearms and making them weightless.

You could feel his exhaled breath just barely hit the side of your neck, and your body almost reacted with a shudder. Rather, you could hear your heartbeat in your ears, and suddenly you had become more aware of how many breaths you were taking in.

"And to help keep tempo," Sam slowly slid his hands off your arms, placing his hand lightly onto your thigh, "I'll tap on beat." He said as he began tapping onto your jeans lightly.

You dared to turn towards him and flick your eyes at his parted lips, locking onto his stare and feeling the inability to look away. You were certain the face you were displaying was one of desperation, of want.

But to him, it didn't appear that way. "Is this...okay?" He had said with a hint of worry. Maybe he didn't want to read into your facial expressions too much.

"Yes, yes it's okay." You gave him a reassured smile, along with a small nod, and tore yourself away from his gaze.

You began to play once more, trying to keep your mind on your fingers hitting the keys at the right pace rather than the fact that Sam's hand was on your thigh. The act was supposed to be innocent, a teacher merely helping his student perfect their piece, but to you, it was hard to feel anything pure towards your professor.

With the way his chin nearly rested onto your shoulder, to his steady breaths that matched yours as you played, to the low humming you could hear in your ear as your fingers danced along the piano. How did he expect you to focus when he was closer to you than ever before? When all you were thinking about was how easily it would be to kiss him, to give into him.

"What's on your mind, y/n?" He whispered to you.

You had continued playing, trying to keep up with the tempo he had set on your thigh.

"What do you mean?" You said without missing a beat.

"I can tell you're not focused. You're playing the piece properly, but your mind is somewhere else." He removed his hand from your thigh, which caused you to stop playing.

You turned to him. "I'm just a bit distracted, that's all. I'm sorry, Professor." You pressed your lips together, flicking your eyes down to avoid his gaze. A low sigh escaped his mouth as he watched gravity tilt your head down.

But then you felt his finger hook under your chin, lifting it up to meet his eyes. Every detail of his face was on display, and you couldn't focus your eyes on a single piece of his complexion - it was all something you wanted to remember so intricately.

"Am I distracting you?" He took a glance at your lips only for a discreet moment, then focusing in on your eyes and searched within them for an answer that you had yet to put out into the air.

"Maybe," you began, "what if I said that you were?"

Your bold statement had nearly taken him aback, with his hand removing itself from under your chin, and a light chuckle with the shake of his head as he composed himself. His hand ran to the back of his neck, then finding its resting place on the top of his thigh.

He leaned back slightly, the playful glint in his eyes dimming to something more contemplative. "Then I'd have to ask why," he murmured, his voice dropping to a softer, more intimate tone. "Why do you find me distracting?" The air between you seemed to thicken with unspoken words and unsaid possibilities, leaving you teetering on the edge of where his mind was at.

You took a hard swallow, tugging at the inside of your bottom lip and praying that you weren't about to make an embarrassing mistake.

Your heart raced as you decided to take the plunge. "Because" you began, your voice barely above a whisper, "I've never been able to keep myself composed long enough around you. And, now that we're alone, it's become increasingly hard to even think straight."

His eyes widened slightly, the seriousness of your confession hanging between you two like a fragile thread.

He moved closer, his warm breath just barely grazing the tip of your nose. "Maybe that's not such a bad thing," he said softly, his lips hovering just inches from yours, leaving you breathless and wondering if he was about to close the distance between you. "But you know what the rules are, right, y/n?"

"Do you plan on getting caught?" Your question hung in the air, heavy with implication. You felt a shiver run down your spine as the reality of the situation hit you. How the proximity had almost fizzled out in between you, the way Sam held your eyes in the most captivating way, taking only a millisecond to peak at your lips before returning to your gaze.

"Didn't know of you to be such a risk taker, y/n." He said to you with a steady voice.

A faint smile tugged at the corners of your lips, trying to mask the nervous flutter in your chest. "There's a lot you don't know about me, Sam," you replied, your voice just as steady, matching his intensity.

His gaze flickered with curiosity and something deeper, something that made your pulse quicken more than it already was. "Sam?" He smirked. "As much as I like you calling me 'Professor,' I've missed hearing you say my name."

"I'll say it as many times as you want me to," you said softly, flicking your eyes to his lips before returning back to his gaze.

"Then start now," he murmured, his tone a blend of challenge and invitation. He inched closer, his breath mingling with yours, the space between you almost nonexistent now.

"Sam," you barely voiced.

"Again." He said as his lips were just barely brushing against yours. His hand gently traced the line of your jaw.

"Sam." You repeated for him.

He closed the remaining distance, capturing your lips in a kiss that was as much a promise as it was a risk, practically whimpering into his mouth the second you got a taste whatever flavored ChapStick he wore.

His hand cupped your cheek, while his other hand rested on your thigh. You willingly fell into the touch, placing one of your hands onto his white button down, and the other beginning to tangle itself in his hair. You were merely breathless with the deepening of the kiss quickly becoming apparent, and now you were just desperate to run your hands under his shirt - to feel his warm skin under your touch.

Without unlocking your lips from his, you began to unbutton his shirt, and while he noticed, he allowed you to continue, pulling the shirt off of his shoulders and throwing it wherever it may land onto the ground.

His fingers crept under the hem of your shirt, slowly lifting it up to let every inch of your body feel that singular motion, and as soon as the tips of his fingers hit your bra, you were removing your mouth from his and finishing the job.

"You're eager." He teased at you, tugging at your bottom lip as he encapsulated your lips onto his again.

Instead of giving him a pitiful response into his mouth, you undid your bra with little struggle and threw it off of you whilst scooting yourself closer to your professor. His cold hands almost stung against your bare sides, yet soothed your heated skin as he ran them up slowly, finding your breasts and toying with them tenderly. A soft whine escaped out of your mouth, and in return, his mouth made its journey of running from your jawline, then to your neck, and to your collarbone.

Before you had even realized it, your hand was sliding down his chest, finding his bulge and cupping it. His groan vibrated against your neck, sucking lightly and digging his teeth into your neck as you threw your head back.

You had found yourself already breathless, squeezing your thighs together as your mind wondered to the inevitable. You lightly squeezed on Sam's bulge, hoping that he would mutter another sound for you to listen to.

But he removed himself from you with a heaving chest, unbuckling his belt as he stood up in front of you. While his eyes were first locked in at undoing the material holding up his pants, he then looked to you, pulling and shimmying off his jeans that were caught at his ankles. His briefs followed suit with his motion, and his cock sprung out in front of you.

Without hesitation, you had wrapped your hand around his length, keeping his eyes locked on yours as you pursed your lips and allowed spit to dribble from your mouth onto his cock. His mouth parted slightly, watching as your hand ran up and down him at an agonizingly slow pace. You gave him a small smile, one that had him caressing the side of your face and running his hand to the back of your head.

As he tousled with your hair, you pressed your lips softly onto his tip, then sliding him into your mouth. You watched as he threw his head back, groaning in a deep sigh and lightly tugging at the hair on the back of your head. You kept your hand pumping slowly at his base, while your head bobbed up and down his length.

The sensation of your soft, skilled mouth moving with rhythmic precision drew a deep moan from his lips. Your tongue danced expertly, exploring every inch, while your eyes remained fixed on his as he let his head fall back down towards you, drinking in every reaction. He was entranced with your motions and the way you effortlessly brought him such bliss.

His breathing had become unsteady, tugging at his bottom lip as he tugged your hair back which in return removed your mouth from him. You looked up to him eagerly, and in silence, he slowly fell to his knees at your mercy.

He looked beautiful bowed before you, unbuttoning and unzipping your jeans in a fluid motion, then dipping his thumbs under the denim, and wrapping his hands onto your sides that were hugged by the material. He slid them down slowly, and while doing so, you had lifted yourself up just enough to aid him in fully removing your jeans and panties. He had tossed them to the side, and once he looked back to you, your legs were pressed together.

You had found yourself shy with the vulnerability shared with him. Fully exposed to Sam, permanently imprinting this image of yourself in his brain that he would not dare to allow slip from his mind. His hands came to your knees as he noticed the sudden pink hue in your face.

"Open your legs for me, pretty girl." He said in a hoarse voice whilst he massaged your kneecaps. His demand was calm, and not one that meant to rush you. And you could feel the soothing, comforting energy that he was emulating in this moment that had you realizing he found you breathtaking - every single part of you.

So, you gave in willingly, looking at him with lustful eyes as you spread your legs apart slowly. His eyes were locked in onto your heat. Your bare form was being traced by his eyes, marveling at the curvatures of your body that seemed almost ethereal to him. He could not bring himself to speak a word, but rather sigh in reverence as his head inched closer and closer in between your thighs. It was if he was at your mercy, willing to give up anything and everything just to please you.

His lips pressed softly against the inners of your left thigh, and you had found yourself gasping lightly with a choked breath at the tender impact. Your hand relaxed at the back of his head as you massaged it, just as he did for you before, and a small grin curled onto his lips as he pressed more, soft kisses against your thighs, even sucking softly onto the skin. You were on the verge of begging for his mouth on you but resisted the urgency to see how Sam wanted to navigate himself around your body.

He raised his middle and ring finger to you, looking up at you submissively before uttering a soft, "open," to you. You quickly obeyed, parting your lips and letting him insert his fingers into your mouth, and resting them onto your tongue. You sucked slowly onto his fingers, swirling your tongue around his digits and allowing him to withdrawal them from your mouth.

And he kept his eyes locked on yours, watching intently for your reaction as he slowly inserted his two fingers inside of you. You gasped lightly, jolting forward with your back arched and your hands smashed onto the keys of the piano behind you as Sam curled his fingers. He broke from your eyes to see your hands clenched onto the keys and allowed a small smirk to curl onto his lips. He let that be his only reaction and continued to move his fingers.

You threw your head back as his other hand snaked up your body and lightly massaged your left breast. Your eyes were barely shut, mouth agape and allowing any sound bubbling in your throat out quietly. You had tugged onto the back of his head harshly as soon as you felt his tongue onto your clit, with your thighs squeezing tightly around his head and muffling your moans. As much as he wanted to push your legs apart to listen to every melodic sound that came from your mouth, he wasn't going take away from your bliss.

His tongue circled around your clit at a steady pace, with his fingers quickening to draw your moans out even more. You were tugging at your bottom lip as you rolled your hips into Sam's motions. You couldn't help but admire the view below you: your professor's eyes shut softly, seeming perfectly content in between your legs as he licked and sucked at your clit. He was already in tune with your body, knowing what made you feel good, and exactly what to do to send you over the edge.

You felt the knowing pressure in the pit of your stomach; a knot desperate to be unraveled by your orgasm. Your moans became strained - whiney.

"Sam, fuck, just like that." You slurred. Your hand had yet again found itself bracing against the keys of the piano, pressing a multitude of keys that didn't make the most beautiful melody, but the irony of that was it didn't matter what it sounded like. It mattered how it felt, which it perfectly conveyed.

You were arching your back away from the piano as your thighs trembled around Sam's head, calling out his name once more as your head fell forward and your breathing quickened. You alerted him of your orgasm, and all he did was continue his motions, calming them and seizing their existence after dragging out your high.

"You okay?" He looked up to you, removing his fingers slowly from your entrance and encapsulating them into his mouth to lick them clean.

You shuddered, and quickly swallowed and nodded at him.

"Yeah, yeah I'm okay." You laughed lightly.

He rose from his knees, standing before you still fully erect. You had forgotten how perfectly carved his abdomen was, how desirable him in his vulnerably, bare entirety was.

His fingers pressed from below your chin, lifting your eyes up to his own and holding a soft smile yet again.

"Are you okay to keep going?"

You smiled at him and his concern that just barely washed over his face.

"Yes, Sam." You nodded, reaching out for his face and him almost immediately complying.

He smashed his lips onto yours as you pulled yourself up from the bench. Your bodies melted into each other in a feverish rush, hands frantically exploring once more to remember the feeling of each other's skin. His hand had found the small of your back, guiding you to rotate to where you were now standing where he originally was.

His mouth kept on yours, slowly sitting down onto the bench and losing your lips with the action. You stood before him, watching his eyes fall to your thighs, where his hands began running slowly up and stopping at your waist.

He met your eyes again with his tongue darting out in between his lips. His touch was both tentative and possessive, as if memorizing every curve and contour. You could feel the heat radiating from his palms and igniting that fire once more.

He pulled you closer, his grip firm yet gentle, urging you to straddle his lap. As you settled into him, he had a hand on the base of his cock, dragging it alongst your sensitive folds that had you whimpering from the slight overstimulation. He looked to you once more to look for any sign of discomfort, but you placed your hands onto his shoulders, and lined yourself up with him.

You had sunk down onto him slowly and could not help breathing a relieved moan. He, on the other hand, released a guttural groan as you fully rested with him completely inside of you. His hands gripped onto your hips, breathing already unsteady, and beginning to guide you at a slow pace.

"Shit, y/n," he breathed, "you feel so perfect." He watched you grind your hips into him and continued. "You are so perfect."

You ran a hand from his shoulder and to his neck, finding his cheek and giving him a lustful smile. You were warm around his bare cock, tight and sucking him in perfectly. Your mind was dizzy with the thought of this all being a reality unfolding at this very moment; dizzy with the way he was making you feel.

You began to bounce at a steady pace, feeling his hips buck into you lightly to help alleviate some of the work on your end. He could tell you were tired. You were lazily chasing your next orgasm, although desperate for yours again and to help him find his, but your energy almost begged to deny it.

His left hand found a home onto the piano keys for leverage, lightly wincing at the sudden noise that filled the nearly silent room. You looked at him and smiled lightly, holding back your laughter at the noise.

"Doesn't sound too good." You teased.

He shook his head at you, furrowing his brows as he battled full euphoria taking over his being and disallowing a response from him. His breath came in short, ragged bursts as he tried to focus, the dissonant chord fading into the background of his awareness.

With a slow, deliberate movement, his thumb pressed into your hipbone, anchoring himself in the reality of your presence. The look in his eyes was a mix of passion and frustration, struggling to form words but failing as the intensity of the moment overwhelmed him.

You leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to his forehead, a silent promise that you understood. His fingers flexed on the piano keys, creating a soft, accidental melody that echoed the unspoken rhythm of your connection. Even when he's not trying, he can make something beautiful out of a small mistake.

Yours and his's movements became quicker, both of you voicing your satisfaction with breathy moans, mixing swears and each other's names into the lustful air. Your hand ran to the back of his head, tousling with the damp hair and resting your forehead onto his. You both were a sweaty mess, which had you and him sticking to one another. It would be a battle to unravel yourself from him after this, but you warranted that.

He had a harsher grip onto your hip. His fingers dug into the plush skin while his thrusts became unsteady. He removed his hand from the piano and let you carry the pace on as his thumb circled onto your clit. You called out to him in a hushed moan, feeling your second orgasm creeping up quickly. Even though you warned him, he did not care. He wanted that.

"Cum for me again, y/n." He quickened his finger, pressing down onto your lower stomach. "Cum. For. Me." He repeated with gritted teeth.

Your eyebrows pulled together, locking your eyes with his as you reached your high almost immediately and pulled your head back from him with a hand pressed against his chest. You trembled against him and rode yourself through your high, with a high-pitched gasp shooting out from your mouth while you squeezed around him. And although your head was still fuzzy, you kept going for him.

He muttered your name in a warning, lifting you up from his lap just enough for him to pull out from you. You had sat yourself onto the middle portion of his thighs, far enough for him to finish himself off by painting his stomach and hand with his cum. You couldn't tear your eyes from him as he heaved and looked at the mess he had made, lightly chuckling to himself. You found his laughter and matched it, tucking your bottom lip behind your front teeth and smiling.

He reached for your lips once more, pressing a gentle, meaningful kiss onto your mouth as he cupped your cheek with his dry hand. And once your lips parted from his, you found the pattern of his breathing and controlled your own to emulate his.

He lifted his wrist to look at the time, and you in turn gave him a puzzled look whilst throwing your arms around his neck.

"Have another appointment today?" You said to him with slight disappointment. You had almost forgotten where you two were.

"I unfortunately do." He replied. "And I'd suggest we should clean ourselves up now and make it look like we did not just have sex on this fucking piano." He chuckled.

You quickly obeyed, standing up quickly and running over to his podium where he had a tissue box. You knew you were to return home and shower, but for now, this would suffice. Besides, you didn't know how much time you had before a student would walk in, so both of you focused on yourselves.

You had found your phone and quickly switched to the camera to make sure your hair wasn't too much of a mess, along with your makeup. Thankfully, it was a quick fix for anything out of place, and you took care of it while Sam finished buttoning up his shirt.

After you had placed your phone in the back pocket of your jeans, you walked over to him.

"Do you do this with all of your students?" You questioned him with sarcasm.

He shook his head with a breathy chuckle. "Only the ones I like." He shrugged, catching onto your teasing.

You giggled at his response, choosing to leave the teasing behind in fear of the unknown amount of time you had left with him. "So, I'll see you tomorrow for class then?" You rocked on your heels.

"Well, I'd hope so," he smiled at you, sliding his hand onto your waist and pulling you closer. "Will I start seeing you outside of class, too?"

You felt a rush of warmth from his touch, a sense of comfort that had now been familiarized to you. "I think we can arrange that." You said in a playful manner as you placed the palms of your hands onto his chest.

His thumb traced small circles on your waist, his expression softening with a mixture of desire and affection. "Good," he murmured, leaning in to brush his lips against yours once more. "I look forward to it."

After you had parted from his lips again, you reluctantly pulled away from him and made your way to the doors of the lecture hall. You were hoping that whatever student was to come next wasn't outside already, because by the burning sensation that filled your cheeks, you could not hide that something had occurred beyond the lesson with him. With your professor.

⋆⁺｡˚⋆˙‧₊☽ ◯ ☾₊‧˙⋆˚｡⁺⋆

taglist:

@hollyco @ageofhearingloss @sacredjake @mountain-in-springtime @ignite-my-fire @gvfsstardust @jakesguitarsolo @gold-mines-melting @digitalcalamity @demolitionndann @lipstickitty @joopsworld @gvfgal @gvfpal @hellowgoodbye @writingcold @stardustcatcher @absolutely--mental @hippievanfleet @haileygvf @gretasfallingsky @dont-go-home-without-me @indigofallingsky @sinarainbows @laneygvf @josh-iamyour-mama @starshine-wagner @lyndz2names @jjwasneverhere @mulberrimouse @starcatcher-jake @lallisonl @jordie-gvf @mindastreamofcolours @peaceloveunitygvf

[mamaestapa]

Closer|| E.Edwards x reader x R.McGroarty

•pairing: Ethan Edwards x reader x Rutger McGroarty

•summary: After the Umich hockey team gets swept by MSU in their two game series, Ethan and Rutger help you become somebody else while you help them get away from themselves…

•word count: 4.4k

•warnings: SMUT, inspired by the song Closer by Nine Inch Nails, THREESOME, both guys inside/penetrating at the same time, unprotected p in v sex, rough sex, oral sex (male and female receiving) ,foreplay, hair pulling kink, whipped cream, belly shots, brief blindfolding, reader has a belly button piercing (even if you don’t have one, you do for this fic bc it’s so hot), blood, choking, SMUT, this is pure filth. if descriptive, absolutely nasty, all porn no plot smut makes you uncomfortable DO NOT READ!!

DIGITAL ANIMAL AU MASTERLIST

You were sitting on the couch, scrolling mindlessly through Instagram as you waited for Ethan to get back to his apartment from Yost Ice Arena.

Tonight was the final game of the MSU v UMICH weekend series. The guys played well tonight, but not well enough to pull out a win. Ethan and Rutger each scored a goal over the course of the last two nights, but State was unfortunately the better looking team both nights. The games didn't quite go the way you or the fans had hoped, but you had to remind yourself—It's still early in the season. They can come back from this.

During the game, you had seats in the front row bleachers of the student section with the Children of Yost. You sat with your friends and some of the other girlfriends of the hockey players. As you sat in the stands, you split your attention between the game and your phone—scrolling through Instagram to see if the Umich Hockey page had posted anything about your boys.

You checked the team’s story first, coming across a great amount of content from the boys pregame warmups. You couldn’t stop the widening of your eyes as you watched the clip play on your phone.

Ethan was wearing a navy blue University of Michigan hockey shirt and matching shorts with the maize M on the side of his right pant leg. He wore his socks like usual, pulled up to his knees and paired with his favorite pair of tennis shoes.

Rutger was standing next to Ethan, sporting the same shorts and a long sleeved gray compression shirt with the maize M on his left pec. The shirt hugged his broad chest and muscular figure perfectly. The chain around his neck peeked out from the material of the tight shirt, which was something you loved to see.

In the clip, Ethan and Rutger had just finished running their laps. Both boys chests were heaving as Ethan ran his fingers through his hair. Ethan gazed at Rutger with a smirk as he reached out and slapped the sophomore on the back mouthing “atta boy”.

It wasn’t unusual for them to interact like this, but something about the way the two looked at each other in that ten second clip had you feeling many things.

Your heart raced and you crossed your legs as the video came to an end and the story moved along. Ethan and Rutger looked insanely hot. Something about the pre-game warmup look the boys wore had you going absolutely feral and feeling your pulse in other areas.

You shut your phone off and set it down in your lap. You pulled your bottom lip in between your teeth as you looked out onto the ice, watching the rest of the game.

You couldn't wait for the game to be over...

So here you are now a couple hours later: sitting on the couch in his apartment and waiting for Ethan to come home. Just as you picked up your phone to check the time, Ethan entered the apartment. He set his belongings down on the counter, huffing out a loud sigh as he did so. You chuckled to yourself and got up from the couch, walking into the kitchen. A small smile pulled at Ethan’s lips as he looked at you.

"Hey hot stuff." you greeted as you wrapped your arms around your boyfriend. Ethan chuckled and wrapped his arms around you, leaning down to kiss your temple. "Hey yourself."

You hummed and pulled away from Ethan, looking into his soft brown eyes. Your eyes scanned Ethan’s figure, taking in his beautiful eyes, his chiseled jawline, and that stupid backwards white Michigan cap that had you feeling things you shouldn't be feeling.

You brought a hand up to Ethan’s head, slightly tipping the cap back which made Ethan chuckle.

“What?” you asked coyly, even though you knew exactly what he was going to say to you.

“You have that look on your face.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about Eddy.”

Ethan snaked his arms back around your waist, smirking as he captured your lips in a passionate kiss. You could feel the warmth radiating off of both of your bodies as you stood pressed against each other. Ethan leaned in to the side of your head, pressing his lips onto the sensitive skin of your neck. He nipped softly at the spot under your earlobe as a new voice spoke lustfully into your ear.

“You know exactly what look he’s talking about sweetheart…”

You pulled back from Ethan, looking up at the boy who had entered the apartment behind Ethan.

Rutger.

With a slight smirk pulling at your lips, you brought a hand back up to the backwards cap on Ethan’s head while your other hand gravitated towards Rutgers chest. You rolled the silver chain cross necklace between your fingertips as you spoke.

“You both looked so good tonight.”

You eyed Ethan, “Eddy, in your blue and your backwards cap…” you sighed blissfully before turning to Rutger and finishing your sentence, “And Rut, something about this chain and you scoring tonight has me all worked up.”

Ethan’s eyes grew dark with lust as he smirked down at you.

Ethan gently squeezed your waist as he said, “Well maybe we should do something about that.” He looked at the younger blonde boy next to him, “What do you think Rut?”

“I think we should…” He trailed off, tongue resting on the side of his cheek as his blue eyes grew dark with lust.

Before you knew it, your lips were smashed against Ethan’s as you rushed into his bedroom. You were taking the cap off of his dark hair and tugging at the hem of Rutgers shirt as the two ushered you through the door frame and into the room.

…

Ethan hooked his fingers underneath your t-shirt, ripping the material off of your body with ease as he continued to kiss you hungrily, wanting to taste more than just your soft lips. Rutger’s veiny hands gripped your bare sides as he pushed you up against the wall of Ethan’s bedroom. His blue eyes grew dark with lust as he gazed down at your breasts sitting perfectly in a navy, lace pushup bra. Perfect for the Michigan game tonight.

It was Rutgers favorite set of yours. It never failed to grow his arousal even more.

"Much better." Rutger smirked as he eyed your perky breasts. He harshly cupped your left breast, digging his digits into the cup as he kissed along your jawline.

Your breathing grew shallow as he bit at your skin. Ethan was kissing along your collar bone, both boys were now sucking at the skin of your neck and leaving deep red blotches. You threw your head back at the feeling of their soft lips against your skin. You brought your hands up to each one of their heads as a soft moan escaped your parted lips.

You ran your fingers through Rutgers damp dark blonde strands as your other hand tugged at the tips of Ethan’s brown hair.

You moaned softly as Ethan’s kisses grew sloppier. He pulled his face away from your neck, smirking slyly at you as he toyed with the waistband of your jeans. He slipped two fingers into your pants, brushing them up against your clothed core. You gasped as his long fingers teased your sensitive clit through the lace, his movements making the wetness between your thighs more apparent.

Rutger gave you a sultry look with his tongue pressed against the side of his mouth as he pulled Ethan’s hand out of your shorts. Rutger harshly pulled you away from the wall, pushing you down flat onto the bed instead. You let out a breath as excitement swirled through your body.

You haven't been this way with your boys in a long time.

It’s been weeks since the three of you have gotten alone time like this.

Rutger ripped your buttoned pants open with ease, slowly sliding them down your legs before tossing them to the floor next to the bed. His lustful eyes scanned over your body laying on his teammates bed. He looked at your face first, taking in those doe eyes and your plump lips he loved so much. His eyes trailed down to your chest, his heart was racing as he looked at your breasts sitting perfectly in the cups lined with lace. He then trailed his eyes further, a smirk pulling at his lips as he looked at your perfectly pierced belly button and your lace covered core.

You may be Ethan’s girl, but you were the most beautiful girl he's ever laid his eyes on.

As Rutger looked at your figure, an idea came to your boyfriend’s mind. Something he's never done before, but something he's wanted to try for a long time. He reached out to the bedside table and grabbed what he was thinking of.

"Put this on her…” Ethan trailed off, handing Rutger a navy blue headband with the M logo in the middle. Rutger eyed Ethan as he carefully took the headband from him. A smirk pulled at the sophomores lips as he slid the material onto your forehead.

He knew exactly what Ethan was hinting at.

Rutger pulled the headband down so your eyes were completely covered.

"There we go." Ethan whispered huskily, his arousal growing at the sight of you blindfolded by his headband.

“What are you doing?" You asked, voice quiet and also slightly confused. Ethan has never blindfolded you before.

"You'll see." Your boyfriend purred as he trailed a hand down your body.

Your core ached and your heart fluttered at the thought of trying something different with both Ethan and Rutger. Not only were you excited, but your body was excited, too.

You closed your eyes as they were met with darkness from the headband. You couldn't see anything, but you could hear everything going on in the room around you.

Ethan grabbed the whipped cream and the bottle of rosé from the bedside table. He took the lid off of the whipped cream, shaking it before taking the lid off and putting it in between his lips. He spit the lid out, the red cap hitting the wall behind the two of you before it fell to the floor.

Ethan eyed your breasts as he shook the can of whipped cream in one hand. He reached out for you with his other hand, placing it on your left rib. His long, skilled fingers slowly trailed up your sides, making you shiver at the sensation.

Ethan unclasped your bra, wetting his lips as he watched the red material fall from your chest, letting your breasts free. Ethan pressed the white tip of the whipped cream can and made a circular motion with the can as he sprayed the cream onto your hard nipples. As soon as he was satisfied with the amount, he threw the can to the side and immediately attached his mouth to the sensitive bud, sucking at the sweet cream that adorned your breasts. His tongue swirled over each of your nipples, making sure to lap up every last bit of the sweet cream.

"Oh Eddy," you let out a breathy moan at the feeling of Ethan’s tongue swirling around your hard nipples. You could feel yourself getting wetter just from him lapping up the whipped cream.

Ethan chuckled at your reaction as he detached his lips from your right breast. He leaned over and grabbed the bottle of rosé off of the bed and pulled the cap off with a slight pop.

He handed the bottle over to Rutger, giving him a curt nod as he gestured to your naked body.

“All yours Rut.”

You pulled Ethan’s headband off of your eyes just in time to see Rutger bring the tip of the bottle down to your belly, letting it rest against your skin as he poured the rosé into your belly button. He eyed you as he quickly slurped the rosé out of your belly button as some of the liquid trickled down your sides

"That's new." You said, an amused smile on your face as you watched Rutger slurp the rose out of your belly button.

Ethan has a time or two, but Rutger’s never done belly shots from you.

Tonight is already proving to be one of those nights where you, Ethan, and Rutger help each other become someone else together, not only romantically but sexually, too.

After slurping out every last drop of the liquid, Rutger bit down on the jewelry adorning your navel. He and Ethan loved to play with your piercing during sex.

Something about the silver diamond jewelry just got them even more excited. You brought your hands down to Rutger’s head, running your nails over his scalp as he continued to bite at and play with your navel piercing. You bit your lip and let out a soft whimper as he tugged harshly at the ring while gently cupping your breasts as he did so.

You could feel Rutger’s deep chuckle vibrate against your belly. "You like that?" he asked, a teasing smirk on his face as he looked up at you through his lashes.

“Mhm..." You trailed off, your response coming out as a blissful moan as Ethan attached his lips to your still hard nipples. Both boys were now worshiping different parts of your bodies as if their lives depended on it.

It was hard for you to form words right now with the way Ethan and Rutger were teasing you. Rutger smirked up at Ethan as he kissed down your belly, his hot breath against the skin of your abdomen making that warmth pool in your belly already.

Tonight was supposed to be about you taking care of your boys, but right now, it seemed like your boys were taking care of you instead.

Rutger stopped his trail of kisses once he got to the waistband of your lace panties. Your eyes widened in disbelief, your heart pounded with excitement, and your pulse was felt in your most intimate area as you watched Rutger hook his finger into the waistband of your panties.

But his finger wasn't the only thing trying to take your panties off...

Rutger lowered his head so that he was now lined up with your clothed core that was practically dripping just from the sight of him.

He kept his blue eyes locked on yours as he bit down on the waistband of your navy panties. He slowly started to pull the fabric away from your waist. You lifted your legs slightly, giving Rutger just enough room to slide your panties down your legs with his mouth.

You couldn't believe what you were seeing. Not only could you not believe what you were seeing, but you loved what you were seeing.

You've never seen him act this way before. Something about the hungry look in his eyes as he stared at your aching, dripping womanhood made you feel another level of turned on you've never quite felt before.

Rutger ripped your panties out of his mouth and threw them off to the side with the pile of other clothes. He lowered his head back down to your dripping core, his tongue instantly lapping at your glistening folds.

Ethan has taught him very well.

"Oh- fuck..."you whimper out as Rutger ate you out like a starved man. The blonde chuckled against your folds, the vibration sending what felt like an electric shock through your body as it made you jolt. Ethan brought his veiny hands down to your thighs, keeping your legs spread open as his teammate buried his tongue into you.

“Keep ‘em open for Rut, pretty girl.”

Rutger moaned against your core as the taste of your sweet juices hit his taste buds. You tasted like sweet honey...

"You taste so good, Y/n." Rutger praised as he took a hand off of your thigh, placing it onto your womanhood and letting his thumb rub circles against your clit as he continued to lap at your soaked core. The feeling of both Rutger’s tongue and fingers sent you over the edge, turning you into a whimpering and quivering mess in no time.

You bucked your hips slightly as Rutgers movements quickened. His jaw clenched with each swipe of his tongue and the muscles in his forearm flexed with each stroke of his thumb. Your chest heaved as he licked a stripe up your core.

"Fuck Rut, don't stop..."

You brought your hands down to the back of Rutgers head, gripping the ends of his blonde hair as you pushed him closer to your center. Rutger panted against you, feeling your walls clench around his tongue as you grew close to your first orgasm of the night.

Ethan got on the bed behind you, holding you against his chest for support as Rutger quickened the movements of his fingers and rhythm of his tongue.

You let out a whimper as Rutger pressed down on your lower belly with his hand, trying to keep you still. He knew you were getting close from the way the your chest rose and fell, and how your hips were bucking every time his tongue swirled over your clit.

Ethan told him you did that when you were about to cum.

"That's it baby," Ethan praised, "Let him taste you."

You let out a few more whimpers, moaning Rutger’s name in pleasure as you felt the familiar warmth in your lower belly. Soon enough, your chest was heaving as it all came crashing down and you were overcome with complete pleasure and bliss. Rutger lapped up your juices with his tongue, pulling his face away from your soaked core.

He licked his lips dry, making sure to get every last drop of you into his mouth.

Rutger smirked as he watched you come down from your orgasmic high, your heaving chest soon going back to its normal rythmuc rising and falling.

"In all the the times I’ve hooked up with you, I don't think I've ever seen you cum that hard." He smirked, a sense of pride in his tone as he spoke. "That was hot.”

“All because of you.” You replied, still trying to catch your breath and recover from your climax.

Ethan pulled you up into a sitting position before crashing his lips onto yours. You changed positions and wrapped your arms around his neck, trailing your hands down his back as your nails dug into his skin.

You detached your lips from your boyfriends, instead kissing Rutger. You could taste yourself on Rutger’s lips as the two of you shared a passionate kiss. As his toned body was pressed against yours, you could feel Ethan’s erection poking at your thigh. He had been so turned on watching his best friend eat his girlfriend out. It was his turn to be taken care of now.

You were going to help him get away from himself for a few minutes...

You pulled away from Rutger, smirking up at the blonde forward as your hand traveled south to your boyfriends middle. Your hand brushed over his erection as you spoke, "Your turn, Ethan."

Ethan bit his lip in anticipation as he watched you slide out from the bed, moving so that you were now directly in front of him. You gave Ethan a sultry look as you slowly got down on your knees in front of him. Ethan felt like the luckiest guy in the world right now.

Not only was he happy with Rutger learning how to please you, but you were about to give Ethan the best blowjob of his entire life.

You reached out and palmed Ethan through his boxers, making him wince slightly at the feeling of your hand on his manhood.

"May I?" You asked, gesturing to his undergarments.

Ethan couldn't form words, so he just nodded. He needed you so bad.

He needed to feel your soft lips around him.

He needed to feel your soft hands around him.

He needed to feel you take him deeper, and deeper.

Ethan lifted himself from the bed, helping you remove his boxers from his body. Once the boxers were removed from his waist, Ethan’s impressive erection sprang free. He sat back down on the bed as you prepared to take him.

You gazed hungrily at him just like he did at you moments ago when you were the one being pleasured. You bit down on your bottom lip as you placed your manicured hands on Ethan’s thick, muscular thighs, spreading them apart as you slowly leaned down. Ethan closed his eyes as he waited for the feeling of your lips around him, taking him in deeper with each bob of your head.

You brought your lips down around the tip of his dick, pulling them off with a pop as your tongue teased his slit, licking the pre-cum off of the red tip. Between the feeling of your warm breath and your tongue toying with his manhood, Ethan threw his head back.

"Fuck," he groaned deeply as you slowly took more of him into your mouth. Your lips were sealed around the head of his cock, sucking and licking tentatively at his skin. Ethan bit his tongue, holding back the sounds of pleasure that threatened to escape as you sucked him off. He let out a strangled sound as you took more of him into your mouth.

As you started bobbing your head, Ethan couldn’t stop himself from bringing his hands up to your hair and pulling you closer to him.

"Fuck, Y/n-," Ethan moaned out as you spit on his dick, jerking him off with your lips still around him.

Ethan hasn't felt this good in weeks. Rutger hasn’t felt this good in weeks.

The season was already putting a toll on the boys mind and body. But right now, neither of them were thinking about any of that stuff. All Ethan and Rutger could think about was you and how you make them feel.

You make them feel perfect. You always have and you always will.

You bobbed your head rhythmically, making Ethan moan in pleasure.

“You're doing so good sweetheart.” It was Rutger’s turn to praise you as he noticed the tears in your eyes from Ethan’s size, "So good."

You could tell Ethan was growing closer to his release because every time you bobbed your head you could feel his cock twitch in your mouth. Ethan’s chest heaved up in down as his face contorted into a look of pleasure. He let out a few grunts as he came undone in your mouth. You brought him into a pure state of bliss, something he hasn't felt in a while. You pulled your mouth off of him and swallowed, giving him a couple minutes to come down and recover from his high.

“Closer” by Nine Inch Nails begins playing…

You stood up from being on your knees, standing in between Ethan’s legs as you leaned down and crashed your lips onto his. Your mouths moved in perfect sync as you let him taste himself on your lips just like Rutger had done for you.

Ethan bit down on your bottom lip, making you wince slightly as he drew blood. You pulled away from him, locking lips with Rutger who was now next to you and Ethan.

Rutger licked the blood off of your lip before attaching his lips to yours. The metallic taste of your blood filled both yours and Rutgers mouths as the drops of crimson hit your taste buds.

Rutger continued to kiss you hungrily, his movements urgent as he gripped your waist with the pads of his fingers. He pushed you down onto the bed, bringing you underneath him as he hovered over you. Ethan inched closer to your ear, his hot breath on your neck sending shivers up your spine.

"We’re gonna fuck you till you're screaming our names and shaking so hard you won't be able to walk."

Your boyfriend’s husky voice and the words he uttered down at you made you bite your lip in anticipation.

Ethan gently bit down on your earlobe, slightly tugging on it as he brought his head away from your neck. Rutger hovered over you with his left arm on the mattress as his right arm played with you. He harshly kneaded your left breast as his thumb and index finger pinched your sensitive, hard nipple. Ethan did the same thing to your right breast as he began to suck relentlessly as your neck, making you moan in pleasure as he marked his territory.

Ethan and Rutger wanted everyone to know that your were theirs, and only theirs.

Rutger licked a stripe up your neck, his hot breath hitting your sensitive skin as he whispered huskily into your ear.

"Here we go."

He slid his cock into your slick entrance, burying himself deep inside of you. The feeling of his impressive length made your thighs clench and your eyes squeeze shut as you let out a moan. Rutger snapped his hips forward, making your hips buck up, matching his rough thrusts. You wrap your legs around Rutger, allowing him to thrust harder, faster, deeper.

"God," he groaned out as your walls clench around his cock, "You feel so good." His grunts mixed with the sounds of your moans and skin hitting skin.

Ethan could feel himself getting away from himself and his thoughts of the game tonight as he watched his teammate fuck you senseless. Each thrust of his hips and groan that escaped his lips had you all feeling pleasure in all the right places.

Ethan buried his face in your neck as you scratched harshly at Rutgers. Both boys left sloppy kisses on your neck as Ethan pulled his hips forwards, roughly thrusting into you with Rutger.

In and out. In and out. In and out. Each thrust grew deeper, the tip of Rutger’s cock hitting your cervix repeatedly made your body jolt with pleasure. You screamed his name as Ethan grunted under his breath.

"Fuck," he praised, "You feel so good, so tight."

Both boys continued to fuck you senseless, making you feel as if your whole existence was flawed as you laid underneath them. You immediately grew submissive from their touch, seeming to lose every ounce of dominance in your body.

The sounds of your moans filled the bedroom, as all you could smell was sweat and sex. After you let out a particularly loud moan, Ethan brought his hand up to your neck, wrapping his fingers around it and squeezing you gently. You gasped at the feeling of your lovers hand around your neck as his ruthlessly thrusted himself into you, pushing deeper and deeper.

"Eth, Rut," you moaned out as you placed your hand over Ethan’s that was wrapped around your neck, "don't stop."

Rutger shook his head as Ethan removed his hand from your neck, instead placing it firmly on Rutgers chest. A bead of sweat trickled down the sophomore’s forehead before falling onto his lip. He leaned down and crashed his lips onto yours. You could taste the saltiness of his sweat as his tongue swirled around your own. Your bodies continued to move in a perfect rhythm as the three of you became panting and moaning messes underneath each others touch. You felt a familiar warmth pool in your lower belly.

You were so close.

"I'm so close." You practically whined as Ethan picked up the pace of his rough thrusts, with Rutger following suit.

Soon enough, your walls were clenching around them. The clenching of your slick walls made both Ethan and Rutger grunt.

Both boys could feel every inch of you from the inside, and it felt amazing.

"Fuck," Rutger growled, his deep voice making your body jolt in pleasure once again. The sound of him, the feeling of him, and the smell of him made you grow even closer to your orgasm.

Ethan could feel your walls clench once again, this time with more force. He knew you were close.

"That's it baby," Ethan pleaded, his chest heaving as he panted, "cum for me. Cum for Rut. We wanna feel you."

Rutger continued to pound into you, making sure you felt every single inch of him. The feeling of his large cock filling you up made your legs shake as you moaned in pleasure. You came down harshly on the boys manhood, your hands coming up to Ethan’s head and tugging at his dark brown locks as he and Rutger had you seeing stars.

You whimpered out Rutger’s name as your chest heaved up and down. You were completely blissed out as he continued to pump into you. He reached his climax shortly after you, groaning, and gripping onto Ethan’s thighs as spurts of his hot cum filled your insides.

Both Ethan and Rutger fucked you so hard that the three of you were completely blissed out, not thinking straight and feeling yourselves being brought closer to god. Rutger pressed his forehead against yours as you came down from your highs, chests heaving and bodies sticky with sweat.

“I love you so much.” He breathed out, his hot breath hitting your face as he spoke.

You didn’t know if it was the heat of the moment or if Rutger really did love you.

“I love you too Rut.” You said, your breathing matching his. You leaned your head against Ethan’s shoulder as you continued, “And I love you Ethan.”

Rutger pulled out of you and plopped down on the bed next to you and Ethan, pulling you into his side. You immediately melted into his touch, letting your backside lean against him as you wrapped your arms around Ethan’s sticky torso as

“That was amazing.” You said blissfully as you were stuck between your boys, “I don’t think I’ll be able to do anything except just lay here.”

Ethan smirked down at you as he gently stroked your bare arm with his fingertips. “Well,” he breathed out, “I think I should wear that backwards hat more often.”

“And I think I should score more often.”

You chuckled softly at both Ethan and Rutgers sly remarks.

“I think you should too.” You replied honestly.

hi loves!!

SOOOOO this was CRAZY. DIRTY. NASTY. INTENSE. if this made you uncomfortable i deeply apologize…this song, closer, if you haven’t listened to it…just do it once for the purpose of this fic. it’s such a catchy but downright dirty nasty smutty song😭

i also apologize if this was super cringy. i used some of the same stuff from digital animal, so that’s why some bits may seem familiar.

i wrote this fic about joe burrow over the summer and it got a lot of love so i figured i’d re-write it for my ethan and rutger girlies since digital animal seems to be a favorite ;) i love that you’ve all turned one fic into a whole au! i never thought it would turn to that, but i’m so glad it has. i love all of you and your amazing thoughts/thots😚🤍

as always, thank you for all of you kind words and support with my writing. you are the best! i love talking with all of you and getting to share my work with you. your constant sweet messages, asks, words of encouragement, and wonderful au and story ideas are what keep me going. I LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH🫂🤍

[ciaomarie]

Chapter 2: Getting to Know You

I recently wrote a post-season 2 story about Carmy helping with Sydney's apartment search. I wanted to back track a little to get into his head space just after the Friends and Family almost disaster, but prior to the apartment hunt, during which he is hopelessly crushing on Sydney. Mostly, it's backstory and gives more context to why Carmen is who he is :)

When Carmy stumbled frozen and broken out of the walk-in the night of Friends and Family, Sydney was waiting for him. However, something in his eyes made her reconsider whatever she had been planning to say. She pointed him to sit on floor against a stove she had turned on and made him hot tea. Wordlessly she sat on the floor next to him until he finished. When he tried to speak, nothing came out. His icy mottled fist began to circle his chest, but Sydney closed her hand over his.

"We'll start over again tomorrow."

Weeks later Carmen asked her why she hadn't quit that night. She said "Your face…it looked like mine did when I lost Sheridan."

In return she had asked him what happened with Claire and if it had been her fault.

"No. She thought she knew me, but she didn't and honestly, we didn't have anything in common."

The more Carm thought about Claire the sorrier he felt about how he'd behaved and the less he regretted the break-up. Claire was his high school dream girl. She was always kind to him, despite being able to mingle in nearly every clique at school. She was as comfortable with the student government club, as she was with the skaters. Everyone liked her and for no apparent reason she frequently stopped at his locker to ask if he had gum or invite him to study. So he always kept a pack of gum for her, but was too shy to join her study group. Once she and two of her friends ambushed him after school and convinced him to come to a party the night prior to graduation. He decided he might as well not end his high school career without ever having gone to one. The party was held in woods behind one of the football player's homes. There was a bonfire, cheap beer, too few cups, and couples making out or swaying to "Die in Your Arms".

Claire found a clean Solo cup and they shared a drink as she gazed into his eyes.

"I love this song"

"Yeah…it's popular".

Natalie had been playing Justin Bieber non-stop for the last few years and Carm was almost willing to give up all music if he never had to listen to him sing another note.

He didn't remember the rest of the conversation, but at some point Claire kissed him. 12 years later when they began dating she brought up the night of the party and how he looked so surprised and blushed.

"You were so cute. I bet it was your first kiss!"

"No, but almost" he said a little taken aback. As pleased as he was that Claire was interested, he felt like her project. Something about their relationship reminded him of a cheesy 80's teen movie. Too sweet. Not enough acid.

He could have saved them both a lot of trouble if he'd not given her any number, much less a fake one. But it was Claire, the brilliant, fearless, beautiful girl he'd used to sketch over and over again and she wanted HIM. He liked her so much back then. She went off to Michigan State and he began peeling mushrooms at a restaurant eventually becoming Carmen Berzatto "the most excellent CDC at the most excellent restaurant in the entire United States of America."

But before Claire, in 7th grade summer school, there was Kyla Branson. Carmy needed to take 7th grade math again before they'd pass him to 8th grade and Kyla was a transfer student. She had just finished 6th grade, and was taking 7th grade math and English early, because she was a pianist. A whole freakin' prodigy that would be touring with Eric Clapton later that fall. The math teacher had told the class, much to Kyla's obvious discomfort.

On the third day the class split into pairs to do an assignment and Carmy and Kyla were paired. He could barely look at her. Kyla had thick curly eyelashes which framed her large black brown eyes, her hair was usually brushed up into a soft coily bun like a ballerina, she wore small white diamond earrings in her shockingly small ears, and she had an heart-breakingly cute overbite that showed whenever she smiled. Carmy was gone over this little black girl. She was very shy too, but an overachiever so she persevered in making him talk enough to get the work done.

Once she saw his sketches on the back of his notebook and said he was artist. Using his best charcoal pencils he drew a portrait of her in the privacy of the attic at home. On the last day of summer school he gave it to her when class dismissed and dashed out of the room, his face redder than Heinz ketchup. Kyla caught up with him outside and grabbed his hand leading him out of the view of the car pick-up line.

"Thank you Carmen. I think you're beautiful too" Kyla whispered and kissed him full on the mouth. For three seconds. Then she ran back to the car pick up line, got into her parent's car and Carmen never saw her again.

Once he thought he saw her. The eyes and overbite were startling familiar, but the name was different. It was the day that Sydney Adamu walked into The Beef. It was the day that someone saw who he really was again.

[plethoraworldatlas]

In the weeks leading up to President Biden's withdrawal from the presidential race, most of the editorial boards, party activists, and elected officials calling for him to end his reelection campaign focused on only one issue: age.

But there was another reason President Biden needed to drop out: Gaza.

Long before President Biden's debate meltdown sparked panic in the Democratic establishment, his support for the Israeli government's war in Gaza sparked outrage in the Democratic base, where 56 percent of the party's supporters have described the war as a genocide.

At least half a million Democratic voters protested President Biden's support for the Gaza genocide by voting uncommitted or submitting blank ballots during the presidential primaries earlier this year, including over 100,000 people in Michigan, 88,000 in North Carolina and 46,000 in Minnesota.

Over 1 in 5 Democrats or independents in key swing states said they were less likely to vote for President Biden due to the war, according to a YouGov-AJP-Action poll in May. Over a quarter of those voters said that an immediate and lasting ceasefire, full entry of humanitarian aid to Gaza, and conditions on military aid for Israel’s war were the minimum policy changes needed to secure or solidify their votes for Biden.

Many Democratic voters were alienated even more by President Biden's failure to call out reports of anti-Palestinian racism and Islamophobic violence with the same fervor he uses to call out reports of antisemitic rhetoric, as well as his criticism of the diverse, overwhelmingly peaceful student protests on college campuses.

Frustrated voters included Muslim Americans, Arab Americans, Black Americans, young people and others who helped carry him to victory in 2020. If those voters ended up supporting third party candidates or boycotting the presidential race altogether in November—as some promised to do if Biden remained on the ticket and did not change course—they could have easily tipped the results in Michigan and other key swing states.

Now that President Biden has withdrawn from the presidential race, Vice President Kamala Harris has a chance to turn the page, chart a new course, and win back those voters, including American Muslims.

That's what our coalition of American Muslim political organizations is calling on her to do.

Vice President Harris has already neutralized the concerns of voters worried about President Biden's age. Now she must address the concerns of voters who opposed his support for the war on Gaza.

Many American Muslims are open to supporting Vice President Harris if she distances herself from President Biden's Gaza policy, respectfully engages with all of our community leaders, picks a vice presidential nominee who does not have a history of explicit hostility towards our community like Governor Josh Shapiro, and commits to concrete policy proposals that would stop the genocide, end the broader occupation of the Palestinian people, and establish a just peace.

Taking these steps will set her apart from not only President Biden, but also from President Trump.

Most American Muslims do not want Donald Trump to return to office for perhaps obvious reasons. The former president has made it clear that he plans to round up undocumented immigrants as part of the largest mass deportation in American history, reinstate the Muslim Ban, stack the federal civil service with political loyalists, and pursue a foreign policy just as or even more, immoral than President Biden’s foreign policy.

...

Vice President Harris now has the opportunity to contrast herself with Trump on this issue in ways President Biden could not. She has already built up some goodwill in the American Muslim community by using a noticeably more humane tone when discussing Palestinian suffering compared to others in the administration.

[longliveblackness]

In Illinois, where Fred Hampton was born, the police constantly harassed black people. Access to social goods too was made difficult, if not curtailed, in the areas with heavy black populations.

The party, a creation of Huey Newton and fellow student Bobby Seale, insisted on black nationalist response to racial discrimination. The party's Illinois chapter was opened in 1967 and Hampton joined in 1968, aged just 20.

When Stokely Carmichael's Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) split from the Panthers in 1969, Hampton headed the Illinois chapter of the Panthers.

Then a petty criminal, O'Neal was coerced by the FBl into helping them silence Hampton and the Black Panther Party.

And he did just that when he infiltrated the party and provided the FBI with a floor plan of the Chicago apartment where Hampton was assassinated in 1969.

His journey to becoming an FBl informant began in 1966 when he was tracked by FBI Agent Roy Martin Mitchell after stealing a car and driving it across state lines to Michigan.

He was told that he would forget about the stolen car charge if he infiltrate the Panthers for the FBl.

The Panther Party had then become infamous for brandishing guns, challenging the authority of police officers, and embracing violence as a necessary by-product of revolution.

O'Neal agreed to infiltrate the party and when he got accepted, he served as the group's chief of security.

Reports said he even became in charge of security for Hampton and had keys to Panther headquarters and safe houses.

He eventually provided the floor plan of Hampton's west-side apartment that was used to plan the raid that killed Hampton and his fellow Panther, Mark Clark.

Fred Hampton, was executed in his sleep by race soldiers, sleeping next to his pregnant wife, Akua Nieri.

O'Neal hardly spoke of his undercover years but in a 1984 interview with the Tribune, one of his last public interviews, he mentioned that he "thrived" on his work with law enforcement though in the end, he realized he had been "just a pawn in a very big game."

In 1990, William O'Neal, committed suicide.

•••

En Illinois, donde nació Fred Hampton, la policía constantemente hostigaba a la gente negra. Era difícil tener acceso a los servicios sociales, estos estaban restringidos en las áreas donde la mayor parte de la población era negra.

El partido, una creación de Huey Newton y su compañero, Bobby Seale insistía con una respuesta nacionalista negra a la discriminación social. El capítulo de Illinois se abrió en 1967 y Hampton se unió en 1968, con tan solo 20 años de edad.

Cuando Stokely Carmichael del Comité Coordinador Estudiantil No Violento se separó de las Panteras en 1969, Hampton dirigió el capítulo de Illinois de las Panteras Negras.

Luego un pequeño criminal llamado William O’Neal, fue obligado por el FBI a ayudarlos a silenciar a Hampton y a las Panteras.

Y eso fue exactamente lo que hizo cuando se infiltró en el partido y le brindó al FBI los planos del apartamento donde Hampton fue asesinado en 1969.

Su trayecto a convertirse en un informante para el FBI comenzó en 1966, cuando fue rastreado por el agente Roy Martin Mitchell, después de haber robado un auto y haberlo conducido por fronteras estatales.

Se le había dicho que se olvidarían de los cargos por el auto robado si ayudaba a que las Panteras fuesen infiltradas por el FBI.

El Partido Pantera Negra se había convertido en un grupo de baja fama que portaba armas, que desafiaba a la autoridad de los oficiales de policía y aceptaban que la violencia era un producto necesario de la revolución.

O’Neal aceptó infiltrar al partido y cuando fue aceptado sirvió como el jefe de seguridad del grupo.

Los reportes mencionan que incluso lleg�� a estar el encargo de la seguridad de Hampton y contaba con llaves para las sedes y los almacenes del partido.

Eventualmente brindó los planos del apartamento de Hampton, ubicado en el lado oeste de Chicago. Este mismo fue utilizado para organizar la redada que mató a Hampton y su compañero, también parte de las Panteras, Mark Clark.

Fred Hampton fue ejecutado por soldados raciales mientras que dormía a lado de su esposa embarazada, Akua Nieri.

O’Neal a penas habló sobre sus años como un informante encubierto, pero en una entrevista hecha en 1984 con The Tribune, una de sus últimas entrevistas públicas, mencionó que “prosperó” en su trabajo con el orden público, aunque al final se había dado cuenta que “simplemente fue un peón en un juego muy importante".

En 1990, William O’Neal se suicidó.

[dailyanarchistposts]

I.4.15 What will the workplace of tomorrow look like?

Given the anarchist desire to liberate the artist in all of us, we can easily imagine that a free society would totally transform the working environment. No longer would workers be indifferent to their workplaces, but they would express themselves in transforming them into pleasant places, integrated into both the life of the local community and into the local environment. After all, “no movement that raises the demand for workers’ councils can be regarded as revolutionary unless it tries to promote sweeping transformations in the environment of the work place.” [Murray Bookchin, Post-Scarcity Anarchism, p. 88]

A glimpse of the future workplace can been seen from the actual class struggle. In the 40 day sit-down strike at Fisher Body plant #1 in Flint, Michigan in 1936, “there was a community of two thousand strikers … Committees organised recreation, information, classes, a postal service, sanitation … There were classes in parliamentary procedure, public speaking, history of the labour movement. Graduate students at the University of Michigan gave courses in journalism and creative writing.” [Howard Zinn, A People’s History of the United States, p. 391] In the same year, during the Spanish Revolution, collectivised workplaces also created libraries and education facilities as well as funding schools, health care and other social necessities (a practice, we must note, that had started before the revolution when anarchist unions had funded schools, social centres, libraries and so on).

The future workplace would be expanded to include education and classes in individual development. This follows Proudhon’s suggestion made during the 1848 revolution that we should ”[o]rganise association, and by the same token, every workshop becoming a school, every worker becomes a master, every student an apprentice.” [No Gods, No Masters, vol. 1, pp. 62–3] This means that in a free society “Workers’ associations have a very important role to play … Linked to the system of public education, they will become both centres of production and centres and for education … The working masses will be in daily contact with the youthful army of agricultural and industrial workers. Labour and study, which have for so long and so foolishly been kept apart, will finally emerge side by side in their natural state of union. Instead of being confined to narrow, specialised fields, vocational education will include a variety of different types of work which, taken as a whole, will insure that each student becomes an all-round worker.” [Proudhon, Selected Writings of Pierre-Joseph Proudhon, p. 87]

This would allow work to become part of a wider community, drawing in people from different areas to share their knowledge and learn new insights and ideas. In addition, children would have part of their school studies with workplaces, getting them aware of the practicalities of many different forms of work and so allowing them to make informed decisions in what sort of activity they would be interested in pursuing when they were older.

Obviously, a workplace managed by its workers would also take care to make the working environment as pleasant as possible. No more “sick building syndrome” or unhealthy and stressful work areas for “can we doubt that work will become a pleasure and a relaxation in a society of equals, in which ‘hands’ will not be compelled to sell themselves to toil, and to accept work under any conditions Repugnant tasks will disappear, because it is evident that these unhealthy conditions are harmful to society as a whole. Slaves can submit to them, but free men [and women] will create new conditions, and their work will be pleasant and infinitely more productive.” [Kropotkin, The Conquest of Bread, p. 123] Workplaces would be designed to maximise space and allow individual expression within them. We can imagine such places surrounded by gardens and allotments which were tended by workers themselves, giving a pleasant surrounding to the workplace. There would, in effect, be a break down of the city/rural divide — workplaces would be placed next to fields and integrated into the surroundings:

“Have the factory and the workshop at the gates of your fields and gardens, and work in them. Not those large establishments, of course, in which huge masses of metals have to be dealt with and which are better placed at certain spots indicated by Nature, but the countless variety of workshops and factories which are required to satisfy the infinite diversity of tastes among civilised men [and women] … factories and workshops which men, women and children will not be driven by hunger, but will be attracted by the desire of finding an activity suited to their tastes, and where, aided by the motor and the machine, they will choose the branch of activity which best suits their inclinations.” [Kropotkin, Fields, Factories and Workshops Tomorrow, p. 197]

This vision of rural and urban integration is just part of the future anarchists see for the workplace. As Kropotkin argued, ”[w]e proclaim integration… a society of integrated, combined labour. A society where each individual is a producer of both manual and intellectual work; where each able-bodied human being is a worker, and where each worker works both in the field and the industrial workshop; where every aggregation of individuals, large enough to dispose of a certain variety of natural resources — it may be a nation, or rather a region — produces and itself consumes most of its own agricultural and manufactured produce.” [Op. Cit., p. 26]

The future workplace would be an expression of the desires of those who worked there. It would be based around a pleasant working environment, within gardens and with extensive library, resources for education classes and other leisure activities. All this, and more, will be possible in a society based upon self-realisation and self-expression and one in which individuality is not crushed by authority and capitalism. To quote Kropotkin, the future workplace would be “airy and hygienic, and consequently economical, factories in which human life is of more account than machinery and the making of extra profits.” [Op. Cit., p. 197] For, obviously, “if most of the workshops we know are foul and unhealthy, it is because the workers are of no account in the organisation of factories”. [The Conquest of Bread, p. 121]

“So in brief,” argued William Morris, “our buildings will be beautiful with their own beauty of simplicity as workshops” and “besides the mere workshops, our factory will have other buildings which may carry ornament further than that, for it will need dinning-hall, library, school, places for study of different kinds, and other such structures.” [A Factory as It Might Be, p. 9] This is possible and is only held back by capitalism which denounces such visions of freedom as “uneconomic.” Yet such claims ignore the distribution of income in class society:

“Impossible I hear an anti-Socialist say. My friend, please to remember that most factories sustain today large and handsome gardens, and not seldom parks … only the said gardens, etc. are twenty miles away from the factory, out of the smoke, and are kept up for one member of the factory only, the sleeping partner to wit.” [Morris, Op. Cit., pp. 7–8]

Pleasant working conditions based upon the self-management of work can produce a workplace within which economic “efficiency” can be achieved without disrupting and destroying individuality and the environment (also see section I.4.9 for a fuller discussion of anarchism and technology).

[motownfiction]

the gray coat with the red lining

Sam goes with Sadie to shop for a new winter coat. Her old one, which she’s had since she started her master’s program seven years ago, is finally falling apart. Sam hates the mall, but he loves spending time with his twin, so of course he goes. It’s been forever since they’ve had any time together, just the twins, without Daniel or the kids or anyone else. Maybe if they’re lucky, they’ll get to have the cheese soup at lunch.

“Oh, I’ll get the cheese soup,” Sadie says. “And I won’t tell Daniel about it, either, because I’m pretty sure he’ll divorce me if he finds out.”

“I wouldn’t blame him,” Sam says. “Might even tell him to seek full custody of Michael and Rose. Will could make sure he won.”

“Will is not a member of the Michigan State Bar.”

“Just wait. I’ll start slipping the idea to him subliminally, over the phone. We talk almost everyday. He’s open-minded. Pliable.”

“This sounds really gross.”

“It could get grosser.”

Sadie sighs and resumes looking for coats. Sam eventually finds himself drifting to the men’s section. He doesn’t need a new coat, but he likes to pretend that all the coats have people in them already. Likes to wonder what kind of guy would buy which coat. He makes up rich businessmen, harried humanities professors, dorky high school students whose mothers bought them the first thing that fit without a second thought to what might look cool. There is such a thing as looking cool in a winter coat. Sam wouldn’t have believed it when he was a teenager, but he knows it now.

He remembers the gray coat with the red lining.

It wasn’t his coat. Sometimes, he tried to wear it, but it was always too small for him. No, the coat was Eddie’s. He loved that thing. Told Sam he saved up for a year just to buy it. It wasn’t that expensive, he said, but when you get paid grad student peanuts, even peanuts are expensive. Eddie loved that coat, and Sam loved it, too. It made him look a cut above the rest. Made Sam proud to know him … proud to be in love with him. He remembers when they’d go to dinner and Eddie would take off the coat. People would look, struck by the red, struck by him, really. Just like Sam was. Sometimes, when Eddie would fall asleep in the living room, Sam would cover him up with a blanket and the coat, just so he knew. That he knew he was loved.

Whenever Sam thinks about Eddie, he thinks about that coat. He wonders if it’s doing him any good in Tennessee. He thinks it would be better if it was right here, at home, where it was always supposed to be.

Of course, if it was supposed to be here, it would be.

He thinks about Leonard Cohen for a moment. Ah, the last time we saw you, you looked so much older, your famous blue raincoat was torn at the shoulder. Hell of a song. But L. Cohen didn’t know about the gray coat with the red lining. If he had, he wouldn’t have written about anything else.

Sam searches high and low for a coat like it in the mall this afternoon, but none exist.

Sadie finds him in the men’s section with a bag and a look, like she knows what he’s doing there.

“Come on,” she says carefully. “We don’t want them to run out of soup.”

Sam follows her, trying to apologize for wandering off, but she doesn’t let him. She knows that sometimes, he needs to go.

“Just don’t go too far,” she says. “Or for too long.”

Sam nods. He’s pretty sure he can do that.

(part of @nosebleedclub january challenge -- day 16!)

[elijahvo]

Intro:

Hey everyone my name is Elijah and I’m from the West Side of Michigan and now attend Central Michigan as an undergraduate student. During my time in Mount Pleasant I have gotten involved on campus through working at the Front Desk in Calkins, being on the hall council, being apart of the Interfraternity council exec-board, and being elected president of my fraternity. I’m not sure if I have any ultimate career goals other than living a comfortable life and being happy with my work, family, and life. I have had many experiences so far with some of the best being working in Michigan State politics in Lansing to my internship down in Florida this past summer. Eventually I would like to launch my own lobbying firm that helps promote protecting the great lakes, disability advocation, and helping politicos with their social media presence. Through this course and blog I hope to find better ways to engage with consumers, read analytics, and produce content to boost brands and personalities. 

One company that I think does a great job promoting their brand is Airbnb due to how they market there most amazing properties while using user-generated content while using influencers to boost their presence on social media. Their Instagram is top in class when it comes to promoting some of the most scenic stays around the world. 

https://www.instagram.com/airbnb/

[copperbeechm]

Relaxed Community Vibes

At Copper Beech at Mount Pleasant, you’ll find a community that feels like home, complete with fun features to enjoy. The clubhouse is a great hangout spot, featuring a media lounge where you can kick back with friends or catch up on your favorite shows. If you need to hit the books, the private study rooms are perfect for focusing on your work. When it’s time to unwind, take a dip in the swimming pool or soak up the sun on the deck. With large 2- and 3-story townhomes and apartments available in 1 to 4-bedroom floorplans, there’s plenty of space for everyone. If you’re looking for off campus student housing in Mount Pleasant, this place has everything you need to live well.

The Geography of Mt Pleasant, Michigan

Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, is nestled in the heart of the state, making it a convenient spot for exploring all that Michigan has to offer. Surrounded by rolling hills and beautiful forests, it’s a nature lover’s dream. You’ll find rivers and lakes nearby, perfect for fishing or just soaking up the sun. The town itself is cozy and easy to navigate, with everything you need just a short drive away. As you wander around, you’ll notice the mix of charming homes and local businesses that give it character. The changing seasons add their own flair, from vibrant autumn leaves to snowy winter landscapes. It’s a place where the outdoors and community come together, making it a great spot to live or visit.

Central Michigan University in Mt Pleasant, MI

Central Michigan University in Mt. Pleasant is a lively campus full of opportunities and activities. As you walk around, you’ll see students bustling between classes, making the atmosphere vibrant and energetic. The university offers a wide range of programs, so whether you’re into arts, sciences, or business, there’s something for you. The campus itself is beautiful, with green spaces perfect for studying or relaxing. You can also find plenty of clubs and organizations to join, helping you meet new friends and explore your interests. When it comes to sports, CMU has a passionate fan base, making game days an exciting experience. With its welcoming community and diverse options, Central Michigan University is a great place to learn and grow.

CMU Spearheads Program to Help Rural Teachers Get Credentials

CMU’s program sounds like a great way to support rural teachers and make education more accessible. It’s not always easy for teachers in smaller communities to find the resources or time to get additional credentials, so having CMU step in with this kind of help is huge. With $15 million in funding, the MiCAREER Resource Hub seems like it could really make a difference. It’s nice to see a focus on both current teachers and those just starting out, giving them room to grow and develop their skills. Programs like this could also help with teacher retention, which is often a challenge in rural areas. It’s encouraging to see CMU taking the lead on something so impactful for education.

Link to map

Central Michigan University 1200 S Franklin St, Mt Pleasant, MI 48859, United States Head east on Denison Dr 0.5 mi Turn right onto W Campus Dr 0.5 mi Continue onto E Blue Grass Rd 0.7 mi Turn right Restricted usage road 0.2 mi Turn left Restricted usage road 0.1 mi Turn right Restricted usage road 49 ft Slight right Restricted usage road Destination will be on the right 233 ft Copper Beech at Mount Pleasant 4750 E Blue Grass Rd, Mt Pleasant, MI 48858, United States

[reservepleasant]

Convenient Amenities

A business center with free printing is a huge benefit for students juggling assignments and projects. At The Reserve at Mt. Pleasant, you’ll find everything you need to make college life easier. The business center is a quiet space where you can work and print documents without worrying about costs. Plus, if you’re looking to stay active, the 24-hour fitness center is perfect for squeezing in a workout whenever you can. There’s also a virtual fitness program, so you can choose from a variety of workouts right from home. These features create a supportive environment for both studying and staying fit. If you’re searching for a great student apartment community in Mount Pleasant Michigan, this place has got you covered.

The Transportation System in Mt Pleasant, Michigan

Getting around Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, is pretty straightforward. The town has a reliable network of roads that makes driving easy, whether you’re heading to work or exploring local attractions. If you don’t have a car, no worries. The public transit system is convenient, with buses that connect different parts of the town and even nearby areas. Biking is also a popular choice, thanks to the flat terrain and bike-friendly paths. You’ll see many folks pedaling around, especially when the weather’s nice. Plus, if you’re looking to travel farther, major highways are just a short drive away, linking you to larger cities. With so many options, you’ll find it easy to get where you need to go in Mt. Pleasant.

Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort in Mt Pleasant, MI

Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort in Mt. Pleasant is a fun getaway right in your backyard. As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted by bright lights and the sound of slot machines, which sets the mood for a good time. Whether you’re into gaming, live entertainment, or just relaxing by the pool, there’s something for everyone. You might want to try your luck at the tables or enjoy a nice meal at one of the restaurants. If you’re looking for a place to unwind, the spa offers great services to help you relax. With events and concerts happening regularly, you’ll never run out of things to do. Soaring Eagle is a lively spot that adds a dash of excitement to Mt. Pleasant.

Wood Shop Social Opens Mt. Pleasant’s First Rooftop Dining Experience

Rooftop dining is definitely gaining popularity, and Wood Shop Social is stepping up to bring this trend to Mt. Pleasant. Imagine enjoying your meal while taking in the beautiful views of the city skyline and the sunset. It’s a whole new way to experience dining, where the atmosphere feels more relaxed and inviting. You can grab a bite with friends, sip on a refreshing drink, and soak in the fresh air all at once. This spot also features a unique menu that highlights local flavors, making it even more appealing. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch or a fun dinner out, Wood Shop Social’s rooftop is a great choice for anyone wanting to enjoy a meal with a view. It’s the perfect blend of good food and good vibes.

Link to map

Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort 6800 Soaring Eagle Blvd, Mt Pleasant, MI 48858, United States Continue to E Broadway Rd 1 min (0.2 mi) Turn right onto E Broadway Rd 2 min (0.9 mi) Turn left onto S Summerton Rd 3 min (1.5 mi) Continue on E Broomfield Rd to Chandler Rd 2 min (1.3 mi) Drive to your destination 1 min (0.2 mi) The Reserve at Mt. Pleasant 4205 Collegiate Way, Mt Pleasant, MI 48858, United States

[howwelldoyouknowyourmoon]

The scandalous stories told about the Unification Church in Korea and Japan

Miss Young Oon Kim was the first Unification Church missionary to the United States. She arrived in the midst of a raging snowstorm on January 4, 1959. She came as a student to the University of Oregon in Eugene but left school to live in a vacant house in Oakhill, a semi-rural settlement several miles east of Eugene to be near her three best contacts. The Oakhill group migrated several hundred miles down the coast to San Francisco in late 1960. There, they put energy into improving the Principle text, obtaining legal incorporation, purchasing a three-story building as a training center, and direct person-to-person witnessing. In July 1962, they opened up mission territory in surrounding Bay Area communities.

By the end of that year, the group had expanded to Los Angeles and Sacramento and grown to more than fifty members.

__________________

From

Doomsday Cult A Study of Conversion, Proselytization and Maintenance of Faith

by John Lofland University of Michigan

Prentice-Hall, Inc. Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, 1966

pages 86-87

In 1961, one of the members [who spoke German, probably Peter Koch] meticulously assembled a handwritten mailing list of about 2,000 people.

Young Oon Kim advised that Koreans and Japanese be omitted. She said that students from these countries were likely to have heard the scandalous stories told about the Unification Church in that part of the world and thus were poor prospects in a missionary campaign.

Peter wanted to send a letter to each person, but one that would appear to be a personal communication. A form letter, printed on the cult’s multilith press, had such a personally typed appearance (if one did not look too closely and notice that the margins were justified). Peter signed each letter and hand addressed and personally stamped each envelope. The envelopes thus appeared to enclose personal greetings rather than to be bulk mail.

The letter itself was a masterpiece of studied ambiguity and covert presentation.

…

No religious language was used, nor was the “Divine Principle” mentioned. The only hint of millenarianism is the reference to the “event which will bring about great changes in this world within the very near future” and its “revolutionary effect.” Emphasizing solidarity, the letter is addressed to Peter Koch’s “fellow student” and states that he is “a foreign student as you are,” even though the thirty-five-year-old Peter was no longer a student.

There was some indecision as to whether to post them all at once or simply a few at a time. Kim advised that if they were sent all at once Peter would be swamped and unable to give adequate attention to each person. He should send a limited number at a time.

Peter began sending about a hundred letters a week. Still unemployed, he was always by the phone waiting to receive inquiries. Roughly 500 letters were sent out by mid-November. They produced many inquiring phone calls and many vague explanations in an attempt to get people to the apartment. Eight people appeared to be introduced to the DP. One of them, a Chinese graduate student in economics, became a convert.

The letters continued in December, only now at the rate of about 300 a week. Peter meticulously reported the final results in the cult’s newsletter:

I have sent letters to over 1,900 students from practically all countries of the world, but the results are not very impressive. Out of an estimated 150 students who called me on the telephone, thirty-six came to hear the cassette tape on the Divine Principle.

__________________________________

Pak Chung-hwa interviewed about Moon’s “SEX relays”

How “God’s Day” was established by Sun Myung Moon in 1968

Sun Myung Moon found guilty in 1955; started two year jail sentence

Ewha Womans University sex scandal as told in the 1955 newspapers

Sun Myung Moon’s Theology of the Fall, Tamar, Jesus and Mary

Ritual Sex in the Unification Church – Kirsti L. Nevalainen

__________________________________

Professor Eileen Barker: “It is said, and there seems to be a lot of evidence for this, that in the early days [Moon] had a lot of sexual relationships which were described as being part of some kind of religious, spiritual ritual. We are hearing stories over and over again about this. … the allegations from a lot of women and people, men as well as early followers, does seem to be pretty enormous. It is just not one person who has been making these claims.” January 7, 2013, BBC Radio 4

In 1984 Professor Eileen Barker wrote: “But the following year [1955] Moon was imprisoned again. The Unificationists say that this was on a trumped-up charge of draft evasion, but it has also been reported that he was charged with ‘injuring public morals’, or, according to another account, that ‘his indictment was initially draft dodging but was later changed to adultery and promiscuity.’ Similar rumours (which persist to this day in Korea)31 alleged that he was engaging in ritual sexual practices.

Note 31  In conversations with scores of non-Unificationist Koreans the first information I have been given about the Unification Church has, in almost every instance, been that Moon engages (or has engaged) in immoral sexual practices with his followers.”The Making of a Moonie: Brainwashing or Choice?  Eileen Barker   pp 42, 265

[crystal-in-nagasaki]

what's next?

After almost three incredible years, my time here in Japan has come to a close. I've shared on this personal blog more than 100 memories that I can keep with me forever and look back on, which I'm so grateful for. Saying goodbye to my students, coworkers, friends, and neighbors has been incredibly painful, but I'm happy with my decision to return home, and believe the timing is right.

That means this blog has finally served its purpose and will come to an end. It's bittersweet, but I'm thankful for the opportunity to share all of my memories here over the years.

In this final post, I'd just like to give an update about what's ahead for me after my return to the US.

As soon as I entered my final year in Japan, I began planning for my future career back home. I was at first at a loss about what to do, because I majored in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) in university, but never did student teaching or received a teaching certificate as I had been planning to work abroad for the majority of my career. Although I've loved being in Japan, my priorities have changed, and I now want to settle in the US long term instead of abroad, so I had to begin figuring out a career path using my degree.

Eventually after much research and reaching out to past college professors, I decided to enroll in graduate school to acquire a teaching license in Michigan. I was accepted to an MA program at Western Michigan University in elementary teaching that will begin at the end of August and finish in December of next year, awarding me an MA and a teaching certification in the state of Michigan.

Alongside my course work, I of course wanted to continue to work in schools. Luckily one of my professors told me that due to the current teacher shortage, some schools will hire non-certified teachers as long as they are on a path to a license. Therefore, I began mass applying to schools all over the state to try to find a school that would hire me while working towards my license.

After many late night job interviews over video call, I was finally hired as an elementary ESL teacher by Kalamazoo Public Schools for the 2024-2025 school year. I'm beyond grateful to them for giving me the opportunity to work as a full-fledged teacher while also working towards my MA, and they will even help pay for my graduate tuition.

As many people know, I met my lovely girlfriend Frankie while abroad in Japan, and she is also returning to the US this summer. She's from Louisiana, but as we near one year together, we've decided to make the choice to move in together in Michigan. We've already found a two bedroom apartment in Kalamazoo, where we'll live together with my cat Kiwi and dog Rosie, inherited from my father after his passing. I'm sure it will be an overwhelming time, but we're excited to start our new life with our little family.

I've made so many beautiful memories in Japan that I will keep with me for the rest of my life. Though it's hard to say goodbye to the community that I've built here, I'm excited to head into my next chapter with my beloved partner and pets.

Thank you for reading this blog through the years. It's meant a lot to me to write it and keep these memories alive for me to be able to revisit later. I hope you enjoyed reading it as much as I've enjoyed writing it.

I hope everyone keeps happy and healthy from now on, and good things come your way.

Goodbye <3

[nurseeden]

10 Top Schools for Nursing: Your Guide to the very best Education in Healthcare

**Meta ​Title:** Top‌ 10⁢ Schools for Nursing: Your ⁣Guide ⁢to the​ Best Education in Healthcare

**Meta Description:** Looking to pursue a career in ⁤nursing? Discover the top ​10 schools for nursing and find the best education in healthcare that⁢ fits your needs. ⁢Read on to learn more!

**Introduction:** Choosing⁢ the right school ⁤to pursue your nursing education ‍is a critical decision that can greatly impact your future career in healthcare. With ​so many options available, it can be ⁣overwhelming to ‌find ⁣the best fit for your⁤ goals‌ and needs. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the top 10⁤ schools for nursing to help you navigate this important​ decision. Whether you’re a prospective student or a seasoned ⁤healthcare ‍professional looking ⁤to advance your career, ⁤this guide will provide you with valuable insights on the best education in ‍healthcare.

**1.​ University of Pennsylvania** Ranked consistently as ​one of the best⁤ nursing schools in the⁢ country, ‍the University of ‍Pennsylvania offers a ‍variety of programs for students at all levels. Known for its cutting-edge research and innovative curriculum, this⁤ institution is⁢ a top choice‍ for those looking for a high-quality nursing education.

**2. Johns Hopkins University** With a ⁤strong focus on ‌patient-centered care‌ and evidence-based practice, Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing is a pioneer⁣ in nursing education. The school’s commitment to⁢ excellence in research and ‍clinical practice makes it‍ a top contender for aspiring nurses.

**3. Duke University** Duke University School of Nursing is renowned for its exceptional faculty, state-of-the-art ⁢facilities, and comprehensive‌ curriculum. Students at Duke benefit ⁤from hands-on clinical experience and a⁤ strong⁢ emphasis ​on leadership and critical thinking skills.

**4. University of California, San Francisco** As⁣ one of the top nursing schools on ⁤the West Coast,​ the University of California, San Francisco offers a diverse range of programs ⁤to meet the⁣ needs of ⁢students⁢ with varying ‍interests and career goals. The school’s⁣ commitment to diversity and ⁢inclusion ⁣sets it apart as a leader ‍in nursing education.

**5. University of Washington** Located in Seattle, ‍the University of Washington School of Nursing is known for its strong ⁣community partnerships and⁢ emphasis‍ on public health ‌initiatives. Students at UW benefit from a supportive learning environment and opportunities to ⁢engage in cutting-edge research.

**6. Emory University** Emory University Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing is a top choice for ‍those looking to pursue a⁢ nursing education⁤ in the ​Southeast. The school’s focus on ​innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration prepare students for successful careers in a variety of healthcare ⁢settings.

**7. Columbia University** With a long-standing tradition of ‍excellence in ‌nursing education, Columbia University School of Nursing ​is a globally recognized institution. Students ⁤at​ Columbia benefit from a rigorous academic​ curriculum, world-class faculty, ‌and access to‌ clinical experiences⁣ in top healthcare facilities.

**8.​ University of Michigan** The University ‌of Michigan School of Nursing is known for its⁤ commitment ​to ⁣advancing‍ the⁤ field of⁣ nursing⁣ through research and education. With a strong emphasis on ‍evidence-based practice and ⁣patient-centered care, students at UM‌ benefit from a well-rounded education that prepares them for ⁣success in the healthcare industry.

**9. University of ⁢North Carolina-Chapel Hill** Ranked among the top nursing⁢ schools in the nation, the University of North Carolina-Chapel⁢ Hill School of Nursing offers a comprehensive range of programs for students at all levels.⁤ The⁢ school’s strong‍ emphasis on global ‌health and community engagement make it a top choice ⁣for those passionate about ⁤making‌ a difference in ‌healthcare.

**10. University of Illinois at ⁣Chicago** The University of Illinois at Chicago College of Nursing is a top-ranked institution known for⁣ its ⁤innovative programs and commitment‌ to​ diversity‍ and inclusion. Students ⁣at‌ UIC benefit from a supportive learning environment, cutting-edge research opportunities, and a strong⁤ network ‌of alumni in the healthcare industry.

**Benefits and ⁢Practical Tips:** – Research each school’s curriculum, faculty, and clinical opportunities to​ find ‌the best ​fit for your goals. – Consider factors such as location,⁢ cost, and program ‍length when making your⁣ decision. – Reach out to ⁢current students and alumni to gain insights into the school’s culture and academic⁢ experience. – Visit each campus if possible ‌to get a sense⁢ of the ‌learning​ environment ​and‌ facilities.

**Conclusion:** Choosing the right school for your nursing education is a significant decision that requires careful consideration. By exploring ⁣the top 10 schools for nursing outlined‍ in this guide, you can take the first step towards pursuing‍ a rewarding career in healthcare. Whether you’re interested in research, clinical practice, or leadership roles, these institutions offer a wide range of programs to meet your ⁢needs. ⁣Remember to conduct thorough ‍research, reach out to faculty ​and students,‌ and visit campuses to make an informed decision that⁣ aligns with your career goals. Good luck on your journey ⁤to ‌becoming a‌ successful nurse!

https://nursingcertificationcourses.com/10-top-schools-for-nursing-your-guide-to-the-very-best-education-in-healthcare/

[umichenginabroad]

Week 4: A Tourists Guide to Life in Aachen

Today marks the very official, very momentous occasion of my one-month anniversary of life here in Aachen. It’s crazy how fast the time has been flying by... Rather than thinking about a looming research deadline or my return to the somewhat less adventure-filled, less “cobble-stoned streets and storybook buildings” state of home sweet home New Jersey, I’ve instead been trying to make the most of the time I have here in this wonderful country. 

Thankfully, the UROP Program and students within it have been giving me plenty to stay busy with. Over the past few weeks here, I have gotten the chance to experience a lot of what Aachen has to offer, from its daytime activities to its nightlife to its food (a personal priority of mine).

After a long day of work and/or classes, a nice daytime outing is exactly what you need and, thankfully, Aachen offers some perfect options. For example, last week we visited the Aachener Tierpark and got to decompress by petting some adorable (highly food-motivated) goats and seeing other amazing animals (including my beloved Red Pandas <3). 

Some goat petting, a serval, and an adorable red panda from Aachener Tierpark

If being surrounded by 30-something very goat-smelling goats isn’t quite the relaxation you had in mind, Carolus Thermen- Aachen's very own thermal bath/sauna/spa- may potentially be more up your alley. Fit with indoor and outdoor heated pools, a lazy river, hot tubs, and even a freezing cold tub if that’s something you’re into??, this spa has everything you need for the ultimate relaxation.

The heated pools at Carolus Thermen

On the other hand, if for some reason relaxing isn’t your thing, UROP offers many hiking trips at scenic locations like Dreiländereck and Höhes Venn (though if I’m completely honest, I must admit that relaxing is my thing, and I did guiltily skip the hiking…) 

If after all that you still have energy to spare, Aachen has all the nighttime buzz of any good university city. Pontstraße is lined with lively bars and any day of the week you can find an open dorm bar at one of the student apartments boasting good deals, good music (partially thanks to our song requests in my humble opinion), and all-around good vibes. I've also learned that local music festivals are also a common weekend event here. Last weekend I attended Schau am Bau with some friends from the program and enjoyed an unsual but nevertheless epic mix of German songs, some combination of metal/pop/rap music, and even Mr. Brightside (shoutout Michigan).

Grand entrance to Pontstraße - the main student street and the stage at Schau am Bau

A good night out always warrants some good food. and if you’re anything like me, then you may find the following information particularly important. The food here can more or less be described in one word: Döner. Everywhere you look, every street you turn onto, you are bound to stumble across the unavoidable, glistening advertisement of Döner Kebab. 6 euros, and a beautiful sandwich filled with a variety of fresh salads, thinly sliced meat, and savory sauces are all yours (for the small small price of accepting that this may very well be your fifth kebab of the week and there's nothing you can do about it). 

Two of many Döner Kebabs that has been had on this trip...

Though very delicious, I’m coming to realize that week 4 may mark the time for me to branch out and try some new options here. Recently, I made the bold choice to try an Asian restaurant here (Lemongrass) and was pleasantly surprised by the crispy chicken fried rice. Naturally, the Wiener Schnitzel is a can’t miss classic, however Aachen is in the wrong region for the most authentic of this cuisine. Though I was initially a bit heartbroken by this information, I have come to the very professional conclusion that the Schnitzel is still delicious regardless. 

Wiener Schnitzel, Crispy Chicken Fried Rice, and the squad at Lemongrass

I definitely hope to keep trying new restaurants, activities, and mini-adventures around Aachen with the remainder of my time here and look forward to continuing taking you all along for the ride with me!

'Til next time!

Sarah Bargfrede

Computer Science

UROP Program in Aachen

[praeteritus-memories-muses]

Name: Coraline Jones

Series: Coraline

Continuity: Film, minor book inspiration

Age: 13

Height: 4'9"

Birthplace: Michigan, United States

Species: Human

Occupation: Student

Father: Charlie Jones

Mother: Mel Jones

Bio:

While Coraline thought she lived the best life a girl could ask for in Michigan with her best friends who she'd play hours of dungeons and dragons with, the reality was that her parents were VERY poor. Yet they weren't honest with their daughter about it, pretty much hiding it from her so she wouldn't worry and to keep her carefree. To this day, Coraline doesn't know how bad her parent's financial issues were.

Yet all that changed when Coraline's mother tried to get into an accident for insurance compensation just so they had a little more money to go around when they were getting desperate for work and to pay the mortgage. While they had jobs as writers for a gardening catalog, it certainly wasn't enough. Her parents' plan for money didn't work and it resulted in her mother having a broken neck for the next six months.

Realizing that they simply couldn't afford to live in their house anymore and the rumors around town were circling that the car accident was on purpose, Coraline's family moved her from Michigan all the way to Oregon. They moved into an apartment called The Pink Palace, a house built 150 years ago now turned into incredibly cheap apartments with bugs, rusty water, old creepy paintings and incredibly ancient furniture all over the place. To even move to this place, Coraline's parents sold everything that wasn't personal to them or their daughter - The TV, books and more.

Coraline was absolutely devastated to move, to a state she didn't even know as well! She had no choice but to say goodbye to everyone she knew and loved as she'd face this new place with a pout. The apartment had strange neighbors as well, including to retired actresses and an eccentric man who believed he had a mouse circus.

Yet she'd try to make the best of it, exploring around her new place to see this old house actually had a large garden that would certainly be beautiful if her parents and her worked together to plant flowers into it! She tried to ask them but her parents always seemed busy. "I'm busy, Coraline, please don't bother me right now." and "I'm working, Coraline, why don't you go look around the house?" were common responses anytime Coraline tried to ask for any kind of attention.

The worst part was she was pretty far from town as it was over 11 miles to walk by foot, and there were no other children to play with in the apartments but the owner's grandson - Wybie Lovatt. Wybie was a strange boy, loving slugs and his bike who had a raggedy cat by his side.

All this boredom and irritation changed when Coraline found a little door in her new home. Though when she first opened it, all she saw were bricks. Yet...At night, the door opened to a fantastic world! It was a complete copy of her own but everything was better, yet there was a woman who greeted her. The woman looked identical to her real mother, only with big black button eyes. She called herself Coraline's Other Mother, who happily gave Coraline all the attention she wanted from her own parents. Unlike her often bitter and short-tempered mom, mainly from stress due to financial issues, The Other Mother was loving and sweet, even with her button eyes, she even cooked a delicious meal for her and offered to play all kinds of games!

At first, Coraline believed these visits with the Other Mother to simply be a dream. A dream she almost didn't want to wake up from, just because they were the most fun she had since moving to this new place, but soon this dream would turn out to be a nightmare. When she went back home after a magical night, the Other Mother gifted Coraline a pair of black button eyes and said in order to stay here then she'd need to sew buttons into Coraline's eyes.

Absolutely terrified, Coraline immediately denied to stay here. Yet the Other Mother refused to let Coraline leave until she said yes, even locking Coraline in a dark room until she said yet. It's there she met the other children who were victims of the Other Mother, all of them living unhappy lives as she manipulated them into letting her sew buttons in their eyes. Eating their souls and only leaving remnants behind to use for her next web of deceipt.

She'd managed to escape only to find her parents were missing. As it turns out, her parents were kidnapped by the Other Mother in order to get her to go back. With nowhere to go, and knowing that no one would believe her that a crazy other mother kidnapped her parents and wanted to sew buttons into her eyes!

Yet Wybie's little black cat decided to help her. For some reason, cats from the real world could speak within the Other World. They would work together to free the Ghost Children and rescue Coraline's parents! Though a final confrontation with the Other Mother proved horrifying when Coraline finally escaped this Other World with her parents.

Now that Coraline returned home, she learned a lot through her journey and things got better for her parents as well. The garden shop they made catalogues for had given them a raise after their most recent catalogue did so well. Her mother's neck had properly healed and her parents are slowly living the life of a regular middle class family rather than a poor one. Her and her mom can even cook together on Fridays instead of her father's disgusting creations.

Coraline is a very witty girl, often replying with something sarcastic if she doesn't know someone very well and seems suspicious of them. Yet when she gets to know someone, she's a very kind hearted girl full of life and energy to explore anything. It's been two years but she's adjusted pretty well to everything that's happened to her, though sometimes she can still hear the Other Mother banging on the tiny door to let her out.