#Pinnacle Book Award

[jjspina]

Limerick - Jemsbooks - Jerry the Crabby Crayfish!

[hoshifighting]

Stripper! Reader x Business Man! Lee Chan

— Synopsis: Workaholic Lee Chan's Friday night takes an unexpected turn when he joins friends at a strip club, only to find himself captivated by you, a dancer he can't seem to stay away from. Despite his reservations, Chan finds himself drawn to your company, booking time with you night after night. — WC: 8.8k — WARNINGS: Strangers to lovers, smut, mentions of alcohol, strip clubs, money throwing, booking, fluff, unprotected sex, penetrative sex, fingering, oral (f. receiving), riding, g'spot stimulation, clit stimulation, male sensitivity.

Lee Chan held the weight of being the CEO of the imperium that his dad left at a very young age. Frat parties, hanging out, late-night talks? Nah, not for him. He had to take care of the company and honor the inheritance that fell into his lap. His co-workers could remember very well the times that Chan walked around and around his office, shoulders tense as if he carried the world on them.

His days started early and ended late, filled with back-to-back meetings, strategy sessions, and endless paperwork. The once carefree and spirited young man had transformed into a focused and driven leader, his every move calculated to ensure the success and stability of the company.

Chan's office was a testament to his dedication—shelves lined with business books, awards, and framed photos of his father, a constant reminder of the legacy he was determined to uphold. The large windows offered a panoramic view of the city skyline, but Chan rarely had time to enjoy it. He was always too engrossed in his work, too preoccupied with the responsibilities that consumed his every waking moment.

Even though his life felt like being stuck in traffic on a rainy day, Chan couldn't deny that he loved the results of his hard work. He looked at the luxurious cars parked in his garage—sleek, powerful machines that represented the pinnacle of automotive engineering. 

His closet was a veritable treasure trove of sartorial excellence. Different types of watches, ties, suits, and shoes from every high-end brand imaginable filled the space, each piece carefully chosen to reflect his impeccable taste and status. The feel of finely crafted leather shoes, the weight of a bespoke suit on his shoulders, the precision of an intricate timepiece on his wrist—all these were constant reminders of what he had achieved.

Chan's wealth allowed him to indulge in the kind of extravagances most people could only dream of. He could spend an exaggerated amount of money in a matter of seconds on something completely futile, like a super shaver with a gold coating—exotic and utterly unnecessary.

The week was ending, and Chan listened to the fuss inside his friend group about hanging out this Friday. Jeonghan, seeing his colleagues leaving their desks, noticed Chan still at his desk, tapping his fingers on the glass table. With his bag slung over his shoulder, Jeonghan approached him.

"I know it's a stupid question, but will you come with us?" he asked. Chan was usually seen only at corporate events. Jeonghan couldn't remember the last time he enjoyed a beer with his friend.

Chan looked up, a hint of surprise flickering across his face. He opened his mouth to respond, the automatic refusal ready on his tongue, but something made him pause. He glanced around the office, now emptying out as people headed off to start their weekends. The thought of another solitary night of work made him feel a twinge of longing for something different.

"Come on, man," Jeonghan urged, sensing the hesitation. "Just one night. It’ll be fun. You need a break."

Chan sighed, running a hand through his hair. He knew Jeonghan was right. The constant grind was wearing him down, and maybe, just maybe, a night out with friends was exactly what he needed.

"Alright," Chan finally said, a small smile playing on his lips. "I'll come."

Jeonghan's eyes widened in surprise. "Seriously?"

Chan nodded, standing up and grabbing his jacket. "Yeah, let's do it."

Jeonghan grinned, clapping him on the back. "That's the spirit! You won't regret it."

Before they left the building, Chan paused and asked, "Jeonghan?"

"Yes?" Jeonghan answered, turning to face him.

"Where are we going?" Chan inquired, a hint of curiosity in his voice.

Jeonghan just smiled, a mischievous glint in his eye. "You'll see," he said, leaving Chan to wonder what the night had in store for him.

[...]

"A strip club? You must be kidding me!" Chan exclaimed as he took in the sight of the half-dark establishment. Neon lights flickered and danced around the room, casting colorful glows on the walls. Music blasted from speakers, filling the air with a pulsating beat.

He could see several women with different curves, colors, and hairstyles, dressed in scanty outfits—or sometimes nothing at all. The atmosphere was electric, a stark contrast to the corporate environment he was used to.

Jeonghan laughed, clapping Chan on the back. "Come on, man, loosen up! It's just for fun."

Chan hesitated, his eyes darting around the room. He felt a mix of discomfort and curiosity. "I don't know, Jeonghan..."

"Relax," Jeonghan said, guiding him further inside. "We all need a break sometimes. Just enjoy the night. You deserve it."

Chan took a deep breath, deciding to go along with it. Maybe Jeonghan was right—maybe he did need this. As they found a spot to sit, Chan tried to shake off his reservations.

His friends immediately ordered bottles and bottles of soju, beer, whiskey—whatever the bar had. Chan downed his whiskey in a single gulp, exclaiming, "If my dad knew I was here..."

Chan's eyes widened in surprise. "You're kidding."

"Nope," Jeonghan replied, pouring more whiskey into Chan's glass. "He said every hardworking man deserves a break. Guess the apple doesn't fall far from the tree, huh?"

Chan couldn't help but laugh at that. The thought of his father, the man he idolized for his strict work ethic, letting loose in a place like this was almost too surreal. 

As some of his friends disappeared one by one, Chan found himself alone on the couch they had booked. "Great," he muttered under his breath, feeling a twinge of discomfort at being left alone in such a place.

Just as he was about to sink further into the cushions, the little stage that he hadn't even noticed until now suddenly lit up. A tall pole stood in the middle, and Chan tilted his head in curiosity.

Then, a pair of really, really high heels appeared, and Chan's throat went dry. You emerged onto the stage, your skin shining under the purple light. The outfit you wore was scandalous, barely covering anything, and Chan couldn't help but notice the little glitters spread on your skin, catching the light as you moved.

You took hold of the pole and began to dance around it, moving with a grace and confidence that left Chan mesmerized. Your movements were fluid and controlled, every sway of your hips and arch of your back drawing him in deeper. It was as if you were performing just for him, and Chan felt like he could get lost in the rhythm of your dance forever.

As you held yourself up on the pole like a pro, Chan couldn't tear his eyes away. He felt like he was being swallowed by the couch, completely captivated by the sight before him. In that moment, nothing else mattered but you and the hypnotic spell you cast over him with your dance.

As you made eye contact with Chan, a devilish smile played on your lips. He looked like a new piece of meat, a pretty young man who had never been seen before in the club. You got down from the stage, the sway of your hips drawing all eyes to you as you walked towards him.

"First time here, sweetie?" you asked, laying your hands on his shoulders. Chan felt like he couldn't breathe with the view of your tits practically in his face.

"My eyes are up here," you said, chuckling as you caught him ogling your chest.

Chan blinked, feeling a flush of embarrassment creep up his neck. "Uh, yeah," he stammered, tearing his gaze away from your cleavage. "First time."

You chuckled, running a hand through your hair as you leaned in closer. "Well, lucky for you, you've got me to show you the ropes," you said, your voice low and sultry.

"You're tense," you observe, noticing the stiffness in Chan's shoulders. Without waiting for a response, you step behind him and begin to massage his shoulders, your fingers working their magic as you knead the tension away.

Chan lets out a sigh of relief, his muscles melting under your skilled touch. "Yeah," he admits, his voice soft. "Work's been... stressful lately."

You nod in understanding, continuing to work out the knots in his shoulders. "I get it," you say, your voice soothing. "But you're here now, and tonight is all about letting go of that stress and just enjoying yourself."

Chan leans back into your touch, closing his eyes as he relaxes into the sensation. "I guess you're right," he murmurs, a hint of a smile playing on his lips.

You smile too, glad to see him starting to unwind. "That's better," you say, your fingers tracing soothing circles on his skin. "Just focus on the here and now. Forget about everything else for a while."

Chan nods.

You walk around Chan again, swaying your hips seductively in front of him. His mind races, unsure of what to do next, but before he can even think, you're sitting on his lap, circling your hips against his.

Chan smiles shyly, feeling the heat from your body as you move against him. He can't help but notice the money tucked into the sides of your little shorts, a reminder of where he is and what's expected of him.

It's exhilarating and nerve-wracking all at once, but there's something undeniably thrilling about having you so close, your body pressed against his.

As you continue to dance, Chan's hands hover uncertainly over your hips, unsure of where to touch or how to respond. He feels a flush of embarrassment at his own inexperience, but he's determined not to let it show. Instead, he focuses on the way your body moves against his.

And you smile knowingly, sensing his hesitation, and guide his hands to your waist, encouraging him.

Chan's hands move from your waist to your hips and then down to your thigh, his fingers grazing the soft skin as he explores the contours of your body. His pulse quickens as he feels the warmth of your thigh pressed against his pocket, and he can't resist the urge to reach into his wallet and retrieve a pouch of money.

With a mischievous grin, Chan brings his hand to the top of your head, letting the notes rain down on you like confetti. You laugh, delighted by the unexpected gesture, and give him a big smile.

"What's your name?" you ask, your voice playful.

"Chan," he replies, feeling a surge of confidence.

You lick your lips, your gaze lingering on his. "Nice to meet you, Channie," you purr, the nickname, and Chan blushes. 

[...]

The next Monday, Chan sat at his desk, his eyes fixed on nothing in particular. His mind raced with a million thoughts, his thoughts still consumed by the events of that night. He was lost in his own thoughts, replaying every moment, every touch, every glance.

A knock on his door startled him out of his trance, and he quickly tried to compose himself, pretending to be engrossed in some papers spread out on his desk.

"Come in," Chan called, his voice slightly shaky.

The door opened, and Jeonghan stepped inside, giving Chan a knowing smile. "Hey there, sleepyhead," he teased, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

Chan felt a flush of embarrassment heat his cheeks. "Oh, hey Jeonghan," he replied, trying to sound casual.

Jeonghan chuckled, walking over to Chan's desk and leaning against it casually. "So, how was your night?" he asked, his tone laced with amusement.

Chan shifted uncomfortably in his seat, his mind racing as he tried to come up with a suitable response. "Um, it was... interesting," he finally managed, his voice trailing off uncertainly.

Jeonghan raised an eyebrow, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "Interesting, huh?" he said, his tone teasing. "Well, if you ever need any pointers on how to navigate the world of strip clubs, you know who to ask."

Chan's cheeks burned even hotter, and he couldn't help but laugh at Jeonghan's playful teasing. "Thanks, but I think I'll pass," he said, relieved to have the topic of conversation shifted away from his night of unexpected adventure.

Chan spent the entire weekend consumed by thoughts of you, unable to shake the memories of your encounter at the club. As Monday rolled around, he found himself itching to see you again, the usual routine of work feeling dull and uninspired.

Deciding that today was not the day for extra hours at the office, Chan made his way to the club, a sense of anticipation building in his chest. He arrived at the club, his eyes scanning the room eagerly in search of you.

As he looked around, a receptionist approached him, sensing his lost expression. "Can I help you?" she asked, her voice polite and friendly.

Chan nodded, grateful for the assistance. "Yes, I'm looking for a girl with hair like this," he said, mimicking the length and curl of your hair with his hands.

The receptionist's eyes lit up with recognition. "Ah, you must be looking for Y/N," she said, a smile playing on her lips. "Follow me, I'll take you to her."

There you were, dancing around the pole with a big smile on your face, as if you were truly enjoying every second of it. Chan watched from the corner of the room, his arms crossed and a big smile on his face as he observed you.

The club was crowded, with many people gathered around you, admiring your performance. Chan felt a pang of jealousy as he watched others vying for your attention, but he couldn't tear his eyes away from you.

As the night wore on and people began to leave, Chan noticed you finally catching sight of him. Your eyes met his, and you gave him a playful wink, rolling your hips as you glanced at him over your shoulder.

Chan's heart skipped a beat at your playful gesture, and he couldn't help but grin back at you. Despite the crowd around you, it felt like you were dancing just for him, and in that moment, Chan felt a surge of warmth and connection unlike anything he had ever experienced before.

As you took a break from dancing, you bent down to pick up some notes from the stage floor. Before you could gather them all, Chan approached, leaning on the stage with a playful grin.

"Leave it on the ground," he said, extending a big wad of money towards you. "Take it."

You chuckled, shaking your head. "I didn't even have time for you today," you teased, raising an eyebrow.

"Did I ask?" Chan replied, his smile widening. "Take it."

You couldn't help but laugh at his playful response, taking the money from his hand. "You liked me that much, huh?" you asked, knowing full well the answer. You were well aware of the power you held.

"Hmm, I think I need to see more," Chan teased, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

You giggled, enjoying the banter between you. "Well, if you want me all to yourself, you'll have to book," you replied with a playful wink.

Chan's eyes lit up at the suggestion. "Can I book all of your agenda?" he asked eagerly.

You stood up, giving him a coy smile. "Don't be greedy, Channie," you teased, enjoying the way he looked at you with eager anticipation.

You glanced down at the wad of money in your hand, barely able to fit into your shorts, and then looked back up at Chan with a playful smile.

"Well, I think I can spare some time for you," you said, glancing over at the clock on the wall. "But just a little while."

Chan's face lit up with excitement as he nodded eagerly. "That's all I need," he replied, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.

[...]

As Chan began appearing almost every day, he became a familiar face at the club, a quiet yet eager client of yours. The receptionist would often give you a knowing look, silently conveying that Chan had arrived and had booked time with you once again.

Of course, there were other loyal clients who frequented the club, but none seemed to hold the same level of fascination for you as Chan did. There was a certain shine in his eyes whenever he entered the club, a distinct aura of anticipation and eagerness that set him apart from the other customers.

You couldn't help but wonder why you had let him know about the option to book time with you. Perhaps it was the way he looked at you with such genuine interest and excitement, or maybe it was the thrill of having someone so captivated by your presence. Whatever the reason, you found yourself looking forward to his visits, eager to see where each encounter would lead.

You couldn't help but feel a pang of surprise when Chan didn't show up for his usual visit. It was as if a small piece of the excitement and anticipation that had become a part of your routine was suddenly missing. Without even realizing it, you found yourself scanning the crowd, searching for his familiar face.

Then, just as you were starting to wonder where he was, you spotted him entering the club. Your heart skipped a beat as you watched him make his way to his special seat, right in front of you. His genuine smile lit up his face, and you couldn't help but smile back, the warmth of his presence washing over you like a wave.

With renewed energy and enthusiasm, you danced with even more passion and heart than before. You knew that Chan was watching, appreciating every move, every moment. 

Over the following weeks, Chan's visits became a cherished routine. Each time he arrived, you could sense the anticipation in his eyes, the unspoken hope that maybe tonight would be different.

One evening, as you were finishing your performance and making your way to his table, he finally mustered the courage to ask. "Hey, would you like to grab a drink with me sometime? Outside of here, I mean," he said, his voice full of genuine warmth and a hint of nervousness.

You smiled softly, appreciating his boldness but knowing you had to set boundaries. "I'm flattered, Chan, but I don't hang out with customers outside of work," you replied, your tone gentle yet firm.

A few nights later, he tried again, this time with a different approach. "There's this amazing new restaurant that just opened up downtown. I'd love to take you there," he offered, his eyes hopeful.

You shook your head slightly, maintaining your friendly demeanor. "I appreciate the invite, but I have a policy about not mixing my work life with my personal life," you explained, hoping he would understand.

Undeterred, Chan continued to ask, each time finding new ways to express his interest. "There's a gallery opening this weekend. I thought it might be fun to check it out together," he suggested one night, his enthusiasm palpable.

Once again, you gently declined. "That sounds lovely, but I really can't. I have to keep things professional with my clients," you said, feeling a pang of regret at having to turn him down yet again.

Each time he asked, you could see the slight disappointment in his eyes, but he always respected your boundaries. And despite your refusals, he never stopped coming back, never stopped watching you with that same genuine admiration and respect.

Tonight, you made sure every detail was perfect. Your hair cascaded in flawless waves, and you wore your best outfit, accentuating every curve just right. You were eager to dance for Chan, feeling a flutter of excitement as you anticipated his arrival. Sure enough, Chan appeared, booking the rest of the night with you as he had been doing lately.

When he approached, you greeted him with a kiss on the cheek, a small gesture that had become part of your interactions. "Hey, Channie," you said with a playful smile. "So, what’s it gonna be tonight? Shorts or no shorts?"

Chan smiled warmly, a bit of that usual nervous energy in his eyes. "Actually," he began, his tone softer than usual, "I just want to talk tonight. I want to spend time with you."

You blinked, taken aback. No customer had ever asked for just your company before. "You... you just want to talk?" you repeated, making sure you heard him right.

He nodded, a sincere expression on his face. "Yeah. I mean, don’t get me wrong, I love watching you dance. But tonight, I just want to get to know you better. You know, beyond all this," he gestured vaguely around the club.

Still processing his request, you motioned to the couch. "Alright, let's sit then." You both settled onto the plush seats, the atmosphere suddenly feeling more intimate and less transactional.

"So, what do you want to know?" you asked, trying to mask your nervousness with a casual tone.

Chan leaned forward slightly, his eyes earnest. "Everything. What's your favorite color? What's your dream vacation? What do you do when you're not here?" He paused, then added with a chuckle, "I know it sounds silly, but I really want to know the real you."

You smiled, touched by his genuine curiosity. "Well, my favorite color is …" you began, feeling a bit shy. "As for a dream vacation, I've always wanted to visit Santorini. The pictures look so beautiful, like a place out of a fairytale."

Chan listened intently, his focus unwavering. "Santorini sounds amazing. I can picture you there."

You chuckled, the image of you in Santorini bringing a warm feeling to your chest. "And when I'm not here, I love to paint. It's my way of unwinding, letting my creativity flow."

His eyes lit up. "Painting? That's incredible. What kind of things do you paint?"

You shrugged lightly, feeling more comfortable as the conversation flowed. "Mostly landscapes and abstract pieces. It's like putting a piece of my soul onto the canvas."

For a moment, there was a comfortable silence, both of you absorbing the depth of the conversation. Chan finally broke it, his voice soft. "You know, I've always admired how dedicated you are to what you do, I know it's now easy at all. But hearing about your passions and dreams, it makes me admire you even more."

Your cheeks warmed at his words, and you found yourself opening up more than you had with anyone in a long time. "Thank you, Chan. It means a lot to hear that."

He reached out, gently squeezing your hand. "Thank you for sharing with me. I know this isn’t what you usually do, but it means a lot to me."

Chan observed the small figurine on the table, curiosity lighting up his eyes. “Where do you get these?” he asked, leaning closer to get a better look.

You smiled, a bit shyly. “I make them myself,” you said, enjoying the surprise that flickered across his face.

“Really? That’s amazing,” he praised, his admiration evident. You shrugged modestly.

“It’s not that hard,” you replied, still smiling. “They’re always small.”

Chan chuckled, a warm sound that made you feel even more at ease. He started to remove his blazer, and before you knew it, he placed it gently around your shoulders, covering a good part of you. The gesture was so kind and considerate that it made you feel even more comfortable, despite usually feeling at ease in your usual skimpy outfits.

As you nestled into the blazer, you couldn’t help but notice how much more at ease you felt. Chan’s presence was different; it wasn’t just about the physical attraction or the lavish spending. There was a gentleness, a genuine care that made you feel safe and valued.

“I don’t usually do this,” you admitted, looking at him with a grateful smile. “Thank you.”

Chan smiled back, his eyes soft. “It’s my pleasure. You deserve to feel comfortable.”

The conversation flowed easily as Chan began to share bits and pieces of his life. He spoke about his responsibilities as CEO, the pressure of living up to his father’s legacy, and the sacrifices he had to make. His words were carefully chosen, mindful of not coming across as boastful despite his affluent lifestyle. You could tell he was trying to be as honest as possible while downplaying the extravagance.

“And that’s pretty much my life,” Chan concluded with a slight sigh. “It’s demanding, but it’s what I have to do.”

You admired his humility, realizing how grounded he remained despite his wealth. “It sounds like a lot to handle,” you said softly, your eyes reflecting your newfound respect for him. “But you do it so well. It’s impressive.”

Chan’s expression softened, a mixture of gratitude and weariness in his eyes. “Thank you. It’s not always easy, but I try.”

“You’re more than just a pretty boy,” you teased lightly, wanting to lift the mood. “You’re a hardworking, humble man.”

He laughed, the sound filling the space between you with warmth. “And you’re not just a beautiful dancer. You’re talented and creative.”

[...]

The next morning, you were chatting with the girls—your coworkers—as they finished their hair for the night.

“And he just wanted to talk,” you said, a bit incredulously. “He even asked about my favorite color.”

The girls collectively let out a heartfelt “Awww,” their eyes wide with interest and affection.

“Seriously?” one of them, Mina, asked, her eyes sparkling with curiosity. “That’s so sweet.”

“He seems different,” another added, giggling.

“Yeah,” you nodded, still a bit surprised yourself. “We just talked. It was...nice.”

Before the conversation could continue, the receptionist entered the room, a knowing smile on her face. “Ya! Y/N-nie! Your Channie is here,” she announced, her tone teasing.

It was unusual for any customer to visit on a Saturday morning, a time usually reserved for the staff to unwind and prepare for the week ahead. 

“It’s Saturday morning,” Mina whispered, nudging you playfully. “No customers come in unless they lost something.”

“Let him in,” you said, trying to keep your tone casual but feeling the flutter of anticipation.

As Chan walked in, he was met with a scene unlike the usual vibrant atmosphere of the club. The girls were dressed in comfortable clothes, some with bobs in their hair, others doing their nails or simply lounging around.

You were drying a glass behind the bar. He looked around, slightly surprised but smiling.

“Good morning, girls,” he greeted, his voice cheerful. "Good morning Y/N…" He says in a special and tender tone, just for you.

“Good morning,” the girls chimed back in unison, their eyes following his every move.

You put down the glass and walked over to him, a wide smile on your face. “Channie, what are you doing here?” you asked, genuinely curious.

“I wanted to see you,” he replied, his gaze soft and sincere. He seemed a bit out of place in the relaxed environment, but his presence was a welcome one. You could feel the girls watching the exchange with rapt attention, like they were watching an opera unfold.

Chan noticed that you didn’t have bobs in your hair like some of the other girls. Gesturing toward your hair, he asked, “No bobs for you today?”

You chuckled, shaking your head. “It’s my day off. I’m not dancing today.”

The girls exchanged knowing looks, some stifling giggles. One of them, Lisa, leaned over and whispered loudly enough for you to hear, “Looks like someone’s here to see you even when you’re not performing.”

You blushed, glancing at Chan, who seemed equally flustered but amused by the comment. He recovered quickly, his smile returning.

Chan stood there, his eyes filled with hope and a hint of nervousness. "Would you like to spend the day with me?" he asked, his tone gentle and inviting.

You chuckled, a playful glint in your eye. "Hmm, I've already told you about hanging out with my customers," you teased, enjoying the banter.

Before Chan could respond, Mina chimed in from the background, her voice filled with encouragement. "Oh, come on! You should accept it!"

Chan seized the opportunity, smiling wider. "You’re not on your work schedule now, are you?"

That shut your mouth, leaving you momentarily speechless. The girls burst into giggles, clearly enjoying the exchange.

“Well, when you put it that way…” you trailed off, pretending to think it over.

Chan’s smile grew, sensing victory. “So, is that a yes?”

You sighed theatrically, then grinned. “Fine, you win. I’ll spend the day with you.”

“Great!” Chan said, visibly relieved and excited. “I promise it’ll be fun.”

You nodded, your smile widening. “Let me just finish up here, and we can go.”

As you gathered your things, the girls couldn’t resist a few more teasing comments, but it was all in good fun, as Chan waited patiently.

As the day unfolded, Chan took you to places you hadn't had the time to visit in years. You sipped coffee at a cozy café, strolled through the park, and even caught a movie at the cinema. With each passing moment, you found yourself enjoying his company more and more, feeling a sense of freedom and joy you hadn't experienced in a long time.

"This has been the best day off ever," you exclaimed, unable to contain your excitement as you walked side by side with Chan.

His heart swelled with happiness at your words, his smile growing wider. He could have taken you to a luxurious restaurant or shopping for designer labels, but he sensed that wasn't what you wanted. Instead, he decided to let you choose how to spend the rest of the day.

Careful to open doors for you and ensure your comfort, Chan drove you around in his luxurious car, enjoying each other's company and the simplicity of the moment. As he glanced at you from the driver's seat, he couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over him.

"Where to next?" he asked, his voice filled with anticipation.

You playfully pretended to ponder your options, teasing him about having more surprises up his sleeve. Chan laughed, shrugging his shoulders as he drove. You noticed that you were nearing your apartment, and the idea popped into your head.

"How about we go to my place?" you suggested, surprising even yourself with the invitation.

Chan's eyebrows shot up in surprise, but he quickly masked it with a smile. "Your place? Are you sure?"

You nodded, feeling a sense of excitement building in your chest. "Yeah, why not? I'd love for you to see where I live."

Chan couldn't hide his delight at your invitation, his curiosity piqued. He parked the car and walked with you to your apartment building, taking in the surroundings with interest.

Chan's eyes wandered around the apartment, taking in the details of your life that adorned the walls. He saw framed photographs capturing cherished memories – graduations, family gatherings, outings with friends. The images painted a picture of a life rich in experiences and relationships.

His gaze shifted to the plushies scattered across the couch, a playful and endearing touch that brought a smile to his face. It was clear to him that you had a warmth and sweetness that extended beyond the confines of the club where he first met you.

As you disappeared into the kitchen, Chan took a moment to soak in the atmosphere of your home. The tranquility of the space, combined with the personal touches that reflected your personality, made him feel strangely at ease.

In that moment, he realized that he was seeing a side of you that few others had the privilege of witnessing – the real you, beyond the glamorous facade of the club.

As you settled back onto the couch with snacks in hand, Chan joined you, his presence filling the space with warmth. With a mischievous glint in his eye, he began recounting his visit to the strip club earlier that day.

You listened intently, a soft chuckle escaping your lips as he shared the details of his adventure. When he mentioned Jeonghan's involvement, you couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude towards your friend for unknowingly setting this day in motion.

"Looks like I owe Jeonghan a big thank you," you said, your voice muffled as you took a bite of your snack. 

Chan raised an eyebrow, a mischievous glint in his eyes. "So, Jeonghan is the reason we met, huh?" he teased, leaning closer to you.

You chuckled, feeling a playful energy between you. "Looks like it," you replied, unable to suppress a smile.

Chan's teasing grin widened at your response, and he leaned in closer, his playful demeanor evident. "Oh, so you're thanking Jeonghan, but not me?" he teased, raising an eyebrow in mock indignation.

With a soft smile, you turned to Chan, gratitude evident in your eyes. "Thank you, Channie," you said, your voice sincere as you expressed your appreciation.

Chan returned your smile, his gaze warm as he listened to your words. "For what?" he asked, though he already had a feeling of what you meant.

You took a moment to gather your thoughts before replying. "For everything," you began, your tone heartfelt. "For the moments we've shared, the conversations we've had... Even on the nights you booked me, we talked more than danced," you admitted, a fondness evident in your voice.

Chan's smile widened at your words, a soft chuckle escaping his lips. "Well, I guess I'm just a talkative guy," he joked, though there was a hint of sincerity in his tone.

Chan's touch was tender as he brushed a stray strand of hair behind your ear, his gaze lingering on your lips with a mixture of hesitation and longing. You could feel the tension building between you, an unspoken desire hanging in the air.

When he spoke your name, you couldn't help but respond with a soft sound of acknowledgment, your heart fluttering with anticipation. His next words sent a shiver down your spine, his voice barely above a whisper as he confessed his thoughts.

"I know it's not allowed to kiss the dancers in the club," he began, his words laden with a sense of urgency, "but... we're not in the club right?"

His question hung in the air, heavy with possibility. In that moment, the boundaries that had separated you in the club seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of you, alone in the intimacy of your shared space.

You met Chan's gaze, your heart pounding in your chest as you considered his words. Despite the rules and restrictions that governed your interactions in the club, here, in this moment, you felt a freedom that was both exhilarating and terrifying.

With a hesitant smile, you leaned in closer to him, your breath mingling with his as you whispered, "No, we're not in the club." And in that simple acknowledgment, you gave voice to the unspoken truth that had been lingering between you all along.

Chan's hand slid to the back of your neck, pulling you closer as his lips crashed into yours. His tongue explored your mouth with a fervent passion, and you found yourself breathing hard, your fingers clutching the collar of his shirt to deepen the kiss.

The truth was, the more you refused Chan's invitations to dinner, the more you denied the gifts he insisted on giving you, the more you avoided his attempts to kiss you—his feelings for you only grew stronger. And now, seeing his insistence on simply having your company, and not just as the girl who would entertain him at night, made you feel all your girlhood feelings again.

Breaking the kiss for a moment, you looked into his eyes, your breath mingling with his. "Chan..." you whispered "Why do you keep coming back? Why do you keep trying so hard?"

He held your gaze, his eyes filled with a mix of determination and tenderness. "Because you matter to me, Y/N. More than just a dancer, more than just a pretty face. I see you, the real you, and I want to know you better."

Your heart swelled at his words, and you felt a rush of warmth and affection for this man who saw beyond the surface. "But I'm not used to this," you admitted, your voice barely above a whisper. "I'm not used to someone caring this much."

Chan's grip on your neck tightened slightly, a comforting reassurance. "Then let me show you how it feels. Let me show you that you deserve to be cared for, to be cherished."

"Show me," you whisper, your eyes locked on Chan's lips. He captures your mouth in a passionate kiss, his lips trailing down to your neck. His hands find the hem of your shirt, and he pulls it over your head. You pull him closer, desperate to feel him, your hands sliding under his shirt to caress his warm skin.

His hands slide to your thighs, lifting you onto his lap, your breasts now level with his face. He glances at the pretty lace bra you’re wearing and lowers the cups, exposing your nipples. He kisses each one tenderly before sucking on one and pinching the other. You melt into him, your hips grinding against his automatically, drawing a groan from deep within his chest.

"Do you know how hard it was to control myself when you grinded on my cock like this?" he murmurs against your skin, his voice thick with desire.

A wicked smile crosses your lips as you continue to grind against him, feeling his erection growing beneath you. "I could feel it, Chan," you purr, your voice dripping with seduction. "I could feel how much you wanted me. I wanted you just as badly."

His hands tighten on your hips, guiding your movements as he presses you harder against him. "God, Y/N, you drive me crazy," he groans, his eyes darkening with lust.

You lean in, your breath hot against his ear. "I want to feel you inside me, Chan. I want you to lose control. Show me how much you want me."

His control snaps, and he flips you onto your back, his body pressing you into the couch. "You don’t know what you’re asking for," he growls, his hand sliding down to unbutton your pants.

"I know exactly what I want," you whisper back, your eyes burning with the same desire. "I want you, all of you."

Chan's lips crash into yours again, more fiercely this time, as his hands work to remove the rest of your clothing.

In a blur of movement, clothes are discarded, and his skin is pressed against yours. He pauses to look into your eyes. "Tell me you want this," he demands, his voice rough with need.

"I want you, Chan," you breathe out, wrapping your legs around his waist to pull him closer. 

Chan giggles softly, his breath hot against your skin. "Wait for me to prepare you," he whispers, his voice laced with anticipation. He opens your legs wide, his eyes dark with desire as he lowers himself between your thighs. His lips find your wet folds, kissing them gently before his tongue delves deeper.

The sensation sends shivers through your body, and you let out a soft moan. Chan's mouth works expertly, sucking on your clit while his tongue teases and explores. As you gasp his name, "Channie," he responds with a moan of his own, the vibrations adding to your pleasure.

His hand slides up your thigh, and you feel the gentle pressure of his finger at your entrance. He slips it inside you slowly, his finger curling to find that perfect spot. Your back arches off the couch, your hands gripping the cushions as he continues to worship your body with his mouth and fingers.

"Oh, Chan," you breathe, your voice quivering with need. The way his tongue moves, the way his finger pumps in and out of you—it's all too much. Your hips begin to move on their own, seeking more of the intense pleasure he's giving you.

He adds another finger, stretching you gently, and your moans grow louder. His mouth never leaves your clit, sucking and flicking it with his tongue in a rhythm that drives you wild. You can feel your orgasm building, the pleasure coiling tighter and tighter inside you.

Chan's free hand comes up to hold your hip, steadying you as you writhe beneath him. He looks up at you, his eyes full of lust and admiration, and the sight of him between your legs pushes you closer to the edge.

"Channie, I’m so close," you manage to say, your voice barely a whisper.

He doubles his efforts, his fingers moving faster, his mouth more insistent on your clit. The world fades away, and all you can focus on is the overwhelming pleasure building within you.

With a final, deep moan, you come undone. Your body trembles, your muscles clench around his fingers, and a powerful wave of ecstasy crashes over you. Chan doesn't stop, drawing out your orgasm until you're completely spent, every nerve ending tingling with satisfaction.

Finally, he pulls away, his fingers and mouth glistening with your arousal. He looks up at you with a triumphant smile, his own need evident in his eyes. "You taste so good," he murmurs, crawling up your body to capture your lips in a heated kiss. You can taste yourself on his lips, and it only fuels the fire between you.

"Now," he says, positioning himself at your entrance, "I think you're ready."

You nod, wrapping your legs around his waist, and with one smooth thrust, he fills you completely. 

Your pussy was wet enough, spasming, welcoming him perfectly. Chan's eyes were closed, his face contorting as he tried to compose himself. You reached up and gently held his face, and he opened his eyes, scoffing softly, trying to pretend he didn't almost cum right then and there from the sensation of your sopping cunt wrapping so perfectly around him and the pornographic moan that just left your mouth.

"Fuck, Y/N," he breathed, his voice thick with lust. "You feel so good."

You smiled, your own arousal mirrored in his gaze. "Don't hold back, Channie," you whispered, your fingers brushing through his hair. "I want all of you."

He groaned, his hips starting to move, slowly at first, savoring the way you clenched around him with each thrust. The intensity in his eyes made your heart race, the connection between you deepening with every movement.

"You're so tight," he murmured, his hands gripping your hips as he picked up the pace. "So perfect for me."

You bit your lip, your body responding to his every word, his every touch. "Chan," you gasped, your nails digging into his shoulders as he hit that sweet spot inside you, sending waves of pleasure through your body. "Don't stop."

Your eyes rolled to the back of your head as he rolled his hips, stopping momentarily before hitting your g'spot with a sharp thrust. He repeated this motion, each thrust more deliberate, and the most sinful moans left your mouth. "Yes, Channie," you gasped, your voice trembling with pleasure, "fuck this pussy with that big fucking cock. Yes, yes!"

Chan groaned, the sound deep and guttural, spurred on by your words. "You like that? Hm?" he panted, his pace quickening as he watched the ecstasy play out on your face. "You like how I fuck you?"

"Yes," you moaned, your nails digging into his shoulders. "God, yes, I love it. I love how you fuck me– ah! Channie."

"So wet... all for me."

Your body arched beneath him, your hips moving to meet his thrusts, chasing the pleasure that was building to an overwhelming peak. "Only for you," you whispered, your voice breaking with a whimper as he drove you closer to the edge. "No one else, just you, Channie."

He growled, the possessiveness in your words igniting something primal in him. His thrusts became harder, faster, each one sending waves of pleasure crashing through you. "Say it again," he demanded, his breath hot against your ear. "Tell me you're mine."

"I'm yours," you cried out, your legs wrapping around his waist, pulling him deeper. "I'm yours, Channie, only yours."

His hips snapped forward with even more intensity, and you could feel the coil tightening in your core, ready to snap. "Cum for me," he urged, his voice a low growl. "Cum all over my cock, baby."

Your pussy throbbed as the aftershocks of your orgasm rippled through you, your eyes closing tightly, mouth falling open in a silent scream. You wrapped your legs around Chan's waist, locking him in place as you rode out every wave of pleasure. Chan hissed, his abdomen trembling, signaling that he was on the brink of release but unable to escape your grip.

You opened your eyes to find Chan watching you intently, taking in every reaction. "Sit," you commanded, your voice breathless yet authoritative.

"Hm?" Chan responded, his expression a mix of curiosity and lingering pleasure.

"Sit," you repeated, firmer this time. He complied, a small laugh escaping his lips.

"Are you going to dom me?" he teased, scoffing lightly.

Instead of answering, you simply lowered yourself onto his cock, making him flinch and let out a whiny moan in your ear, your legs trembling from the intensity of your recent orgasm.

"Fuck," he groaned, his hands gripping your hips. 

You leaned in close, your lips brushing against his ear. "You like that, Channie? You like when I take control?"

"Yes," he gasped, his breath hitching as you began to move, rolling your hips slowly at first. "God, yes."

You smirked, picking up the pace, each movement sending shivers of pleasure through both of you. "You look so good like this," you whispered, your voice low and sultry. "So desperate, so needy. You want to cum, don't you?"

"Yes," he admitted, his voice barely more than a whimper. "Please, let me cum."

You tightened your grip on his shoulders, riding him harder. "Not yet," you commanded, enjoying the power you held over him. "Not until I say so."

Chan's eyes fluttered closed, his body trembling as he tried to hold back. "Please," he begged, his voice raw with need. "I can't... I can't hold on much longer."

"Look at me," you ordered, your tone firm. His eyes snapped open, locking onto yours. "You’re going to cum when I tell you to, understand?"

"Yes," he panted, nodding eagerly. "Yes, I understand."

You imagined riding him since the moment he entered that club, young, hot, with his sleeves rolled up, the scent of masculine fragrance mingling with whiskey on his breath. Feeling this man, needy and sly, with his cock buried deep inside your pussy, spilling all that pre-cum, and fighting his demons not to cum, made you so horny.

 You licked your fingers, circling your clit to help yourself climax, making you clench around him again. A strangled moan escaped his mouth, his eyes were rolling back.

You leaned in close, your voice husky with desire. "You're so close, Channie," you whispered, your breath hot against his ear. "I can feel how badly you want to cum inside me. Do it, baby. Give it to me. Fill me up with your cum."

Chan's hips bucked against yours, his grip on your hips tightening. "Fuck," he groaned, his voice strained with pleasure. "I need to cum, please..."

You smirked, your fingers still working furiously on your clit. "You want to empty those balls for me, make me feel every drop of your cum inside me? Hm?"

Chan nodded frantically, his eyes glazed with lust. "Yes, god, yes. Please, let me cum. I can't hold on much longer."

With a wicked grin, you increased the pressure on your clit, feeling the tension building inside you. "Then cum for me, Channie," you urged, your voice a sultry whisper. "Cum deep inside my pussy."

Chan's entire body tensed, his breath hitching as he finally let go, his cum flooding you with warmth. You cried out in pleasure, feeling your own orgasm crashing over you in waves as you rode out the ecstasy together.

As you collapsed against his chest, Chan wrapped his arms around you, holding you close. You could feel your legs trembling in soreness, his cum still dripping from your pussy, and both of your bodies slick with sweat. Despite the exhaustion, Chan's embrace felt comforting and secure.

He ran his hands soothingly over your back, his touch gentle yet firm, as if trying to convey all his affection through his fingertips. You raised your head to meet his gaze, finding him looking back at you with a mixture of satisfaction and tenderness in his eyes.

You pressed a series of soft kisses to his lips, his cheeks, his jawline, savoring the warmth and intimacy of the moment. Chan smiled in response, his own lips curved upwards in a contented –fucked out– expression.

You summoned the last vestiges of your strength just to tease Chan, circling your hips ever so slightly, just enough to elicit a reaction from his sensitive body. 

"Wait, wait," Chan gasped, his voice strained with sensitivity. "I can't... I can't take it."

He held you firmly against him, his grip almost desperate as he tried to steady himself. The sensation of your hips circling against his heightened his arousal to a point where he felt like he might lose control at any moment.

You couldn't help but laugh at his reaction, a playful smirk dancing on your lips. Despite the exhaustion and the intensity of your encounter, you found his vulnerability endearing.

"Sorry," you chuckled softly, the sound mingling with his labored breaths. "I couldn't resist teasing you a little."

Chan let out a breathless laugh, his chest rising and falling rapidly as he tried to regain his composure. He leaned in to press a gentle kiss against your forehead, his lips lingering against your skin for a moment before he spoke again.

"You're... you're something else, you know that?" he murmured, his voice filled with admiration. "I don't know how you do it."

You grinned up at him, feeling a surge of warmth at his words. Despite the intense physical connection between you, there was an undeniable emotional bond that had formed, deepening your connection even further.

"I guess I just have a way with you," you replied playfully, winking at him before snuggling closer into his embrace.

[miles-edgewords]

short rant about stanford pines because i need to talk about him

(content warning: mentions of abuse/cults/etc.)

ford is not evil, and i will not be convinced otherwise. he definitely struggles with emotional empathy in high-stress situations, but he’s got plenty of cognitive empathy when he’s given time to process. journal 3 made it extremely clear that he felt remorse for his actions, and ultimately he ended up admitting that stanley was the hero in the end. obviously feeling remorse ≠ earning forgiveness, but by the end of the book he’s very clearly taking steps to make amends for his mistakes and doesn’t expect forgiveness in return.

a lot of the shit ford did was also during the time he was being heavily manipulated by bill. again, this doesn’t excuse anything, but you have to remember that bill is so good at manipulation that he was one of the most feared entities in the multiverse for an enormous amount of time. bill used tactics commonly used by abusers and cult leaders to make their victims easier to manipulate (ie. enforcing severe sleep deprivation, waiting until the victim is at their lowest to make a move, isolation, love-bombing, etc.) and even when ford finally discovered the true nature of his “muse” he was effectively still being manipulated. during his 30-year dimension travels he was so worried about being used again that he agreed to have a metal plate surgically installed in his head and was still devoting 100% of his time and energy to bill—he just saw him in a negative light now instead of a positive one. again, bill’s manipulation doesn’t mean ford is exempt from accountability, but it’s worth keeping in mind.

another thing i’d like to mention is ford and stan’s parents. we don’t see that much of them, but between what we see and what’s implied we know that their father was pretty much the pinnacle of toxic masculinity. ford was raised believing that the only way he could be respected, not to mention loved, was by keeping his flaws to himself and strengthening his redeeming qualities. ford loved his research, yes— but it was also the only thing he could let himself focus on. without his assets, he was nothing (or so he believed).

ford is, at heart, someone who desperately wants to be known and loved. it took him a long time to realize that the solution to that was not awards or fame or glory, despite what he’d been led to think. it wasn’t by being the smartest kid in the classroom, or the toughest guy in the interdimensional battlefield. the best way to feel fulfilled, as he would eventually discover, is by being with people who love and trust him, and loving and trusting them in return. and he got there. bit by bit, he got there.

[beyondthegame]

you got me SOOO obsessed with e 😭 can i please ask for some music facts about them? thank you <3

Ooo, yes!

E discovered their writing talent before their singing talent, so they originally thought ‘okay, I’ll be a songwriter’.

^ All until one day they were at their friend’s birthday party. The live music booked for it got sick and didn’t turn up so E stepped in — and boom, found their singing talent.

They have multiple notebooks full of songs written, they even have the first shitty one they started working in.

E also dates when they start working on songs.

Genre: pop, RnB, a bit of dance. They’re a very emotive artist so they’d love to sing a ballad at some point… their label isn’t keen on that last idea.

Has a bass guitar named Rebel and an acoustic guitar named Rae. Also named their grand piano Forte <- (yes, E is a softie)

They like adding Spanish lyrics to some of their songs.

E realllyyy wants one of their tracks to be on a movie soundtrack.

When they’re on tour, their team: dancers, backing singers, technicians, catering, band etc. always have the best stuff to say about how lovely, caring and inclusive E is… but of course the media love painting them out as a diva.

Anndd of courseee, they want the pinnacle, E wants a Grammy. They’ll take a Brit Award but… y’know, GRAMMY!

under the cut for my Maxine Taylor x E brainrot, because I am down BAD uggh

Pre-Beyond the Game:

I totally headcanon that E approached Second Coming and thought ‘I like them… I like HER!’ and was like super respectful about the approach, slid in the dms, met face to face a few times, became acquaintances and was completely honest from the beginning about wanting to work with Maxine.

Maxine & E got each other’s numbers, they started texting and whatever and picked a date to go to the studio. Maxine strolls in, freshly dyed red hair and says ‘go on, what are your thoughts? tell me what you want’ *insert innuendo from E here*

E eventually gets serious & says that the media has been on their ass and they’re pretty much sick of it, especially since they’re usually depicted as only a model with no talent.

And I feel like Max loosely relates in a sense where she knows that the media is always going to have an opinion on you, and I think she handles this aspect of fame better than E but y'know... it's gonna sting sometimes.

Thus, the two of them talking about their dislike for certain aspects of their careers and the media — this then caused the creation and birth of Heartless.

I feel like Heartless had a good idea behind, obviously two talented artists ready to work on it, and it ended up taking some long ass months to finish and get perfect.

Month 5: I just imagine the two of them in the studio, a little tired, well past midnight, something isn't quite going right with the song, they've ordered takeout to relax and they're talking about stuff that they wouldn't usually tell anyone... if feelings are getting caught, it's right hereee.

^ Like they're looking at each other with hooded eyes and they just knoww that, not that it's necessarily a bad idea for them to kiss/catch feelings, but they both have 'thoughts' about relationships as a whole, and their partnership was one they walked into without even thinking about anything other than music... definitely leaving whether they kissed/did anything more up to you nikka

Fast-forward: Heartless is out into the world, gets nominated for an award and the single holds such a special place in E's heart. Definitely solidified Max and E's friendship, like E adores her.

I feel like they regularly keep in contact too — calls, texts, FaceTimes, chatting shit about the media as usual. E will always want to know how Second Coming's doing. E definitely invites them to tour with them.

Alsooo, headcanon that E has literally written a song about Max: just how grateful they are for their friendship with her, how you can find a person who is such a diamond in this industry etc... but that song is never seeing daylight asdfghjkl (shy E! for once)

Beyond The Game:

E texts Maxine like 'hey, got hospitality tickets to this football game... wanna come with??'

Hospitality seats at football stadiums are soo nice, like you're inside and you can watch through a window or watch on tv and you have the best food, alcohol, and you're rubbing shoulders with other celebs that are there.

Soo, Max and E would get pictured together and they'd probably laugh about it.

Whilst they're watching the game, Max would probably say 'oh, she's cute/hot' and she's talking about Miko. Miko then scores a goal. Maxine: 'very hot'.

^ This would then get E smiling a little...

[thatoneblue-anon]

So it’s November 10th aka Día de la Tradición (tradition day) in Argentina so i thought since I couldn’t do language week earlier this year I might as well make a post about why Argentina is great

Because I mean besides football and Messi (amongst other ppl), we’re a pretty underappreciated country I feel

So im here to change that (hopefully)

Also, askbox is open if you (for whatever reason) want to know any random fact about my country with a very big ego

Why Argentina is great: random facts and for some reason literature

(under cut bc I overdid it a little) (just a little)

Do you happen to know this guy?

Yeah, the bus. It was invented in Argentina as a way for taxi fees to be split between several passengers, ultimately being much cheaper than paying for a regular taxi (and to this day they still are over here) (somewhat)

Also this thingy

Yeah the ballpoint pen, it was also invented in Argentina by a guy named Ladislao José Biro, whose surname named the ballpoint pen in spanish (called birome)

And since we’re in the topic of writing, let’s me introduce you to this guy

Jorge Luis Borges (1899-1986) was an argentinian short story writer that would dictate his books to her mother (he was blind) and she would write them down, and his books about the gaucho argentino in the mid-to-late 19th century made him one of the biggest figures in international literature. I’ve read some of his stories for class and honestly they’re very interesting if you like classical literature

And also this guy, José Hernández

He published Martín Fierro in 1872, a gauchesque poem (like an epic poem but argentinian, and this book was so good it’s considered the pinnacle of that genre) that narrates the life of Martín Fierro, a gaucho that was drafted to defend an inner frontier from the natives. This book is an important part of argentinian culture, having the most prestigious national award for radio and television named after it. I havent read it yet, but I still encourage you to do so if you have the time (I will say tho, some versions are pretty long)

I am actively working on a separate post about food and probably another one about places so you will hopefully see more propaganda for Argentina soon

[phantasieandmirare]

And the peak of reading comprehension/the ability to critique the media one consumes is the following: I can say without a doubt that the book I just read was perfect, flawlessly crafted and beautifully written, the pinnacle of technique and style, a modern classic and easily one of the best books I’ve ever read, 100% deserving of that Hugo Award

And say in the exact same breath that despite its perfection I didn’t much care for it

[bookishandproud]

Big

by Vashti Harrison

Book Cover Picture

Genre or category

Coretta Scott King Award Winner

Target Age Group

Pre-K to 6th

Summary

As a young girl grows up, she struggles with the space that she takes up and overtime comes to embrace her uniqueness and build self-confidence.

Justification

I chose this book as it is the recipient of many different awards like Coretta Scott King, Caldecott, and Texas 2x2. It highlights the struggle that young girls can face as they grow up and their appearance begins to be judged. It offers a great representation and simple look into how to grow through that and embrace yourself and your body.

Evaluation

For this review, I will be evaluating illustrations, theme, and mood.

The illustrations for this book were beautifully soft, while not losing any detail that is needed to convey the meaning of the story. As the young girl grows up and is increasingly judged for her appearance and more and more words are used to describe her, the words are increasingly used within the illustrations to demonstrate how they have impacted her and stayed with her over time. The illustrations also really show how the girl feels as it portrays her as increasingly bigger than all of the things she is around in an exaggerated, but not too unrealistic to the feeling that the words would cause. In a pinnacle of the moment, the illustrations and the girl get bigger and bigger until they take up the whole page, and the book becomes a box that the child is in. The use of color was also great for portraying the feelings of the girl, as her dress becomes darker as her feelings get darker, and then get lighter as she lets them out.

The theme of this book is twofold. The first theme is about how to deal with growing up and the increasing judgement of a society around you and their perceived notions of what you should and shouldn't be doing, and what you should and shouldn't look like. As children get older, they begin to learn the boundaries of the world around them and become aware of just how much space they take up, especially in comparison to those around them. The author is also the illustrator so they're able to capture this in the words that are repeated throughout the book and in the illustrations of the girl as she grows larger and larger in the pictures. The other theme that can be taken away from the book is that words have power and impact. In reading the book, children can learn how their words affect others, having a lasting impact and continuing to stick around well past the moments they are used. Depending on the experiences of the child and/or parents reading the book, they could take a different lesson away from it.

The mood of the story goes from hopeful and happy, to sad and dark, then back to hopeful and a more calm feeling. When the child is very young, she experiences the world around her in new experiences and she's taken care of and happy and everything is bright. As she gets older and the world begins to leave a lasting impression on her, the mood gets darker and darker, represented with the colors of the illustrations. The words she hears become a big part of the story and affect the mood as they're repeated for emphasis and the girl gets more and more sad. At the end, when she releases a lot of the pent up emotions and comes to be self-confident and ignore the words of those around her the mood of the story changes as it becomes calm and hopeful again as the girl is more comfortable in her body. Throughout the book, the reader easily feels what the little girl is feeling and quickly empathizes with her.

Rating:  ★★★★

References

Harrison, V. (2023). Big. Little, Brown and Company.

[ahlam-musandam-tours]

Khasab Musandam Half-day Dhow Cruise

In life, it’s sometimes a good idea to take detours. They show you different paths, journeys less travelled, and endeavours to provide new experiences.

So, do you plan to take a small detour on the UAE tour at Khasab Musandam? That might be one of the best experiences in your life.

Welcome to Ahlam Musandam Tours – The one-stop destination for the best that Khasab Musandam Fjords has to offer. Take a cruise to Khasab Musandam, where the beauty is radiant, and the waters are as clear as the blue skies. Khasab Musandam and the Musandam Fjords located there will offer you the ideal opportunity to experience snorkelling, Swimming and greet the dolphins along the way.

Through the Half Day Dhow cruise arranged by Ahlam Musandam Tours, gain a glimpse into the mesmerizing beauty of Musandam Fjords. So, experience Khasab Musandam most efficiently. Join the journey, today!!

Ahlam Musandam Tours endeavours to enrich your soul through travels. We have several Khasab Musandam activities in store for our customers. We have received accolades from various customers we’ve served over the years and are also the proud winners of the “Trip Advisor Travellers Choice of the Year Award,2022”.

We believe that a journey is an awakening to reality and the mysteries the world holds. Every experience enhances the perception and enables the discovery of new and interesting elements in life. To serve our customers better, we offer and guarantee the best prices possible, free cancellations, customized plans, and much more. Choose us and experience Musandam from a different perspective. Book the half-day dhow cruise and ensure that your trip will be memorable, enjoyable, and enlightening.

Khasab Musandam Activities on a Half Day Dhow Cruise:

Khasab Musandam Half-day tours deem to be one of the fun activities you embark on in a lifetime. Ahlam Musandam tours have planned and arranged several activities for our fellow travellers, and they are indeed, Adventurous!!

On arrival at the Dhow boarding point at Khasab, it’s time to embark on a wonderful cruise on a traditional Omani Dhow. When you’re travelling across the UAE, time is of the essence and the half-day dhow cruise has been arranged for your convenience.

Sail seamlessly through the azure waters, witness the Fjords and experience neighbouring fishing villages as well. Go Swimming and snorkelling at select locations during the Khasab Musandam half-day dhow cruise.

Enter the home of cute, funny and majestic creatures of the sea only known as the Dolphin. It’s a constantly occurring phenomenon that’ll come up when you’re cruising through the waters of Musandam Fjord.

While you’re basking in the view of the breathtaking dolphins, we’ve arranged some assorted snacks, soft drinks, fresh fruits, traditional Oman coffees and tea onboard for our esteemed guests. The half-day dhow cruise deems to be one of the time-efficient, exciting and worthwhile experiences of your life.

Musandam fjord (Khor Ash-Sham)

Musandam Fjord or Khor Ash Sham is the pinnacle of beauty that Khasab Musandam has to offer. This beautiful combination of water bodies and unique terrains is located in Wilayat Khasab, Musandam Peninsula.

The inlet is calm, sheltered and surrounded by high mountains that encapsulate the beauty of Oman. The lagoon covers over 17 kilometres and is indeed breathtaking.

The area overlooks several fishing villages such as Nadifi, Qanah, Maqlab, Sham and Seeb which will be on the route that the dhow cruise will embark upon. However, gaining access to these unique fishing villages is only achieved through speed boats.

Apart from the breath-taking beauty and several fishing villages, the main attraction at Musandam Fjords is the cute, loving and playful Dolphins. The Dolphins are native to Musandam fjords and have been born and raised in the vicinity. The Half Day dhow cruise aims to explore and interact with these magnificent mammals and get to know them on a personal level. While you’re on a traditional dhow, you can see them swimming alongside the dhows in an attempt to race them as a fun activity.

Musandam Fjord - A Great place for snorkelling

Apart from the lovely mammals and breathtaking views, Musandam Fjords are considered a great destination for snorkelers. Along with the fun-loving dolphins, you can snorkel or swim into the Musandam fjords and witness reef fish, coral reefs, depending on luck, reef sharks, and green turtles also in the blue sea. It’s considered a perfect destination for swimming and snorkelling as the water is crystal clear and clean.

A fun fact about one of the locations is that a small island known as Telegraph Island was used in 1864 as a base to connect to the telegraph cable. The traditional dhow will be taking guests to this location to witness a piece of the history of Khasab Musandam.

Dolphins in the Musandam fjords (Khor Sham)

Dolphins are one of the most fun, loving and unique mammals blessed on this earth for people to interact with. They are smart, agile and active in their natural habitat.

A dolphin-watching trip is one of the main highlights of the half day dhow cruise at Khasab Musandam. It isn’t every day you get a chance to interact and see them in their natural habitat. Dolphins are intelligent animals with complex social structures and are friendly sea mammals who enjoy following traditional boats. Once the captain finds them, he reaches close to them and shifts gear to pick up speed thereby attracting them to race. Their fascination with boats is adorable and is a lovely sight to witness. The travellers journeying with us can enjoy the rare moments of watching the exciting and active dolphins closing in. Hence, through the half day dhow cruise, the dolphin trip is going to be one of the highlights of your whole trip to Oman.

Here’s a fun fact we want to let you in on. Did you know that there is only a specific type of Dolphin that you can see in Khor Sham? Well, the one type of Dolphin seen in Khor Sham Fjord is the “Humpback Dolphin”, and they always travel in groups. While cruising through Musandam Fjord, you can witness the mystery and wonder of watching baby dolphins alongside their families. There is no better sight than that. So, choose from one of our best Khasab Musandam boat tour deals and experience the voyage of a lifetime.

[allenstewart958]

Get the Best Wines for Every Occasion

The Okanagan Valley is a wine lover’s paradise, with picturesque landscapes and quite a few global-class vineyards. If you're searching out an unforgettable enjoy, Sip & Anchor offers the appropriate manner to explore Okanagan Wineries with curated Wine Tasting Kelowna tours. Whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or a newcomer to wine tasting, our excursions provide a unique and enjoyable way to enjoy the quality wines the area has to offer.

Why Okanagan Wineries?

The Okanagan Valley is one in all Canada’s most celebrated wine regions. Known for its dry, sunny weather, the valley is ideal for grape growing, generating award-winning wines that have received worldwide recognition. With over 2 hundred wineries scattered across the location, from boutique family-owned vineyards to large, famous estates, the Okanagan offers a numerous array of wines, inclusive of whites, reds, rosés, and glowing wines.

Kelowna, positioned within the coronary heart of the Okanagan, is a hub for wine enthusiasts. The region boasts a wealthy winemaking records that dates back to the 19th century, and these days, it remains a pinnacle destination for wine enthusiasts. By becoming a member of considered one of Sip & Anchor’s Wine Tasting Kelowna tours, you may have the possibility to enjoy the great of this famend vicinity.

The Sip & Anchor Wine Tasting Experience

At Sip & Anchor, we pleasure ourselves on offering an increased and comfortable wine-tasting revel in. Our Okanagan Wineries excursions are designed to be each informative and enjoyable, offering guests with get right of entry to to a number of the best wineries in the vicinity. Here’s what units our tours aside:

1. Curated Wine Routes

Each tour is thoughtfully curated to highlight some of the Okanagan Valley’s greatest wineries. Our group selects wineries based on their reputation, wine high-quality, and precise offerings. Whether you're interested in sampling crisp whites, sturdy reds, or artisanal blends, you’ll find something to fit your taste.

2. Expert Guidance

Our knowledgeable guides are obsessed with wine and the Okanagan place. They'll share insights into the winemaking technique, the records of the wineries, and the unique characteristics of Okanagan wines. Whether you're a amateur or a gourmet, our guides tailor the experience for your degree of interest.

3. Private and Group Tours

We offer each private and group Wine Tasting Kelowna tours to healthy special choices. If you’re seeking out a greater intimate experience, our personal excursions provide personalized itineraries, giving you the power to explore at your own tempo. Group excursions, alternatively, are best for assembly like-minded wine fanatics and playing a social time out.

4. Breathtaking Scenery

In addition to tasting a number of the location’s satisfactory wines, you’ll be surrounded with the aid of lovely Okanagan surroundings. Rolling vineyards, shimmering lakes, and majestic mountains create a postcard-worthy backdrop that enhances the overall revel in.

Sip & Anchor: More Than Just Wine Tasting

Sip & Anchor’s Okanagan Wineries tours move beyond wine tasting. We aim to create a full day of rest, exploration, and indulgence. Along with winery visits, we offer the possibility to explore the nearby area. Our tours regularly encompass visits to local markets, artisan stores, and scenic viewpoints, allowing you to immerse yourself inside the wealthy subculture of the Okanagan.

Food Pairings and Gourmet Experiences

No wine tasting is complete with out pairing it with scrumptious meals. Many of the wineries we go to offer gourmand meals alternatives, which include charcuterie boards, artisanal cheeses, and farm-to-table meals. These pairings are designed to complement the wines and beautify your tasting revel in.

Book Your Wine Tasting Kelowna Tour Today!

Exploring Okanagan Wineries with Sip & Anchor is an revel in you won’t neglect. Whether you’re celebrating a unique occasion, making plans a romantic getaway, or in reality looking for a chilled day out, our Wine Tasting Kelowna excursions provide some thing for absolutely everyone. Let us contend with all of the details so you can sit again, sip, and enjoy.

Ready to embark on an Okanagan wine journey? Book your tour these days at Sip & Anchor and get equipped to discover the first-rate wines in the vicinity!

[realestateinsights]

Exploring Urbana By Intercontinental Infrastructure: A Complete Guide

Pune is the second largest city of Maharashtra after Mumbai. The city attracts many immigrants from all over the state and country due to the growing IT and manufacturing industries. It is also an educational hub attracting students who prefer to work in the city after finishing their education. Pune has a high demand for housing, especially affordable housing, by first-time home buyers who want to settle in the city. With the rising property prices and interest rates on home loans, there is a need to make homes affordable to those who wish to own a home.

Government Initiatives

The state and the central government have introduced and implemented several schemes to make housing affordable for the economically weaker sections of society. The Maharashtra Housing and Area Development Authority (MHADA) has successfully developed affordable housing projects and awarded them to deserving families.

The Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna Scheme offers subsidies on home loan interest rates for those who cannot afford to buy homes at the market rates. By availing of these schemes many first-time home buyers can own a home in Pune.

The Urbana by Intercontinental

The Urbana is a township located at Chakan in Pune. This township offers 1 and 2 BHK flats in Chakan in 10 towers spread over 6.5 acres. It is a pinnacle of modern living and urban sophistication, one of the rare projects that offers a comfortable and modern lifestyle in the affordable segment. Not just the homes but even the amenities provided by The Urbana Pune are designed to enhance the living experience through leisure, recreation, and social activities.

The Urbana is located in Chakan which offers seamless connectivity to PCMC and Pune. With its strategic location, proximity to business establishments, and upcoming infrastructure projects, Chakan is emerging as a prominent residential hub in Pune.

Affordable Housing

The Urbana is offering 1 & 2 BHK flats in Chakan starting from 20.60* Lakhs which is the most competitive pricing in the affordable housing segment. Home buyers can avail of exciting offers like booking a home by paying Rs 25,000* only and the EMIs after possession. Also, they do not have to pay GST, Stamp duty, and Registration charges while buying their home at The Urbana. These translate to significant savings making owning a home at Intercontinental Urbana easy.

By availing of the government schemes first-time home buyers can now dream of owning their home. With reduced rates on home loans and the schemes provided by the developer, home buyers can plan their finances to successfully pay their loan dues on time and become proud home owners. They can live their dream of living in a modern township with the best amenities for their families at an upcoming urban location in Pune.

[jjspina]

Summer Reading time!

[sarahshinde]

Unveiling the Opulent Oasis: Sahara Star – Your Luxury Hotel in Mumbai

Discover a haven of luxury and sophistication nestled in the heart of Mumbai – Sahara Star. As an epitome of elegance and grandeur, Sahara Star stands tall as a beacon of opulence in India's bustling metropolis.

Strategically located near Mumbai's domestic airport, Sahara Star welcomes guests with unmatched hospitality and lavish amenities. Each corner exudes magnificence, from the majestic lobby adorned with intricate designs to the meticulously crafted guest rooms that redefine comfort and style.

Indulge in a culinary journey at our award-winning restaurants, where world-class chefs curate gastronomic delights to tantalize your taste buds. Whether it's authentic Indian cuisine at Namak, global flavors at The Earth Plate, or a luxurious dining experience at Mabruk, every meal is a celebration of exquisite flavors and culinary mastery.

Unwind and rejuvenate your senses at our renowned Juvana Spa, offering a sanctuary of relaxation amidst the bustling city. Dive into tranquility with a range of therapeutic treatments and massages tailored to revitalize your body and mind.

At Sahara Star, every moment transcends ordinary into extraordinary. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, our impeccable service and attention to detail ensure an unforgettable stay.

Experience the pinnacle of luxury hospitality in Mumbai at Sahara Star – where indulgence knows no bounds. Book your escape today and embark on a journey of unparalleled luxury and refinement.

[mschmdtphotography]

Outstanding Creator Awards Scam

Of all these book awards, the most prestigious are the Nobel Prize in Literature, the Pulitzer Prize, the Booker Prize, the International Booker Prize, PEN America Literary Awards, and the National Book Award. These awards are highly coveted, being recognized globally by authors alike across all genres. Reader’s Favorite, Pencraft, Pinnacle, Readers Choice, Firebrand, Literary Titan, The…

[hsaainteriorcompany]

The layout excellence: HSAA, The Top Interior Design Firm In Delhi

Are you looking to give your space a brand-new, modern appearance? We are here to give your own home a brand-new image. With 37 years of experience in award-winning interior design services for homes and offices, HSAA is one of the pinnacle interior design companies in Delhi. We will design spaces that make you feel alive.

Our expert and professionals in the excellent indoors design firms in Delhi will provide your private home and workplace area a completely unique style and personality. Whether you want a modern appearance or a traditional one, we emphasize the high-quality offerings and appearance that meet every requirement. We offer you a wide variety of offerings, including space planning, fabric, fixtures selection, lighting fixtures design, and plenty more. Our professional groups will handle all work and elements to ensure that the result is not just a space but a sense that is created with love and willpower.

How does Interior layout give you the results you want?

Interior layout is the art of combining simplicity with aesthetics, a powerful tool that can remodel a residence right into a domestic and an office into an efficient area. At HSAA, we apprehend the importance of the area in shaping one’s identity. Our indoor layout offerings in Delhi cross past developing areas; we provide complete makeovers to your house and workplace spaces. In addition to this, We meticulously build, compare, and lay out principles, transforming them into elaborate architectural frameworks that inspire and uplift. Besides this, indoor design is an artwork that adjusts the look of the gap. It’s about information on the significance of a person’s identity and the way it might impact their identity. HSAA is a contemporary interior design agency wherein we layout functionally to provide you with high-stop interior layout creation. Our professional design group and experts are the enterprise’s spine that leads you in designing a well-designed domestic with our unique institution of highly skilled people in this top-class interior design corporation in Delhi. The actual identity of HSAA is set to growing something that you love and cherish and offering you with 

Our Creations

It’s proper to mention that the purpose of interior design is to offer appealing and captivating designs for a better satisfactory of lifestyles. However, the goal of HSAA luxury indoors layout organization in Delhi is to enhance the consumer experience and discover a layout concept that works for all varieties of wishes. The preliminary section is the Evaluation of a property, observed with the aid of layout reason and idea implementation. Our interior designers in Delhi are all based totally on the requests and suggestions of our clients. If you’re looking for an awesome design for domestic and workplace décor with high-quality furnishings and the best custom-built fixtures, get in touch with us today! Furthermore, our design company enjoys taking on new tasks. Whether it’s a modern-day rental, penthouse, or private villa, we offer awesome, great providers. When it comes to finishing, exceptional carrier—our team’s perfection and skilled work will provide you with the final unique solutions to building a new space. We will offer you with more than just a design concept. Book your allotments today, and also you’ll obtain refreshed elegance, rest, and fine vibes.

Our Consultation

HSAA specializes in supplying Delhi’s high-quality indoor design services at the doorstep. You will revel in authentic and unique interior layout creations that could create a temper, an environment, or an impact on your lifestyle. At HSAA, the initial step of the interior layout technique constantly begins with remarkable space planning that takes into consideration all the vital requirements and concerns that our clients deliver to the desk. There is no layout without a field, so we are able to examine and determine the only way to perform your goals to fulfill the needs and requirements of your mission. Once the special concept has been shaped for your venue, our crew will work on it. We provide you with a comprehensive collection of drawings that could encompass hints for partitions, ceilings, electrical, woodworking, and fixture arrangements.We maintain pinnacle-notch quality at the sites during the method. 

HSAA works with you at every factor, from the start to end manner to the design of realistic aesthetics, and offers you a modern living space that fits your desires and lifestyle without compromising on something.

[upwords1990]

Gimme-Jimmy

Author Sherrill S. Cannonhttps://a.co/d/iWUBIMv

How a Bully Learns to Share … “James Alexander’s nickname was Jim, But nobody would be friends with him. No one wanted to play with Jimmy, For Jim Alexander always said, “Gimme.”

Thus begins the rhyming story of Jim Alexander, whose nickname was Gimme-Jimmy because he was a greedy and selfish bully. Imagine Jimmy’s concern when he found that every time he said the word “Gimme,” his hand grew larger!

Jimmy was happy to discover that when he was polite and said, “Please” and “Thank you,” his hand began to shrink. He started practicing his new “Polite Rule” and found out that it was much more fun to share.

Author Sherrill S. Cannon wrote three children’s books that garnered prestigious awards in 2011. In less than two years, this award-winning grandmother of nine had three books and five children’s plays published. Gimme-Jimmy is her fourth book.

Her earlier book The Magic Word received a Readers Favorite Gold Medal, a NABE Pinnacle Achievement Award and a Global eBook Finalist Award; Santa’s Birthday Gift received a National Indie Excellence Finalist Award and a Readers Favorite Silver Medal; and Peter and the Whimper-Whineys won a Readers Favorite Bronze Medal and a USA Best Books Finalist Award. These three award-winning titles are all available as eBooks, and Peter and the Whimper-Whineys is also available as an app.

About the Author:

A former teacher, Sherrill S. Cannon of Great Bend, Pennsylvania, is retired and travels the country with her husband in an RV, going from coast to coast to visit their children and grandchildren, sharing her wonderfully rhyming books along the way.

Publisher’s website: http://sbpra.com/SherrillSCannon

#BookNow2024#BookTok#bestsellingauthor#author#bookstagram

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#Children#Manners#Books

[acalavidyaraja]

Signs of Progress in Spiritual Practice: Insights from Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche

SIGNS OF PROGRESS

"What are the signs of progress in our practice?

What can we expect?

Should we wait for a signal from the guru - or an award?

According to Karma Chagme Rinpoche,

we will have no experiences,

no special dreams, no pure visions.

The “king of all signs,” - also known as the “sign of no-sign,”

which was highly prized by the Kagyupa masters of the past,

is when renunciation mind,

sadness and devotion blaze in your mind.

The signs to be cherished

most include an escalating appetite for dharma practice;

noticing the futility of everything you do;

ever-increasing conflicts as a result of old habits;

and while you may still have the urge to party with your friends,

to be plagued by the unwelcome sense

that the whole thing is a useless waste of time.

Therefore do not constantly aim to finish the practice.

Instead, try to accept that your spiritual journey will never end.

Your journey began with the wish that you personally,

bring all sentient beings to enlightenment,

so until that wish is fulfilled,

your activities as a bodhisattva will never cease."

~ Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche

From: "Not for Happiness"

In the journey of spiritual practice, understanding the signs of progress is crucial for practitioners to navigate their path effectively. Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche, a prominent Tibetan Buddhist teacher, offers profound insights into the signs of progress in his book "Not for Happiness." Let's delve into these signs and their significance:

1. Absence of Experiences and Special Dreams: Contrary to common expectations of mystical experiences or vivid dreams, true progress may not manifest in such overt ways. According to Karma Chagme Rinpoche, a lack of extraordinary experiences does not negate progress.

2. The "King of All Signs": Known as the "sign of no-sign," this pinnacle of progress is characterized by the intense presence of renunciation mind, sadness, and devotion in one's consciousness. It reflects a deepening commitment to the spiritual path and a detachment from worldly distractions.

3. Escalating Appetite for Dharma Practice: A genuine sign of progress is an increasing thirst for engaging in spiritual practices. This heightened enthusiasm indicates a growing understanding of the transformative power of dharma in one's life.

4. Recognition of Futility: Progress entails recognizing the inherent futility of worldly pursuits. As practitioners deepen their understanding, they start to see through the illusion of permanence and satisfaction in mundane activities.

5. Conflict with Old Habits: Progress often leads to internal conflicts as practitioners confront and challenge their ingrained habits and patterns. This inner struggle is a sign of growth, as it signifies a willingness to break free from limiting behaviors.

6. Sense of Uselessness: Despite the desire to indulge in worldly pleasures, practitioners may experience a sense of disillusionment, perceiving such activities as a waste of time. This disillusionment highlights the shifting priorities and values that accompany spiritual progress.

7. Embrace of the Endless Journey: Rather than seeking a finite endpoint, progress involves embracing the perpetual nature of the spiritual journey. Understanding that the path to enlightenment is never-ending fosters humility and perseverance in practice.

Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche emphasizes the importance of cultivating bodhisattva aspirations, which underpin the practitioner's commitment to benefiting all sentient beings. This altruistic intention ensures that the journey towards enlightenment remains boundless and ever-relevant.

In conclusion, the signs of progress in spiritual practice, as elucidated by Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche, transcend superficial experiences and instead manifest as inner transformations and shifts in perception. By recognizing and cherishing these subtle signs, practitioners can navigate their spiritual journey with clarity, purpose, and unwavering dedication.