#Old Fashion Deli & Market

[luxe-pauvre]

There was a time not long ago when our news sources seemed monolithic, authoritative and trusted. It’s odd to reflect how much we once craved more information on subjects of interest to us: there was ultimately less of it about. Somehow, we were happy to accept that the vastness and complexity of humanity’s last twenty-four hours could be summarised in a handful of curated articles or reports from the studio. Then in the late 1990s came the first blogs, and Wikipedia a little later; soon old-fashioned journalism was all but crushed under the weight of information’s democratisation. The old behemoths started to look biased, elitist, or at best arbitrary in terms of what they chose to report. Newspapers seemed out of touch and were a day late with everything. At least the establishment had a budget: glossy production values allowed us for a while to distinguish between professional news and amateur. But with fewer technical and financial barriers to film-making, even that visual distinction has disappeared. I’ve watched documentaries that have successfully turned me from much of the meat market, but now films about dolphin genocide and the iniquities of the fishing industry leave me confused and guilty when I scan the weekly deli counter. I have no context in which to assess the damning information I receive about the slabs of salmon and tuna that denounce me glassily from the ice; there is no equivalent of peer review for these authored and passionate documentaries. When I read accusations of deliberate one-sidedness I wonder if such criticism is tainted by the financial interests of dark conglomerates, or whether bias even matters much any more. It seemed to matter when Michael Moore made Fahrenheit 9/11, criticising Bush and his War on Terror: I remember the accusations of propaganda and the queasiness they produced in me after watching it. But now, partisanship is a given, and a lack of a strong authorial voice only has the old-fashioned and troubling effect of making us think for ourselves. All I have instead to guide me is how the programme made me feel, which means I am entirely in the hands of how shrill its tone was, how much it seemed to engage with conflicting viewpoints, and technical considerations such as the quality of editing. I am clueless as to how I should judge the fairness of the content. I turn from the tuna and consider the neighbouring arrangement of cheese with as much disquiet, aware that the next devastating exposé will target the violence and misery of the dairy industry. I glance hopefully at the veg, and then recall a report from Tel Aviv University in which researchers had recorded ultrasonic distress signals from tomatoes that were left unwatered or had their stems cut. The result of this avalanche of modern information and the canniness of communication and marketing surrounding it has been a disconcerting lack of confidence in any information source at all. And we are left to respond to that perpetual mode of uncertainty with only anxiety or indifference.

Derren Brown, A Book of Secrets: Finding Solace in a Stubborn World

[rentnhope]

Top 5 most visited cafes in Mumbai

Mumbai is not just the city that never sleeps, it's also the city that's always sipping on a hot cuppa. From roadside-cutting chai to artisanal coffee shops, Mumbai loves its caffeine fix. For tourists and locals alike, cafes are the perfect spots to relax, refresh, and take in the vibe of the city. It’s also one of the activities to feel freshly arrived at your work after a break. Visiting all these cafes on a bike rental in Mumbai is bliss for people who find it hard to travel. 

If you're looking to do some Mumbai sightseeing over a cup of joe, here are the top 5 most visited cafes you must check out:

1. Leopold Cafe

No Mumbai cafe list is complete without the legendary Leopold. Made famous by Gregory David Roberts' Shantaram, Leopold Cafe is a tourist hotspot known for its old-world charm, piping hot food, and cold beers. The walls are lined with photos of Indian cinema stars, reflecting Bollywood's strong influence on the city. At any time of day, you’ll find a mix of backpackers, college kids, and locals rubbing shoulders with Leopold.

Be sure to try their chicken chili fry and sizzlers along with your choice of coffee or tea. Need to get around? You can get a bike on rent in Mumbai near Leopold and zoom off towards your next Mumbai destination. With reasonably priced meals, free WiFi, and great people-watching, Leopold lives up to its hype. Just be prepared to wait for a table during peak hours. 

2. The Pantry

In hip Kala Ghoda, The Pantry is a cozy hole-in-the-wall cafe that will delight any foodie. Their innovative all-day breakfast menu is to die for. The Israeli Shakshuka with house-baked pita and hummus is a favorite. You can also build your own healthy breakfast bowl with a choice of grains, veggies, and eggs.

Lunch and dinner feature gourmet sandwiches and salads crafted from locally sourced ingredients. Save room for their freshly baked desserts - the cinnamon babka is swoon-worthy. With a thoughtful menu and great coffee sourced from Indian estates, The Pantry delivers big flavors in a small, artsy space. Scooty over from the museum district for a tasty bite.

3. Koolar & Co

No list of Mumbai's trendiest cafes is complete without the Insta-famous Koolar & Co. Get a bike rental in Mumbai or even scooty and get over here.  The whimsical interiors, adorned with colorful murals, make you feel like you've stepped into a Scandinavian children's book. Serving innovative drinks and freshly baked goods, Koolar attracts the fashionable set.

The glass jars of cookies, brownies, and macarons tempt those with a sweet tooth. Exotic coffee brewing methods like siphon, aeropress, and cold brew satisfy the city’s growing coffee culture. Beyond great coffee and eats, Koolar also hosts workshops, markets, and music nights in their outdoor space. Don't forget to snap an #OOTD pic for the gram at this aesthetically pleasing cafe. 

4. The Bagel Shop

For a taste of NYC in Mumbai, head straight to The Bagel Shop. A tiny cafe in Bandra, it serves authentic New York-style bagels and Jewish classics like matzo ball soup, potato latkes, and rugelach. Cream cheese bagels with a smoked salmon schmear are a customer favorite. Lox bagels and pastrami on rye provide delicious kosher deli fare.

The cozy retro interiors have a neighborhood vibe where regulars play Scrabble over coffee. With friendly service and East Coast prices, The Bagel Shop teleports you to a Brooklyn deli. Bike over if you're craving a taste of home while traveling abroad.

5. The Boston Butt

Meat lovers rejoice. This Mahalaxmi hotspot smokes up finger-licking Memphis barbecue in India's first French JAE smoker grill. Their succulent pulled pork and beef brisket melts in your mouth after 15 hours of slow smoking with applewood. From smoked chicken wings and lamb ribs to roasted beets, everything has that charcoal-kissed flavor.

Cold brew coffee, beers, and cocktails provide the ideal accompaniment to these smoky plates. With bluesy tunes playing in the background, you'll feel transported from Maximum City to Southern America. Yeah, it’s really that great. Just make sure to come hungry because the portions are Texas-sized. Don't worry, you can always walk off that BBQ coma on the Mahalaxmi promenade nearby.

Conclusion 

If your Mumbai itinerary has room for a cafe crawl, start sipping and sampling your way through this list. From the classic charm of Leopold to the novelty of The Boston Butt, these top 5 cafes offer memorable tastes and experiences. And of course, you can scoot around to them super easily when you get a bike on rent in Mumbai, even scooties, or even ride-share.

Coffee or chai, bagels or vada pav, Mumbai has a diverse cafe culture that invites exploration. The city scenes you’ll encounter offer endless people-watching and storytelling backdrops for your perfect cup of coffee. So what are you waiting for? Get YOUR caffeine fix at Mumbai’s most popular and hyped-up cafes

[yourfrankiethings]

Summer's Market & Deli, Healdsburg, CA., 5/8/24

exterior – 557 Powell Ave, Healdsburg, CA 95448 Summer’s Market and Deli was an “old-fashioned neighborhood market.”  They sold a variety of snacks and drinks as well as sandwiches and wraps, coffees and ice cream.   The day we went they also had smoked sandwiches but had already sold out of some meats.  It was a large place with a number of tables to eat at and some interesting decorations.  …

[biju-the-seo-freak]

Where To Eat in Spitalfields? Discover The Best One

In the heart of East London, Spitalfields is an area steeped in history and culture. Once a center for silk weavers, Spitalfields has now grown into a bustling destination for food, art and fashion. A foodie's paradise, the streets are lined with a variety of restaurants, cafes and food stalls. In this article, we delve into Spitalfields' diverse and vibrant food scene and recommend the best places to eat. Whether you're a local or a tourist, our guides will help you explore the culinary delights of your neighborhood and find the perfect spot for your next meal. From hidden gems to famous restaurants, Spitalfields has something for everyone. So let's dive into it and find out where to eat in Spitalfields and which ones are great!

Spitalfields food scene

Spitalfields' food scene is a melting pot of cultures and tastes, reflecting the diverse communities that have called the neighborhood home over the years. Spitalfields' gastronomic history dates back to the 17th century, when Huguenot silk weavers immigrated to the region from France, bringing with them their culinary traditions. As the neighborhood grew, waves of immigrants from Ireland, Eastern Europe and South Asia also left their mark on Spitalfields' food scene, bringing a truly global culinary landscape.

Today, Spitalfields' food scene is a mix of traditional and contemporary cuisine, with an emphasis on local, sustainable ingredients. From classic British pub fare to exotic street food, you can find it all over the world. The area has many fine dining restaurants and a thriving street food scene. Food markets such as the Old Spitalfields Market and Brick Lane Market draw throngs of hungry visitors each week.

In Spitalfields, enjoy some of London's best Indian food at hotspots such as Tayyabs and Dishoom, or enjoy a classic British Sunday roast at The Culpeper or The English Restaurant. For something a little more eclectic, head to Bleecker Burger for the best burger in town, or try Andina's Peruvian ceviche.

Whether you're looking for a quick bite to eat on the go or a leisurely dinner with friends, Spitalfields has something for everyone. The neighborhood's food scene is a testament to the region's rich history and diversity, and continues to evolve and grow as new restaurants and food stalls keep popping up. If you're a foodie looking for your next culinary adventure, Spitalfields should be on your list.

Where to eat in Spitalfields?

Dilcad - This family-run restaurant serves some of the best Bangladeshi cuisine in London, with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes a variety of curries, biryanis and tandoori dishes, with standout options such as lamb shank curry and piping hot garlic him prawns. The restaurant has a cozy and cozy atmosphere with friendly staff and reasonable prices. Dildcad is open Monday through Friday.

11:30 am - 11:00 pm Saturday:

3pm-11pm, closed Sundays.

check the menu

Blixen - Housed in a converted bank building, this brasserie offers a stylish, sophisticated all-day dining experience. The menu features modern European cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal and sustainable ingredients, such as grilled octopus with harissa and roasted cauliflower with hazelnuts. The atmosphere is sophisticated chic, with a lovely bar area and a beautiful outdoor terrace. Open daily from 9am to 11pm and serves brunch on weekends.

Ottolenghi - This renowned deli and restaurant is known for its colorful, flavorful, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with an emphasis on fresh herbs and spices. The menu changes regularly, but may also include fried eggplant with feta, pomegranate, or slow-cooked lamb with yogurt and herbs. Stylish and modern atmosphere, beautiful open kitchen 

[centralparkcollection]

High streets of London to refresh your wardrobe

In London and the United Kingdom, a “high street” signifies the main commercial thoroughfare in a village, town, or city. When travelling around the country, you’ll find a high street in all destinations. In the case of London’s case, high streets are found in many different neighbourhoods. 

While staying at your chosen hotel in Central London, we urge you to check out your local high street as well as the major shopping avenues.

Kensington High Street

Kensington High Street runs from the western end of Knightsbridge at Kensington Palace Gardens until Holland Park. The street contains a mix of high street brands and chain eateries. Swing by Whole Foods Market; you can prep a picnic hamper to take to either of the parks. You can also visit the cultural attraction, Japan House, and make a detour to Exhibition Road to visit the museums. 

Chiswick High Road

Although not named as such, Chiswick High Road also constitutes a high street. Running close to Chiswick Common, Turnham Green, and Chiswick House and Gardens, this street is well-stocked with fashion and homeware shops. You will also find a wide array of independent coffee houses and traditional pubs. 

Marylebone High Street

With a distinct village style, Marylebone High Street is lined with upscale boutiques and gourmet cafes and delis. The beautiful Daunts Bookshop shouldn’t be missed. a If you book a hotel in Central London over the weekend, you can browse fresh produce at the Marylebone Farmers' Market on Sundays. 

Hampstead High Street

Close to Hampstead Heath, Hampstead High Street is a haven for organic eateries, unique boutiques, and old fashioned pubs. As with Marylebone High Street, Hampstead High Street maintains the atmosphere of a rural village. Though small, it’s bursting with charm.

Camden High Street

One of the edgiest high streets in London, Camden High Street links Camden Town and Mornington Cresent. The street is worth a visit purely for the incredible shopfronts that include pop-out facades and graffiti. Camden High Street is located next to Camden Market, a complex of markets where you can purchase alternative fashion and gifts. You can also visit Camden High Street in tandem with Regent’s Park and a walk along the Regent’s Canal. 

Shoreditch High Street

Connecting Old Street in the north with Worship Street in the south, Shoreditch High Street is a major thoroughfare in the East End. Unlike with the other high streets covered in this guide, Shoreditch High Street is focused on dining and nightlife. This is where you will find Boxpark Shoreditch and some of the liveliest pubs and bars in London. For those seeking a night out during a stay at a hotel in Central London, this is a great place to go. 

Oxford Street

Of course, as the most famous of London’s high streets Oxford Street deserves a mention. Linking Marble Arch with Tottenham Court Road, Oxford Street is the setting for department stores such as Selfridges as well as British and international shops. These include fashion, sportswear, footwear, cosmetics, homeware, and gifts. 

[verdemoun]

ARTHUR AND FOOD THANK YOU FOR ASKING

arthur was picked up at roughly 14 and did not commit his first significant robbery until 1887 approx 10 years later i will go to my death bed arguing that as an older teen one of his responsibilities was helping miss grimshaw with cooking and she taught him the seasoning skills he would use in campfires but the fact he remembers those skills like i want to believe in my heart he enjoys cooking

absolutely mr blames himself for every bad thing that has ever happened in human history would consider it his responsibility to make sure everyone else is fed first and rather live off crackers if it meant knowing everyone else got something first

the whole gang in timewarp has to go through a whole thing about food like learning to eat multiple times a day. that food storage and prep is a lot safer now than it was in 1899. can you imagine most of the gang having milk in coffee for the first time after permanently burnt black coffee in camp? the concept of a refrigerator? the sheer availability of food comparing a display case of salted meat in a grocery store in 1899 to an aisle of fresh packaged pre-cut steaks?

bread is the single biggest deal. beginning of everything. arthur morgan waking up to buttered toast because 'hey let's not throw in the sheer number of condiments available yet' and still needing to be physically shown by the effervescent inhumanly patient bessie matthews that no one is going to go without if you eat a slice of toast we have two more loaves of bread already pls eat something.

catching arthur just staring in the pantry a few times because like feeding 6 adults is a lot of food they have almost as much as the chuckwagon did and it's just for the 6 of them it takes so long to even comprehend having that much food available. needing to be served food because otherwise he just won't dish himself up anything because a) forgot and/or b) convinced himself others needed it more.

years later having his own place he is an absolute fiend in the kitchen like first thing he did was put in a wood stove because he is kinda old fashioned in a 'this was cutting edge technology back in my day' way but loves cooking and is damned good at it. people slow down to smell the air if he's cooking. obsessed with bread (thanks bessie), like cultivates his own yeast levels can scientifically break down how to make the perfect sourdough obsessed. makes the most incredible mouthwatering make your turkish nonna cry bread.

needs supervision at farmer's markets because he will buy enough to open his own restaurant. the dopamine hit he gets from seeing home grown local fresh produce is unrivalled.

makes his own jams and pickled vegetables and people constantly offer to pay for them but he genuinely does not understand how good he is at cooking. when he has too much he either gives it away or will accept traded goods only to return days later with half of whatever he made with said ingredients as a thank you.

can't even pronounce the names of some of the spices in his kitchen but can tell you exactly what to cook and pair it with and your tastebuds will find god he knows what he is doing. his kitchen looks like a homesteader's wet dream there's mystery jars of homemade relish and sauces everywhere deli-style slicer next to the toaster and a dry ager with self-sourced wild boar salami just a few days away from being perfect to cut into.

he is nourished and charles is nourished and they are happy and in love eating garlic confit focaccia in their open plan house that is 70% kitchen.

OMG WAIT SO UR AU HAS CHUBBY MACGUIRE

let the whole gang have their soft well fed happy era where they don't need to worry about where food is coming from no more treating beer like a necessary source of nutrition. don't care how long they've been warped they don't understand nor care for body standards or modern era aesthetics as long as they're happy and physically able to do the things they enjoy. dad bods and mom bods everywhere.

[formeryelpers]

Old Fashion Deli, 2830 N Verdugo Rd Glendale, CA 91208

Old Fashion Deli is in a part of residential Glendale that I’ve never been to before. There wasn’t much in the area. While the market is small/medium size, it does have a bit of everything, including lots of products from Armenia. The aisles are narrow. They seemed to have some pastries made in house but not bread; they carry lavash, pita, sangak and other bread from local bakeries. They have staffed meat and deli department. You can order cooked to order kabobs. They also have Persian stews, housemade dips and salads like hummus, tabbouleh, ikra, etc. The meat department had marinated meat for kabobs. I noticed the bread didn’t have any prices.

They have bulk nuts, bulk imported candy, spices, nice looking fresh produce, coffee, a deli with cured meat, sausages, and cheese, fresh meat, yogurt, canned food, frozen food, Russian chocolates, dairy, Mashti Malone ice cream, etc. The prices are about double Super King’s. A can of garbanzo beans was $1.48 – pretty expensive.

However, the kabobs plates are cheap and so are the sandwiches ($6.99 - $7.99). The kabob plates come with rice, grilled veggies, and lavash. The sign said it came with a garden salad but I didn’t get a salad.

Chicken lule kabob plate ($10.99): Way too much rice, 2 big juicy kabobs, grilled tomato, grilled pepper, and some lavash. The basmati rice was pretty plain and there was soooo much of it. I wish I had gotten a garden salad and/or hummus. The kabobs were a tad salty. The food was fine but plain. You have to pay for sides and dips which is fine if you’re feeding a family but not so practical for one person.

Hummus: Strong garlic flavor and not as smooth vs. Israeli hummus

Dolmas: Mushy, bland but big

Tabbouleh: Mostly parsley and dry in a good way

They rang me up and didn’t provide a receipt. Seems strange to me. Parking is easy because they have their own parking lot. It smells like Armenian coffee inside.

3.5 out of 5 stars.

By Lolia S.

[reyski]

short armin headcanons

 helpppp meee im obsessed w him

pairing: armin x reader

media: attack on titan

warnings: suggestive content

notes: gender neutral reader!

➵ gets so mushy when you display any kind of affection towards him. you got him blushing and laughing all awkward even if you’ve been together for years. 

➵ he’s so bad at hiding when he’s looking at you, thinks you can’t see when he’s doing a side eye. 

➵ baby boy loves laying next to you with his head on your shoulder looking at whatever you’re looking at on your phone/laptop. 

➵ talks about adopting a cat/dog with you nonstop until you finally cave and take a trip to an adoption center. from that day forward he always calls it “ the baby”

“hey have you seen the baby? i can’t find them anywhere”, or “oh my god come look at the baby right now theyre being so cute” 

➵ constantly acts like an old man, especially when it comes to his morning routine. he dedicates a full 15 minutes each morning to having a cup of coffee, reading the newspaper, and eating his breakfast.

➵ ever since you got together he cannot shop without you, he needs your opinion on literally everything. drags you around the store with him to pick stuff out and gives you a little fashion show in the dressing rooms. 

➵ he cant help falling asleep right after his head hits the pillows, he feels bad for not waiting for you to get in bed but he seriously cant help it. 

➵ on the weekends he likes to make you both breakfast before you wake up. loves seeing you emerge from your room bed head and all when you smell the food. 

➵ leads the way through the super market with his notepad of groceries with you trailing behind with the cart. always looks so engrossed while looking at all the options for everything. 

➵ has a habit of letting his hair grow out until its basically unmanageable and you have to tell him to make an appointment. he just forgets, and doesn’t feel like taking a whole day just to get his hair trimmed. lowkey doesn’t trust the hairdressers

➵ naturally plush lips, he puts on a glob of aquaphor every blue moon and they just stay soft?? loves it when you run your finger tips over his lips. 

➵ loves taking showers/baths with you just so that he can clean you up and wash your hair for you. takes such care and time when washing your body. acts of service goes hard. 

➵ if you like sleeping separately, too bad, you’re literally going to have to pry this man off of you. he just loves to snuggle up on you. 

➵ randomly texts you on his way home sometimes like, “do you want me to get you anything from that coffee place we went to last week” or “im at the deli a couple blocks from the house can i get you a sandwich?”

➵ cried so hard when you guys watched marley & me he had to leave the room

➵ hand makes you cards for every anniversary, they have everything from flowers, to animals, to you two on them. you have them all pinned up on the wall. 

➵ steals your phone when you leave it open to look at your pinterest. one time he found a board with wedding rings and cakes and just about had the wind knocked out of him. 

➵ sometimes purposefully works super late just so you’ll pull him off of his desk chair and into bed. 

➵ has a secret savings account where he puts spare money for a vacation for you two. 

➵ wears a little apron while he cooks. 

➵ just wants you to know how much he loves you, and tells you at every chance he gets. 

thank you for reading, love you all

[wienerbarnes]

Italian Heart

Pairing: Bucky x Italian!MobBoss!Reader

Word Count: 4,867

Warnings: canon level violence, possible inaccurate italian slang lol

A/N: ive been watching a lot of the sopranos lately and i feel like ive never seen a bucky x mob boss reader au (ive only rlly seen em where buckys the mob boss. if there are ones where reader is the mob boss PLS SEND EM TO ME I BEG) a lot of the slang and mob stuff here is from sopranos bc... im not in the fucking mafia so forgive me anyway enjoy :)<3

MAIN MASTERLIST

Bucky’s never seen a woman quite like yourself.

Dressed in expensive satin and jewelry that hangs between your breasts, an angry look on your face at the fact you’re sitting before him and Sam in an interrogation room in the tower. Freshly done nails, clean and crisp lipstick, spicy perfume, and an expression of annoyance.

As put together as you look, you don’t look like someone to be fucked with. Which, he supposes is good for a mobster; the Boss of Newark.

Looking at you, though, he’d never thought you to be such a figure of intimidation. While the mafia is still alive, despite how the media tries to deny this, he always pictured an old Italian man that chain smokes cigars. He doesn’t think he’s too far off, to his credit; he can smell the remnants of smoke on you.

“Mind if we make this fast? My cousin’s comin’ for dinner and I was gonna make ziti.” You huff, crossing your legs under the table.

“Sounds delicious. Sorry for dragging you all the way out here.” Sam says, a calm look on his face even though he’s well aware of what you’re capable of.

When hunting down the last traces of the super soldier serum, he never thought Nick Fury himself would suggest getting in touch with you. He didn’t think it was worth the time to question how the two of you knew each other.

Theft. Drugs. Murder. Bribery. The list goes on, and there’s not a single thing that ties you to any of it.

A shrug of your shoulders, “So, what exactly is this about?” You ask.

“What is it that you do for a living?” Sam asks.

“I work in waste management.” You respond, a rehearsed answer.

Not exactly a lie, the environmental facility you manage is one of hundreds of covers used by your crew for your crimes. Environmental facilities, deli shops, strip clubs, auto shops. There isn’t a business in Jersey you aren’t tied to.

“Waste management? Like, garbage disposal?” Bucky asks, knowing exactly what it is you do for work.

You smirk, “Yeah, we dispose of garbage sometimes. What’s that got to do with me being here?”

“It’s to my understanding that you’re in the business of… buying and selling things. You and… the people you hang around got a real knack for it.” Sam tells you.

Bucky holds back a roll of his eyes. More like stealing and selling. Expensive Italian suits, antique watches, cars, electronics, illegal cigars. Who knows what else.

“I don’t know where you heard that… but I’m a popular gal, maybe I know a guy who might know a guy. What are you lookin’ for?” You ask.

You know this game, after being in the mob for so long. After being a part of your own crew for years, your patience and hard work paid off, working your way up to a captain and finally a boss. It didn’t take you long to learn in this business that government officials are jokes. Always wanting to bust my balls and then come crying to my corner for help, it’s a bunch of ugatz.

“Serums.” Bucky finally speaks.

A laugh escapes you, “What, like vitamin C?” You teasingly smirk at him.

His chair makes a loud sound in the small room as he pushes it back harshly and stands, resting his hands on the table in between the two of you. You don’t flinch.

“Enough with the bullshit. Super serums. To create super soldiers. We need to get them before they end up in the wrong hands and make a big ass mess.” He snaps at you, but you don’t seem phased in the slightest. In fact, you seem rather amused.

“You must have a lot of agita with all that anger, Sergeant Barnes.”

He doesn’t hold back this time and rolls his eyes before you speak up again, “Your first name is James, isn’t it? Ain’t that Italian?”

“No, it’s English. Or Scottish. Or Jewish - I don’t know, who cares? Are you gonna help us or not?” Bucky takes his seat again, crossing his thick arms over his broad chest.

“What���s in it for me?” You ask, leaning back in your chair.

“Not being arrested for all the shit we know you’re caught up in.” Sam offers.

You roll your own eyes this time, “I’ll take my chances. Thanks for wasting my time, boys, don’t let it happen again.” You stand, prepared to make your way back to the train station to go back to Jersey.

“Wait,” Sam stops you, “What is it that you want?”

You smile innocently and take your seat again, taking a minute to think before answering, “My little sister’s a big fan of yours. I’m sure she and all her friends would think it’s cool if you showed up to her prom as her date.” You wink at Sam.

Silence fills the room as the men think about your request.

“You’re gonna do it, right?” Bucky looks over at him and sees Sam rubbing the crease in between his eyes. He was expecting you to ask for immunity, protection, money, guns. But after hearing your request, he supposes you have enough of all that stuff anyway.

“Man -” Sam begins to refuse.

“Sam, it’s a fucking school dance in exchange for some of the most powerful and sought after serums on the planet - go to the fucking prom.” He tells him, eyebrows scrunching in confusion as to how he would hesitate on something so simple.

“She’s eighteen, so you won’t have any problems with the media or none of that.” You add, the information not really making Sam feel any better.

“Alright, alright, fine. I’ll go to the dance with your sister if you help us get these serums.”

You smile, happy to have done business with the two men, “What information do ya got for me?”

…

Bucky and Sam wait outside a back room in the facility you own. They passed the garbage trucks parked neatly outside, but could hear your screaming and the smell of Cuban cigars as soon as they entered the building.

She’s with a customer, they were told, by someone in your crew, them meeting Bucky’s expectations for mobsters more than you did. None of them ask any questions, but Bucky and Sam aren’t stupid, they’re sure your crew is aware of what’s going on and know the exact reason they’re there.

“You’re a fuckin’ asshole, you know that? The Bible says, Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit -”

“You listen to me, you take your Bible and your quotations book and shove it up your fat fucking ass! Now get the fuck out of my face!”

Bucky can’t help but scoff listening to you scream at whoever’s inside. Sam elbows him, silently telling him that now isn’t the time to find your work funny, especially not in front of the rest of your crew.

Bucky knows he’s old-fashioned, and while things that were taboo such as body modifications or certain fashion styles don’t phase him anymore, he doesn’t think he’ll ever get used to hearing a woman talk like that. He doesn’t think he’s ever even heard anybody talk like you do.

Suddenly a man bursts out of the room, huffing and puffing, and you walk slowly behind him, as if to make sure he makes it outside okay.

“Grab his plate for me, will you?” You say not to anyone in particular, voice smooth and calm as if you hadn’t been yelling and threatening that man’s life for the past twenty minutes.

One of the men from your crew follows outside, seemingly to collect the license plate of the man who just left.

“Nothing’s gonna happen to that guy, right?” Sam asks as he and Bucky enter the room, taking a seat in front of the desk you have in there. He knows there’s no point in asking, that you’ll do whatever you want regardless because it’s obvious you’re passionate about receiving respect, but it was worth a shot.

“Is that what you came all the way to Jersey to ask me? Christ, I’m fuckin’ starving, you boys want anything to eat?” You ask, accent heavy as you reach into the side drawer of your desk and pull out what seems to be some kind of meat wrapped in paper.

“Gabagool?” You offer to them, picking out a slice for yourself and placing it in your mouth.

“Gesundheit.” Sam responds.

“It’s pork, you asshole.”

Bucky silently reaches over and picks off a slice of the cured cold cut, putting the meat in his mouth and savoring the flavor. While he can’t stand the way you make a living or the sailor’s mouth you have, he loves Italian food, and actually chose a neighborhood in New York that has plenty of traditional cold cut markets and restaurants to live in in order to fulfill his cravings.

“There’s a big party staged downtown this weekend, we think that’s when the drop is going to happen.” Sam tells you, bringing the focus to their reason for coming here in the first place.

“I’ll send one of my boys.” You reply in between your chews.

“That wasn’t the deal. The deal was you get the serums.” Bucky speaks up.

“Buck, you know how many people want her dead?” Sam tries to reason.

“What the fuck do I have a crew for then? - No, if pretty boy wants me to do it myself, then I will. The same people that want my head are the same fucks who are terrified to be within twenty feet of me in fear they’ll make eye contact. I’m not scared of nothin’.” You say, narrowing your eyes at Bucky.

“What did you guys come here to talk about?” You ask.

Sam looks confused at your expression, “...To go over the plan? Hash out details? So you know how everything’s gonna go?”

“I’ll be fine; I’ve seen The Godfather once or twice,” You tell him, wrapping up the cappo, after Bucky picks off one last slice, and replacing it in the drawer, “Don’t worry Captain, this ain’t my first rodeo. I’ll get the serums for you.” You open a different drawer and pull out a cigar and a lighter.

Bucky watches as you place the large cigar in between your red-painted lips, bringing the flame of your lighter to the end and hollowing your cheeks until smoke exits from the corner of your mouth. Bucky feels blood travel south as his eyes glaze over your hand grab the cigar out of your mouth and blow out a long string of smoke.

“I guess we’ll be in touch then,” Sam stands and Bucky follows after.

“My sister’s wearing blue, so find yourself a nice tie.” You call out, lifting your feet up to cross them on the desk, dress rising and showing your legs.

Bucky blushes, and then laughs as he exits when he hears you, in a deep and more exaggerated accent than your own, “Just when I thought I was out… they pull me back in!”

…

The morning of the party, Sam and Bucky pick you up from your house, planning to take you into New York to discuss final details before tonight.

You get in the passenger seat, Sam offering it to you and climbing in the backseat. As Bucky begins to drive off, your phone rings.

“I told you to leave that.” Bucky says, telling you explicitly to leave electronics here to prevent anyone finding out where you are, and also to avoid any distractions.

“Wanted to see what you’d about it, Sarge,” You wink at him, pulling out a flip phone and answering the call.

“Yeah… Uh huh… He what? Are you fucking kidding me?... Alright… Tell him not to move a fucking muscle.” You hang up, slamming the phone closed.

“Stop at the facility for a sec, I gotta take care of something.” Bucky sighs and turns away from the route to head to your facility.

“Bucky’s going to be going with you tonight, by the way, he’ll be in disguise. Just in case anything goes wrong.” Sam tells you, not really caring anymore about having to make a stop for you to take care of whatever business you need to take care of.

Your only response is a hum as Bucky can feel the anger radiating off your now tense body.

You slam the car door shut as Bucky parks behind a garbage truck outside, not even waiting for him to fully put the car in park before you exit.

Him and Sam follow quickly behind you to see what’s going on. You enter through a side door that leads to a large room, a garage for the trucks, Bucky assumes.

There’s a large truck inside, and racks of suits wrapped in plastic scattered around. A younger man stands near the truck as your crew peruses around the racks, he couldn’t be older than twenty-five years old. Your heels click on the ground as you approach, slowing down as you glance between the suits and the young man. Bucky and Sam hang around a few feet behind your trail.

You stop, fuming, staring at the man before you speak, “You wanna tell me what the fuck happened?”

“I -” He begins, but you cut him off, raising an open hand at him.

“Actually, I don’t even want to hear your fucking voice right now. Because if what I heard you did is true; if what you did to Vinny’s guy is true, you’re gonna be a fuck load of trouble.”

“Can I -”

“Shut the fuck up.”

“But -”

“I said shut the fuck up, Christopher! What part of that don’t you understand?” You yell, and even Bucky feels intimidated.

You turn to your crew, “What the fuck happened.” You demand, more than ask.

“Kid says he tried to take the truck, Vinny’s guy had a gun that fell outta the seat, went off, shot him.” One of the men summarizes, not looking up from the rack of suits.

You raise a manicured hand to pinch between your eyes, “You keep me skinny, Christopher, with all the fucking stress you cause me.”

“Would you let me explain?” He tries.

“If you don’t do as I told you and shut your fucking mouth, you’re gonna be buried with two assholes,” You threaten before continuing.

“They were fuckin’ suits! All you had to do was take the truck! How did you fuck that up -” You stop yourself and sigh, attempting to calm yourself down.

“Here’s what’s gonna happen. You’re gonna take all this shit, you’re gonna take it back to Vinny, and you’re gonna tell him what happened yourself.” You finish.

“Marone!” He exclaims, rubbing his face with his hands.

“Enough with the theatrics! You’re lucky I don’t put a bullet in your ass! Now, I don’t see you grabbing that rack and that rack and that rack and putting it back in the truck!” You wave your arms around the room.

The kid sighs and begins grabbing the racks one by one and rolling them back in the truck.

“Would it be such a shame if they all went back?” An older man from your crew asks, already wearing one of the expensive suits. You scoff and laugh.

“Bucky, pick yourself somethin’ nice for tonight,'' You turn to face him, and he jumps at the sound of your now calmer voice being directed at him, as opposed to the harsh one used on Christopher, “On me.” You wink.

...

Sam and Bucky sit on the bed and watch as you get ready. A small apartment near the party that’s already been swept for bugs. A favor, you called it, from someone you know.

They don’t question it.

“You and Bucky will go in together and I’ll be waiting at a secondary location watching and listening to everything.”

Bucky can’t tear his eyes away from your dress. A mermaid dress, he thinks it is, black and tight and hugging you in all the right places, curving around your ass and sleeveless at the top, allowing you to show off a nice necklace and your cleavage. It’s an understatement to say that he’ll enjoy accompanying you tonight, even if it’s in a costume.

His mother probably would’ve loved it if he would’ve gotten with someone like you. Someone who loves their family, a spitfire that wouldn’t take any of his shit, and whose god damn gorgeous. She might’ve had to wash your mouth out with soap, though.

“So, why is Bucky goin’ again?”

“Safety.” Bucky answers.

“Is he going for my safety or am I going for his?” You tease, finishing the last few curls of your hair, smoke coming from the iron after each time you pull your hair away from it.

“Once you find our guy, get talking with him and see if you can get him to make you an offer,” He begins.

“One I can’t refuse?”

“Then, you’ll try and get him alone, see if he’ll show you the serums, and once you do, we’ll be taking care of the rest.” Sam finishes explaining.

Bucky plucks a box from his pocket and opens it to reveal a pair of diamond earrings. One, a camera, and the other, a microphone. You’re also given a comm to hide in your ear so both him and Sam can hear everything and you can hear them.

“Easy - peasy.” You respond.

The ballroom is lively, loud music and people everywhere, and Bucky attunes all the action overwhelming him to a sweat and not that fact that you’re pressed up against him, his arm wrapped around your waist.

About a hundred different people come up to greet you, asking about your family, offering you drinks and food. Bucky can see right through all of them though; they’re all putting on the act out of fear. Everyone’s attention is on you, and Bucky’s sure if he wasn’t in disguise right now, no one would even notice.

You bring him to the middle of the crowd and he can’t be surprised when you start to dance with him, pulling at his arms to get him to loosen up. He complies, wrapping his arms around your waist and pulling you close as the two of you move together.

“I’ll let you know when I spot him.” He tells you, voice causing goosebumps to rise on your neck; goosebumps that he notices but doesn’t point out.

It only takes a song or two before he spots who he’s looking for and sends you over, making sure your com is on, and choosing to stick by the bar, giving him a good view of you and allowing himself a break of having your body pressed against his.

He’s impressed listening to you talk to this guy, voice smooth and sultry, yet still commanding.

He knows there was a lot of talk when you took position as boss; not a lot of people in the mob took you seriously and didn’t think you or a woman in general would be good in that kind of position in power. So, you use that to your advantage to get shit done, and Bucky applauds you for that.

It’s not long before the guy offers to go somewhere more private to discuss business and Bucky follows far behind, Sam praising you through the coms from where he waits in the car outside, watching through the camera in your earring.

Bucky waits outside of a closed office door upstairs, listening to the conversation through the coms but hearing your exclamation through the door when the guys give you his asking price.

“5 mil each?! What do you take me for, some kinda stunad?”

“Take it or leave it.”

“Take it or leave it, yeah, I can put a bullet between your eyes and take it, alright.”

“Stop messing around and take the offer, it’s not real anyway!” Sam tells you, not wanting to lose their chance on the serums.

You ignore him prioritizing your need for respect over the stupid mission, “How do I know these aren’t Kool-Aid pouches poured in glass bottles?”

“Well, I’m certainly not going to test ‘em out for you.” The guy scoffs.

“Stronzo. You’re outta your fucking mind offering me that.”

“I’ll lower the price for you if you give me a little dance, how ‘bout that?”

“Vaffanculo.” You curse at him.

“Up yours, lady!” He yells back, and Sam sees through the camera, he grabs at you.

“Buck, get in there.” Sam tells him, and it only takes Bucky a second to kick open the door.

He’s a bit taken aback when he not only sees the case of serums out on the table, but you holding the man bent over the small table in the middle of the room next to the serums, gun held to the back of his head.

He very quickly decides that you’re fine and moves to grab the serums, closing the case and holding it securely in his left hand.

“Don’t kill the guy.”

You stay silent and Bucky looks at you again. He can almost see the steam coming out of your ears and he notices a small cut on your cheek bone. He looks down to the man’s cowering figure and notices a large ring on his hand.

You mumble something in Italian to the man, a threat of some kind that Bucky can guess given how the man shuts his eyes and shakes a bit under your hold. Sam finally enters the room, military grade handcuffs in hand.

“Feds are on their way, get her out of here.” He tells Bucky.

You slowly lift the gun off the man’s head and stand up straighter, walking over to brush past Bucky in the direction of the back door.

He makes eye contact with Sam and gives him a nod before following after you, watching as you scrunch up the bottom of your dress to replace the gun in an ankle holster. Once outside, he stops you under a street light near the car and raises his hand to look at your cheek.

“We gotta get going,” You swat at his hand.

“You’re still bleeding.” He says, using his thumb to brush away the line of blood, smearing a red tinge on your skin.

He looks into your eyes and for a second he sees the tough exterior drop. The face of someone who got smacked across the cheek all for mouthing off at some asshole.

Your vulnerability doesn’t last long, though, as you sniff and walk towards the car, opening the passenger door and sitting inside before Bucky can make it over there to open the door for you.

The drive back to the apartment is silent, and Bucky doesn’t know what to do or say to fill the silence. Stepping into the apartment, you immediately go to change and collect your things. Bucky moves to the bathroom to look for a first aid kit of some kind.

He meets you in the room and you’re now in cotton pants and a large t-shirt, sandals on your feet showing the bright red color of your toenails and the lines indented in your skin from how tight your heels were. You’re hanging up the dress and zipping it back in the cover when Bucky drops the first aid kit on the bed.

“Christ, it’s only a small cut.” You mumble.

“Just - Let me, would you?”

He takes out the liquid of disinfectant and soaks a cotton pad, cleaning off your cheek bone with it before covering it with healing ointment and a bandaid.

You don’t thank him when he finishes and he huffs as he closes the kit, “When do you drop the act, huh?”

“I don’t.”

“Really?” Bucky asks in annoyed disbelief.

“No. People tend to try and have me whacked when I drop the act.”

He sighs, “So, what, nobody ever takes care of you? Treats you? You don’t have any days off? Time to be yourself?”

“This lifestyle doesn’t really allow me to have days off, Sergeant Barnes.” You snap, gathering the dress in your hands and turning to face him completely.

“Take me home, I’m tired and my feet hurt.”

You leave him in the room and he waits an extra few seconds before dropping the conversation and following you out.

...

Bucky opens the back door to the environmental facility with his right hand and sees the door to your office open, you and your crew sitting together surrounded by cigar smoke and he can hear a TV on.

“Sir, please step into the vehicle.”

“Like the cop would be callin’ this asshole Sir if the fuckin’ cameras weren’t around!” You wave a hand at the TV, not yet seeing Bucky standing there.

He finds it funny that the gnarliest criminals - the literal Mafia - spend their time watching shitty, scripted cop shows.

It’s been about two weeks since the mission with you where you retrieved the serums. Sam went to prom with your sister five days ago, which was hilarious for him, especially when he got photo prints of different sizes in the mail at his apartment. He didn’t bother thinking about how you found his address.

One of the men sitting next to you glances his way and sees him standing there, smirking at the vision of him; hair combed slightly back and to the side, and a large bouquet of flowers in his right hand and a small paper box in his left.

“You got company, Boss.” He says.

You look over to the doorway and your jaw drops in an open-mouthed smile.

“Look at googootz! Now this is a man that knows how to treat a lady, are you boys paying attention?” You tease, scurrying over to him and pinching one of his cheeks, resting your free hand on his large bicep to guide him into the room, the rest of your crew ushering out to give the two of you privacy.

“What’s in the box?”

“Cannoli.”

You throw your head back with an exaggerated moan, “You know the way to an Italian woman’s heart, Sergeant Barnes. What’s with all the gifts?”

“Thought I’d treat you.” Is all his response is.

You narrow your eyes at him and stand up a little straighter, crossing your arms over your chest.

The last conversation before he dropped you off that night hasn’t escaped his mind. He understands the difficulties of life - how it’s hard to find time for yourself among the busy schedule that is existing. He catches himself sometimes, too, forcing his body to run with no sleep, burning through all of his energy until he’s completely drained and blaming it on life.

But life’s not always like that. Life allows for days off. For treats. For a bit of kindness. And Bucky’s come to show you just that.

“What, a beautiful woman like you never received flowers and pastries before?” He says, taking a half-step forward to be close enough to look you closer in the eyes.

“Are you flirting with me?” You whisper in amusement.

His eyes glance away from yours to look down at your red-painted lips. He gives you a shy smirk, really turning up the charm. For a big, bad, boss, you’re pretty easy to break down.

“Let me take you out tonight.”

“Maybe I’ve got plans.”

“Cancel ‘em.”

“What makes you think you’re worth canceling plans for?”

“Why don’t you trust me and find out?”

“You should know by now, Sergeant Barnes, that I don’t trust.”

He doesn’t respond for a moment, setting the box of cannoli on your desk before reaching his now free hand up to your face, using his finger to brush away a stray hair and push it behind your ear.

He then takes a hold of one of your hands, turning it over to place a kiss on the top of it, before wrapping your fingers around the flowers in his other hand, forcing you to take them.

“No restaurant you’ve been to a hundred times over, no drama, no business. Just a man trying to treat a lady.” You look down at the flowers before meeting his eyes again.

“I get to pick the place.”

“No.”

“The kind of food.”

“No.”

“The -”

“No. Let me take care of everything.” Bucky insists, determined to get you to give up control for the first time in what he can only imagine has been a very long time.

Bucky knows better than anyone how terrifying it is to give up control. It was terrifying when he was forced to give up control, his free will taken away from him in the war for decades upon decades, but it’s terrifying even now when he has to do it as a free man. It makes a person vulnerable. When was the last time you were allowed to be vulnerable for somebody?

“I’m gonna pick you up here at six. Wear something nice and leave the executive attitude at home.” He finishes, leaving you with the flowers and cannoli before returning back outside, ignoring the stares he receives from you crew who wait patiently outside your office.

He feels your eyes follow him at the door, and he can’t wait to sweep you off your feet tonight.

[vodkassassin]

I hate that bitch ass yqy. Since ur sv prompts exist in an au of svsss, au yqy so that I might not want to kill his trick ass.

Akfjjd ur wish is my command. I’ll give u that SI YQY that u helped me brainstorm earlier, @dancibayo

—

Wake up, rush to work, take a fifteen minute break to eat the stale salad leftover from dinner two nights ago, back to work, and then head home to collapse, exhausted, into the sheets of his bed that he really should throw into the wash but never has the time to do so.

That’s that daily life of a run-of-the mill office worker, a low-income employee of a corporate empire, just another coil in a well oiled machine that never rests, never sleeps, never pauses in its fast-paced industrial production rates.

Life had been hopeful still, he faintly recalls, when he’d been twenty and freshly graduated with his business degree, looking at all the options open to someone like him. A promising student, his professors had said. A dutiful son, destined for a grand career, his parents had boasted. He’d never really put much stock into such praises, even then, and he’s glad he hadn’t —because otherwise, the reality of life would have been absolutely crushing.

Well into his early thirties now, and he can’t even remember the last time he even went out for drinks with coworkers — not friends. None of them have time for something like deeper, interpersonal relationships anymore.

It’s amazing, really, how much different his outlook is even ten years down the road.

It’s honestly just another day. There’s nothing special. Maybe he feels more tired? He can’t tell, really. He doesn’t think he’d have been able to, even in hindsight. It’s all the same.

He shuffles a loose stack of paperwork into a blank, cream-colored manilla folder and slides it into its plastic organizer. His head feels light. A glance at the clock tells him he’d accidentally worked through his meager lunch break, again. He really should stop doing that. His coworker in accounting tells him it doesn’t bode well for his overall work ethic. One of these days, it’s going to show consequences on his productivity, and he’ll get a visit from management. It happened to that one unlucky fellow from marketing.

He folds over his desk, pillowing his arms beneath his head. He’s so tired. It doesn’t matter that he missed his break, he thinks. He’d forgotten to pack anything for lunch anyway. He could have gone down the street to the deli, but really… his stomach swirls nauseous just thinking about it. Maybe it’s for the best he hadn’t eaten.

He closes his eyes. Slip in a quick five minute nap, he thinks. He’s managed it before, without getting caught. He can do it again!

He’s just so tired.

Just for a minute.

—

He wakes up numb. At first.

Something isn’t right, but he can’t really pinpoint what it might be. His entire body aches, but that’s normal for him. He can’t feel his fingertips, but that’s happened before. It’s not really anything to worry about.

He takes in a breath, and jolts as pain, tremendous pain, sears through him like hot, liquid magma, and he screams.

Hands are holding him down. Why? What’s happening? He was just taking a nap.

“It shows no signs of stopping,” someone says, voice tense. “Sect Leader, the only method that might possibly work, at this point, is to put him in the caves.”

Sect… leader?

What?

There’s a deep sigh, one that he can barely hear over the helpless, tortured keens that are pressing, relentlessly, out of his own throat. He writhes beneath the hands that hold him down, but they don’t budge.

He’d just wanted to rest!

“My dearest disciple…. If only you were not so quick to take risks. I’d thought we’d trained such impatience out of you?”

Something, beyond the pain he feels, curls nastily in his gut. It feels like shame. Is it responding to the disappointment he can hear in this stranger's voice? But why?

He doesn’t even know who these people are.

“Sect leader, there’s really no time.”

Another sigh. “Yes, I see. Very well. If it takes the caves to straighten this out, then so be it.”

His face feels damp. With the way that every single one of his nerve endings feels like it’s spasming and curling in response to whatever the hell is wracking his systems, he isn’t surprised that he’s sobbing. Even to himself, he sounds hysterical.

The hands that restrain him lift him up off the hard surface that has been cutting into his back. He feels his limbs jerk, as if on some sort of autopilot, instincts that he can’t ever recall having, and someone yelps.

“I told you to restrain him!”

“He’s too strong, shizun—!”

He feels like he’s underwater. Everything sounds submerged. His hearing muffled out, and he doesn’t know anything after that.

—

Sometimes he wakes up.

Most of the time, he’s asleep for it, and he’s just aware enough to know to be thankful for that.

But sometimes he wakes up, and…

—

“Dashixiong,” someone is outside to greet him when he exits. They bow at the waist , hands folded before them, and he watches them without words. “What a relief it is, to see you well.”

He isn’t well. He doesn’t think he ever will be.

But, he can pretend. For these people, who he has seen glimpses of in lightning quick flashes of memories that aren’t his, who he knows just peripherally enough to pass muster. For them, he can pretend.

He isn’t sure if he can do much more than that, though.

“Shizun has been waiting patiently for you,” they say, and turn to lead him down the path to where the rest of the peak sits. Looming over him, despite being technically lower in elevation. “He wished to speak with you as soon as you resurfaced.”

“I’m sure,” he mumbles under his breath.

His hand tightens, where it’s clenched around the hilt of the sword that rests, swathed, at his side. The fingers curls, knuckles white, where they’ve gripped the weapon for… how long was he down there for?

He isn’t sure he can let go of it, anymore. Will he be forced to always have one hand on his weapon?

He follows the disciple down the mountain.

—

Once, a long time ago, when he’d allowed himself to think about it, he’d thought that death might be a final rest. Sometimes, on the nights where he’d been forced to work overtime with no compensation pay, he’d even found himself cautiously looking forward to it.

Death isn’t a rest. If anything, it’s worse.

Being the head disciple of the ruling peak of a mountain sect of cultivators — it was something that he’d before only encountered in a few of the web novels that he sometimes perused, back when he was younger, back when he’d still had a moment of free time to himself, when he was still allowed to have hobbies.

He doesn’t recognize the setting around him, outside of the brief snatches of pre-recorded memories that he assumes came from whoever had occupied this body before him. Obviously, if this world was fashioned after a specific story from his old world, he had never read it.

He’s still not sure if that’s a blessing or not.

It’s hard work, in any case. His career from before, business and managing and organizing — it helps, somewhat, in the running of this peak that will one day rest solely upon his shoulders once his teacher finally ascends alongside his martial siblings.

What it doesn’t help with, is the training. Harsh, grueling, repetitive and taxing. And he’s handicapped, too, unable to use his own sword like all his fellow disciples and teachers do. It’s hard, he isn’t used to it, but his body remembers it, and he slowly begins to relearn what he was already suppose to know.

He doesn’t fancy dying a second time.

Death isn’t the rest that he’d once thought it would be.

—

There’s someone that makes those faint leftovers of his predecessor curl uneasily upon themselves whenever he sees them.

It starts immediately upon their first encounter, this skinny, emaciated and threadbare boy standing over the body of the man that he has just killed. The splatter of blood from the blow, sitting across his face and glistening in the soft moonlight that peaks through the trees, hasn’t even dried yet. This, coupled with the scowl of sheer hatred that adorns his young face… he looks threatening, despite his small stature. Dangerous, despite his trembling grip on the blade.

And yet, his — Yue Qi’s — heart stutters, crying so loudly for this boy that he can barely hear beyond the blood that rushes past his ears.

“Finally decided to show up?” The boy sneers, tossing the slightly rusted blade to the ground. It lands with a clatter that echoes in the silence of the woods that surround them. “... You’re too late. Much, much too late.”

Yue Qi stares at him, something sour climbing up his throat, and he doesn’t even know why.

“Why even bother coming at all?”

This is his first meeting with Shen Jiu.

As time goes on, and years pass by, this slip of a boy never ceases to confuse him and make his heart hurt wretchedly, in equal measure.

—

He is never really able to muster the courage to ask why.

__

Yue Qi becomes Yue Qingyuan, and Shen Jiu becomes Shen Qingqiu — something that makes the sneer on the boy��s face falter, eyes shining in mysterious fury before his face smooths out into that cold, impassive mask once more — and, really, nothing changes.

He’s still confused. He’s never not. But, he’s trying his best to do good by his martial family. He isn’t sure there’s anything else he can do.

His fellow head disciples — now peak lords — are fine people. He’s grown fond of them, over the years that he’s been forced to get to know them by his own teacher (he’s never called the man his shizun. Despite the leftovers that swirl inside of him, it’s not really his place). He cares for them, as much as he can bring himself to, but he can tell that even they must sense the slight distance between them that he just isn’t capable of breaching.

Even now, he’s still tired.

Shen Jiu, Qingqiu, is counted among them, despite his avarice and clear detest. That’s another he can’t help, the fondness (and odd, distant grief) that curls inside him whenever he looks at the boy, now man.

His predecessor had once loved him, he’s fairly certain, now that he’s had the chance to fully examine the feelings those shreds of soul can communicate to him. Whatever Shen Jiu had been to Yue Qi, he’d loved him, so fiercely and perhaps borderline obsessively that it’s stronger than any other leftover of his predecessor he’s ever felt. Stronger than the duty to his sect.

For that alone, he — Yue Qingyuan — will watch over Shen Qingqiu as much as the man, cold and hateful and hurt and abandoned as he is, will allow him.

It’s no surprise, really, that he eventually grows fond of him, too.

But love? No. He doesn’t think he’ll ever be able to bring himself to love his martial brother to the same degree of… fervor, that Yue Qi once had.

—

And then, Shen Jiu is hit by a familiar fever that Yue Qingyuan can remember feeling down his very bones, once upon a time — when he wakes, he isn’t the same Shen Jiu that he’s slowly, over the years, gotten to know. Slowly, over the years, grown to care for.

Knowing what he does, it’s very clear to him that this isn’t Shen Jiu at all. It’s someone else. Someone who Yue Qingyuan doesn’t know. Someone that Yue Qingyuan can’t even begrudge, because he knows it isn’t even their fault. Because he knows that, whoever they are, they haven't chosen this for themself.

It doesn’t stop him, in those first few weeks, from feeling irrational. He isn’t sure what he’s doing. He’s mourning, surely. Shen Jiu is dead, that much he knows. The fact that no one seems to even mind is —

It’s breathtakingly upsetting.

He hadn’t known… that he’d grown to care this much for the man that he’d never even gathered the courage to ask. Why.

He’ll never know, now.

—

The new Shen Qingqiu is.

He’s fine. He’s kind hearted, despite how hard he pretends not to be, ostentatiously trying to act as close to what he thinks Shen Jiu had been as he can. Beneath that, he is scared, and Yue Qingyuan can see it bright as day. Beyond his fear, he is kind, he is sweet, he is amusingly sarcastic without any of the vitriol. He is leagues lighter than Shen Jiu ever had the capabilities of being.

Yue Qingyuan can see why their martial siblings like him better.

It doesn’t make it hurt any less. But, he figures, that if he gives himself enough time, he can grow to care for this Shen Qingqiu in the same way that he’d grown to care for his predecessor.

—

Time. It’ll just take some time.

[sandwichtribunal]

Simple Sandwiches, Homemade Soups at Winking's Market in Quincy

"Winking's deli stocks a small, slightly old-fashioned selection of deli meats and cheeses. They offer a sandwich menu as well, providing simple lunches at prices from a different century." Simple Sandwiches, Homemade Soups at Winking's Market in Quincy

I have a complicated relationship with my hometown. This is probably not an uncommon situation. I was born and lived in the Chicago area for the first 10 years or so of my life, but if you asked, I’d tell you I was from Quincy, Illinois. Quincy is where I grew up, to the extent that I ever did. It’s where I went to middle school, high school, and apart from a stint at SIU in Carbondale, it’s…

[newsunlimit]

Where to Stay in Hong Kong: Best Areas & Hotels

https://www.newsunlimit.com/where-to-stay-in-hong-kong-best-areas-hotels/

Where to Stay in Hong Kong: Best Areas & Hotels

Where to Stay in Hong Kong: Best Areas & Hotels: Hong Kong is a surprisingly compact metropolis, and the metro (MTR) makes getting across the metropolis fast and straightforward. Deciding the place to remain within the metropolis normally comes all the way down to desire and worth.

The 2 predominant areas the place vacationers and enterprise folks keep are Hong Kong Island and Kowloon. These are positioned instantly throughout from one another, with Victoria Harbour in between. There are benefits to staying on all sides, however they each have a full vary of buying choices and varied different issues to do. Getting from one aspect to the opposite is simple on both the MTR or the ferry.

Read more: The 10 Most Dangerous Tourist Attractions in the World

View over Hong Kong from the Peak | Photo Copyright: Lana Law

In case you are in Hong Kong for pleasure or simply wish to do some sightseeing whilst you’re right here, one of the best place to remain is on Hong Kong Island, ideally within the adjoining areas of Central or Admiralty, the place many of the motion is centered. Usually talking, it will put you inside strolling distance of the Peak Tram, Hong Kong Park, wonderful buying, and quite a few temples and different sights. Additionally on this aspect is the stylish Lan Kwai Fong district, with every kind of indoor and outside eating.

Read more: The 10 Most Dangerous Tourist Attractions in the World

In case your focus is on buying, take into account Causeway Bay, additionally on Hong Kong Island. This space is at all times buzzing with exercise and pleasure and is filled with retail shops and eating places. You may discover Hong Kong’s model of Instances Sq., full with large billboards flashing late into the night.

Causeway Bay can also be a great spot to remain for those who crave a little bit of nature. Victoria Park, Hong Kong’s largest public park, is positioned within the heart of Causeway Bay and is filled with lovely bushes towering over nice walkways.

On the mainland aspect, simply throughout the harbor from Hong Kong Island is Kowloon. This space is residence to a number of of Hong Kong’s greatest markets, together with the well-known Temple Avenue Market and the Women Market. It additionally gives loads of high-end buying, with many large names in trend represented right here.

The perfect place to remain in Kowloon is the realm referred to as Tsim Sha Tsui, or TST for brief, which is near the harbor entrance. The farther again you might be from the waterfront, the cheaper the accommodations.

Main sights in Kowloon, other than the markets, are the waterfront Promenade, Backyard of the Stars, and an exquisite view of the nightly gentle present on the harbor entrance. This space additionally gives one of the best connections to the airport and trains to mainland China.

Note: Some businesses may be briefly closed due to recent global health and safety issues.

Read more: 10 most beautiful cities in Italy: see and die!

The place to Keep for Prime-Finish Luxurious

Four Seasons Hotel on the waterfront

There isn’t any scarcity of high-end, luxurious accommodations in Hong Kong, and they are often present in Kowloon or Hong Kong Island. Topping the checklist of one of the best accommodations on the Kowloon aspect are the elegant, colonial-style The Peninsula Hong Kong and The Ritz-Carlton, set just a little out by itself however with excellent views over Victoria Harbour and the Hong Kong skyline.

These are very totally different properties. The Peninsula, constructed within the Nineteen Twenties, exudes old-world appeal and has a wonderful location in TST. Against this, the Ritz is positioned in a contemporary tower that dominates the Kowloon skyline. The foyer is on the 102nd flooring, and visitor rooms are on the flooring above, as much as the 118th flooring. Each of those accommodations supply world-class service and facilities.

On Hong Kong Island, the boutique resort The Landmark Mandarin Oriental, the unique Mandarin Oriental, and the 4 Seasons Resort are all standout choices.

The 4 Seasons stands proper on the waterfront, subsequent to the piers, overlooking the harbor and Kowloon. Additional again, within the coronary heart of Hong Kong, is the small and stylish The Landmark Mandarin Oriental and the close by Mandarin Oriental, the primary Mandarin resort to open. Each of those are near Hong Kong’s greatest buying.

Read more: 10 most beautiful cities in Italy: see and die!

In Causeway Bay, The St. Regis Hong Kong is the last word luxurious resort. The resort has solely 129 rooms and describes itself as a “curated mansion.” The restaurant on the resort, L’Envol, enjoys a one star Michelin rating.

The place to Keep for Mid-Vary Luxurious

Suite at the Langham, Hong Kong | Photo Copyright: Lana Law

Mid-range luxurious accommodations in Hong Kong, with world-class service and top-end facilities, could be thought of high-end luxurious accommodations in different cities. Many of those even have their very own distinctive character. Bear in mind, resort costs can fluctuate tremendously relying on the time of 12 months and occasions taking place within the metropolis.

Read more: The 10 Most Dangerous Tourist Attractions in the World

In Kowloon, it is onerous to beat The Langham, Hong Kong. This five-star resort, with a distinctly British appeal, gives wonderful, personalised service; a heated rooftop pool; and quite a lot of high quality eating places, from the Three Michelin Star Tang Courtroom to the fairly priced Principal Avenue Deli.

The Langham is a comparatively small property, with solely 16 flooring and fewer than 500 rooms, all of that are uniquely and tastefully adorned. From this resort, it’s only a five-minute stroll to the harbor and the Star Ferry to Hong Kong.

View from the Conrad Hotel | Photo Copyright: Lana Law

On the Hong Kong aspect, the Conrad Hong Kong, a Hilton property, is positioned in a contemporary tower with unbelievable views out over the harbor or to the luxurious mountainside behind. Rooms begin on the fortieth flooring, so virtually all rooms have wonderful views, whereas these with unobstructed harbor-views are on the 53rd flooring and above.

This resort additionally has an outside heated swimming pool and gives impeccable service. In the identical class, though not fairly as excessive, is the JW Marriott Resort Hong Kong. Each the Conrad and the Marriott are connected to Pacific Place, considered one of Hong Kong’s premier buying malls, the place you could find the entire prime names in trend.

Read more: The reason for the increase in US home sales by 25 percent in July

In case you are in Hong Kong for buying, these accommodations are extraordinarily handy. Additionally connected to Pacific Place is the Island Shangri-La Hong Kong, one other nice possibility, conveniently positioned instantly throughout the road from Hong Kong Park.

Consumers also needs to take into account the Lanson Place Resort in Causeway Bay. A member of the Small Luxurious Resorts of the World group, this boutique resort is a peaceable escape from the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong.

The place to Keep for the Greatest Worth

View from the Conrad Hotel | Photo Copyright: Lana Law

In case you are not fairly prepared for a finances resort however not up for paying the costs related to luxurious or mid-range, it is doable to seek out worth accommodations which are usually three- and four-star high quality. The perfect worth is normally present in Kowloon, however there are some choices on Hong Kong.

Read more: The 10 Most Dangerous Tourist Attractions in the World

Two common Kowloon accommodations the place good offers can typically be discovered are the Eaton, Hong Kong and the Nathan Resort. These are in the identical neighborhood; only a fast subway experience from the harbor, and a brief stroll to the Temple Avenue Night time Market.

The Eaton gives small, fashionable rooms with full baths; good eating places, together with indoor and outside seating; a rooftop pool; and nice frequent areas. This resort caters to households and enterprise vacationers, and virtually the entire employees communicate English.

The Nathan has a health heart however no pool. Rooms, which vary from normal to full-size suites, are usually bigger than these on the Eaton and supply extra comfy furnishings.

Different favorites on this space of Kowloon are the boutique Resort Stage, with small, tasteful rooms, and the marginally extra upscale and pricier Royal Plaza Resort, with bigger rooms and a pool.

On Hong Kong, the 99 Bonham All Suite Resort is located within the fashionable Soho space, simply west of Central. It is a good possibility for households or longer stays. Rooms are fairly massive, and the resort is near the MTR. It is usually handy for catching the ferry to Macau. Rooms characteristic massive home windows and loads of pure gentle.

In the identical neighborhood is the tasteful Sheung Wan by Ovolo, with very small however trendy rooms. One other good possibility with bigger rooms is the Island Pacific Resort. Most of the rooms characteristic lovely views of Hong Kong Harbour.

Over close to Causeway Bay, the iClub Wan Chai Resort is a smaller carbon impartial resort that gives 99 rooms outfitted with the most recent know-how.

The place to Keep on a Funds

Lobby of the Eaton Hotel | Photo Copyright: Lana Law

Funds lodging might be troublesome to seek out on Hong Kong Island. Your greatest guess is to discover a resort in Kowloon. Alongside Nathan Street, which runs again from the waterfront to Mongkok, are quite a few finances choices.

These have the benefit of being near the primary markets however would require some public transport or lengthy walks to succeed in the harbor entrance. The metro (MTR) could be very handy and runs on a regular basis to TST and Central on Hong Kong Island, that are solely a few stops away.

Read more: What is the median home price in the US?

You probably have your coronary heart set on staying on Hong Kong Island, the most suitable choice is the Mini Resort Central Hong Kong. The identify fairly properly says all of it. You may count on small, clear, comfy rooms, and you’ll’t beat the situation. The resort is near every little thing, together with the favored Lan Kwai Fong space, identified for its eating places and open-air eating. Another choice on Hong Kong is the Bishop Lei Worldwide Home, one of many uncommon finances accommodations with a pool, and a pleasant one at that.

Read more: 10 most beautiful cities in Italy: see and die!

For higher costs, head to Kowloon. possibility is the Maple Leaf Visitor Home within the coronary heart of TST. For just a little nicer resort however much less handy location, head simply north of TST to Mongkok and check out the Minimal Resort-Bazaar. Count on tight quarters and be ready for a decrease stage of consolation. The excellent news is, it is near MTR stations and the favored markets of Kowloon.

[ladyreapermc]

Fic: Parent Trap 4/10 (Keanu x Reader)

Summary: Annie and Hallie are twin sisters who never met until they end up in the same summer camp together. They decide to switch places to see how the other lives. Hallie heads to Los Angeles to meet Keanu, owner of Arch Motorcycle Company, while Annie goes to New York to meet you, rising fashion designer and their aunt. Their plan is simple: get their parents together to make the perfect family. If only it could be that easy… Previous chapters: prologue | 1 2 3: 

Author’s notes: So here we are, back with parent trap. I shall remember for future references that I can’t manage two series at once. Anyway, let’s get to it and as usual feedback is always greatly appreciated.

Wordcount: 3404

Warnings: none. Just lots of fluff

You looked away from the blank page of your sketchbook and across the cashier’s counter to Hallie. It had been a couple of days since the girl had returned home and to your surprise, she asked to come to the store with you.

It wasn’t completely unusual for her to come. There was a nice bookstore a couple of stores over and she sometimes liked to spend time reading there. The elderly couple that owned the place pampered Hallie with cookies like she was their grandkid and in turn, she helped them with computer stuff and small tasks around the shop.

What was surprising was to see Hallie browsing the racks of clothes in the store, picking up a few pieces and bringing with her to mirror to check it out, adding this and that accessory to see how she could look on the outfit. Once in a while, she would ask if there were any of them in her size and if she could have it.

That along with all the other odd things you had been noticing about your niece were starting to, well not exactly worry you, more like get you to notice and pay attention even more than usual. It was all small little things, like going off meat and making sure to stylish her hair every morning or how she would try to sneak some ham pieces to Salem to get the cat to come over or how she was always on the phone…

Of course, you didn’t expect her to stay the same forever. Hallie was a teenager, she was growing up, discovering herself and what she liked, who she wanted to be. It was just weird to witness the process and how fast it seemed to be happening. You didn’t remember going through so many changes at once. Then again, your teen years had been spent under Mary’s shadow since she demanded so much attention from your parents.

You were the quiet kid, the one that didn’t give any trouble. Maybe that was why you didn’t feel like much had changed for you. You were always the one that spent hours in your room, either reading or drawing, Mary was the one with all the friends and parties and behavior issues. Now here you were, raising her child, while Mary…

Letting out a sigh at your gloomy thoughts, your attention shifted to the board you built as inspiration for your new collection. Color pallet and textures, geometric figures and flowers and movies and songs, they all called to you whenever you were trying to create, but it almost felt like this time you couldn’t get anything down on paper and it was getting so frustrating.

“You have that look on,” Maggie said, coming from storage with a few new outfits to change the mannequins. “The I can’t draw and I want to punch something look. It’ll come to you. Just be patient.”

“I didn’t know you had a name for it,” you chuckled, setting the pencil aside. “And I can’t afford to be patient, we have bills to pay.”

Once again you sighed, reminded of the three envelops of overdue charges that you stuck in your drawer on Friday. You needed a new collection ASAP and it needed to do well otherwise the store would have to close doors and everything you and Maggie had fought for would be over.

She had been with you since the beginning, the marketing and sales guru to your artistic tendencies. Maggie was the one to suggest the store in the first place. The one who built the website for online shopping… Basically, she was the one that made all of this possible and you couldn’t even deliver your end.

“We still have some savings to hold us until next month,” Maggie assured, squeezing your shoulders. “Just go easy on yourself, enjoy your time with Hallie and it will happen.”

At the mention of your niece’s name, you turned your attention at the girl again. She was spotting one of the dresses on sale, along with the personalized denim jacket you made for her, her battered old converse and a pair of aviators from the store. She looked amazing and stylish and you stood up, picking up the camera you kept in the store.

You were hoping to sneak a picture since you knew Hallie hated them, but as soon as she saw the camera, she actually struck a pose for you. Deciding to think about it later, you snapped several pictures of the girl noticing she had a natural talent for modeling.

“Put this one on, please,” you asked, giving Hallie one of the daisy overshirts from the latest collection and she dutifully obeyed before you led her outside where the light was better.

You got lost in the process of taking pictures. It had been quite a while since you had done it. Usually, Maggie was the one to take pictures for the store social media so you forgot how this could be fun, especially with such a willing model. Hallie worked effortlessly through the suggested poses, only pausing to change outfits, always with a wide smile in her face.

“What do we have here?” the familiar smooth baritone of Jason brought you back to the present and you realized it was almost noon. “Hallie willingly letting her picture to be taken?”

You put the camera down, tilting your head to receive the kiss Jason pressed on your cheek, his hand resting on the small of your back as he looked over at Hallie, which made your attention turn to her as well.

Hallie loved Jason. He was like an uncle to her, but right now she was looking from him to you to the point of contact between you two with a deep frown. You didn’t know why her stare made you self-conscious, but you stepped away so Jason was no longer touching you and offered him a quick smile.

“I guess she was feeling generous,” you joked weakly and Jason at least flashed a smile back, but Hallie didn’t react at all.

“Well, I hope I’m not interrupting. Just thought I could take my two favorite girls to lunch.”

His smile widened all white teeth and sweet dimples. His blue eyes warm and hopeful and you felt the familiar warmth in your chest as you nodded, glancing at Hallie once again.

“That sounds great, doesn’t it, Hal?”

“Sure,” the girl replied dryly. “I’m gonna change.”

She was gone before you could even think about saying anything else, leaving you to stand alone with Jason in awkward silence.

“Is everything ok?” he asked, with a confused frown and you just shrugged because you had no idea.

The walk to the deli was made in a strange silence because every time Jason tried to strike up a conversation, Hallie would just give him monosyllabic responses and whenever he tried to talk to you, she would just give you two this look and any conversation would simply die down.

You wished you knew what was happening, why she was being so cold with Jason, but you couldn’t just ask when he was right there. It would be rude.

“Did I do something?” Jason asked when Hallie excused herself to go to the restroom. “I mean, she’s usually hard to please, but today…”

“I don’t know,” you sighed and shrugged. “She’s just…” you trailed off, unsure what to say because how could you definite it without being weird?

“Anyway…” Jason started, thankfully moving on from the subject. “I ran into Becky yesterday.” You just arched your eyebrow at him in expectation, because whenever he ran into his ex trouble seemed to follow. “She’s helping to organize this fashion show in Los Angeles and one of their designers dropped off last minute so I kinda showed some of your stuff and she was interested.”

You froze, bagel halfway to your mouth. Did you just hear Jason right? He had asked his ex-girlfriend, a woman you couldn’t stand, for a spot on her fashion show on your behalf.

“I know what you’re thinking…” Jason started and you snorted.

“I don’t think so.”

“Seriously, I know you have your issues with Becky, but this a real chance for you and the store.” You hated that he was right.

“When is it gonna be?”

“In two weeks,” he said with a grimace. “And it has to be all-new pieces.”

“Fuck!”

You had been struggling for a month to get anything on paper and now you had to have an entire collection ready in two weeks. You wiped the cream cheese filling that has spilled from your bagel on the napkin and looked out the window. There was no way you could do it. But if you didn’t do it, you’d be missing a huge opportunity.

“Alright,” you sighed, squeezing the bridge of your nose. “Tell her yes.”

“You can do this,” Jason said with a smile, taking your hand across the table. “I believe in you.”

You wished you could be as confident in yourself as Jason seemed to be, but right now a knot of anxiety had just formed in your belly, the loose ends snaking around your chest, squeezing your lungs and making it harder to breathe.

“I should get going,” you sighed, grabbing your things just as Hallie finally emerged from the restroom, her expression lighting up as she noticed you were getting ready to leave. “Talk to you later.”

“Bye Justin!” Hallie called out over her shoulder with a barely disguised smirk as she followed you outside, her own uneaten veggie sub in hand.

“What was that?” you asked with a suspicious frown as the two of you made your way back to the store. “Justin?”

“I messed up his name. Sorry.” She shrugged looking to anyone else like the picture of innocent, but you knew better. So you just stared Hallie down, eyebrow crocked up in expectation, arms crossed over your chest. “Fine!” she sighed. “What’s up with you and Jason?”

You weren’t expecting this question and it took you by surprise, making you start walking again as a way to avoid Hallie’s piercing green eyes. She always had a way to look at you that made you just talk about anything even if she was just a kid and you shouldn’t just tell her everything you were feeling.

“He’s a friend, you know that,” you said trying to take the safe path out of this mess.

“Who’s clearly in love with you and you know it, Dave,” Hallie pointed out, quickening her step so she could step in front of you, making you halt. “Do you love him back?”

Of course, it would be Hallie to voice out the question that had been running through your head for years. Did you love Jason back? A part of you wanted to say yes. He was your best friend and had been with you through thick and thin.

He had been there through your parents’ death and Mary’s crisis and her death… He was there through all. He was that person you called when everything turned to shit and part of you knew you loved him. Of course, you did. You just…

“You love him but you’re not in love with him,” Hallie said with a soft smile and you huffed a breath, relief mixed with surprise. When did your kid turn that perceptive?

“I guess,” you shrugged, wrapping an arm around her shoulder so you could restart their walk. “I don’t really know why. He’s great, he’s just not…”

“What you want,” Hallie cut in, as usual, reading your mind and you nodded. “But do you know what you want?”

You thought about it for a moment, considering all the men you had been in love through your life. It had been many, especially not since Hallie, but there were two or three that left you wishing it could have turned into something more.

“He has to be good with kids,” you said at last. “And have a good sense of humor. He needs to understand that you and the store are my priority right now and he needs to have his own thing. I don’t like clingy guys.” You mused a little more, bottom lip caught between your teeth. “He needs to be kind, you know? And loving and supportive.”

As you spoke, you could see Hallie’s smile growing, her eyes looked brighter and excited like she was in on a secret that you weren’t, but you decided to let it go for the time being.

“And he needs to know how to cook, because you know I’m hopeless,” you joked, making Hallie laugh. “So if you know anyone like that, please send him my way?”

“Absolutely, Dave!” Hallie said with a quick wink just as you reached the store.

---

Keanu hummed happily as he busied himself with kneading the dough, a big smile on his face at his family was together joking and laughing as they got everything ready for pizza night as per tradition. It was the first since Annie returned from camp so he was determined to make sure she enjoyed it as much as always.

He would never admit it aloud, but ever since she asked for the camp, Keanu had been silently panicking. Annie was the most important person in his life right now and the thought of her growing up and slowly distancing herself, learning to be more and more independent, terrified him.

Keanu knew that he was being irrational. Annie wasn’t a baby anymore. She was a teenager and of course, she needed her independence and he needed to give her that. Help her build her life. And it wasn’t as if he was one of those parents that live for their kids. Yes, Annie was his priority, but he had Arch and his friends and family. He had a life. Which mostly consisted of his work life lately, but it was still a life, right?

Even if he couldn’t remember the last time he went on a real date with someone he really cared about. Maybe it was time to put himself out there again. Keanu wasn’t getting any younger and even if he had more or less gave up on his idea of the perfect little family, he still wanted to have someone in his life. Someone to share things, to love and support and who would do the same for him. Someone who understood Annie’s place in his life as well as Arch’s and how that didn’t mean Keanu would love them any less. Someone to share the wins and losses, someone to be his partner. Someone…

“Ke, I think the dough is good,” Karen called out making him snap out of his musings and look at her.

She was giving him a half-amused, half worried look from where she was cutting up the veggies for the topping. In her eyes, Keanu could see the silent question: was he ok? Did he need to talk about it?

He sighed and surveyed the kitchen. Annie was working on grating the cheese, while her cousin Daisy worked on the sauce. They were talking quietly and laughing like the great friends they were and Keanu smiled.

Even if he didn’t get that partner that he envisioned, he still knew he would be a pretty happy man. He was luckier than most.

“I’m good,” he whispered to Karen, wiping his hand on his apron, so he could pick up the pizza trays and olive oil spray so they could start spreading the dough. She just nodded in reply, her attention turning the two tweens to check their work.

It took longer than usual to get the two pizzas ready for the oven. One completely meat-free for Annie and Daisy and a pepperoni one for himself and Karen. Keanu really admired his daughter's stances on animal cruelty and he knew she wanted to go completely off animal products, but he still couldn’t bring himself to let her. Not yet at least. And it became something they could bond over, cooking together and the least fun bit of cleaning up together too.

“How long until they’re ready?” Annie asked, gathering the topping ingredients to store in the fridge. “I’m starving.”

Keanu checked the timer before turning to Annie to reply just to freeze as she casually popped a piece of pepperoni in her mouth. He glanced at Karen and his sister had the same bewildered expression that he sure was in his own face.

“Annie, what are you doing?” Daisy exclaimed, her tone getting high pitched and Annie stilled, looking at her. “We don’t eat meat!”

Keanu thought Daisy was overreacting a little bit, but the younger girl idolized Annie, following her around like a shadow whenever she came over to spend the summer and mimicking Annie in all possible ways, from her clothes to favorite music genre and lifestyle choices. Daisy had even gone off meat as well and he knew it was more to impress Annie than out of any real belief of her own.

“Right!” Annie said, looking alarmed as she glanced at her cousin. “Well, the camp had such terrible vegetarian options that I have to go back to eating it, but I’m going off again.”

She put the bowl of pepperoni away almost as if it had burned her before flashing a small sheepish smile to everyone in the kitchen. Keanu just shrugged. Sure it was weird because he was pretty sure he remembered something about the vegetarian menu in the camp as a criterion for her choice, but maybe it was just bad?

To him, it wasn’t a big deal. Annie was learning about herself every passing day and she was bound to go through changes. And sure, ever since she came back from camp, those changes seemed more prominent and it almost felt like Keanu was faced with a brand new Annie, but she was his daughter. She would always be his daughter, no matter how many little or big changes she went through.

So he pushed out of his mind, heading off to the back porch with Karen and some wine so they could watch the stars and talk while Daisy and Annie went to her room to do their hairs or something else.

Keanu laid back on one of the porch chairs, keeping a bit of a distance from his sister as he puffed in his cigarette, deep in thought. He could hear Karen shifting in her own seat, her intense gaze, much like his own, set on him.

“So mom is coming over next week,” she said conversationally and Keanu just nodded. He knew it already. “She has news to share.”

“Which usually means she has a new boyfriend,” Keanu sighed, rubbing his forehead. “Hope he’s not a dick like that Richard guy.”

“Me too,” Karen snorted. “How come our mom has a better love life than us?”

“I have no idea,” Keanu replied with a chuckle of his own. “Maybe we should ask for tips or something.”

“Maybe.”

“Or maybe we should accept the fate that we’re gonna die single and alone,” he joked dryly and Karen snorted.

“Aren’t you cheerful person, tonight?” she said, giving him the sideways glance. “Is that what got you so moody? Singlehood?”

“Not moody, just…” he paused, considering his words, but he couldn’t find a way to really describe it. “I’m 55. Maybe it’s time to just let go. Dating, I mean. I have my family and Arch and my friends… that’s enough, right?”

“Ke…” Karen let out a long exhale and once again he could feel her gaze on him, heavy and worried. “You’ve always wanted to get married. Maybe it’s taking a bit longer, but you’re gonna find that right person. I’m sure of it.” She reached over to squeeze his hand. “I bet they’re somewhere out there and when time is right, they’ll come into your life. I do believe in fate, you know?”

“Well, could you tell fate to hurry the fuck up?” Keanu joked with a grin, squeezing Karen’s hand back to let her know he was alright and that she didn’t need to worry about him.

And even if she was wrong. Even if that person never came, Keanu knew he would be alright. He had everything he needed right here.

xxx (tbc) xxx

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[state-farmers-market]

State Farmers Market

WE ARE OPEN. In a continued effort to provide our community with fresh, locally grown produce, meats and cheeses from area farmers, the market will remain open and operate under normal business hours. The best selection in our retail areas is from 9a.m.-5p.m., 7 days a week. Hours for wholesale dealers and truckers shed vendors vary and we recommend contacting them directly for hours. Special events, including the Fall Craft Fair, are canceled until further notice.

While most of the market will remain open as usual, there are some exceptions:

Market Imports – Wednesday-Sunday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nancy Jo's Deli (formerly Market Grill) – 10 a.m. to 4 p.m..; Closed Tuesdays. New Phone #: 919-520-2703 321 Coffee – Thursday & Friday, 10a.m. to 2 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Sunday, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. N.C. Seafood Restaurant – 11 a.m.-8 p.m. daily. Take-out and outdoor seating only. State Farmers Market Restaurant – Open regular hours. Nahunta Pork Center - Open regular hours. Beck's Cutlery - Open Wednesdays and Thursdays. Additional updates to vendor schedules will be posted as soon as possible. For specific vendors not listed above, we encourage you to reach out to them directly before coming to the market.

Visitors are encouraged to follow CDC recommendations when visiting the market. A complete list of tips and best practices can be found here.

COVID-19 is not a foodborne illness. It is extremely unlikely that someone will catch it through eating. The virus is most likely to cause illness through respiratory transmission. The routes to be concerned about include being in very close proximity to many people, or coming in contact with high touch surfaces.

Thank you for your continued support during these unprecedented times!

Farmers Building 30,000 square feet for North Carolina farmers to sell fresh produce, plants, and other specialty items produced on local farms.  Plants are available starting in March and local fruits and vegetables are sold throughout the growing season.  This is where you can find the freshest and widest variety of produce and plants in the area.

Market Shoppes There is plenty of room to shop in this 15,600 square foot enclosed climate controlled building.  You can expect to find fresh produce from around the country here as well as meats, cheeses, crafts, bakery items, custom picture framing, a market grill, and N.C. wines.  There is a wide variety of specialty shops with old-fashioned candies, N.C. gifts, soaps, and lotions.

Truckers Building Volume buyers can take advantage of our drive through Truckers Building with 15,400 square feet of selling space.  The sellers in this building handle large quantities of apples, tomatoes, peaches, watermelons, and cantaloupes from North Carolina and other producers around the world.

Wholesale Terminal Most of the produce in the Triangle area is bought at the wholesale terminal.  Five wholesalers supply grocery stores, restaurants, institutions, and roadside markets.

Market Imports Over 2 acres of unique architectural elements, fountains, pots, trellises, water features, furniture, ironwork, stone, teak, pottery, and other interesting items from around the world. Winter Hours: Open Wednesdays-Sundays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Closed Mondays and Tuesdays 1208 Farmers Market Drive, Raleigh, NC  27603.

Here is the map distance between  Easy Sale Home Buyers

View the map location https://goo.gl/maps/WnTyf1mGWmUJCfBT8

[atomscales]

Jewellery weighing scale statistics and figures

In the era of buying and selling of metals and valuable gems by billions of traders, jewellery manufacturers, goldsmiths and jewellery retailers alike, the metal purity and the weight are of crucial importance. Weighing precious metals requires an accurate and genuine jewellery scale. Their pliable enables it to be fashioned into many different complex forms, explaining its wide use in jewellery manufacture industries and coinage. Precious metals such as gold, silver and platinum, are popular investment choices to their relatively stable value within global markets.

Purity can be measured precisely by determining the density. Moreover, the accuracy of measurement also depends upon the accuracy of the jewellery scale used to carry out the density determination. ATOM Scales considers how anyone intend to use scale. Prior to any weighing taking place, we produce an accurate high capacity Jewellery weighing scales, connected with printer to make it easy to print out record of transactions rather making handwriting mistakes in weighing.

To maintain the trust of customers, the weighing results or the retailers should be correct. Using an extra display so customers can see the weight at the same time provides them with extra reassurance. By connecting a printer, results can be printed out, and an order ID can be included if required. The cashier uses the details on the printout when the customer is ready to pay. This process simplifies the problem of jewellery retailer that the customer has the confidence of knowing that the transaction has been handled correctly.

ATOM Scales jewellery scales have large displays that enable the weight results to be read clearly, even under the bright lights of a jewellery store.

Recycling old or unwanted jewel helps to meet the global demand. Pawn and gold etc. buy-back shops use density determination as a first and quick indicator for purity. This can be achieved by installing a dedicated density kit onto the weighing pan of a jewellery scale by utilizing the under-the-balance weighing functionality. ATOM Scales feature a dedicated hook on the base for this purpose. jewellery in mainly weighed in troy ounces or grams, karats (k).

In many countries, where a product is sold by weight, the scale or balance used must be a 'Legal for Trade ' version. Only scales and balances that successfully pass the tests can be declared as Legal for Trade. Such scales and balances are sealed at the manufacturer's site to prevent the scale from being opened by unauthorized personnel. Before starting your gold weighing process, you must ensure your gold scale is perfectly level for it to work accurately. ATOM Scales jewellery have the level indicator located at the front. You can see at a glance if your balance is level.

ATOM balances and scales have built-in technology that continuously monitors the surrounding temperature and automatically makes the adjustment whenever it is necessary. This technology (called FACT) also reduces the amount of routine testing that you need to do so it helps you save time and money too. Choosing a good quality jewellery scale as per requirements has been always a daunting task. technology has proceeded to manufacture small weighing machines to expedite jewellery weighing, grocery checkouts, pawn shops and what not. Incredible small pocket weighing scale value price and keep monitor upon on going rates of accessories. A pocket weighing scale can be used for variety of items like medicines and kitchen needs like coffee, herbs. whereas, price computing machines are good option to choose for large as well as small capacity delis. sleek featured price computing scale creates an aura to retailer’s counter. These are mainly used by farmer's market or AC connectors where power is not accessible.

Jewellery balances and scales are the perfect choice for all your jewellery weighing requirements.

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This website uses cookies. We use cookies to perfect and personalize your share, provide relevant content and psychoanalyze online trade. We also cut information with our analytics and website partaker, who may use it to teach decisions about current or future benefit. By tape “Agree,” you concur to utility cookies if you abide to our website. You can conduct your cookie settings by clicking the "cookie preferences" button. I Agree Cookie Preferences “We are laceration up the sports video Pancratium precept book of account and re-handwriting it for a new race. We’re starting with the gamer first and commission their imagination to created the elemental litter of athletes across play, in a way only they can imagine,” before-mentioned Ben Freidlin, CEO and caster of Bit Fry Game Studios, Inc. and the inventor of “Ultimate Rivals.” “With Apple Arcade, we are attached to surrender a curated catalog where every heading offers gambler a renovated, innovative have that pushes the boundaries of what a plucky can be. The ‘Ultimate Rivals’ franchise does just that,” said Phil Schiller, Apple’s elder fault president of Worldwide Marketing. “‘Ultimate Rivals: The Rink’ is a expanded new appendage to Apple Arcade and we are move for everyone to try it out.” Sports marathon involve purgative and tactical challenges, and discrimination the idler's accuracy and accuracy. Most sports project attempt to pattern the strong characteristics need by that sport, embody speed, strength, acceleration, propriety, and so on. As with their considerate sports, these quarry take ground in a stadia rod or amphitheater with manifest boundaries. Sports lame often contribute play-by-play and excuse commen through the application of reflect sound. With 2K & EA Sports' authority, the market has turn very difficult to initiate; race gamble in any of the above genres, with the exception of racing plucky, tend to be unsuccessful. This has led to a harsh discontinue in sports-themed epithet over fresh years. One of the most notable exceptions is Konami's Pro Evolution Soccer list, which is often name as an choice to the FIFA order, but does not inhold as many licensed fifteen, players, cut, or competitions. Another variation from the type is Sony's MLB The Show series, which now has a monopolism on the baseball genus after the retraction of 2K after MLB 2K13. Racing Olympic, due to the variation that the pastime can undertake in terms of trace, motor and fashion, offer more space for competition and the selection of crooked on propose has been greatly major (model being F1 and the World Rally Championship, and many unlicensed Olympic). Sports conduct games, while not as popular as they used to be, abide on through small and bold software disclosure houses. Management titles today have conveyance to the very epidemic fantasy amusement leagues, which are available through many websites such as Yahoo. Independent developers are also creating mock heading like Super Mega Baseball, The Golf Club, and Freestyle2: Street Basketball. 8 Gameday Nutrition Tips for Young Athletes By Jill Castle, MS, RDN Published October 25, 2017 Reviewed July 2017 monkeybusinessimages/Thinkstock Have inexperienced athletes in your patronymic? Feeding them requires knowledge and device. Not only do they want optimum nutriment for fueling and revival from manage, but they also must meet efficiency demands of growth and maturation. Help your deceive refuel with the nutrients they need by focussing on kindred mealtimes before and after commit or Pancratium Time. Nutrition for Everyday Athletes Focus on carbs for resolution. Choose whole-texture biscuit, dotty, cereal, paste and potatoes for lasting Life. Save sports drinks for an power boost during endurance sports or educative sessions lasting more than an hour. Spread out protein foods. Active bodies emergency protein to protect effect and raise and retrieve tireless thew. Young athletes should divulge protein foods throughout the Time, goods some at each meal and with most snacks, such as eggs and whole-grain toast with fructify for breakfast or a interpose with hill-sodium deli meat on whole-grain bread with yogurt and raw veggies for déjeuner. Plant-supported protein foods similar beancurd and beans also are great choices. Use admonition with fatty foods. Fatty foods slew digestion, which is not impracticable for an athlete facing a competition. Greasy, fried foods and fat person desserts are packing and may raise your champion feeling tired and sluggish. Skip the fries or pizza pie before practice, and keep fat content on the light side. Eat with provisions safeness in belief. Nothing will dull down your athlete more than victuals poisoning – estate haughtiness difficult, qualm, vomiting or cholerine after eating. Make secure you provision snacks at proper temperatures to preclude spoilage. Keep cheese, yogurt, dinner, urge and salads made with mayonnaise in a icebox or car fridge. Shelf-stable items such as nuts, granola bars and whole offspring can be annoy into a mirth pouchy without a problem. Flow with fluids. Good hydration should beginning early in the age before kids even set rank on the playing field. Stay hydrated by drinking abundant of water during the day leading up to a quarry, especially in the two to three hours before game time. Continue to drink during the marathon (circularly 1/2 portion every 15 minutes) and afterward to rehydrate after perspiration damage. Water should still be kids' go-to drink for exercise that's under 60 tittle. Training sessions over an stound may demand a mockery revel to refund electrolytes unredeemed through burdensome perspiration. Timing is everything. When you gorge is regular as important as what you victual. Your embody indispensably two to three hours to abridgment a regular meal such as dejune or lunch before an athletic occurrence, while a small lunch such as a granola hinder can be eaten 30 minutes to an hour in accelerate. Load up at meals but don't overeat, and keep mealy light as you get finisher to crooked tense. Topping it off with milk. In addition to weaken, fat-guiltless and grave-fat milk also are smart ways to help underdeveloped athletes meet their fluid needs. But that's not all. Just one cupful of buttermilk packs 15 to 24 percent of the protein most shoal-old eanling need in a Time. It also surrender influential nutrients of which most inexperienced athletes Mr.'t get enough, such as calcium, which is censorious for edifice solid bones, transmitting innervate impulses, and aid muscles epitomize, as well as potassium for fluid balance. Eating rightful on gameday is your acrobat's secret dagger for top-defile accomplishment, whatever the mockery. Here's a swatch quarry age nutriment plan: Pre-Pancratium break one's fast. Gather together the family for a for--Olympic breakfast near three hours before the event. Serve sliced and readily broil potatoes paired with scrambled eggs and fruit such as berries along with calcium-confirm orange moisten or fat-free milk for a alimental pre-game repast. Don't light-freight or intermission feed. Many student athletes race after school poem tiffin an being firing source. Lunch should be hearty and represent as many food combination as option, including whole grains, lean protein, bear, vegetables and light-oily dairy. During the plucky/habit. Make sure your child keeps hydrated before, during and after practices and competitions. Dehydration proceed when your child athlete sink to adequately replace humor astray through perspiration. Dehydration that overtop 2 percent body ponderousness loss harms harass production, so constitute sure your child is well hydrated throughout the lame with mean totality of moisten. Remind your child to replace aura losings after practice with lots of weaken. Also front to foods such as bananas, potatoes and greasy-free or flame-heavy yogurt or extract. They restrain potassium and carbohydrates which are anxious to replenish after vex. Post-practice or afternoon game share. The hours after practice or a weekday rivalship may cause snacking before your kindred chow. Make strong to have in front of-ripe mealy willing when your kids subvene asylum famished from a strong after-school practice or game. This can terminate section fresh fruit, low-rich yogurt and smoothies. Post-gamble family dinnerette. For a tasty and stuffing post-game family dinnerette, conclude all five food family — protein, grains, vegetables, fruit and dairy. Serve parched or grilled lean hew of meat such as maiden breast, salmon or tuna fish. Include whole grains, for example, whole-frumenty italian paste with a low-coarse tomato or cheese sauce. Toss in vegetables or include a side raw sèlā. Then, whole your repast with bear for afters, such as parched apples or pears attended by a especially of flame-fat or fat-unreserved nurse. Or create an instant yogurt parfait with couch of hill-vat vanilla extract yogurt, fresh, coldhearted or stock offspring, and crispy whole-inclination cereal. Jill Castle, MS, RDN, is a registered dietitian/nutritionist and childhood nutriment expert. Tags Fitness Sports and Performance Exercise Tips for Athletes Exercise Nutrition Fueling Your Workout For Kids For Teen Freshly Picked How to Keep Your Immune System Healthy Tips for Ordering Takeout or Delivery Eating as a Family Tips for Ordering Takeout or Delivery Support Your Health With Nutrition Preventing Illness Support Your Health With Nutrition How to Keep Your Immune System Healthy Preventing Illness How to Keep Your Immune System Healthy Hand Washing Wash Hand Washing Feeding Children When They Are Sick Preventing Illness Feeding Children When They Are Sick Lifestyle and Managing Stress Preventing Illness Lifestyle and Managing Stress Tips for Kids How to Make Homemade Baby Food How to Make Homemade Baby Food How TV Can Influence What Your Child Eats How TV Can Influence What Your Child Eats Raise Healthy Eaters in the New Year Raise Healthy Eaters in the New Year Help Your Child Build Healthy Bones Help Your Child Build Healthy Bones View All Tips for Kids Recipes for Kids Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe Recipes Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Recipe Jicama Salad Recipe Recipes Jicama Salad Recipe Rainbow Yogurt Trifle Cups Recipe Recipes Rainbow Yogurt Trifle Cups Recipe Poached Pears with Caramel Sauce Recipe Recipes Poached 파워볼전용사이트 Pears with Caramel Sauce Recipe View All Recipes for Kids