#New Bahru

[irisslove]

Odem - Hand Crafted Makkoli Bar at New Bahru

[kazifatagar]

Johor Bahru Guan Gong Festival Criticised by PN Leader for China Flags

The issue of China flags being waved at the World Guan Gong Celebration in Teluk Intan, Perak, went viral, leading to police involvement as the event was allegedly held without a permit.  Johor Bahru Guan Gong Festival Criticised by PN Leader for China Flags Police also called for the Chinese nationals who waved the flags to be presented. Now, the Malaysian International Guan Gong Cultural…

[sanccharine]

05:53 | mm

pairing: assassin!momo x handler!reader

summary: good speakers are good liars, too bad momo is neither. co-written by @eternallyghosting chapter summary: momo needs a fucking break

warning: feelings of anxiety and burn out, brief mentions of killing and weapons (generally assassination related themes)

word count: 5.8k

a/n: assassin!momo is here early bc of indigo, everyone say 'thank you indigo' !!! NEED TO MAKE THIS EXPLICIT AS POSSIBLE, AS USUAL I DIDN'T DO SHIT <3

masterlist

“Good work in Johor Bahru, 64. The organization wants you to leave for Bergen right away. Proceed to the airport immediately. I’ll be sending over travel details soon.”

You were met with silence.

“64? Can you hear me?” Momo didn’t answer. 

You sighed, “64, I know it’s a bit of a long flight.” That was the understatement of the century. “But at least that’ll give you some time to recuperate before the next mission, right?”

“I don’t need to recuperate,” Momo mumbled. 

You hesitated for a moment. Clearly, she needed the rest, you didn’t know why she wasn’t being honest. 

“Listen, 64, I know it’s hard—” you began.

“I don’t think you do,” Momo let out a derisive laugh. You swallowed the rest of your sentence.

“Alright, I’ve obviously hit a nerve but I think—”

“I’m not asking you to think! Or sympathise! Or whatever it is you’re trying to do,” Momo spat. “Maybe just do your part of the job and I do mine, yeah, Hippolyta?” 

This was a new development. But not unfounded.

“Sorry,” she said after a few seconds of awkward silence, the waver in her breath caught by your sensitive earpiece. “Sorry, I’m just tired, alright? Please go on.”

“Uh, alright, as I was saying. After this, your Costa Rica mission has been pushed forward by a week. The client wants the cartel taken out as soon as possible,” it was difficult to give her the next order. “I’m afraid you’ll have to leave for San Jose as soon as you wrap up in Bergen, 64.” 

You tried not to let the disappointment show in your voice. Your organization was currently going through an overdrive, which meant more missions kept piling on, leaving no rest for Momo. It had been weeks since you had last seen your wife, last hugged her, or held her. 

She reflected your disappointment as she just sighed. It must be harder for her. 

“Hey, 64,” it was so hard to be personable when you couldn’t say her name. You hoped your voice made up for it. “I’m sorry, I know—”

“You know nothing!” 

Whatever calm had come across her in the last few minutes instantly vanished. 

“You know nothing of what it’s like! What it’s like to be out here for hours on end! To stalk and hunt and kill! Actually, you know, it’s not even about lying in the dirt, or carrying around heavy weaponry, or eating shit for days just to stay undercover. That I can deal with,” Momo let out another scoff. “It’s the waiting that gets to you—it’s the travel, it’s the constant seeking of approval just to get back home… ” 

Once she started, it was hard to control everything bursting out of her. Although she had become pretty comfortable with Hippolyta, and often shared random conversations with them, this was the first time she had let anything personal spill. You couldn’t help but startle initially, but now you just sat there taking the verbal lashing. This wasn’t your fault, you were aware of that much. So why did it feel like it was?

“Mo… hmm, I—” you had to bite your tongue to stop yourself from saying her name. Your heart ached for her. Not just because she was away from you, but also because you couldn’t share this burden with her. You couldn’t help her lighten the load.

Not as her handler. Not as her Y/N. 

You waited for Momo’s breath to even out. When she didn’t say anything, you decided to start again. 

“I may not know what it’s like being out on the field,” you had to tread carefully here. “But I do understand what it’s like being away from your loved one.” 

Your breath hitched when you admitted that. Neither of you had ever let something this personal come into your agent-handler relationship before.

“It’s just the kind of job we signed up for,” that’s all this was. A job. “I won’t deny it’s a shitty situation, but after that one week, you’re done. You can go home. I promise you that.”

The long silence almost had you double-checking the connection of the call.

“Hey, 64, you there?”

You were met with silence.

“Agent, I need an affirmation.”

“... Alright,” she whispered.

It wasn’t much, but you’d take it. After all, Momo had never strayed from official orders before. Not enough to risk her job, at least.

“Wait, what? So you’re telling me—”

“Yup, I’m in Bergen right now.”

“Woah, how did that happen? That must’ve been an insane journey!” you sounded fake to your own ears. You hoped Momo didn’t catch on.

“Yeah, remember when I didn’t answer any of your texts a few days ago?” Momo let out a laugh, there was no mirth to it. “I was on a plane the whole time.”

“I just assumed you lost track of time playing Candy Crush or something.”

That did bring a real laugh out of her. 

“Well, that too,” she said. “Did you know I’m on level 651 now?”

“Real impressive, babe,” you said toying with the earpiece, discarded on the coffee table from your last call. “But anyways, when are you coming back from Bergen then?”

She paused. You saw her pacing around her stuffy hotel room as she hesitantly answered. “Well, actually, I don’t think I can come home right away. They’re sending me to Costa Rica tomorrow.”

“What? Why?” you couldn’t help but glance at yourself in the tiny box on the screen from time to time. You hated how fake your expressions looked, how you couldn’t be honest with her even when she needed you most. 

“I’m so sorry. It’s some internal management thing,” Momo let out a frustrated groan. “They need someone who’s at a higher position to open up the San Jose branch. Just my luck it happened to be me they chose.”

Momo’s disappointed tone broke your heart. You knew this was coming, of course you did, but hearing it once again from your wife’s mouth made the distance much too real all over again.

Still, you tried for a smile. 

“Oh, that’s okay. I’m sure San Jose will be fun. I’ve heard they have amazing museums there!” Knowing how upset Momo was about the constant travel made you want to try harder to be supportive. “Maybe you can go and take goofy pictures in front of the sculptures like we did that one time in Prague, remember?” 

Unfortunately, it seemed that no efforts to cheer her up would work this time. She let out another long groan and threw herself on the bed. Bringing the phone really close to her face, she said, “I really just wanted to come back home. I’m sorry I keep doing this to you.”

Shit. Of all the times to have video called Momo. 

Averting your eyes from her teary ones so that you wouldn’t cry too, you attempted to comfort her. 

“I know how tiring it must be to constantly travel, don’t beat yourself up over it, Momo. And don’t worry about me, okay! I’m fine, truly! I’ll keep everything up and running here while you whip rookies out there into shape. It’s what we do, right?” you were trying to convince yourself instead of her. “Besides, Mr Jones invited us for dinner and I know you really don’t want to have to sit through that again, right?” 

“Still, though,” she whispered, “you shouldn't have to go through that by yourself. I'd rather sit through that than here all alone.”

Oh Momo. If only she knew that you were aware of what she was going through.

“Don’t worry about it! I’ll distract him and ask about his ‘good ol’ golfing days’. That’ll have him chattering on for hours,” she chuckled at that, although it was muffled since half her face was pressed into the pillow. “And I’ll also go down to the store and buy those berries you like so I have a pie ready for you when you come home. We’ll spend our time relaxing. How does that sound?”

She nodded sleepily. Momo must be exhausted to the point of falling asleep right there on call.

You doubted she heard you but said it anyway.  

“Have a good night, Momo. I love you.” 

[11:52] Momo: im boarding now Y/N: Have a safe flight! See you soon <3 Momo: me too, cant wait to be home aaaaa Y/N: I’ll be waiting with your pie!

[16:37] Momo: just landed! Y/N: How was the flight? Momo: eh Momo: were you gonna pcik me up or should i take a cab Y/N: You’ll have to get a cab, sorry. I tried rescheduling it but the town committee meetup is at our place tonight. Momo: omg i legit forgot they still did those Momo: i can take a cab dw Momo: you must be so busy Y/N: Yeah, I’m just making sure all the snacks and drinks are ready. Y/N: Might have to make one more grocery run actually.

[17:20] Momo: found a cab Momo: should be home in 40 mins

She sighed. You must be really busy or else you rarely left her on read.

As the cab neared your street, she could see a crowd of people already gathered around the house. This was what living in a small town was like. Everyone knew each other, and so of course, offered to get together to help for any event you held, no matter how small. 

They have nothing better to do with their lives.

Okay. Perhaps, that was a bit harsh. 

Thankfully, Momo managed to slip into the house, unnoticed by all the townsfolk laying out chairs and tables filled with plates of snacks that you had made. Her stomach grumbled upon seeing all the food, but she hurried upstairs into your shared bedroom before dropping her suitcase and rushing to change out of her travel clothes.

What she really wanted was a long hot shower, maybe even a soak in the tub, but fresh clothes would have to do for now. On her way out of the room and down the stairs, she bumped into you.

“Y/N!” she yelled the same time you screamed. “Momo!”

This would be an incredibly stupid way to die, the voice in the back of your head said, you shushed it quickly and leaned on the stairway railing. The shock had subsided quickly and was replaced by elation; you hugged Momo as hard as you could with the cutlery in your hand.

You broke apart apologetically. “I’m sorry, I wish you could take a rest but the meeting’s starting soon and we’re still missing a few things.”

“No worries,” Momo shrugged it off, though there was no energy in her voice. “Anything I can do to help?”

You passed over the handful of cutlery to her as you hurriedly stated, “Yeah, could you just lay these out for me? And I think we still need to pour some juice for all the kids.”

Momo nodded and went down the stairs two at a time. As she rounded into the kitchen, she wished she’d taken a minute to mentally prepare herself for all the questions the neighbours would no doubt ask her.

She was right. As soon as she went over to the table, she heard. “Oh Momo, when did you get back? Y/N was telling us how you were away for really long.”

Momo forced on a polite smile, she had no idea who she was talking to. Perhaps having files on her neighbours might help, she thought to herself. She made a mental note to ask Y/N how they remembered all these people. “Yes, I had to travel quite a lot for some business-related things, but I’m just glad to be home now.”

“Where was it you went to? Malaysia, was it?” Momo’s vision blurred for a second. “I remember Y/N telling us we had to cancel the meeting two weeks ago.” 

“Mhmm, Malaysia. Then Norway. Now, I just got back from Costa Rica.” Might as well just tell them everything. Sure, why not. Momo tried not to be scornful, she really did. 

“Good Lord, Momo! How do you even manage all that?” That was something Momo wondered herself. “It sure is nice you have Y/N to manage everything here for you while you’re away.”

A burning sensation grew at the corner of her eyes, she would’ve rubbed them if her hands weren’t full of forks and spoons. 

It was a seemingly unharmful statement. 

Well, no. 

There was a bite in there somewhere, Momo was just too exhausted to dissect it. 

Momo ignored the scratchy feeling in her throat and turned away hurriedly, mumbling something about getting the juice out. As she approached the refrigerator, she unceremoniously dropped the cutlery on the counter. She opened the fridge, the cold air doing little to alleviate her tension. When she pulled out the carton of apple juice, she was undertaken with the sudden urge to leave. Being at this gathering was taking more of a toll on her than she had thought.

Momo needed to be alone. Now.

She walked into the pantry and into the cabinet Y/N made sure to leave empty ever since they’d found out about her meditation space. Well, Momo thought bitterly, it wasn’t just a meditation space now, was it?

Momo crouched down, hugging her knees and seeking comfort in the familiar darkness. She could still hear the faint voices of people as they rushed around the house, but this was the best she could do right now.

When Momo closed her eyes, she could feel every muscle pull taut. A headache bloomed at her temple, building down her face until even the act of breathing felt painful. She tried to focus on the warm scent of the ciabatta loaves you always had stocked up. How the bread broke and crumbled as she took a bite. How adamant you’d been to get the best stand mixer available. How you took your time to shape the dough and how Momo had flattened it with one motion. 

What she wouldn’t do to just have a simple sandwich with you. 

No loud music. No clanging cutlery. And definitely no nosy neighbours.

Just the two of you.

The pain seemed to slowly ebb away, she could finally breathe. Momo had no idea how long she stayed like that. She didn’t want to leave but she couldn’t even text Y/N to apologise for leaving them alone because she’d forgotten her phone with her luggage.

However, she didn’t have to wait long before the pantry door opened. 

Momo hid herself deeper in the cabinet when a knock came on its door, an excuse ready on her lips should she be found…

“Momo,” your voice was soft, she wouldn’t have heard it if you weren’t pressed to the door. “It's me.”

Momo visibly relaxed when she heard Y/N.

“Can I come in?”

The answer was the opening of the cabinet door.

As soon as you lowered yourself onto the floor, Momo launched herself into your arms, clutching onto you as though her life depended on it. Confused by the sudden outburst but also suspecting what could have brought it on, you just gathered her closer and gently brushed her hair with your fingers.

“How did you… ”

“Find you here? Couldn't see you in the crowd so I figured,” you shrugged.

“Can we... can we just stay here for a moment?” she sniffled, burrowing her head into your neck.

“Momo, you don’t even have to ask. I’m here for you.”

The two of you stayed like that for a long time intertwining your limbs against each other. You rubbed up and down her arms gently, taking deep breaths so she’d mirror you and relax.

When her breathing returned to a normal rate, you pulled back slightly to look at her face. Although still pale from hunger and exhaustion, she looked considerably better than she had a while ago.

“How’re you feeling?” you whispered.

“Still tired, but I’m okay now,” Momo said, her voice raspy. “Thanks for staying with me.”

You took a moment to take her in. The dim light couldn’t hide the bags under her eyes or how bloodshot they were. She had a pallid complexion, something you would’ve rushed to treat, but instead, you had this stupid meeting to run. But even then, Momo tried to put on a smile for you, as small as it was. Smiling, you pulled her in to press a soft kiss to her forehead. 

With a sigh, you pulled away from her. Her face was held up by your hands. “Although there hasn’t been any yelling or crashing yet, I don’t think it’s right to leave them without a host for too long.”

Momo languidly nodded her assent even when the rest of her body reacted differently. She pressed her forehead to yours until your noses were touching. 

Momo deserved to rest. And you wanted that for her too. If possible, you would have stayed here like this all night long. But alas… 

“I should probably head back,” you whispered. Momo only hummed. “but you can stay here longer if you—”

“No,” Momo mumbled. 

“No?” you asked, not wanting to pull away first. 

Momo did it for you. She exhaled a deep breath before pulling back, her eyes finally looking at you. 

“No, that's fine,” Momo said, shaking her head before helping herself up. Then she extended a hand to you. “We should host together, shouldn’t we?”

“We really should,” you took her hand and pulled yourself up. “I’ve already canceled this three times, I think they’d flip out if it was only me out there,” you said with a grimace. 

Holding hands, you exited the pantry together.

Thankfully, everyone was too caught up in the snacks you’d made to comment on your disappearance. Momo just ignored the few stares thrown her way. Making your way to the front of the living room, you called for everyone’s attention and began the town meeting, steadfastly holding onto Momo’s hand the entire time.

Although the townsfolk had also helped in clearing up after the meeting, there were a few things only you two could rearrange as the people living in the house. You wanted Momo to go upstairs and rest while you quickly cleaned up, but she was as stubborn as ever and refused to leave your side. Fortunately though, having two people definitely made the job go quicker, and before long, you were heading into the en-suite to draw a bath for Momo.

You turned off the hot water at the temperature you knew Momo liked most before adding a spoonful of lavender bath salts to the water, your gift to Momo from when she had returned from a mission complaining of sore muscles. She smiled gratefully at you as she slipped into the tub, leaving you to once again sit on the cold floor beside her. Not that you minded, you’d take any proximity you could get. The both of you just sat there, basking in the comfortable silence as Momo relieved her weary body.

Eventually, you spoke up, making sure to be cautious in the way you approached this topic. “Do you want to talk about what happened downstairs?”

Momo looked at you with a look, a knowing one, but she turned her eyes away quickly. 

“What? About Hector?” Momo managed to laugh, it almost sounded real. “Yeah, it was funny when he stood up and demanded we vote for a stop sign near the corner store, only to realize we’ve had it all along and he needed to change his glasses prescription.”

“Momo,” you took her hand that was laying on the edge of the bathtub. “Seriously.”

She finally turned to face you with a sigh, deciding not to run away this time. 

“I was doing as you said, the cutlery, that is,” Momo’s finger intertwined with yours, she trained her focus on your joint hands. “Someone was asking me questions, I don’t know who, asking about my job and where I’d been and whatnot… and then suddenly,” she paused to take a deep breath, her eyes filling with tears.

You brought your other hand to engulf hers and rubbed your thumb across the back of her hand in circular motions.

“Suddenly, out of nowhere, they said something about how I’m lucky to have you manage everything around here while I’m away,” she trailed off, a small scoff escaping her. Momo mumbled, but you caught every word. “Well, not out of nowhere, they are right. I am lucky. I’m never here.”

“Momo…” 

She continued, talking through her tears, not bothering to wipe them away as they slipped down her cheeks. 

“I just… you’re the one who always has to manage things around here. I just feel bad, you know?” Momo straightened, turning her whole body to face you as an odd resolve washed over her. “Like, I’m always busy flying around somewhere but you always accommodate me and my work. But I don’t do anything like that for you? Actually, what do I even do?” At that, you wanted to stop her, but she kept going. “I guess I feel incompetent? I’m just equal parts grateful for you but also, I feel guilty.”

That was a lot to take in. Momo was never one to bare her soul, so for her to say all this meant she had been bottling it up for quite some time.

“Well, I see it differently,” you leaned in as you formed the words in your mind. “You’re doing all this to provide for us and you work so hard for it. This house, everything we have, is all possible because of you. I could never be upset about that, Momo.” 

“I guess,” Momo sounded unconvinced. “But like maybe I could do more local work? That way, I could stay at home with you and work?”

“As tempting as that is, I can’t ask that of you. I can’t say I don’t miss you when you’re gone. And of course, I love having you around.” 

You spoke slower so the words sunk in. 

“But you’re doing what you have to do,” you tried to be as vague as possible when saying the next few words. “I mean, your company sends you all over the world because you’re a hard worker, and a really good one at that. No one is going to be able to do what you do anytime soon and I’m proud of that. Of you.” 

Momo didn’t say anything, she was staring at something behind your head. Her eyebrows were furrowed together; for once, you couldn’t tell what she was thinking. 

“But the work itself… ” she trailed off, still staring into the distance.

That confession, if that was what she was planning it to be, had you on alert. You had to be careful here. Somehow, you had to glean Momo’s feelings about her ‘actual job’ without asking outright questions about it. 

“What about the work, baby?” you asked. The term of endearment felt sour on your lips. Momo didn’t look at you. 

You had to bite your tongue from interrogating her. Is it monotonous? Is it stressful? Are you having second thoughts about killing? Do you want to be transferred? What’s wrong? What can I do? How can I fix it?

She didn’t speak for a long time. 

Panic was beginning to sink its claws into your skin. You were a good liar, but not that good. 

Fortunately for you, Momo began once again. 

“The work… I mean, sure, every job has its own boring routine and mine does too. It is exciting at times and I’m good at it too, which I can’t confidently say for a lot of other things,” you wanted to interrupt her and tell her how wonderful she was, but she spoke over you. “And I don’t really want to quit right now because we’re also earning decently.“ 

“Enough for an early retirement in the Swiss Alps, right?” you uttered before you could even think about it. 

When she had first been accepted as an agent by your organisation, Momo had excitedly jumped around your tiny one-bedroom flat. Making big talk about how the two of you would buy a cottage in the Swiss Alps and go skiing every day in the winter and strawberry picking every day in the summer.

Reminiscing about the memory bought a real smile out of her. “Exactly.”

But the smile slowly faded as she kept talking. “I just… wish I didn’t always have to keep traveling. I barely get a few days with you before I have to fly out again. And I know that’s a part of my job, it's just that this time around was too long.”

You silently agreed. What was the organisation thinking, making an agent go three weeks out in the field, one mission after the other. You don’t even recall how many cups of coffee you’d downed just to keep up with the time differences. 

“Well, you’re here now,” you placed a kiss over your joined hands. “And we’re going to make the most of it. Hopefully, you get more than a few days this time.”

“Yeah, hopefully,” she repeated, although she sounded anything but.

You bit back the long sigh and nudged her instead, looking for a way to divert her attention. “I couldn’t tell you before, but your pie’s waiting for you in the fridge.”

Momo sat up at that. You jerked back to narrowly avoid being splashed by water. “Me too! Well, not a pie but I did manage to bring back a dessert called Cajetas this time. I didn’t have time to taste it but the lady selling them told me they’re a staple.” 

Her eyes finally regained their usual shine at the mention of the two of you sharing desserts. It had been a longtime tradition for you to bake her favorites when she came back from a long journey, and for her to get local items you both could try together.

“Unfortunately, I’m too stuffed now,” she finally relaxed into the tub, tipping her head back. “Those finger sandwiches were delicious Y/N. What did you put in them?”

“Love,” you said dreamily, before pressing another kiss to the hand you were holding. Momo pulled away and cringed. “What, too much?” you laughed, “besides, I don’t think they were that amazing. You were just really hungry,” you said, poking her shoulder.

Momo just hummed as a comfortable silence fell over the pair of you.

Although the bathwater would’ve been cooler by now, she looked too comfortable to be asked to move. 

By the time Momo finally got out of the bathtub and into the towel you were holding out for her, the water had gone completely cold.

“Ugh, my skin is all wrinkly now”, she complained.

“Hmm I don’t know, it’s giving me a good idea of what you’d look like in another thirty years.”

“And?” she twirled around. “What do you think?”

You gave her a once over. “I think… I think I’ll stay with you for more than thirty years if that’s what you’re going to look like.”

After a quick change into your respective pajamas for the night (with you having to change again due to a mock water fight you two had), you ushered Momo into bed.

“Are you not sleeping now?” she asked, when you didn’t get into bed with her.

“Just about to, don’t worry,” you replied, straightening her edge of the comforter, effectively tucking her in.” Mariko asked for an order of cupcakes for her kindergarten class next Tuesday, so I’m just going to make a note of that before I forget.” 

She pouted, drawing out an arm from under the covers and pulling you down by your sleeve. Leaning down, you had no choice but to look right into her puppy-dog eyes, nearly shutting from exhaustion were it not for Momo resisting her body, fighting to stay open. “I wanted to cuddle but I’m already,” she broke off into a yawn, “falling asleep.”

You kissed her cheek. “Goodnight, I’ll be back before you know it,” you whispered.

“G’night,” she mumbled with drooping eyes.

Your demeanor changed the minute you left the bedroom, gently closing the door behind you. Throughout the evening, you’d noticed how burnt out Momo seemed, and this late-night conversation further proved that she desperately needed a rest. You grabbed your laptop and keyed in a call to your organization, late hours be damned.

“Hippolyta to HQ. Calling in regards to Agent 64.” You waited for the call to go through.

After a few minutes of having to listen to the ridiculous call tone they had put in (seriously why on earth would someone want to listen to that Piña Colada song while they waited to make a serious report), you were about to pull out your earpiece and give up when a bored robotic voice answered, “Hippolyta, your call has now been cued. State your report and wait for an agent.”

You cleared your throat before saying. “As her handler, I believe Agent 64 is in need of a short leave, allowing her time to recuperate and be mentally on track for any and all future missions.” Hopefully, that should be enough to get an agent connected to you.

After another couple minutes of listening to the godforsaken song, a voice sounded on the other end. “This is Baklava to Hippolyta. Your report has been recorded. Do you have other details you wish to share?”

“It’s exactly as I said before. I noticed a change in Agent 64’s behaviour and mental state through her last couple missions, and I believe it would do her good to take a temporary break.”

“Agent 64, huh? Let me see, I’ll pull up her file here.”

“Oho,” you heard after some shuffling on the other end of the call, “so this is the infamous Agent 64 and Hippolyta. I see. Well, I’m afraid I have to deny your inquiry and cannot grant her the break.”

“Wait, what?” you asked, surprised that a decision had been made so quickly. “Why?”

“Clearly, her being your wife makes it a point of personal interest. We can’t really have that, so she’ll continue on her missions as usual.”

“Excuse me, but in all these years, I have never let personal feelings get in between our working relationship.” You could feel your anger rising and had to be careful not to raise your voice too much, lest Momo wake up. “In fact, as her handler, I have made sure to push her exactly as much as she needed to get her missions done. She has a ninety-eight percent success rate, only possible because we don’t let personal feelings get in our way.” 

“Nah, but in this case, Agent 64 has not filed for a break herself. You doing this on her behalf shows vested interest.” 

You didn’t know if it was because of the late hour, but this conversation with Baklava was going nowhere and you were starting to get frustrated. You sighed.

“What’s the matter, Hippo, going soft for your wife? Is that it?” the voice sneered.

You saw red. No one except Momo was allowed to call you that. 

“Grant Agent 64 the break or else you’ll lose not only your best assassin but also one of your best handlers,” you gritted your teeth.

The line suddenly cut.

Fuck.

You didn’t really want to have to go through the whole process of reporting your inquiry again, but for Momo you would do it another hundred times.

Just then, a new voice was heard through your earpiece.

“Hippolyta, this is Shooting Guard. Your report has been transferred over to me.”

Shooting Guard… the name was familiar to you.

“Hippolyta speaking. Not sure how much of my report was transferred over but it’s in regards to Agent 64.”

“Oh yes, I know about your wife, Hippolyta. What’s the matter?”

It suddenly hit you. Of course Shooting Guard was a familiar name. He had been an agent a year above you at the training centre, a hardworking and calculative senior, but friendly once you got to know him.

“Well, I know the organisation has been working through some things right now—” you heard a scoff on the other end, “but 64 has been on individual missions for three weeks straight. She would never say this outright but I can tell the constant travel is getting to her. As… as her handler of course, not her partner,” you hurried to add, lest you were misunderstood once again.

To your surprise Shooting Guard said, “I believe that being her spouse makes you all the more attuned to how she’s doing Hippolyta. And with your spotless record so far, having a spouse as a handler doesn’t seem to be working negatively at all.”

“Does that mean you can get her leave approved?” you asked, hopeful.

“Well, that’s the difficult part. In your words, the organisation is working through things right now,” he chuckled without mirth.  

“Please, just get her a psych eval or something. Anything that grants her a break,” you were coming across as pleading when you should have been firm, but Momo’s wellbeing was at stake here.

“Let me see what I can do.” You heard him hum as he clicked on various files, rearranging calendars and rescheduling appointments, no doubt, before he finally broke the silence.

“I can give her two weeks. That fine?”

“More than fine. Truly, thank you, Shooting Guard,” the stress visibly left your shoulders.

“Don’t mention it. The agents around here need a fucking break anyways.”

You logged off the call once you got the final approval that your report had been accepted. You couldn’t wait to see Momo’s joyous face when she would break the news to you tomorrow. But for now, sleep was calling.

As you made your way back upstairs, a smile spread across your face at the thought of spending the next two weeks with your wife. When you entered your bedroom, Momo was fast asleep, sprawled across the large bed, somehow taking up enough space for two people. You shook your head fondly as you turned off the lights, slipping in beside her. As if sensing your presence, she pressed herself closer to you, wanting to be together even in sleep. You looped an arm around her torso and held her tight. 

Yes, you certainly were excited to spend two weeks with her. But most of all, you were glad your bed would be warm with her presence again.

any feedback is much appreciated.

a/n: so that poll... y'all be impatient as fuck (and i be lazy as fuck bc i think i was the only one who voted for this being split JLDFKSHFK) anyways happy misamo day and have a good day/night !!

taglist: @someone-who-likes-broccoli @happilychaengs

[trikis-turntables]

Happy Lunar New Year! It's the Year of the Dragon!!

I've seen the new Dislyte banner and it just reminded me about some fun thing about how we talk about Lunar New Year and some things surrounding it.

So as a primer, the Lunar New Year is based on the Harvest Calendar 农历 (Nong Li) as opposed to the Gregorian calendar that we use in most of the world today. The Nong Li Calender follows the cycles of the moon, hence the reason it's known as the Lunar Calendar in english and other western languages.

So when we mention Spring Festival 春节 Chun Jie it encapsulates the entirety of the first 7 or 15 days of the Lunar New Year (16, if we count New Years Eve). All 15 days are significant and depending on how big or how close your family is, there's slightly differing tradition.

New Year's Eve - 除夕 Chu Xi - Everyone arrives home and we have a big reunion dinner with our immediate family.

New Year's Day - 大年��一 Da Nian Chu Yi - Officially Chinese New Year, we'll go around visiting our eldest relatives to wish them a happy new year bai nian. Families tend to congregate at the home of the eldest living relative (great-grandparents' homes, grandparents' homes, eldest uncles homes) Wearing red, Firecrackers, Dragon Dances and Lion dances are all common parts of the celebration! By legend it is used to scare away the evil monster Nian who used to eat people!

(Lion Dancers will go up to people's homes and businesses as a troupe to usher in the new year! It's also a highly acrobatic sport with its own institutions, definitely check it out!)

Seventh day of New Year - 人日 Ren Ri - Day of Humans - we consider it the day where the first humans were created by Nuwa, so it's everyone's birthday! Festivities for most households tend to end on this day or on the eighth of New Years.

Fifteenth day of New Year - 元宵节 Yuan Xiao Jie - Lantern Festival marks the official end of the New Years/Spring Festival. In Hokkien we call it Chap Goh Mei 初十五 (literally 15th [of the new year])

You can read about the other days of Lunar New Year here: https://www.nypl.org/blog/2021/02/11/15-days-lunar-new-year !

Furthermore in my home city of Johor Bahru we have a special procession on the 21st of the new year's called the Chingay Parade.

So how should I wish people who celebrate Lunar New Year?

Happy Lunar New Year! is good (abbreviating to Happy LNY! is cool too) this is for consideration of for example Koreans, Vietnamese, Hmong, and other diasporic Chinese Lunar New Year celebrators!

In my country of Malaysia, Happy Chinese New Year is the norm because most people that celebrate Lunar New Year happen to be ethnically chinese.

恭喜發財 (Gōng xǐ fā cái) - Wish you wealth and prosperity

身體健康 (Shēn tǐ jiàn kāng) - Wishing you good health

萬事如意 (Wàn shì rú yì) - May everything go well for you

Bonus:

What are Red Packets and how do I get one? (lol) 🧧

It's also generally alright to go visit or 拜年 bai nian with your neighbours that celebrate Lunar New Year during this period of time, remember to bring a pair of mandarin oranges with you! (Remember to always bring mandarin oranges in pairs as it's seen as good luck.) You might want to contact them ahead to see if they're around XD Unmarried folks can get a red packet from the hosting family for wishing them a happy new year. It's kind of like trick-or-treating lol.

新年快乐！！

[realsgwife]

1337 Brian - The First Meeting in Johor Bahru

"You know, I've always had this thing for older women," Brian mused, his dark eyes twinkling with mischief as he sipped his teh tarik at the crowded hawker center. 

Sally, poised across the table, raised an eyebrow. "Is that so?" she replied coyly, the corners of her lips curling into a knowing smile. At 37, she was no stranger to flattery, especially not from someone as charming as this 35-year-old bachelor from across the causeway. 

They'd met online, their profiles colliding in a sea of digital anonymity. Sally's, a seductive blend of sultry photos and suggestive quips, had caught Brian's eye immediately. She loved the thrill of it all—the secrecy, the danger, the way her heart fluttered at the thought of a new conquest. Her marriage had grown stale, her husband's touch no longer electrifying. But here, with Brian, she felt alive again. 

The humidity of the evening clung to their skin as they ventured into the bustling streets of Johor Bahru. Sally had dressed for the occasion, her tight dress hugging her curves in all the right places, a silent promise of the pleasures to come. The neon lights of the city danced in her eyes as she listened intently to Brian's tales of his car business and the fast life he led. The air was thick with excitement, the kind that only comes from the precipice of the unknown. 

Finally, they arrived at the budget hotel he'd reserved, a place that catered to those seeking discretion. The room was small but clean, the air conditioner humming a steady rhythm as they stepped inside. The tension between them was palpable, a tangible force that seemed to pulse with every beat of their hearts. Brian's hand brushed against hers as he closed the door, and she felt a shiver run down her spine. 

Without a word, Brian reached for the zipper at the back of her dress, his eyes never leaving hers. As the fabric fell away, revealing her black lace bra and matching thong, she stepped out of her heels, the carpet soft against her bare feet. He took in the sight of her, his gaze lingering on the swell of her breasts and the curve of her hips. With a gentle tug, he removed her bra, exposing her to the cool air. She felt a thrill as his eyes roved over her, hungry and appreciative. 

Sally's heart raced as she knelt before him, her knees pressing into the plush carpet. Brian's fingers found the waistband of his jeans, unbuckling his belt with a practiced ease. He slid them down his legs, revealing his erect cock, thick and veiny. She took it in her hands, feeling the heat and the pulse of his desire. He groaned softly as she touched him, his eyes closing briefly in pleasure. 

With a teasing smile, she leaned in, her breath hot against the sensitive skin of his shaft. Brian's grip tightened in her hair as she took him into her mouth, her tongue swirling around the tip before she took him deeper. She could feel him growing harder with every stroke, his hips pushing gently against her face. The taste of him was intoxicating, a heady mix of musk and desire that made her own arousal spike. She worked him with a practiced skill, her mouth a warm, wet haven that he'd never forget. 

Their eyes locked, and she could see the passion building in his gaze. His chest heaved with every breath, his abs tightening with each stroke of her tongue. Sally's own need grew, her panties dampening as she listened to the sound of his pleasure. She longed to feel him inside her, to lose herself in the sensation of his body claiming hers. But she knew the art of teasing, the power of anticipation. So she took her time, savoring every moment, drawing him closer to the edge without letting him fall over. 

Brian's hand reached down to stroke her cheek, his thumb brushing against her bottom lip as it glistened with his precum. He whispered her name, a hoarse plea that sent a shiver down her spine. She took his hand and led him to the bed, her heart racing as she lay down and spread her legs wide, revealing her clean-shaven pussy, already glistening with desire. The sight of her, so open and willing, was almost too much for him to bear. He could feel his own need building, a pressure that demanded release. 

He leaned over her, his cock bobbing with every beat of his heart as he kissed her deeply. Sally's hands roamed over his body, her nails digging into his back as she pulled him closer. She felt the warmth of his skin against hers, the softness of his touch as he slid a finger into her wetness. He teased her clit with his thumb, his movements slow and deliberate, building the tension until she was writhing beneath him. 

With a growl, Brian positioned himself at her entrance, the head of his cock nudging against her slick folds. Sally's eyes fluttered shut, her breath hitching in anticipation. She felt a moment of resistance before he pushed inside, filling her completely. A low moan escaped her lips, a sound that seemed to echo through the quiet hotel room. 

He began to pump into her, his strokes deep and steady, his hips moving with a rhythm that was almost hypnotic. Each thrust sent waves of pleasure crashing through her body, making her toes curl and her legs shake. Brian's teeth grazed her neck, leaving a trail of love bites along her collarbone and down to her breasts. She gasped as he took one nipple into his mouth, sucking and biting gently, the sensation sending sparks of desire straight to her core. 

Sally wrapped her legs around his waist, urging him deeper, her hips rising to meet his every move. His hand found its way to her clit, and she moaned as he circled it with his thumb, his touch masterful and sure. The pleasure was building, coiling tighter and tighter with every stroke until she thought she might shatter from the intensity of it all. 

"Fuck me like I'm your slut," she whispered hotly into his ear, her breath sending shivers down his spine. Brian's eyes darkened at her words, his grip on her hips tightening as he increased his pace. She was lost in the sensation, her body moving in perfect sync with his, their cries of pleasure mingling in the stillness of the night. 

He could feel himself reaching the point of no return, his balls tightening with the promise of release. With a final, powerful thrust, Brian buried himself to the hilt, his cock pulsing as he shot his first load into her welcoming warmth. Sally's body convulsed around him, her own orgasm hitting like a wave, the contractions of her pussy milking him dry. They stayed like that for a moment, joined in a primal dance as old as time itself, their hearts hammering in their chests. 

As the intensity of their climax subsided, Brian pulled out, a satisfied groan escaping his lips as he watched his cum spill out of her, painting her thighs with his essence. Sally lay there, panting and flushed, her eyes glazed over with satisfaction. The sight was almost too much for him to handle—he hadn't expected their first encounter to be this explosive. He collapsed beside her, their bodies sticky with sweat and sex. 

Brian rolled onto his side, propping himself up on one elbow as he traced lazy circles around her erect nipples. The softness of her skin and the weight of her breasts in his hand were a tactile delight that he hadn't experienced in a long time. He watched her face, the way her pupils dilated and her breath hitched with every touch, a silent testament to the power he had over her. 

"I need to clean up," Sally murmured, her voice still thick with lust. She slid out of bed, her body glowing with the sheen of their passion. Brian couldn't help but admire her as she walked to the bathroom, her hips swaying with a sensual grace that seemed to defy the gravity of the moment. He followed her, his own desire still burning brightly, his eyes devouring the curve of her ass as it disappeared through the doorway. 

As Brian watched her showering, the water cascading down her body like a waterfall, his cock grew hard again. Her skin was flushed from their encounter, her nipples still erect from his recent attentions. She glanced over her shoulder at him, a knowing smile playing on her lips as she reached for the soap. The way the suds slid over her curves was almost too much to bear, and he found himself approaching her, his own need demanding attention. 

He stepped into the shower, the warm water enveloping them both as he pulled her against him. Her wet hair clung to her shoulders, and her eyes sparkled with mischief as she felt his growing arousal pressing into her back. Sally arched into him, her body already craving more of what he had to offer. Brian reached around her, his soapy hands cupping her breasts as he kissed along her neck, his teeth grazing her sensitive skin. 

Her hand snaked down to grip his hardening length, stroking him gently as the water washed over them. Brian groaned, his hands sliding down to her hips, his fingers digging into the soft flesh as he pulled her back against him. The heat of the shower melded them together, their bodies slipping and sliding with the soap as they kissed with an urgency that seemed to defy the very air around them. 

He whispered his desire into her ear, his voice low and gruff with need. "I want to fuck you in the ass, Sally." 

Sally's eyes widened, a shiver of excitement rushing through her body. She'd never tried it before, but the way Brian looked at her, the hunger in his gaze, made her want to explore every inch of his desires. She turned to face him, her breasts brushing against his chest, and nodded, her voice barely above a whisper. "I'm all yours." 

Brian's eyes darkened with lust as he reached for the shower gel, squeezing a generous amount into his palm. He took his time, gently massaging it into her skin, paying special attention to the tight bud of her anus. His touch was surprisingly tender, his thumb circling the sensitive area as he kissed her neck, her back arching with every soft press. Sally felt a thrill of anticipation, her body responding to his touch despite her inexperience. 

They stepped out of the shower, the water still running in the background, creating a steamy atmosphere that clung to their bodies like a second skin. Brian led her back to the bed, his eyes never leaving hers. He grabbed a tube of lubricant from his bag, a small smile playing on his lips as he squirted a generous amount onto his fingers. Sally watched him, her heart racing, as he approached her with a look of pure intent. 

He bent her over the edge of the basin, her breasts pressing against the cold porcelain. The chill sent a shiver down her spine, but it was quickly forgotten as Brian's slick digits began to probe her ass, preparing her for what was to come. Sally gripped the edge of the sink, her knuckles turning white as she felt him spread her cheeks apart. The anticipation was almost unbearable, a delicious ache that made her squirm with need. 

Their reflection in the mirror was a sight to behold—his body form looming over her, the stark contrast of his tanned skin against her porcelain complexion. Her eyes locked onto his, and she watched as he positioned his cock at her entrance, his own need etched clearly on his face. With a gentle push, the tip breached her, and she gasped at the sudden intrusion. The initial burn was intense, but she focused on his face, his eyes filled with a fiery passion that made her want to give him everything. 

Brian took his time, pushing in inch by inch, his eyes never leaving hers in the mirror. She watched as her body stretched to accommodate him, the way her cheeks hollowed as she took deep, shaky breaths. Each inch brought a new wave of sensation, a mix of pleasure and pain that had her panting. His hand found its way to her clit, his thumb brushing over the sensitive nub in a way that made the discomfort fade into the background. 

As he entered her fully, Sally felt a fullness she'd never experienced before, a deep, primal sensation that had her legs trembling. She watched their reflection, Brian's body body taut with control, her own form bent and open to him. The sight was erotic and empowering, a visual representation of the raw sexuality that thrummed through her veins. 

Their eyes remained locked in the mirror, the intensity of their gaze setting the room alight. Brian's hand slid up her spine, his thumb caressing the delicate skin of her neck as he began to move within her. Sally's breath came in ragged gasps, her eyes fluttering closed as she adjusted to the new sensation. His strokes grew longer, more deliberate, each one sending a shockwave of pleasure through her body. She could feel herself opening up to him, her ass tightening around his cock as she pushed back to meet his thrusts. 

In the mirror, Sally watched Brian's hand glide over her hip, his fingers trailing down to her pussy, now wet and eager. He slid two digits inside her, the slickness making it easy for him to move in time with his thrusts. The dual sensation was overwhelming, and she could feel an orgasm building within her, threatening to shatter her into a million pieces. Her nails dug into the porcelain of the basin, the sound of their skin slapping together echoing through the small room. 

Brian's eyes bore into hers, his focus unwavering as he pushed into her tight ass, his cock slick with lube and her own arousal. She felt every inch of him, the stretch and burn giving way to a deep, primal pleasure that made her body shake. His other hand found her hair, gripping it tightly as he began to fuck her with a fervor that left her breathless. The mirror fogged up around them, their reflections becoming hazy, as if the very air was thick with passion. 

Sally's moans grew louder with each thrust, the sound echoing off the tiles. She watched in the mirror as Brian's body moved over hers, his muscles flexing with each powerful push. His thumb continued to tease her clit, the dual sensations threatening to push her over the edge. She could feel her orgasm building, a coil of tension that tightened with every stroke. 

Her eyes never left the mirror as Brian's hand slid up her back, his grip firm and reassuring. He whispered sweet nothings into her ear, his breath hot against her neck. His other hand reached around, his fingers finding her engorged clit, stroking it in time with his movements. The pressure grew, the pleasure becoming almost unbearable. She felt her body begin to tremble, her legs giving out slightly as the orgasm washed over her. 

He held her up, his strokes never faltering, as she rode the wave of ecstasy. Her cries grew louder, echoing through the small bathroom. Brian's own control was slipping, his movements becoming more erratic as he chased his own release. Sally felt his cock swell inside her, his grip on her hips tightening as he pushed deeper, his own orgasm building. 

Their eyes remained locked in the mirror, the reflection of their passionate encounter a blur of flesh and desire. Sally's breasts bounced with every thrust, her skin flushed and glistening with the heat of their exertion. Brian's face was a mask of concentration, his muscles straining as he pushed her closer and closer to the brink. She could feel his balls slapping against her, the sensation sending shivers through her body. 

Sally's eyes grew heavy-lidded, her mouth parted in a silent scream as Brian's thumb worked her clit with the same rhythm as his cock in her ass. The pressure was unbearable, a delicious agony that had her panting for more. His breath was hot against her ear, his voice a low growl as he whispered dirty words that sent her spiraling. She could feel her orgasm building, a crescendo of pleasure that was both terrifying and exhilarating. 

Brian's eyes never left hers in the mirror, his gaze intense and possessive. He watched as her body responded to his every touch, her muscles clenching around him, her breasts heaving with each breath. The sight was almost too much to handle, and he felt his own release approaching with the inevitability of a freight train. He picked up his pace, driving into her harder and faster, the sound of their bodies meeting a symphony of lust. 

Sally's moans grew more desperate, her eyes fluttering closed as she felt Brian's thumb press down on her clit, his strokes growing more insistent. The dual penetration was like nothing she'd ever felt before, a maelstrom of pleasure that had her on the brink of sanity. Each thrust sent waves of sensation through her, her body tightening around him as she approached the precipice. She could feel her orgasm building, a crescendo that seemed to consume her very soul. 

With a grunt, Brian withdrew from her ass, spinning her around so quickly she gasped. He slammed her back against the tiles, the coldness of the floor a stark contrast to the heat of their bodies. His cock, still slick with lube and her juices, pointed straight at her face, a silent demand she couldn't resist. He thrust into her open mouth, her tongue swirling around him as he picked up his pace, his eyes never leaving hers in the mirror. 

Sally choked and coughed around his girth, but she didn't protest. Instead, she reveled in the feeling of his power, his dominance over her. It was a heady sensation, one that had her pussy clenching with need. Brian's hand tangled in her hair, his grip tightening as he fucked her face with a ferocity that had her eyes watering. She could feel the tension in his body, the way his muscles tensed and released as he approached climax. 

With a roar, Brian pulled out, his cock pulsing with the force of his release. He painted her face with thick ropes of cum, the warmth splattering against her skin. Sally's eyes remained open, watching him in the mirror, her own desire burning brighter with each spurt. He was like a wild animal, claiming his prize, and she was more than willing to be claimed. 

As Brian's orgasm subsided, Sally felt a thrill of excitement. He was still hard, still hungry for more. She knew what was coming next, and the anticipation was almost too much to handle. Brian's grip on her hair tightened, and she felt him guide her back down to her knees, his cock pointing at her face like a weapon of pleasure. She opened her mouth, eager to taste him, to clean him off with her tongue. 

He positioned himself over her, his legs straddling her body as he thrust into her mouth again. Sally could feel the wetness of the floor beneath her, the coolness of the tiles against her skin a stark contrast to the heat of their passion. His strokes grew more erratic, his breath coming in harsh pants as he approached climax once more. She could feel the head of his cock hit the back of her throat, the sensation making her own juices flow even more. 

With a growl, Brian pulled out, his cock glistening with her saliva. He flipped her over, her cheek pressed against the cold porcelain of the bathtub. She felt the warmth of his cum on her face, a sticky reminder of his dominance. Without a word, he took her hips in his hands and pushed into her pussy from behind, his cock sliding in with ease thanks to the lubricant that still coated him. 

Sally's eyes fluttered closed as Brian began to move, his thrusts deep and slow, the gentle slap of their skin echoing through the bathroom. The warmth of his cum mixed with the coolness of the porcelain was a heady combination, and she found herself pushed into a new realm of pleasure she hadn't known existed. Each stroke filled her completely, the angle hitting her g-spot in a way that had her toes curling. 

With their passion temporarily sated, Brian pulled out and helped her to her feet, their bodies sticky and sated. They stepped out of the bathroom, the cool air of the hotel room a stark contrast to the steamy cocoon they'd created. Without a word, they made their way back to the bed, collapsing onto the damp sheets. Exhaustion claimed them, and they fell into a deep, satisfied sleep, their limbs entwined. 

Hours passed, the soft tick of the clock on the bedside table the only sound in the room. The late afternoon sun painted stripes across their bodies, the light shifting as the day moved into evening. Sally stirred first, the weight of Brian's arm across her waist a comforting presence. She rolled over, her breasts pressing into his side, and kissed his neck gently. He murmured in his sleep, a contented smile playing on his lips. 

The whispers of nightfall outside grew louder, the city of Johor Bahru coming alive with the sounds of evening. Brian's eyes fluttered open, his gaze locking onto hers. He leaned in, capturing her mouth in a slow, lazy kiss that spoke of their unspoken understanding. They were two adults with a shared craving for the illicit, and the day had only served to whet their appetites. 

"Sally," he murmured, his voice a seductive caress against her ear, "let's go somewhere more exciting." 

Her eyes snapped open, and she stared at him for a moment, the haze of sleep lifting to reveal the glint of mischief in his eyes. "Where?" she asked, already knowing the answer. 

"The plantation," Brian whispered, his breath hot against her skin. "We'll have the place to ourselves." 

Sally felt a thrill run through her. The idea of fucking in the open, under the stars, surrounded by the vastness of nature, was intoxicating. She nodded, a slow smile spreading across her face. "Let's go." 

They dressed quickly, Brian pulling on a pair of loose-fitting shorts and a t-shirt, while Sally chose a skimpy dress that barely covered her ass. The fabric clung to her curves, hinting at the delights hidden beneath. She applied a fresh coat of lipstick, leaving a crimson smear on the mirror as she turned to face him. 

Brian couldn't resist leaning in for a quick kiss, his hand sliding down to cup her ass. She giggled, pushing him away gently. "Not yet," she teased. 

They checked out of the hotel and climbed into Brian's car, the anticipation thick between them. The drive to the plantation was quiet, the darkness outside pressing in on the car like a living entity. Sally's heart raced with excitement, her hand sliding over her thigh, the fabric of her dress riding up slightly. 

When they arrived, Brian parked the car at the edge of the plantation, the tall palm trees stretching up into the night sky like sentinels. They stepped out into the cool night air, the scent of earth and vegetation surrounding them. It was a stark contrast to the urban sprawl they'd just left behind. 

Their eyes adjusted to the darkness, and they made their way through the rows of palm trees, the ground squelching beneath their feet. The moon cast a silver glow over the landscape, turning the oil palms into an eerie, yet strangely romantic, backdrop for their rendezvous. 

Finally, they found a clearing, a small patch of dirt surrounded by towering trees. Brian pulled her close, his hands roaming over her body as they kissed deeply. Sally could feel his erection pressing against her, the heat of his desire palpable. 

He pushed her down onto the ground, the soft dirt cushioning her fall. The dress rode up, exposing her nakedness to the night air. Brian took a moment to appreciate the view, his cock growing harder at the sight of her. 

Sally reached up, her hands sliding over his chest, her nails digging into his skin. "Take me," she begged, her voice a seductive whisper. 

With a growl, Brian ripped her panties off, the sound of the fabric tearing a stark reminder of their illicit escape. He positioned himself between her legs, his cock nudging at her entrance. The sensation of the earth beneath her, the roughness of the dirt against her skin, heightened her arousal. 

He pushed into her, the sensation of the outdoors making it feel like he was claiming her in a way no hotel room ever could. Sally's eyes rolled back in her head as she took in the feeling of him inside her, surrounded by the sounds of the night—the rustle of leaves, the distant hoot of an owl. 

Their bodies moved in a primal dance, the rhythm of their fucking setting a tempo that the jungle around them seemed to mimic. The dirt and the leaves clung to their skin, a natural embrace that only added to the eroticism of the moment. 

Brian leaned down, capturing her nipple in his mouth, his teeth grazing the sensitive flesh. Sally's moans grew louder, mixing with the nocturnal symphony. She could feel another orgasm building, the tension coiling tighter and tighter in her belly. 

He pulled out, leaving her gasping for air, and spun her around. "On your hands and knees," he ordered, his voice low and gruff with need. 

Sally complied eagerly, her body already slick with desire. Brian positioned himself behind her, his cock probing her wetness. With one swift motion, he pushed back in, filling her to the brim. 

The stars above them twinkled like a thousand distant eyes, watching their passionate display. Brian's hips slapped against her ass, the sound echoing through the quiet night. Sally's breath hitched as he reached around to stroke her clit, his touch as precise as it had been in the hotel room. She pushed back into him, the sensation of his cock stretching her open as he took her from behind. 

The earthy scent of the plantation was intoxicating, mixing with the heady aroma of their desire. Brian's hands roamed her body, leaving trails of fire wherever they touched. She could feel the sweat beading on her skin, the cool night air kissing her where Brian's touch didn't. His teeth grazed the back of her neck, sending shivers down her spine. 

With each thrust, Brian grew more insistent, his grip on her hips tightening. Sally could feel the heat building within her, a fiery need that demanded release. She reached back, her hand finding his balls, squeezing gently as she urged him deeper. The friction was exquisite, a dance of pleasure that had her toes curling into the dirt. 

Suddenly, a light flashed through the trees, briefly illuminating their entwined forms. Brian stilled, his eyes narrowing, and Sally looked over her shoulder, her heart racing. "What was that?" she whispered, fear and excitement mingling in her voice. 

Brian's smile was a feral grin. "Let's find out," he said, pulling out of her with a wet pop. He grabbed her hand, his grip firm and reassuring as he led her deeper into the plantation. The light grew brighter, and she could hear the murmur of male voices in the distance. Her stomach flipped—what had they stumbled upon? 

To be continued...

[darklordazalin]

Azalin Reviews: Arijani

Domain: Sri Raji Domain Formation: 670 BC Final Score: 💀💀💀⚫⚫ (3.5/5 skulls) Sources: Realm of Terror (2e), Web of Illusion (2e), Ravenloft (3e)

Arijani is the Darklord of Sri Raji, which has morphed into Kalakeri in 5e and demoted Arijani as the betrayer of a new Darklord, Ramya Vasavadan.

Sri Raji is a small tropical rainforest that lies north of the Wildlands, the sentient animal Domain ruled by the Darklord King Crocodile. There are four cities within, three of which contain most of the populace. The fourth is the Accursed City of Bahru, which lies on Mount Yamatali. It is here where Arijani makes his home among the ruins of Bahru’s former glory.

Arijani is the son of Mahiji, a human high priestess of Kali and the avatar of the rakshasa Ravana. For those of you who believe in such things, this would make Arijani a demi-god of a sort. Mahiji didn’t realize she had an affair with a furry until Arijani was born. Now, gentlemen, be kind and tell your lovers if you’re a furry or not. It’s best they know ahead of time unless you want things to potentially become very awkward.

Thinking her goddess would be displeased by her actions, Mahiji offered up her newly born son to Kali. However, Kali was pleased by her actions, claiming that her son was the result of her own planning. Deities make these claims all the time, it’s best if we just ignore them. Kali took Arijani and brought him to be raised by the rakshasa. Being Ravana’s son, Arijani should have had high status among his people, but instead he was shunned because he was part human.

Growing up amongst bullies, Arijani developed a deep hatred for his people and plotted his revenge. As the rakshasa often are, Arijani was extremely subtle as he wove his web of deception and revenge. Through his cunning planning and a word whispered in the right her, Arijani manipulated events so that humans would discover the rakshasa hidden among them and kill them. In time, these ploys of Arijani’s led to the rakshasa to fear the very humans they once hunted, which eventually developed into a war between the rakshasa and the people of the city of Bahru. This led to many of his brethren’s deaths, which was Arijani and we can assume, Kali’s, plan. Kali is, afterall, the Goddess of death and destruction. Lowellyn would adore her…

Ravana, upon discovering his son’s plots, sent his avatar to kill him. Instead, Arijani out maneuvered his father and Ravana found himself begging for his life. He promised to grant Arijani a wish if he would let him go. Arijani agreed and wished to be invulnerable to attacks from his own people. Once his wish was granted, Arijani betrayed Ravana and slew him with a blessed silver crossbow bolt now known as Ravana’s Bane. With this final act, the Mists of Ravenloft claimed Arijani.

Arijani’s masquerade ability, which allows rakshasa to wrap themselves in powerful illusions to conceal their true nature (much like my own, I suppose), was altered by the Dark Powers. A curse, though a rather weak one compared to the ones I have to put up with…and one he has easily worked around. Instead of appearing as someone appealing to his victim, Arijani’s mask becomes the thing they fear most or their greatest enemy. He can also appear as any human but no matter what he looks like, anyone in his presence sees him as untrustworthy. He has maintained his father’s blessing of invulnerability and only those outside of his Domain can truly harm him. Still, those that enter will need a powerful magical weapon to damage this rakshasa. I recommend bringing a crossbow if you enter Sri Jai as, no matter the quality, a crossbow bolt will always harm him and if you manage to get your hands on Ravana’s Bane, all the better.

Arijani is a powerful illusionist, able to weave illusion upon illusion making it almost impossible to see through them. I’d be more impressed if that wasn’t something I had mastered myself before the whole lich thing, but still, it’s slightly more impressive than many of the Darklords I’ve reviewed. He uses these illusions to create traps throughout his temple and to aid him while fighting. He’s also a cleric of Kali and has access to Divine spells through her. All in all, a well-rounded combatant.

[janetneo]

My new #hairstyle + after #keratin treatment 😊 #ootd #ootdstyle #selfie #hair #keratintreatment (at Johor Bahru) https://www.instagram.com/p/Co_puWUBi3Z/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[travelsandroadtrips]

NEW! More Johor Bahru Food Hunting(Johor Bahru Great Eats Part 9)

Welcome to Part 9 of our Johor Bahru Great Eats! In this episode, we are going to check out more yummy eats in Johor Bahru, including a new dim sum place, mouthwatering Indian cuisine, sizzling Korean barbeque and more! 📝Our Review Policy As per all our videos on food recommendations, we will only feature eateries which we personally find to be good and delicious. Eateries that we have tried and…

[bell4ncy]

Journal Entry #3 September 15, 2024

That morning, I woke up at 6 AM to pack my bags as my parents came to Bangi to bring me home. At 9 AM, they arrived so I got in the car and we headed to Johor Bahru. I slept through the whole trip. At 1 PM, we were home. I unpack my things and my mom gave me tons of new clothes while my dad just spares me some money. Later at 3 PM, I went to LHDN to get my stamp certificates. Once the stamping had done, I went to PTPTN branch to submit my education loan forms. At 5 PM, my dad took me to Angsana Mall to buy some groceries. Later, I bought a Mixue ice cream. At 6:45 PM, we headed home. I helped my mom by preparing the ingredients to make pasta for dinner. We had dinner at 8 PM. I watched some TV shows with my parents until I passed out.

The next morning, I woke up at 9 AM and took a shower. I had to get ready as my parents asked me to join their breakfast at a restaurant which is 30 minutes away. At 11 AM, we had arrived and I only had beef shawarma as my breakfast because I don't feel like eating much. At 1 PM, my parents took me to go shopping at Lotus's as they would be taking me to a beach. At 3 PM, we got home and I started to pack some equipment such as sand castle mold and a mat to sit on at the beach. My parents took me to the Desaru beach at 4 PM. We got there at 5:30 PM. I had fun building a sand castle and walk around the edge of the water. The sunset was breathtaking. We had burgers as our snack while we were there. At 7 PM, we left the beach. My dad took us to a Ninso store as they were having sales on premium chocolates for a cheaper price. I bought a bag of chocolates that worth about RM115 and of course my dad paid for it. We had dinner at a Siamese restaurant. I had Tom Yum and deep-fried shrimps. At 10 PM, we headed home and I went to bed.

The next morning, I woke up 7 AM to get ready. I submitted my online class tasks and my parents took me to have breakfast. At 8 AM, we were off to Bangi as I need to be at the hostel for tomorrow's physical class. I got to Bangi at 1 PM. I left my bags at the dorm and got into the car again to have family time. We went to Putrajaya Lake because they know that is my favorite place here. At 5 PM, they sent me back to the hostel and I waved my goodbye to them. I went to my dorm and took a nap until 10 PM. Later, my friend called me as he were on his way to the hostel and he bought me something to eat. I had dinner which is a Ayam Gunting and a soda herbs drink. I took a shower and play PUBGM until I fell asleep at 2 AM.

Sincerely,

Nur Farah Najwa

[umaiyrhh]

NEW BEGINNINGS, BLANK PAGES

Journal entry #1 July 13, 2024

This was the day of my new chapter. On this day, I enrolled into my college which located very far from my home since I lived in Johor Bahru, so it was a bit strange for me to be away from home for the first time. But I was not that since this was not my in hostel it’s just that maybe “something” was missing. A piece in me was missing. I wondered what it was. But as I said I want to focus on myself so I let that thought slipped away. It was a great start for me since I’ve made new friends. It was Misha and Salsabila. I like being friends with them since they matched my energy really well. That night we went to the food court and I was a bit shocked with the prices. However, we just bought some refreshers to added more energy to ourselves since tomorrow we need to woke up and early. It was such a hustle ! I hope my college will treat as good as it gets.

-maiy-

Journal entry #2 July 15, 2024

I woke up to a rising sunshine for my first day of class. I was contemplated on which outfit to wore. I CANT BELIEVE IT WAS THAT HARD? Anyways I chose to wore my white shirt with my East Indian skirt. It was a cute combination. As I’ve done with my make up I wore my shoes and went ton the bus and guess what, I NEED TO PAY 1 RINGGIT FOR EACH RIDE FOR THE SHUTTLE BUS ??? Can’t believe I need to spent most of my monthly allowance just for the shuttle bus ride. Once I arrived at my campus, I was a bit overwhelmed since there was a lot of people around me including a lot men around me. After several minutes of searching for my classroom, I’ve found it. There’s nothing much for the first class. We went out early since our lecturer was caught up in a sudden meeting. Shortly after class why this idea came up into my mind but I straight went to MRT station Kajang. CAN’T BELIEVE I TOOK A WHOLE RIDE TO MYTOWN KUALA LUMPUR. I was a bit confused at first because I can’t understand a single thing on the RAPID KL map. Thankfully one of my friend helped me. As the time I arrived at MYTOWN, suddenly my phone rang. I WAS CAUGHT OFF GUARD BECAUSE MY FATHER WAS CALLING ME. I DIDN’T TOLD HIM THAT I WENT TO KUALA LUMPUR. At this point I am digging my own grave . Obviously my father was full of rage . I ALMOST CRIED MID WAY INTO THE MALL. I apologized to him as I made a promise not to go on a “LAST MINUTE HEALING TRIP” just by myself.  After a short nagging session with my father, I continued my journey to explore the mall. I went to get lunch at Boat Noodle and it was average. After some times, I went back to my college. It was a good start for me, I guess?? Even though I relapsed a lot on the train ride but its okay since good thing would eventually come to me.

-maiy-

Journal entry #3 July 25, 2024

It’s been a long time since I broke down liken this. Maybe it was the “far from home’ effect since I was sick on this day and I overthink a lot. What if everything that I’ve planned out went downhill just like before? I don’t want that to happen. Not this time. But it was too hard for me. Everything was too overwhelmed for me. I can’t think straight. I can’t reached out on anyone. It felt empty. I couldn’t pinpoint what triggered this feeling. Was it the endless cycle of work, or the isolation I’ve been experiencing lately? I found myself scrolling through social media, seeing people smiling in pictures, and I wondered why I couldn’t feel that joy. The more I scrolled, the deeper the emptiness grew. Maybe it was just me. It was “me” this whole time. I was wrong this whole time. I sabotaged myself. That was a good self explanatory. What small step can I take tomorrow to begin filling this emptiness?

-maiy-

[sa7abnews]

Singaporeans are used to paying less than $5 for a meal. This 30-year-old chef charges double, and diners keep coming.

New Post has been published on Sa7ab News

Singaporeans are used to paying less than $5 for a meal. This 30-year-old chef charges double, and diners keep coming.

Gwyneth Ang, 30, is now opening a modern Asian grilled seafood restaurant in Singapore’s latest lifestyle hub, New Bahru.

... read more !

[kazifatagar]

AEON Tebrau City Food Hall and Johor's First Tsutaya Bookstore Unveiled

Johor Bahru, 12 November 2024 – AEON Mall Tebrau City is thrilled to announce the opening of an exciting new area, designed to bring “food and lifestyle for the whole family” to its visitors. This dynamic space will feature 20 new specialty shops, including restaurants, a lifestyle bookstore, and entertainment facilities, aiming to offer an unparalleled shopping and dining experience.  The AEON…

[douxlen]

Singaporeans are used to paying less than $5 for a meal. This 30-year-old chef charges double, and diners keep coming.

New Post has been published on Douxle News

Singaporeans are used to paying less than $5 for a meal. This 30-year-old chef charges double, and diners keep coming.

Gwyneth Ang, 30, is now opening a modern Asian grilled seafood restaurant in Singapore’s latest lifestyle hub, New Bahru.

... read more !

[myindustrialspecialist]

22nd September 2024 Explore the latest trends in Malaysia’s industrial real estate market, including key opportunities in Klang Valley, Penang, Kulim, and Johor Bahru. Learn how geopolitical tensions and foreign investment are shaping the future. In February 2024, Malaysia's manufacturing sector experienced a notable boost, with the Production Index rising by 4.9% year-over-year, according to Malaysia’s Industrial Production Index. Additionally, the Department of Statistics Malaysia reported a significant 10.3% increase in the sales value of the manufacturing industry, reaching RM 145.2 billion in February 2023. Key subsectors driving this growth include Electrical & Electronic Products (33.2%), Petroleum, Chemical, Rubber & Plastic (24.7%), and Food, Beverages & Tobacco (17.5%). This uptick in manufacturing output is leading to increased demand for industrial real estate and factory rentals across Malaysia, positioning the nation as a prime destination for industrial property investments. In this article, we’ll dive into the current trends and opportunities in Malaysia’s industrial parks and explore how these developments impact the industrial real estate market. YoY change in Sales Value of Manufacturing Sector (%) Source: Manufacturing Statistics Malaysia, Department Statistics of Malaysiahttps://open.dosm.gov.my/data-catalogue/ipi?series=growth-yoy&visual=index_sa Growth Trends for Industrial Real Estate in Malaysia The recovery of Malaysia’s manufacturing sector is driving demand for industrial real estate, particularly in zones that host electronics clusters. According to DataSense by PropertyGuru For Business, Puchong in Selangor is currently the most sought-after location for industrial property and factory rentals. Puchong’s robust industrial base and strategic proximity to major growth centres make it an attractive spot for businesses. Key industrial zones in Puchong include Kinrara Industrial Park, Puchong Industrial Park, and Taman Perindustrian Puchong Utama. Next in line is Shah Alam, home to expanding Electronics and Electrical clusters. Industrial parks like Shah Alam Industrial Park and Glenmarie Industrial Park have seen a surge in interest from companies in these sectors, while Bukit Raja Selatan and Hicom Industrial Park cater to the life sciences sector. Johor Bahru is emerging as a critical hub for technological investments, with Zerin Properties forecasting RM 17 billion in new data centre investments in 2024. This follows RM 51.1 billion in investments from 2022, highlighting the region’s growing appeal for high-tech industries. Top 10 City/Area by Demand Index of Factory to Rent Source: DataSense by PropertyGuru For Business Impact of Geopolitical Tensions on Malaysia’s Manufacturing Sector The ongoing trade tensions between China and the US have driven global companies to diversify their manufacturing locations, often referred to as the “China Plus One” strategy. Malaysia has become a key beneficiary of this trend. Since 2021, the country has witnessed substantial foreign direct investment (FDI) in the technology sector, with companies like Intel and Infineon Technologies committing billions of dollars to expand operations. Penang and Kulim, in particular, are benefiting from this shift. The industrial real estate markets in these areas are experiencing a surge in demand for factory rentals as more technology companies move their manufacturing operations out of China. Penang and Kulim: Unlikely Beneficiaries of Trade Tensions DataSense reports indicate that Batu Kawan Industrial Park in Penang saw an 86.3% increase in demand for factory rentals in March 2024. The average rental price per square foot has risen steadily since 2021, as more global manufacturers set up shop in the region. Boston Scientific Corporation and Western Digital are just a few examples of multinational companies expanding their footprint in Penang’s thriving industrial zones.

Similarly, Kulim has seen a 13.5% month-on-month increase in demand as of March 2024. The median rent per square foot in Kulim rose from RM 1.50 in 2023 to RM 1.67 in March 2024, demonstrating the area’s growing importance as a strategic location for industrial activities. Supply Index and Demand Index Trend for Factory to Rent in Batu Kawan Source: DataSense by PropertyGuru For Business Demand Median Rent Per Square Foot Source: DataSense by PropertyGuru For Business Supply Index and Demand Index Trend for Factory to Rent in Kulim Source: DataSense by PropertyGuru For Business Demand Median Rent Per Square Foot Source: DataSense by PropertyGuru For Business The Future of Malaysia’s Industrial Real Estate As global manufacturing shifts, Malaysia’s industrial hubs���especially in Penang and Kulim—are poised to play a critical role in bridging gaps in the global supply chain. With heightened geopolitical tensions driving companies to diversify their operations, Malaysia is emerging as a key destination for foreign direct investment in the manufacturing sector. Investors looking to capitalise on these trends should pay close attention to the continued growth of industrial parks and factory rental demand in Malaysia. The robust demand for industrial real estate, coupled with favourable government policies and infrastructure developments, makes the country a hotspot for industrial property investments. Conclusion The growth in Malaysia’s manufacturing sector and the rise of industrial parks in areas like Puchong, Shah Alam, Penang, and Kulim offer a wealth of opportunities for investors. With global companies seeking to diversify their supply chains and mitigate risks, Malaysia’s industrial real estate market is set for continued growth. At My Industrial Specialist, we are committed to providing comprehensive market insights and high-quality listings to help you navigate the industrial property landscape. Whether you are looking for investment opportunities or need detailed market analysis, we are here to assist you in making informed decisions. Ready to invest in Malaysia’s industrial property market? Visit myindustrialspecialist.com today to explore prime listings and gain access to expert market insights. Let us help you take the next step in your industrial real estate investment journey.

[40sandfabulousaf]

大家好! Mummy wanted miso salmon stew, so we revisited the coffee shop near my home on a WFH afternoon for a quick lunch. She had it with rice and I chose chilled cha soba because it was a very hot afternoon. What I like about this stall is, the quality of their stews is consistent. The fish is moist and flakey, the vegetables are tender and it wasn't too salty. After finishing her salmon and veggies, Mummy emptied the gravy into the rest of her rice and polished off the lot. I also wiped out everything except the shoyu. I want to try more items at the Thai food stall next since their onion omelette was pretty yummy.

Grace and Douglas were in Malaysia over the weekend to attend a wedding and celebrate the lantern festival. We caught up on Tuesday since I was on leave in the afternoon. They bought me lunch of kway teow (thin flat rice noodles) soup from a very popular stall. Besides kway teow, the bowl contained pork balls, minced pork, cabbage and an egg. The broth tasted very meaty, I loved it, and the minced pork and pork balls were very well seasoned. I don't eat kway teow soup often, but this is a very good bowl of soup noodles, very delicious. Their son, Meatball, loves it too!

SC, CL, MI and I wandered to the hawker centre at the market. Not knowing what was good there, I decided on another local staple, fishball and minced pork meepok (flat yellow noodles) soup. It was a basic bowl with 3 fishballs, fish cake slices, fu pi juan (fish paste wrapped in tofu skin), meat and noodles. For $3.50, this was decent; the fishball, fishcakes and fu pi juan were springy, the meepok was QQ and slurpable, the minced pork was blanched perfectly and well seasoned and the light, clear broth not too salty. It's hard to go wrong with fishball noodles, so I usually choose that when I don't know what is good at a new place.

This was my first meal in Johor Bahru (JB in short form), Malaysia! I'll share more in the next post. YL took me to a siew lat (roasted meats) restaurant at the mall next to the hotel and we ordered a platter of roast duck, roast pork and char siew. Mmmmmmm YUM! That char siew was DELISH! Slightly crispy and charred on the outside, it was juicy on the inside and bore a slightly smokey taste from the char. The roast pork had very crispy skin and the duck was very tender. It was hard to stop eating even though we were full and we finished everything.

It was just as well we spent the entire afternoon shopping. We hopped from shop to shop and, by the time we sat down at a restaurant to have dinner, my stomach was already growling. After eating, we went to the supermarket at the hotel mall to buy drinking water, returned to our rooms, dumped the drinking water there and headed to the hotel bar for some drinks and to listen to the live band. More in the next post. I had such a fun time! 下次见!

[ngeeanncoop]

53rd Annual General Meeting

NP Co-op Annual General Meeting 2024 (12 Sep 2024)

The AGM was preceded by a talk on "Business Longevity: Going the Distance and Continuing the Good that You Do" by NP alumni Mr. Shawn Hoh [HMS (BZSE)]. Shawn shared about:

Examining Timeliness Business Principles

Adopting the Willing Mindset

Understanding the Importance of Playing the Long Game.

Following the presentation, the Board presented its annual report during the 53rd Annual General Meeting conducted on 12 September 2024 at LT58A.

During the AGM, the Chairman of the Board (Mr. Neo Tiong Cheng) thanked the following Board Members for the service for the period 15 September 2023 to the current AGM (12 September 2024) for the following office bearers:

Chairman: Mr. Neo Tiong Cheng

Secretary: Mr. Leow Teck Sim

Treasurer: Mr. Yoong Ee Chuan

Members:

Ms. Corliss Lin

Mr. Jayaperakash Jayadevan

Mr. Chew Xuan Hui

Mr. Steven Lim

Ms. Angie Phang

He also thanked the two Co-op Internal Auditors Ms. Lynn Goh and Ms. Chia Pei Lin and our NP Co-op Staff (Mr. Low and Jenny) for their invaluable contributions to the Co-operative for 2023-2024.

The President of NP Co-op (Principal of NP) has appointed the following to Board of the Co-op from 12 September 2024 to the next AGM in 2025. The office bearers were elected by the Board at their first board meeting on 12 September 2024 as follows:

Chairman: Mr. Neo Tiong Cheng

Secretary: Mr. Leow Teck Sim

Treasurer: Mr. Yoong Ee Chuan (co-opted into the Board/COM vide section 6.11 of the By-Laws)

Members:

Ms. Corliss Lin

Mr. Jayaperakash Jayadevan

Mr. Chew Xuan Hui

Mr. Steven Lim

Ms. Angie Phang

The number of Co-op members as at 30 August was 181.

During the year, the Co-op organised the following virtual events for the benefit of Co-op members:

(a) NP Co-op Family & Friends' day at Johor Bahru (Malaysia) Day Trip for Lunar New Year Shopping on 31 Jan 2024 (60 pax)

(b) A Guide to Will Writing, Lasting Power of Attorney and CPF Nomination on 2 Aug 2024 (56 pax)

The feedback from the events were generally positive and members were able to learn more about entrepreneurship and financial literacy.

Donations

The Co-op also donated $5,000 during the financial year to Ngee Ann Polytechnic's Student Aid Fund. The donations comprised the following:

(a) NP Co-op Student Aid Grant: $5,000 to support 5 academic students meeting Tier 1 Bursary (Government Framework for the Higher Education Community Bursary)

Financial Results

The Co-op achieve an unmodified (clean) opinion on the Co-op’s financial statements for the year ending 31 March 2024.

The Co-op had achieved a revenue of $242.9k in FY 23/24 vs $253.8k in FY 22/23 (-4.3% year-on-year). This was attributed to a decline in enrolment number of full-time pre-employment training (PET) students. In addition, students on average spent less time on campus due to initiatives such as "Wednesdays without Walls" where there were generally no time-tabled classes on Wednesdays during term time.

Profit for the financial year was relatively unchanged with a slight decline from $22.5k to $20.8k (-7.6% year-on-year). This was achieved from the good work put in by our two long-serving NP Co-op staff, Mr. Low and Mdm. Jenny Koh.

The Committee of Management continues to actively monitor the ongoing business environment and act in a prudent manner to manage the various risks.

On behalf of the COM, the Chairman thanked all members for their steadfast support to the Co-operative. He also expressed sincere appreciation to our stakeholders such as the current Principal/CEO of NP and President of NP Co-op (Mr. Lim Kok Kiang), Deputy Principals, Senior Management of NP, Director and Head of Estate, Eco and Safety Office.

We look forward to continue to serve members and the wider NP Community for the next term.