#Retail Manager @ Citi Bank.

[danielkaufmanrealestate]

Navigating the Distressed Waters: U.S. Commercial Property Trends in Q2 2024

The real estate landscape is shifting, and distress signals are flashing across the U.S. commercial property market. According to MSCI’s Capital Trends US Distress Tracker, the numbers tell a compelling story. The Numbers Speak: $94.2 Billion in Distress In the second quarter of 2024, U.S. commercial property distress surged to a staggering $94.2 billion, marking a $2 billion increase from Q1.…

[peavhyshy]

⋆˚ 𝜗𝜚˚⋆ - SHOPPING SPREE

ᯓᡣ𐭩 pairing ─ ୨୧ ─ Boyfriend!Rafe Cameron ⋆ Pogue!Reader

ᯓᡣ𐭩 summary ─ ୨୧ ─ in which Rafe goes over-the-top as usual to apologize for cheating which includes a grand gesture of buying out an entire boutique is creatively meant to.

ᯓᡣ𐭩 warnings ─ ୨୧ ─ strong language, fluff, semi smut (but not really), power dynamics, mental/emotional manipulation and ulterior motives, reference to cheating, sexually suggestive situations, non-consensual elements (pressure/coercion into sexual acts), dubious consent, unhealthy relationship, discomfort/anxiety, misogyny/objectification.

ᯓᡣ𐭩 wc ─ ୨୧ ─ 5,130

⋆˚✿˖° a/n ─ ୨୧ ─ It's been a while since I posted on here and whatever so here I am, but who's to say I won't disappear for another few months.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ── Outer Banks Masterlist ─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ── Navigation ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆

Rafe sauntered into the high-end boutique, the little bell above the door announcing his arrival. The sales associates perked up, eyeing his Ralph Lauren polo and Sperry boat shoes. Ah, a Kook with money to burn. 

"Hello sir, can I help you find anything today?" the manager asked, her voice dripping with fake pleasantness.

"Yeah, I need to buy out like, your whole store," Rafe said nonchalantly, checking out a display of cashmere sweaters. 

The associates' eyes widened in surprise and delight. "Buy out the whole store, sir?"

"Yep. I screwed up badly with my girl. She's a Pogue, you know? Doesn't really do the whole fancy clothes thing. But she found out I cheated on her with some Touron last week, and now she's pissed." Rafe picked up a floral sundress, scrutinizing it. "So I figured, what better way to say sorry than decking her out in some new designer threads?"

The manager nodded enthusiastically. "I'm sure she'll appreciate the gesture. Let me start ringing up some items for you."  

"Nah, like I said, I want to buy out the whole damn store. Just name your price." Rafe pulled out his credit card, waving it around.  

The manager's eyes lit up at the thought of the huge commission she was about to make. "Of course, sir, let me calculate our current retail inventory value and I'll give you a total."

"Make it quick. I’ve got a picnic on the beach planned to beg for her forgiveness," Rafe said, leaning on the cash wrap counter impatiently. 

The manager returned shortly with the grand total. Rafe didn't even blink as he handed over his credit card. Anything to get his Pogue princess back.

Rafe leaned against the wall near the cash register, watching with disinterest as the store employees scurried around grabbing items off racks and shelves.

"Come on, pick up the pace," he called out impatiently. "I wanna get out of here before the sun goes down."

The manager gave him an appeasing smile as she stuffed an armful of sundresses into a large box. "We're going as fast as we can, sir. I really appreciate your business - this is the biggest sale we've ever had!"

Rafe just shrugged, stifling a yawn. The workers were cramming the boxes full of tissue paper and accessories, trying to maximize what they could fit. Shoes, handbags, skirts, tops - everything was being cleared off the floors and walls. 

One associate struggled to fold a pile of cashmere sweaters to fit in an overflowing box while another carefully wrapped up a display of fine china jewelry. The store was slowly emptying out as the minutes ticked by.

"Ugh, this is taking forever," Rafe groaned, pulling out his phone to scroll aimlessly. "I should've just gone to Party City and bought her a bunch of balloons or something." 

The manager's smile strained a bit as she kept up her enthusiastic energy. "Almost done, sir! Just a few more minutes and you'll have our entire inventory to present to your lovely girlfriend."

"Yeah, yeah," Rafe muttered, back to being bored. Buying out the whole store was proving to be more tedious than he had anticipated. But hey, you were worth it. Probably.

”I need all of this shipped to her beach house.”

The manager nodded as she taped up another overstuffed box. "Of course, sir. I can arrange delivery to any address you'd like."

She gestured to one of the other employees. "Sara, can you grab some shipping labels? We'll need to send all of these boxes to this gentleman's girlfriend's house once we're finished packing everything up."  

Sara hurried to grab a stack of shipping labels and a pen. "What's the address, sir?" she asked Rafe.

"Oh, uh..." Rafe scratched his head. "Somewhere in The Cut, not really sure of the exact address. It's a small blue house near the bay though, it has a tire swing out front. Think the name on the mailbox is L/N or something like that."

Sara looked confused. "Do you have the street name or number? There are a lot of small blue houses in The Cut."

Rafe rolled his eyes. "Jesus, I don't know that shit. Her dad's name is Hank though, if that helps. Everyone knows Hank the Tank down there."

The manager and Sara exchanged a look, neither seeming confident about locating the right address. 

"Tell you what," Rafe continued, pulling out a thick wad of cash from his back pocket. "Here's 500 bucks. That should cover you guys figuring out where the hell to deliver all this stuff to Y/N in The Cut. I'm sure one of the Pogues down there can point you in the right direction."

He tossed the cash on the counter and headed for the door without another word, leaving the overwhelmed store employees with boxes piled high and vague delivery information.

You squinted against the setting sun as three large delivery trucks rumbled down the sandy driveway toward your family's weathered beach house. You set down your cards on the rickety picnic table, where you had been playing an intense game of Crazy Eights with John B, JJ, Sarah, and Kiara.

"What the hell is this?" you muttered. The trucks parked haphazardly amidst the uncut grass and strewn beach debris surrounding the house. Drivers hopped out and opened up the backs, revealing piles and piles of boxes crammed to the brim.

"Whoa, did you order the entire Amazon warehouse or something?" JJ joked, sauntering over to inspect the deliveries. 

Before you  could respond, the porch boards creaked loudly under the weight of multiple pairs of high-heeled shoes. The group turned to see half a dozen boutique store employees teetering across the uneven ground, laden with clothing on hangers and large shopping bags.

"Oh no..." you groaned, realization dawning on you. 

"Delivery for Ms. Y/N L/N!" one of the women trilled, scanning the rural beachfront for the recipient. 

"That's you, Y/N," John B said, giving you a puzzled look.

Just then, a delivery man approached with an oversized bouquet of roses and a card. "Are you Ms. Y/N? These are for you along with all of these boxes."

"I'm going to kill him," you seethed, grabbing the card. Sure enough, it was from Rafe, attempting to apologize for cheating in his usual over-the-top Kook fashion.   

The others laughed, taking in the three trucks overflowing with designer clothes and accessories that had arrived on your doorstep.  The group whooped and raced toward the trucks, laughing at Rafe's attempt to buy back your forgiveness. You had to admit - it was a pretty damn good start.

The sun had just set over the expansive Cameron estate as you marched up the long driveway and let yourself in the front door. You breezed past the elaborate foyer and down the hall towards the state-of-the-art home gym, where you knew you would find Rafe. 

Sure enough, there he was - shirtless and pumping iron, the clanking of weights echoing through the large room. You crossed your arms, watching as Rafe finished his set of bicep curls before acknowledging your presence. 

"Oh hey babe," he said casually, setting down the dumbbells. "I see you got my gifts."

"You mean the eighteen-wheeler trucks filled with designer clothes that choked the road to my house all afternoon?" you replied sharply.  

Rafe grinned. "So I take it, you liked them?"

You rolled your eyes. "Did you seriously buy out the entire Verona Boutique?"

"Maybe," Rafe shrugged, grabbing his towel to wipe the sweat from his brow. 

"Why would you do that?" you asked in exasperation. 

"Come on, I was just trying to apologize for what I did," Rafe said. "I wanted to show you how much you mean to me."

You sighed heavily. "You can't buy me off with fancy clothes, Rafe. That's not how this works."  

Rafe stood up and walked over to you. "But did it at least make you smile a little?" he asked with a coy grin. 

Despite yourself, You felt the corners of your mouth turn upward. You shook your head, trying to fight the smile. 

"You're unbelievable," you scoffed. But Rafe took your reaction as a promising sign. 

"So...am I forgiven?" he asked. 

You shrugged, struggling to stay stern. "You're not off the hook yet. But...it's a start."

Rafe smiled victoriously and pulled you into an embrace. You hated to admit it, but his over-the-top gesture did melt away some of your anger. Only a Kook would think that buying out an entire boutique could fix cheating - but you had to give him points for creativity.

Rafe's face lit up with a delighted grin as he saw the smile fighting its way onto your lips. Score! He knew you couldn't stay mad at him for long, not when he pulled out all the stops with his over-the-top apology gifts. Sure, buying you an entire wardrobe wasn't exactly practical, but he wanted to go big to show you how much he cared. Because even though he screwed up by cheating, your were still his girl and he needed you to know you were #1. No Touron hookup could ever mean anything compared to you.

Pulling you tighter into his embrace, Rafe pressed a kiss to the top of your head as you nuzzled into his bare chest. He could tell the wheels were still turning in your mind, trying to decide if you were ready to fully forgive  him yet. But he had plenty more tricks up his sleeve if needed. Diamonds, a new car, a trip to Paris - anything you wanted, it was yours. Being the heir to the Cameron fortune had its perks when you needed to get yourself out of the doghouse.

"So when are you gonna model some of these new outfits for me, hmm?" he murmured suggestively in your ear. "Maybe a private fashion show tonight? I'll even let you use my black AmEx again if you want to pick up some sexy lingerie to complete the looks." He grinned devilishly.

You rolled your eyes and gently pushed out of his embrace. "Down boy. You're not off the hook yet," you reminded him, though your tone had softened considerably. Rafe held up his hands in mock surrender.

"Okay okay, I know. But you gotta admit, the mental image is pretty hot," he said with a wink. you just shook your head, trying to hide your smile. You could never stay irritated with him for long. 

"Alright, I should get home and figure out what to do with the small mountain of designer clothes currently cluttering up my living room," You sighed. "I still can't believe you bought out the entire store."

Rafe waved a hand casually. "Don't even trip about it. Consider it just a small token of my love," he said smoothly.

You quirked an eyebrow. "A small token? Rafe, it's got to be worth at least $20,000 worth of stuff."

Rafe shrugged. "Meh, that's like pocket change for me, babe. You're worth it and so much more." He pulled you in for a quick kiss. "I'll swing by later to help you sort through it all, yeah?"

You nodded, a genuine smile breaking through now. "Yeah, okay. I'll see you later." you gave him one last peck on the lips before heading out, shaking your head slightly at your ridiculous boyfriend's attempt to buy your forgiveness. But even you had to admit it was a pretty damn adorable gesture. The boy was utterly smitten, that much was clear. And even if it took a small army of delivery trucks worth of designer clothes to prove it, you supposed you couldn't complain. After all, what girl didn't love a massive shopping spree courtesy of the Cameron family fortune?

Rafe sauntered up the stairs of your beach house, not bothering to knock before letting himself in. your dad was away on a fishing charter and he knew you’d be home alone trying to organize the massive shipment of clothes he had sent over as an apology gift.

"Knock knock, princess!" he called out as he strode down the hall to your bedroom. "Did you get a chance to try on any of the new outfits I bought you?"

He pushed open your bedroom door to find you sitting cross-legged on the floor, surrounded by mounds of tissue paper and discarded shopping bags. You looked up at him in exasperation.

"Rafe! You could at least knock before barging into my room," you admonished. 

“My bad, didn't mean to startle you. Just excited to see my gifts being put to use," he said with a grin.

You sighed, gesturing to the chaos around you. "Well, I've been trying to sort through it all morning but there's just so much stuff. You went way overboard as usual."

"Anything to make my girl happy," Rafe replied smoothly, plopping down on the floor next to you. "Here, let me help you get organized."

He began sifting through the piles of clothing, occasionally holding up items for your inspection. "Ooh, you have to model this one for me," he said, grabbing a lacy black teddy. "And this mini skirt would look so hot on you."

You blushed deeply, snatching the risqué items out of his hands. "Rafe! My dad could be home any minute," you hissed in embarrassment.

"So? I want him to see how smoking his daughter looks in the outfits I bought her," Rafe said with a devilish grin. "Might make him finally approve of me."

You buried your face in your hands. "You're unbelievable," you groaned. "Can we please just focus on organizing? I don't have time for an impromptu fashion show."

"Fine fine, I'll behave. For now," he added in a playful whisper.

You guys spent the next hour sorting your new wardrobe into categories - dresses, tops, bottoms, shoes, jewelry. Rafe "helped" by periodically holding up scandalous lingerie pieces and wiggling his eyebrows suggestively until you threaten to smack him with a stiletto heel.

Despite your exasperation at the overabundance of clothing, you had to admit it was fun exploring all the different styles and accessories Rafe had picked out for you. The boy definitely knew your taste, even if he did go over-the-top with buying out the entire store. You made a mental note to donate some of the clothes to charity once you had a chance to try it all on.

You collapsed backwards onto a pile of cashmere sweaters. "Phew! We’re almost done." You smiled over at Rafe. "Thanks for your help. And for the very generous gift. Even though it's pretty ridiculous you bought out an entire store," you added with a laugh.

Rafe grinned and leaned down to capture your lips in a soft kiss. "Anything for my princess," he murmured. "You deserve to be spoiled rotten."

You giggled as he nuzzled your neck, wrapping your arms around him. You supposed you couldn't stay irritated with him for long, not when he was just trying to show his affection through expensive gifts. Over-the-top as it may be.

"Alright Casanova, that's enough distracting me," You said, playfully nudging him away. "Now help me get all of these clothes put away in my closet before my dad gets home."

You shook your head in amusement. "You're absolutely ridiculous. But…" You tilted your head up to him and smiled."I love you for it."

Rafe playfully tackled you onto the pile of cashmere sweaters you had been sorting through. You let out a surprised squeal, smacking his chest lightly as he hovered over you. "Rafeee, I told you to behave!" you chided through your laughter. He just grinned mischievously, dipping his head to kiss along your neck and collarbone as you squirmed beneath him ticklishly.

"Mm mm, you know I can never keep my hands off you for long," he murmured against your skin, nipping lightly. His hands slid up under your shirt, tracing along your stomach and ribs. You shivered at the contact, cheeks flushing as you felt him growing hard against your thigh already. You really shouldn't be doing this with your dad liable to come home any minute…but then again, the risk just made it more exciting.

You bit your lip, hesitating only a moment longer before grabbing Rafe's face and crashing your lips to his in a hungry kiss. He groaned into your mouth, grinding his hips down against yours. Things were escalating fast, all thoughts of organizing clothes now tossed aside. Rafe broke the kiss only to tug your shirt over your head swiftly. His eyes drank in the sight of your breasts encased in a lacy pink bra.

"Damn baby…have I mentioned how fucking sexy you look in all these new lingerie pieces I bought you?" He reached around to unclasp your bra, leaning down to take one of your nipples in his mouth. You whimpered, arching into him. You were quickly losing the willpower to stop this and he knew it. His hands slid under your skirt, fingers dipping beneath your panties to find you wet and ready for him already. His hands wandered recklessly over your body, groping and grasping wherever they pleased..

"R-Rafe, my dad…" You gasped half-heartedly in protest even as your body betrayed you, arching into his touch.

Rafe silenced you with another bruising kiss, grinding his arousal against you. His fingers tangled in your hair, using it as a handle to maneuver your head for better access to your neck and chest.

"Shh, don't worry about him," Rafe crooned, his breath hot against your ear. "It's just us right now." His knee nudged between your legs, parting your thighs as he claimed your mouth once more.

Your knees went weak, overwhelmed by the onslaught of Rafe's hungry kisses and wandering hands. You clung to his shoulders for support, unable to form a coherent thought beyond the sparking heat of his body pressed to yours. Your token protests died away as Rafe's skilled fingers caressed the soft skin of your breasts.

"That's my good girl," he praised darkly when you arched into his touch instead of pulling away. His knee rubbed teasingly between your legs as he continued his pleasurable assault, intent on showing you exactly who was in control here.

Your mind reeled, inner alarm bells drowned out by the pounding heartbeat in your ears. You knew you should push Rafe away, stop this before it went too far with your dad possibly home any minute. But your traitorous body seemed to have other ideas as it melted shamefully against Rafe's hard frame.

His kisses left you dizzy and compliant, willpower evaporating under the intoxicating strokes of his hands. But when those hands went to zip down your skirt, some deeply buried remnant of reason sparked back to life inside you.

"Rafe, stop," you gasped out, catching his wrists in your hands. He paused, eyes dark with lust and irritation at being denied his prize.

"Come on baby, don't be like that," he cajoled, leaning in to nip at your earlobe. "I know you want this too."

You shook your head, gently but firmly removing his hands from your body. "No, not now. Not here." Your cheeks burned but you held your ground. "I'm not comfortable going any further with my dad so close by. Can we please just…slow down?"

Rafe's jaw tightened, displeasure evident at having his fun interrupted. But after a tense moment he stepped back.

"Fine, princess, whatever you say," he relented, tone dripping with poorly concealed frustration. You let out a shaky breath, tugging your rumpled clothing back into place. Your lips still tingled from the force of Rafe's kisses but the frenzied moment had passed.

"Thank you. I'm sorry, I just don't want our first time to be so…rushed," You said earnestly, hoping he could understand despite his obvious annoyance at being denied. His eyes remained dark but he managed a tight smile.

"Yeah yeah, I got it. Wouldn't want Daddy dearest walking in on us anyway," he said with an eye roll. You smiled weakly, knowing that was as close to understanding as you would get from him right now. At least he had backed off for the moment. But you had a feeling this conversation was far from over. Rafe did not like being told no.

He swallowed down his anger, forcing his face into a strained smile. He had to play this carefully; you Lila too much and you’d bolt. No, he needed to lure you in gently, make you trust him completely.

"Of course, princess. We'll take this at your pace," he said smoothly, stroking your cheek. "I just got carried away because you're so damn irresistible." He kissed your forehead, the very picture of understanding despite the lust still raging inside him.

You visibly relaxed, giving him a shy smile. "Thank you, Rafe. I'm glad you understand. I promise, when the time is right…" You trailed off, blushing. Rafe tucked a strand of hair behind your ear, letting his fingers trail down your neck teasingly.

"Don't worry baby, I'll make it so good for you when you're ready," he purred. You shivered, skin tingling from his touch. "For now, why don't you model some of these new outfits for me? Might give me a sneak peek of what I have to look forward to." He grinned devilishly.

You laughed, swatting his chest playfully. "You're incorrigible," you admonished, but went to pick out a few items from the piles of new clothes. Rafe settled on your bed, hungry eyes tracking your every movement.  For now, he would enjoy the little fashion show. But it was only a matter of time before those clothes ended up scattered across the bedroom floor instead.

A relieved smile crossed your face as Rafe appeared to accept your request to slow things down without argument. You knew he must be frustrated, but you appreciate him respecting your boundaries for now. There would be a right time and place for intimacy later on.

As you sifted through the piles of new clothes, Your smile faltered slightly. You could feel Rafe's intense gaze following your every movement, almost palpable in its hunger. It sent a shiver down your spine, but not entirely an unpleasant one. Still, something about the glint in his eyes gave you pause.

You selected a few simple, conservative outfits to model - a loose fitting sundress, some shorts with a flowy blouse. But Rafe tsked in disappointment, getting up to rummage through the options himself.

"Oh come on, you can do better than that," he coaxed, grabbing a slinky miniskirt and cropped tank top. "I want to see my sexy girl shine." He shot you a playful grin as he pressed the revealing clothes into your hands.

You laughed nervously. "Rafe, those aren't really my style…" But he pouted childishly, guiding you towards the adjoining bathroom.

"Humor me? Just a peek," he insisted. You hesitated, then relented with a shy smile. You had never worn anything so risqué before, but the delight on Rafe's face was gratifying. And it was just the two of you after all…

You changed quickly, adjusting the tiny skirt over yourself. The top was snug and showed a hint of midriff that made you self-conscious. But Rafe's eager expression as you stepped out stopped any protests before they left your lips.

"Stunning," he breathed, drinking in the sight of you. You blushed under his intense scrutiny, suddenly feeling very exposed. But you tried to push past it, giving an awkward little twirl to show off the outfit fully. Rafe's grin was downright predatory.

"Now take it off nice and slow," he said lowly, eyes raking over you. "Give me a proper show."

You balked, arms crossing instinctively over your torso. "Rafe, I…" His eyebrows shot up in challenge and you faltered. Maybe you were overthinking things. You didn't want to disappoint him again…

With trembling fingers, You reached for the hem of the snug tank top. But the voice inside screaming this was a bad idea only grew louder. You dropped your hands, shaking your head firmly as you backed towards the bathroom.

"I'm sorry Rafe, I can't do this. The clothes need to stay on." Your voice was small but resolute. You wouldn't ignore your instincts, not even to placate Rafe's desires. His scowl made your stomach twist anxiously, but you stood your ground, waiting for his response.

Taking a deep breath, Rafe fixed an understanding smile on his face. "You're right, I got carried away again. I'm sorry," he said gently. "I just can't control myself around you sometimes. You look so gorgeous in that outfit."

He approached you slowly until you allowed him to take your hands in his. "Of course the clothes should stay on until you're ready. I'm truly sorry for pushing you, princess." He brushed a tender kiss over your knuckles.

You visibly relaxed, giving him a grateful smile. "It's okay, Rafe. Thank you for understanding." You leaned up on your tiptoes to kiss his cheek before disappearing back into the bathroom to change.

You emerged from the bathroom in a comfortable sundress, feeling infinitely more at ease now that you were back in your own clothes. Rafe's obvious disappointment tugged at your heartstrings for a moment, but you brushed it aside. You knew in your gut that stripping for him, even just down to your underwear, wasn't something you were ready for yet.

To your relief, Rafe seemed to have reigned himself in and was back to his usual charming self, apologizing for getting carried away again. You smiled up at him gratefully, leaning in to give him a light kiss on the cheek.

"Thank you for being so patient with me," You said earnestly. "It really means a lot. I know this is all new for me." you ducked your head a bit shyly.

Rafe tilted your chin up, smiling fondly as he gazed down at you. "Of course, princess. I'll wait as long as you need. I'm just happy to be with you," he assured you smoothly.

Your heart swelled. You knew you had been lucky to find a guy like Rafe. Wealthy Kook boys had a reputation for being entitled spoiled brats. But most people didn't get to see this sweet, caring side of Rafe like you did. He could be impulsive and hot headed at times, but he respected your boundaries when it really mattered.

"You're the best boyfriend ever," You declared, going up on tiptoe to kiss him warmly. Rafe grinned against your lips, strong arms circling your waist.

"Anything for my girl," he murmured affectionately when you broke apart. You playfully booped his nose, eliciting a laugh from him.

"Alright mister, as much as I appreciate these new clothes, I could really use some help donating some of them," you said in a practical tone. "I can't even wear this many outfits in a lifetime!"

Rafe heaved a dramatic sigh but smiled good-naturedly. "Fiiine, guess I did go a little overboard on the shopping spree," he conceded. You giggled.

"Just a bit. Come on, let's get started." You took his hand, leading him back to the piles of clothes awaiting sorting. Even if Rafe's impulsive extravagance could be frustrating at times, You were grateful to have someone so attentive and willing to lavish you with gifts and affection. You hoped in time he would come to value you for more than just your looks or virginity. For now, You were content to take things slow and simply enjoy exploring young love one day at a time.

Rafe resisted the urge to roll his eyes as he let you lead him by the hand back to the piles of designer clothes he had gifted you. Donating them? What a pointless waste. He had spent a small fortune solely with the intent of seeing you decked out in finery, not giving it away to the destitute Pogues of the Cut.

But he bit his tongue, keeping up the doting act. "Of course I'll help, babe. Anything you want," he said smoothly, playing with your fingers.

Soon, he promised himself as he pulled you in for a chaste kiss on the forehead that contradicted his lustful thoughts. Your smile made him want to gag, but he mirrored it charmingly. Let you enjoy playing house a little while longer. He was adept at getting what he wanted from any woman eventually. The thought made Rafe's cock stir impatiently, but he willed it down. Not yet. He needed to lull you into total complacency first before finally stripping away the last of your resistance.

You hummed contentedly to yourself as you neatly folded clothes into donation boxes, Rafe helping beside you. You smiled up at him after he gave you a sweet kiss on the forehead, happy you guys seemed to be back in sync after the brief tension earlier.

You held up a slinky red cocktail dress, pondering keeping it for a special occasion. But no, it wasn't really your style at all. Into the donation box it went. You frowned slightly as you pulled out several incredibly risqué lingerie items - crotchless panties, lace teddies that left little to the imagination. Definitely not your taste.

"Geez Rafe, did you raid the whole lingerie section?" you asked with a laugh. Rafe just shrugged, unbothered. You shook your head in amusement as you set them aside to give to your more adventurous friend.

Once all the clothes were sorted, you surveyed the boxes contentedly. You had kept enough everyday outfits to last a lifetime, but now many girls in the Cut would have the chance to enjoy fancy new clothes too. It made you happy to spread the wealth, so to speak.

"There, all done! The donation center is going to be thrilled." You smiled brightly at Rafe. "This was a really great idea. I know I said it already, but thank you again for being so generous. And understanding about…everything," you finished, cheeks pinking slightly.

Rafe smiled back warmly, wrapping an arm around your shoulders. "Of course, babe. Anything for you," he said, dropping a kiss to the top of your head. You snuggled into his side, relieved you seemed to be back on the same page.

You hoped with time, Rafe would see you as more than just a conquest or object of physical desire. For now, you were content taking it slow, focusing on emotional intimacy over physical. You had all the time in the world for those things later on if things progressed. But for today, You were simply happy snuggling innocently with the boy who made you feel so safe, protected and cherished. Everything was perfect just as it was.

[am-i-the-asshole-official]

Okay here's one. I really dont think I'm the asshole but my ex sure does.

AITA for refusing to buy my partner a jar of pickles?

So this story has like, a little background and some confounding factors i think but i really could go both ways on whether i was the asshole.

Ill start with both my ex (21nb) and i (23f) had severe mental health issues and were working on treatment when we were together. Theyd been in and out of inpatient stays throughout our three year relationship. Towards the Day of Pickles, i had my first inpatient stay where i got help i desperately needed to keep myself safe. This happened to be about a week after my 23rd birthday, but about two and a half weeks before their 21st birthday.

Anyway, at that time i had just gotten out of the hospital and started a new job at Joanns Fabrics (i outlived that retail fucker and im proud of it). I had been unemployed for the previous year and a half because of the pandemic and so the retail job was really my saving grace to have some sort of income to buy gas and groceries. My parents let me live rent free with them in their basement but i spent a LOT of time essentially squatting at my ex's dorm because my situation with my parents was not great.

Now my ex was also being financially abused by their mom so they had a monthly "allowance" of 200$ (of their own money they made at their on campus job) and no access to their bank statements. So i spent a lot of my own money on gas and groceries for both of us, and anything we wanted to do for fun, like visit the city. Without an income, this was SUPER stressful for me and i spiraled pretty hard with feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness. Supporting two people, even minimal living expenses, on an income of exactly 0$ is the WORST.

Anyway, i got out of the hospital and pretty much immediately went back to picking up as many shifts as i could at work because id been on staff for all of two weeks before hospitalization. Knowing retail, i was probably on the precipice of losing hours or being fired altogether.

My ex wanted me to take time off to celebrate their 21st birthday (they didnt celebrate my birthday that year) and travel to see their family and drink etc. I got scheduled for an inconvenient time. I would have to miss their birthday if i didnt find someone to cover. I managed to switch shifts with another coworker who was nice enough to let me have her morning shift, so i was able to at least travel separately and be a little late to dinner.

The night of their birthday my ex wanted to get drunk and so we went to the liquor store. Now im generally pretty picky about alcohol but if i get anything special i always get enough to share. Mysteriously, no one ever offers to share the expense or pay me back. So with all of 150$ in my account, i purchased enough alcohol for myself and the rest of the party, and a bottle of (cheap af) liquor for myself. I was broke af until my next paycheck and was pretty much planning on giving up meals and staying at home because the commute to work was shorter and meant less gas.

My ex picked out a jar of boozy pickles and asked if i would get it for them for their birthday. I should note that with all the stress i was under i had found a birthday present for them but hadnt actually placed the order (was waiting to get paid). I also didnt lie to them about this and had told them that i hadnt gotten their birthday present yet. They were upset by this and told me they felt like i didnt care about them, to which i snapped and raised my voice a little.

I gave them a bit of a reality check. I told them in no uncertain terms that i was under a lot of stress, from nearly killing myself to being flat broke with little to no help from my family other than a conditional roof over my head, ordering their birthday present wasnt super high on my list of things to do and that i knew what i was going to get them and that i intended to order it as soon as i had the money to do so. After years of the sole attention being focused on keeping them alive, i needed some support and acting like i didnt care completely ignored EVERYTHING i did to keep us both afloat.They cried and played the victim as they tended to do and i was too stressed to do anything but be angry.

So when they asked for the pickles i told them no. I have NOTHING left in my bank account, and anything that was in my account was already allocated for something else.

They told me i was being selfish for buying myself alcohol on THEIR birthday, not even getting them a present, yelling at them, and then refusing to buy the one thing they asked for, especially after i refused to take off work the day before to hang out with them and their family. In front of our friends.

I told them that i was purchasing the alcohol for the whole party, that the present had slipped my mind, and that they were accusing me of not caring about them when i snapped. Then i walked out.

My bff went outside to help me cool down and i told him what was going on and how stressed i was and he said that he agreed with me, it was childish to expect me to pay for everything with no help from anyone and then act like im unreasonable for having to put limits on what i can purchase.

My ex ended up getting so pissed by all of this they broke up with me two days later, saying that their birthday was the final straw for them after I'd been so codependent and relying on them too much to survive.

I think its all ridiculous given all of the stress factors i was dealing with at the time. I feel like we're all entitled to the occasional emotional outburst/bouts of forgetfulness when we're stressed. But my ex seems to think im a selfish asshole. We've been no contact for the last two years so this isnt like a pressing concern or anything but it does make me roll my eyes occasionally.

So tumblr, aita?

(Btw im also much more financially stable now that I'm fully and properly medicated and away from them.)

[myghoulcirce]

Just because it's midnight and I'm bored. Here's a little chunk of a WIP I started before COVID and while the world was still manageable to handle.

There's more around here somewhere, but I'll save that for later. Still a draft obvs.

I reached the bottom half of the stairs; I could see him standing in the main hall of our mansion. He was thin, almost looking sickly compared to the berry sized man he was here to see. I watched him touch the keys to our baby grand that greeted everyone as they had come in, but he clearly did not know how to play.

"My father will be another minute," my voice was quiet, but loud enough for him to hear me. "I can play something for you as you wait."

The man jumped a little, before fixing his tie, "Uh...sure." His voice barely loud enough to reach.

I smiled, patting a spot next to me on the bench, "I'm not sure what you like, but my favorite to play is Beethoven's Moonlight Sonata."

He nodded, slouching next to me as I started playing. I could play this song without looking, more time to peak a glance or two towards the stranger. It must have been a joke that he would work with my father, as a partner even. My father was a loud boisterous man, not the kind type. He was often cold, even towards my siblings and myself.

The stranger held a warm aura, he was quiet; certainly, must be patient to deal with my father in these kinds of meetings. My fingers played the last notes; I glanced up to find that he gave me almost a look of awe. "I wouldn't have guessed the eldest daughter of Donald Morgan would be so talented."

"Oh?" I smiled, "If you'd like, I know a couple of more difficult pieces."

“I’ll be glad to hear anything you’d like to play.” He smiled, a flush of pink tinged his pale face, “I enjoy the sound of a piano playing, they remind me of my childhood.”

A third, but familiar voice interrupted, "Vincent! I see you have met my daughter, Amara." My father laid a hand on his shoulder, "She will make a fine wife to a glorious, rich husband someday." He kept a grin, "Soon, I hope."

Vincent stood up, "Shall we get down to business?" He shot a glance my way as he walked with my father towards his office.

“Ah, of course! Always keeping me on track, I couldn’t ask for someone better than you!”

I smiled, starting a new song as they disappeared. The newest partner to join my father would hopefully prove to be someone worth knowing this time.

Donald Morgan spared no detail in his future plans for his three daughters. As a powerful businessman in Remington, he constantly talked about their upbringing and the endowment they would gladly give for any arrangements that fancied him.

This was a common side to the man, one that I had grown accustomed to in the short months I began working for him. He often would digress from company matters to 'show off', for lack of better terms. Despite my qualifications, I spent much time bringing him back on track.

"Sir, I hate to interrupt, but we must discuss the current plans to expand your company into the capital city." I sat down, watching as he leaned back and clicked his pen.

"You studied in the city, what would you suggest?"

"Well..." I thought for a moment, "Remington is well known because of your company. Not only because of the success, but the diverse services you provide. Banking, pharmacies, retailers; you are a powerhouse of many different trades, sir. In such a big city, one that houses our nation's leaders, most certainly would have no issues to provide the luxury lifestyle of such."

"Speaking of national leaders... We are hosting a party for Elenora’s seventeenth birthday. I do believe that Sir Robert Ellis will be attending." Of course, this would lead to him talking about marrying off a daughter for his own plans. "I think you're onto something, Vincent."

"Sir, I don't think that would be the best course of action..."

"Elenora is still learning how to be a woman, but Amara would gracefully take his heart for us to expand. You have to admit, she is very charming." Donald waved his hand, dismissing any argument he thought that would follow. "Amara has met the governor once before, brilliant. You can go home and prepare the plans to set up in the Capital. The more prepared we are, the easier it will be to sell and expand."

"Yes, sir." I gathered my things, swiftly exiting and closing the door behind me.

"A long meeting?" Amara's quiet voice startled me, the meeting had been over an hour long and I would not expect anyone to be left in the main hall.

I turned around to face her, "Your father enjoys his stories..." Is that something you want to say to your employer’s daughter?

She smiled, looking away, "He does that often. Elenora’s birthday is coming up, I assume you will be coming to the party? I believe mother is planning a masquerade of sorts."

"I... I’ll be here," I shifted through the paperwork in my arms, "As a work event opposed to leisure."

Amara's facial expression had not changed, it was evident that their social events were still business in their world. "I'm glad, we can catch up at the party. I'm almost certain it'll be beneficial for you."

Odd word choice; beneficial for your father, perhaps. Would I even be able to live with myself, knowing that I must stand by as he auctions off his daughters? I chuckled, "I look forward to seeing you at the party."

The weekend marked Elenora’s seventeenth birthday, the masquerade ball being held in both her honor and for the opportunity to talk business. Unfortunately for me, that meant keeping Donald from selling off his daughters for whatever he thought was a good deal.

As everyone poured into the main hall of Donald's mansion, I stood by the piano. I watched as everyone danced together under the stairs, some retreating to their table for refreshments. I eyed the table I was assigned, right next to Donald and Amara, who wore an all-black Princess gown. It swept the floor as she moved, dancing with various guests. Her face was hidden by a black cat mask, but there was no doubting who she was.

I had been avoiding being too close; seeing her around and knowing Donald's intentions to have her sway Robert Ellis into giving him a contract in the Capital made eye contact an awfully hard thing. Or was it more than that?

"Vincent, are you going to stand away from everyone all night or are we going to get that contract over dinner?" Donald put a hand on my shoulder, leading me over towards the table. "Robert Ellis, this is my right-hand man, Vincent Stanbury."

Robert extended his hand, "Pleasure to formally meet you. I heard plenty about you during our years in college."

"As I did of you, but then again, who didn't know about Sir Robert Ellis going to our school." I returned the handshake, "I'm happy to see it's paid off well for you."

He chuckled, "How did you come about working for such an energetic man? You majored as an engineer."

"Life tends to take you to unexpected places." I eyed Amara, dancing behind him with her youngest sister. "What does matter is how you would feel about having a Morgan business in the Capital. I am certain you have seen the impact he is. had here in Remington."

"Straight to business, I see." Donald motioned for us to sit at the table, "My oldest daughter, Amara will join us soon. Let us eat as we discuss this."

"I can't wait to see Amara; it's been far too long since she's come to visit the Capital. Busy with her studies I assume?" Robert glanced in her direction, "Still stunning as ever."

"Amara's been to the Capital?" I felt a crack in my voice as I spoke, "I would assume she stayed in Remington."

As Donald opened his mouth to speak, Robert took over the conversation; "She has an aunt that lives there, she owns a small boutique by my office. During her last visit, we became good friends."

"As always, she's been a charm."

"You don't have to talk about me as if I'm not here, Father." Amara's voice broke the uneasy tension that had begun to build, "I'm happy to see you've both arrived. The trip went well for you, Robert?"

"Of course! I would never miss a chance to see you in person." Robert shot a smug look in my direction.

There was the slightest hint of change in Amara's expression, "As flattering as that is, today isn't about me. It's Elenora’s seventeenth birthday, which is why I assume you both came tonight?" She smiled, "Mother spent months planning a perfect party for her, I'd be a terrible sister if I stole all of the attention away. You'll dance with her after dinner, Robert?"

It was clear that Robert had no interest in Elenora, Amara must have known, his face clearly full of distaste. "But of course!"

"So, after hearing about the plans to have my father expand his business to the Capital, what do you think, Robert?" I glanced up at him as we danced, "It seems that it would benefit you both."

"Amara, you really think that's why I'm here?" Robert smiled, "I just came to enjoy the birthday party of a friend's sister."

"You and I both know neither is true, but if I'm being used as the main bargaining chip, you could try being honest with me."

The song stopped and we both stood in silence before I felt a tap on my shoulder, "May I cut in?" Always quiet, Vincent.

"We can discuss this later," I looked away from Robert and took Vincent's hand, "So, I see he's taken a liking to you."

"Is that what you call it?" He smiled, possibly the first genuine smile I had seen. "I'm not sure if we'll be able to expand your father's company there. I'm afraid it would solely be my fault."

"Oh, I doubt that. I know my father and Robert are both cunning men, if I do not agree; they will simply just find another daughter to. Eleanora is of age now and I would absolutely rather she find someone she cares about than to marry some goon like Robert.” I smiled, “My father was blessed with three daughters, he does what he can to ensure himself the better deal.”

“At your expense? An odd thing for a father to do.” Vincent frowned, “As if I would know.”

“Your father died in the war; I assume?” What a harsh thing to ask someone, Amara. “Apologies—”

“A month or so before the war ended, yes.” He shot a reassuring glance, “I can’t say I remember much of him. The war lasted until I was six, lucky you were to only remember the ending years.”

“I like to imagine that no other person on this planet is as greedy as my father. While others were fighting, he managed to pay out his draft. I feel as if my life would have been vastly different if my family wasn’t wealthy.” I looked away, always saying the most awful things to Vincent, “I didn’t mean that in an awful way towards you or your family.”

He laughed, almost uncontrollably. “I went to college in the Capital City, I think you underestimate me, Amara.” I felt my face begin to burn, embarrassing myself further, “I admire you, so I’ll let it slide this time. I think you’ve spent too much time at the top, my lady.” The song ended; Vincent lifted his hand from my side. “I must take my leave, I’m in charge of drawing up the new plans for the expansion. We’re looking to settle into that old hotel next to the city building. I think that the owner, Madam Fiona, has been having a hard time keeping up with the payments.”

“Madam Fiona is a very resourceful woman; you would be wise to offer her a great sum for that building.” I gave Vincent another smile, “I’ll do better next time.” He gave a questionable look, “Not to underestimate a man of your status.”

“Amara! There you are!” I turned to find my sister, Eleanora, rushing towards the dance floor “Mother has been searching for you, Marilyn is throwing one of her tantrums again and it seems that you are the only one that can console her.”

I looked behind to find that Vincent had already left. “Mother shouldn’t have left Marilyn alone for so long, knowing she gets scared easily.”

We squeezed our way through the crowd, most wishing Eleanora a happy birthday. It had felt like eternity, but we arrived at the stairway, passing the piano, and hurrying up the stairs. Marilyn waited at the top, her bright green eyes red and full of tears. She sniffled as I picked her up, “Now Marilyn, what has you so distraught tonight?”

She huffed, throwing her face into my shoulder, “I want to come to Eleanora's party, but mother insisted I stay in my room all night.”

“Well, you are still a young lady. You would be lost in such a crowd; besides, you should be playing in your room before having to learn all of the social responsibilities.” I walked towards her room, closing the door behind me as I sat her on her bed.

“I’m ready to have responsibility!” She put her foot down, “I’m a young lady now, not a kid!”

“Well, maybe we’ll teach you when you turn seven this year. We will start your tutoring early and you will have to work extra hard.”

Her lip quivered, “But I want to wear pretty dresses and dance with everyone…”

“You don’t need to come to Eleanora’s party for that,” I pulled open her closet, “Look at all of these beautiful dresses you have.” I gave her an emerald princess dress, “Why don’t you put this one on and I’ll play your violin for you? Then you may dance all you want!”

Marilyn smiled, wiping her face with her sleeve as she nodded in agreement.

“You have yourself a deal, Mr. Morgan. Your business would give a new life for the Capital City. My only problem, you want Madam Fiona to leave the old Hotel. She’s a fierce woman and inherited that hotel from her father before the war.” Robert looked over at Amara, “What about the building that the flower shop sits on? The old lady that owns it, she’s also behind on payments, even more so than the Madam. She should be retiring soon; they opened their shop far before the war even started.”

“Mrs. Rowan’s flower shop is the only one in the city, it would cause many to travel out towards the fields to receive flowers. There’s three more hotels in the city in addition to Madam Fiona’s.” Donald leaned in, “I’ve heard unsavory things about this hotel, I’m sure you’ve heard the rumors?”

“And that’s exactly what they are—rumors.”

“Why don’t we entertain the idea of building on the outskirts of the residential area? I know they’d enjoy the traffic towards that area. There’s plenty of small shops that would benefit from it.” Amara’s voice was quiet, more inviting than the other two.

I looked at the two men, “She’s not wrong. It would fit perfectly between the two, both areas would benefit, and it would provide a reason for people to move towards the residential areas.”

“I would prefer a building with character, something that’s been standing for a long time, just like our company. I don’t understand why you’d want to keep a Madam with such an unsavory past so directly and prominently in your beautiful city.” Donald shrugged, “Unless my daughter’s hand in marriage wasn’t enough for you?”

Robert let out a breath, “Your daughter’s hand in marriage means a lot to me, Mr. Morgan. You’ve clearly not met the Madam, but if you can convince her to give up the hotel, you’re free to move in your business there. I warn you that she’s not polite about rejection.”

“You’re the current city official, make her move.” Donald’s position was unwavering, “I’m willing to keep from moving business forward, until we’ve reached an agreement on the location.” He stood up, “Vincent, see Amara to the capital city, unless Sir Ellis has a complaint with that as well.” He waved with his back towards us, “Until next time.”

Robert sat almost dumbfounded, but quickly shook it off, “Amara, you are welcomed to come stay in the Capital building with me.”

“That would certainly be against custom, now wouldn’t it?” She smiled, “I’ll gladly spend time at my aunts until the day of the wedding. Provide you with the privacy you’ll certainly be needing during a time like this.”

“I—”

“It has been decided, I’ll see you in the Capital city, Robert.” Amara stood up, “Vincent, my bags are already in the car. We’ll be leaving right away.”

I watched Robert as he stood up, walking towards the window. He let Amara walk away without a word, mumbling as she left. “The Morgan’s are such a stubborn family.” I turned and followed Amara to the car.

[rabbitcruiser]

Edmonton, AB (No. 10)

Jasper Avenue is an arterial road in central Edmonton, Alberta, and is the city's main street. Jasper Avenue has no official street number but is aligned with 101 Avenue with the majority of its length. Jasper Avenue is a major public transit route as several of Edmonton's busiest bus routes travel along it. The LRT travels underneath Jasper Avenue between 99 and 110 Streets. It is named after Jasper Hawes, manager of a North West Company trading post of Jasper House in the early 1800s, located in present-day Jasper National Park.

Jasper Avenue begins at 125 Street in the community of Westmount as a local residential street. One block to the east, 124 Street turns east and becomes Jasper Avenue, which functions as its unofficial western terminus, with 102 Avenue taking over as the main east–west artery to west Edmonton. Jasper Avenue passes the community of Oliver through mixed retail and high density residential. East of 109 Street, Jasper Avenue passes through the downtown core and is home to many of Edmonton's oldest heritage buildings (for example the Hotel Macdonald) and some of Edmonton's tallest office towers, including Canadian Western Bank Place and Rice Howard Place. East of 97 Street, Jasper Avenue departs from both the downtown core and the 101 Avenue alignment, running northeast along the North Saskatchewan River valley through the community of Boyle Street. On the Latta Bridge it passes over the Latta Ravine, between 91 and 90 Streets. At 82 Street, the roadway turns north; however Jasper Avenue continues east as a local residential street through the community of Cromdale, ending at 77 Street. The Jasper West area (west of 97 Street) is one of the major retail, living, commercial, and entertainment districts of the city.

Source: Wikipedia

[jobyoda-philippines]

Exploring Career and Job Opportunities in Davao City Philippines

Davao City, recognized as one of the Philippines' most progressive cities, continues to experience remarkable economic growth, creating a vibrant job market that attracts professionals from across the country. The city's diverse economy offers numerous employment opportunities, from entry-level positions to executive roles, making it an attractive destination for job seekers at all career stages.

The Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) sector stands as one of the largest employers in Davao City, providing thousands of jobs across various specializations. Companies in this sector actively recruit customer service representatives, technical support specialists, and quality assurance analysts, offering competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits packages. The industry's continued expansion has created numerous opportunities for career advancement, with many organizations promoting from within and providing extensive training programs.

Part-time employment opportunities have also flourished in Davao City, catering to students, professionals seeking additional income, and individuals preferring flexible work arrangements. The retail sector, food service industry, and education field offer numerous part-time positions with varying schedules and responsibilities. These roles often provide valuable work experience and can serve as stepping stones to full-time careers.

The Information Technology sector in Davao has seen significant growth, with many companies seeking software developers, web designers, and IT support specialists. This growth has been fueled by the city's improving technological infrastructure and the increasing number of tech-focused businesses establishing operations in the region. Tech professionals can find opportunities in both established companies and startups, with many positions offering competitive compensation and the possibility of remote work arrangements.

Davao's hospitality and tourism industry continues to expand, creating jobs in hotels, restaurants, travel agencies, and tour operations. The sector offers positions ranging from entry-level service roles to management positions, with many employers providing training and development opportunities. The industry's growth has also sparked demand for professionals in events management and tourism marketing.

The education sector presents numerous opportunities for both full-time and part-time employment. Educational institutions regularly seek teachers, tutors, and administrative staff. The rise of online learning has created additional opportunities for English language teachers and academic consultants who can work flexible hours from home or teaching centers.

Job hiring  in Davao, the digital economy has opened new avenues for employment. E-commerce specialists, digital content creators, and social media managers are in high demand as businesses increasingly establish their online presence. These positions often offer the flexibility of remote work while providing competitive compensation packages.

Professional development resources are readily available in Davao City, with numerous institutions offering skills training programs and industry certifications. Job seekers can access career counseling services, resume writing assistance, and interview coaching through various employment support organizations. These resources prove invaluable in helping candidates prepare for and secure desired positions.

The financial services sector in Davao has also experienced substantial growth, creating opportunities for banking professionals, insurance specialists, and investment consultants. These positions typically offer attractive compensation packages, including performance bonuses and health benefits, making them highly sought after by experienced professionals.

Davao's agricultural sector continues to evolve, combining traditional farming with modern agribusiness practices. This has created opportunities for agricultural technologists, food processing specialists, and supply chain professionals. The sector offers both technical and management positions, with many companies providing specialized training and development programs.

For those entering Davao's job market, proper preparation is essential. Successful job seekers typically maintain updated resumes, prepare comprehensive portfolios, and stay informed about industry developments. Professional networking, both online and offline, plays a crucial role in discovering opportunities and advancing careers in the city.

The future of Davao's job market looks promising, with emerging industries creating new employment opportunities. The city's commitment to economic development, coupled with its strategic location and robust infrastructure, continues to attract businesses and investors, ensuring a steady stream of job opportunities for qualified candidates.

Whether seeking full-time employment or part-time job in Davao City offers a diverse range of opportunities across multiple industries. Success in this dynamic job market often comes to those who combine proper preparation with continuous skill development and effective networking. As the city continues to grow and evolve, its job market remains a beacon of opportunity for professionals seeking to build meaningful careers in Mindanao's premier business hub.

[allthebrazilianpolitics]

‘Fight waste to fight hunger’: food banks embrace imperfection to feed millions in Brazil

More than 40% of produce in the country is lost or wasted but new research highlights how it could be a key tool in fighting rising food insecurity. One charity is leading the charge

About half a dozen men in hairnets busy themselves with crates of fresh produce outside a food depot in Rio de Janeiro’s northern suburbs. As one reels off a list of products, the others place oddly shaped vegetables into large bags before loading them into a waiting car. The produce will later be cooked and served in soup kitchens, nurseries and other institutions offering free meals to people in need across the city.

The depot is run by Brazil’s biggest network of food banks, Sesc Mesa Brasil. With 95 units all over the country, Mesa – which means table in Portuguese – collects food that would otherwise go to waste from supermarkets, farmers and other suppliers and retailers, sorts it, and then donates it to partner organisations.

“The programme has two pillars, to fight food waste and to fight hunger,” says Cláudia Roseno, an aid manager at Sesc, a not-for-profit private enterprise providing culture, leisure, education, health and aid services across Brazil.

New research published last week highlights how such efforts to reduce food waste can be bolstered in Brazil and used as a key tool for fighting widespread food insecurity.

Continue reading.

[olderthannetfic]

I got my first real job, and if I go full-time later, idk how I’ll manage doing things at businesses that are only open on weekdays! Any advice?

--

You'll suffer. That's the answer.

(No, seriously, I used to rant about this all the time. Why the fuck is society not adapted to the fact that most people do not have a housewife/mommy doing their errands for them during regular working hours?!)

Typical strategies are to do errands on your lunch break, to do more ordering online, and to switch to businesses that are near home or work and open late. If the issue is the post office, many big cities have some branches that are open late on one weeknight and central branches that are open late most of the time. Banks are garbage and will remain so, IMO, but how often do people under 80 need to go to the actual physical bank?

Depending on your type of job, you can sometimes get days or half-days off for personal business, and in some workplaces, it's easy to arrange an informal time to do errands with your boss, so you run out and do a bunch from like 2pm-4pm some day work isn't busy, and then you stay a couple of hours late that day. But this mostly applies to office jobs, and usually if you're someone they value. If you're working retail or even just at an office that sees you as a disposable cog, errands are going to become a giant pain in the ass.

[paranormalsaga]

World of The Paranormal Saga

(All the names and terms created for The Paranormal Saga)

Allmart- An American multinational retail corporation that operates a chain of hypermarkets, discount department stores, and grocery stores in the United States and 23 other countries.

Atlas- Atlas is one of the largest multi-national conglomerates in the world. The company was founded in the United Republic of Corinthia and has extensive operations on the island of Ujamaa. Among their numerous enterprises, they manufacture neuron-link chips, computers, phones, and tablets, own/manage private prisons and detention centers, and maintain a banking and consumer credit division. Their neuron-link procedure consists of implanting laborers with a neuron-link chip that deprives them of their autonomy and consciousness, controlling their motor functions. They are used by Atlas to perform labor duties as mindless automatons.

Battalion- A Paranormal agent of the Department of Paranormal Activity. He is commander-in-chief of The Paratroopers and the Department’s most skilled operative. As a result of dangerous experiments conducted by the Department on siphonophores mutated by psychic energy, Battalion possesses a colonial consciousness and the ability to clone himself at will. 

The Black Brigades- A militant group of urban guerrillas combatting the United Republic of Corinthia.

The Department of Paranormal Activity (DPA)- A global peacekeeping operation established by the United Nations Security Council and tasked with covertly monitoring paranormal activity across the globe.

Gadget- A young Paranormal Entity with super-cognition. He is an official member of the Paratroopers.

Genesis- Battalion's secret identity.

Masquerade- A young Paranormal Entity with the ability to turn invisible. She is an official member of the Paratroopers.

Maya Makari- Masquerade's secret identity.

Minerva University: A private, Ivy League research university in Neptune City. Nagode is in the process of applying for their prestigious (and, more importantly, free) philosophy program. Gadget received a P.H.D. in Neuroscience from them.

Nagode Tyjani- Nebulous' secret identity.

Nebulous- A young Paranormal Entity with telepathic and telekinetic abilities. He is an official member of the Paratroopers.

Neptune City- An American city home to Nagode and the Department of Paranormal Activity. It is a global center and the most populous city in the United States. It’s a majority-minority city with a Black population of 70%.

Neuron-links- Digital implants that deprive the wearer of their autonomy and consciousness, rendering them mindless automatons. It is useful for prisons and low-wage labor.

Paranormal Activity- All activity that defies the laws of nature as we know them.

Paranormal Entities (a.k.a. “Paranormals”)- Individuals who possess powerful abilities.

The Paratroopers- An elite squadron of individuals with paranormal abilities responsible for protecting the planet from paranormal threats on behalf of the Department of Paranormal Activity. Its four official members are Nebulous, Battalion, Gadget, and Masquerade.

Psychic Energy- The nebulous force that defies the laws of nature and grants the Paratroopers their paranormal abilities.

Siddhartha Khan- Gadget's secret identity.

Ujamaa- Ujamaa is an island colony of the United Republic of Corinthia. The island is home to the Obi tribe, a community indigenous to Ujamaa. Ujamaa is oppressed by the United Republic of Corinthia. Their environment is routinely exploited for its natural resources and they are subjugated by an apartheid system.

Ujamaatown- A neighborhood in Neptune City. Nagode lives there.

United Republic of Corinthia- A fascistic, genocidal, colonial regime that occupies the island nation of Ujamaa.

[dua1999]

Start a Business in Dubai with Low Investment

Dubai has emerged as a global business hub, providing immense opportunities for entrepreneurs with various budgets. With the right approach and strategy, it's possible to establish a successful business in Dubai with low investment. Here’s a quick guide on how to get started and make the most of Dubai’s business-friendly environment.

Benefits of Starting a Business in Dubai

Dubai offers numerous advantages for new businesses:

Strategic Location: Dubai connects Europe, Asia, and Africa, making it a perfect base for international trade.

Free Zones: Dubai’s free zones allow full foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and streamlined processes.

Low Taxation: With no personal or corporate tax for most types of businesses, Dubai is financially favorable.

Steps to Start a Business in Dubai with Low Investment

Choose the Right Business Setup in Dubai To maximize investment, consider starting your business in one of Dubai's free zones. They offer affordable packages tailored for entrepreneurs and small businesses. Popular free zones like DMCC, IFZA, and Meydan Free Zone provide cost-effective licensing options.

Select a Business Activity Start with a service-based business, which requires minimal capital. Freelance services, consultancy, digital marketing, and online trading are popular low-cost options. These require lower initial investment compared to retail or manufacturing.

Leverage Virtual Office Options Dubai’s free zones offer flexible office solutions, including virtual offices, which allow businesses to maintain a presence in Dubai without incurring high rental costs.

Obtain the Necessary Licenses Every business setup in Dubai requires a license, depending on the activity and location. Free zone authorities offer various affordable licensing packages, including freelancer licenses for individual entrepreneurs.

Market Smartly and Efficiently Use digital marketing to reach customers on a budget. Social media, SEO, and email marketing can help you attract customers without high advertising costs.

Best Low-Investment Business Ideas in Dubai

Consultancy Services: If you have expertise in a field like finance, legal, or management, starting a consultancy can be highly profitable.

E-commerce: Launch an online store and leverage Dubai’s growing digital market.

Digital Marketing Agency: With minimal equipment and a small team, you can help local businesses grow their online presence.

Freelancing: From content creation to graphic design, freelancing offers flexibility and requires a minimal investment.

Conclusion

Starting a business setup in Dubai with low investment is entirely feasible, given the city’s supportive infrastructure and numerous free zones. With the right planning, selecting cost-effective options, and focusing on low-cost business ideas, you can launch a successful venture in Dubai without breaking the bank. Dubai’s dynamic market, combined with low taxation and robust growth prospects, makes it a prime choice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

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[randazzo-sweeping-llc]

Dumpster Rental

Discover the convenience and efficiency of dumpster rental in Lambertville, NJ. Nestled along the banks of the Delaware River, Lambertville is a charming city known for its vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and scenic landscapes. However, managing waste in this picturesque city can be a challenge, especially for larger projects such as home renovations, construction sites, or community events. This is where dumpster rental services come into play, offering an effective solution for waste management needs.

Lambertville, NJ, with its rich history dating back to the early 18th century, has always been a hub of activity. The city’s development over the years has seen an increase in both residential and commercial properties, each generating various types of waste. Whether it's construction debris, household junk, or yard waste, proper disposal is crucial to maintaining the city’s aesthetic appeal and environmental health. Dumpster rental services provide a streamlined process for disposing of large amounts of waste, ensuring that Lambertville remains clean and beautiful.

One of the significant advantages of using a dumpster rental service in Lambertville is the flexibility it offers. Homeowners undertaking renovation projects can benefit from having a designated place to dispose of old materials, broken appliances, and other debris. Instead of making multiple trips to the landfill, a rented dumpster allows for a more efficient cleanup process. Similarly, businesses in Lambertville can manage their waste more effectively, particularly during peak times or special projects. Restaurants, retail stores, and offices can all benefit from the convenience of a dumpster rental, reducing the hassle and cost of waste disposal.

The process of renting a dumpster in Lambertville is straightforward and designed to meet the needs of various projects. Typically, the first step is to determine the size of the dumpster required. Dumpster rental companies offer a range of sizes, from smaller containers suitable for minor home cleanouts to larger ones designed for extensive construction work. Once the appropriate size is chosen, the rental company will deliver the dumpster to the specified location. Customers can then fill the dumpster at their own pace, with the rental period often ranging from a few days to several weeks. After the dumpster is filled, the rental company will pick it up and handle the disposal, ensuring that all waste is processed in an environmentally responsible manner.

Featured Business:

Transform your waste management experience with Randazzo Sweeping LLC, the leading provider of efficient dumpster rental. Our company is dedicated to making the disposal of waste straightforward and hassle-free, ensuring that both residential and commercial projects are managed with the utmost professionalism. Whether you are undertaking a home renovation, cleaning out a commercial space, or managing construction debris, our dumpster rental are designed to meet your specific needs. With a variety of sizes available, from small containers for minor cleanouts to large roll-offs for major construction jobs, Randazzo Sweeping LLC guarantees prompt delivery and pickup, helping you maintain a clean and safe environment. Our commitment to customer satisfaction and environmental responsibility makes us the trusted choice for dumpster rental.

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[misc-obeyme]

the 7 rings would be so intresting (based on helluva, and other media)

💙The Pride Ring - blue sky, the top layer (mostly sinners) divided by rank poor, rich, overlords. The ring is mostly used for buisness and sinners who fall in this ring cant leave.

💛The Greed Ring - (dark yellow sky, banks, mostly mafia, mostly overrun by demon born mobs, not a nice place, violenet, and a lot of money, CEOs, retailers, influencers, managers, mostly make up the sinner count, Mammon would not care for its inhabitants)

🧡The Envy ring - (moslty water, envy demons who are mostly water demons, nothing much here, smells like chlorine, and has beaches, orannge sky, no sinners)

💚the wrath ring (dark green skys, sandy mostly desserted, demon born, mostly farmers, no sinners)

💓lust ring (pinkish sky), casinos, strip clubs, clubs, bars, hotels, the works, sinners do live here, and mostly demons come here to have fun..busy as it gets Asmodeus makes a few apperances.

❤️Gluttony - food and drink stalls, a reddish sky, rumour has it that the demon Beelzebub makes only a few appearances, and she does not like people left out, she also claims to drug people up, also the only hospital that the whole of hell)

💜sloth ring - purplish sky, smalls pf mould and damp, sinners are normally tortured here, demon borns normally make a living selling medication, in additoon, its rumoured that that the realm was taken over by Belphegor's 4th cousin Belial for a while until Belphegor took it back after 300 years, since then, the realm has been mostly distroyed and no one is bothered to fix it up

🩶the devildom - top layer, always dark, 3 cities, a top University, humans, witches, demons, government, elite, some higher class demons make buisness here, the royal family demons live here, they never went to hell, until the brothers showed up, and gave them the place. The place can be accessed via an elvator which connects the 13 rings of hell, and the human world, did connect the Celestial realm but been "out of order" one human uses it frequently

And heaven has 7 realms

(If you have any ideas you can add or you have your own)?

I wanted ot to make ot darker esp abt the pride ring and the lust ring but i was unsure

Well I haven't seen Helluva Boss or anything related therein, but this looks like a really cool Obey Me au idea!

You've really gone into some detail here, anon! It sounds like a concept you've been thinking about for a while. My suggestion is always going to be to write it because that's my default mode of creation lol. But you should explore it however you like!

Personally I think you can do whatever you want with canon divergent ideas like this - make them as dark as you like. That's the fun part about such things, you get to make them your own. It's up to you how dark you want to go.

I might not be the best person to bounce darkness off of as I tend to fluff everything up lol! That certainly doesn't mean I can't get angsty or dark when needed, though. While Obey Me is essentially a lighthearted otome game, you could easily take it into darker places considering the whole hell angle and everything.

It does remind me of the circles of hell from Dante, which is a concept that's been around for a while. Though I've never read anything where it was more fully fleshed out or in a more modern setting. But it's an interesting idea to have each section belong to one of the brothers, especially considering they don't necessarily bother to do anything with them. Like it sounds like the rings will function just fine without their presence? Who ruled over them before the brothers fell? Or did they just not exist yet?

[kenyatta]

Banks often give better financing terms if a landlord can bring in what's called a credit tenant — a national brand like a Starbucks or a Target. That's because even if a big chain winds up shuttering a local store, the parent company is still around to pay the rent. "If a T-Mobile or a Verizon choose to close a store, the landlord knows they're good for it," says Larisa Ortiz, a managing director at Streetsense, an urban-planning consultancy. You'd think everyone involved would be motivated to fill an empty storefront — landlords aren't making money, cities aren't getting taxes, and the neighborhood has an eyesore. But that eyesore may actually still be profitable to the landlord and the banks. "In SoHo, something vacant isn't necessarily vacant," says Ortiz. "Someone's paying rent there, and the landlord's perfectly fine with it. It's a vacancy to the pedestrian, but not to the landlord."

Bank Financing and Bad Urban Planning Make the Retail Apocalypse Worse

[kemetic-dreams]

The writer, O. Dave Allen is a community activist and political commentator

MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica, January 25, 2022 - We the Jamaican people are at risk of becoming slaves again. We are a country with   95% African people. It’s a fact that the majority of the African population is at the bottom of the economic pyramid while the 5% at the apex are the minorities who control the economy. We all know that the economy is the superstructure that determines everything else, we also know that those who control the economy rules the country. It is time for majority rule.

When the Chinese were commandeering the local retail and distributive business, it was of little concern to the traditional moneyed class.  Their long held sense of security is now threatened by the fact that the Chinese have cornered the retail business and have accumulated untold millions, buttressed by unaccountable billions of dollars of dubious origin with an insatiable and avaricious appetite of the tiger spreading their tentacles devouring  all that is in its path.

There is an insidious war that is being waged by the Chinese business interest that will undermine all and every local Jamaican business. We are not here dealing with the compliant Chinese shopkeepers of yesteryears; but a contrived network, led by the Chinese State to dominate and control the Jamaica economy with Montego Bay as the entry point, bolstered by the powerful Association of Chinese Enterprises in Jamaica (ACEJ), a non-profit organization. 

This mega conglomerate is akin to the Dutch East India Company (The Dutch East India Company historically a military-political-economic complex rather than a pure trading or shipping company).

Can you imagine the consequences when the Chinese would have established their own bank and  formal financial intermediaries?

Recently China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), was awarded the Government of Jamaica funded US$274.5-million Montego Bay Perimeter Road Project, which includes the rehabilitation of Barnett Street and West Green Avenue, as well as the construction of the Long Hill bypass and a drainage study of the Montego Bay bypass area is also to be conducted under the project.

This catalysis project strengthens the presence of the Chinese in Jamaica and serves as beachhead in Montego Bay to supplant the hegemony of the United States of America in Jamaica and make a mockery of the Monroe Doctrine as they pursue endless war at distant shores.

The Montego Bay perimeter road is funded by the Jamaican taxpayers and as such there is no justifiable reason why this contract should have been awarded to any overseas contractors.

The government has a duty not only to provide physical infrastructure but also to effectively use our taxpayer’s money to build our social capital and to strengthen the capacity of our human resource. 

We have developers, engineers, contractors and consultants with more than adequate competencies to develop the Montego Bay Development Road.  Our local professionals have demonstrated the capacity to execute and manage major projects as exemplified by the work carried out by Jamaican professionals on the Northern Coastal Highway. 

In the recent Andrew Holness cabinet reshuffle the Hon. Homer Davis was appointed to head the Office of the Prime Minister West. This is no accident, but a strategic move to ensure the orderly integration of the Chinese into western Jamaica.

Minister Davis and Former Mayor of the City of Montego Bay enjoys more than cordial relationship with the Montego Bay Chinese community with numerous visits to China during his tenure in office.  With the support of the Chinese Dr. Horace Chang remains the most powerful member of the Holness’ Cabinet.  

While Bishop O’Neil Russell, and others may be disappointed in the reappointment of Dr. Horace Chang as Minister of National Security, they missed the bigger picture that Chang has consolidated his power base with the appointment of his Deputy General Secretary and his protégé Homer Davis as head of OPM West and the ostensible Emissary of the Chinese community, the new power base in Montego Bay.

To those who sing praises of Homer’s appointment, are living in a fool’s paradise. It is not about you, it is about the Chinese work permits and citizenship, building approvals, the clearance of their goods at the wharf and importantly their security. Homer Davis as a conduit who will ensure that the JLP is fully funded to win the next elections.

There will be a seismic shift in business activities back to the old city of Montego Bay. This regeneration started with Harmony Park, the building out of the downtown Montego Bay Waterfront District and soon the regentrification of the urban centre. 

Finally, Who gave the Chinese the permit to dump the wetland and mangrove swamp at Reading to construct the multi story, multi family, high end, Chinese enclave. According to the Ministry of Economic Growth and Job Creation the “project will open new areas to the south of Montego Bay for development and expansion, giving access to lands for housing development.”

But will our local developers; Gore, Moe, Azan, WICHON be beneficiaries of the development opportunities.

odamaxef@yahoo.com

China's Silk Road to Montego Bay, “Turn Them Back” ! says O Dave Allen (wiredja.com)

[aditisposts]

Melbourne vs Sydney for Master's in Business Analytics

For overseas applicants targeting an Australian master’s degree in the high employability space of business analytics - Melbourne and Sydney both offer thriving tech ecosystems, high livability quotients and academic rigor making decisions tough!

Melbourne fosters more specializations like marketing analytics and research competencies given the city’s vibrant commercial sector covering banking, retail and advertising driving innovation. Sydney however hosts more top-tier global firms especially in management consulting, logistics and financial services which amplify graduate employment despite steep living costs.

While Melbourne nudges ahead for student experience thanks to art culture, festivals and global cuisine options relieving stress for internationals - Sydney delivers a glamorous beachside lifestyle alongside historic charm that post-grads rave over given the sunny openness year-round! 

Ultimately academic quality and practical exposure should guide selections from both destinations rather than experiences for career-minded applicants focused on long-term opportunities. Leverage university global alumni networks once done with strategic degrees giving you the flexibility to spread your wings across Australia’s economics powerhouses!

Posted By:

Aditi Borade, 4th year Barch,

Ls Raheja School of architecture 

Disclaimer: The perspectives shared in this blog are not intended to be prescriptive. They should act merely as viewpoints to aid overseas aspirants with helpful guidance. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research before availing the services of a consultant.

[beardedmrbean]

Savon Sanomat was among the papers carrying an STT news agency report that one in two Finnish mortgage borrowers has reduced spending on daily expenses or switched to buying more affordable products due to rising prices and interest rates.

The figure is from a survey released by Danske Bank which also showed that about half have had to reduce expenditure on non-essential consumption, such as clothing purchases and restaurant meals.

"Some households have been disproportionately affected by the rise in prices and interest rates. In the big picture, however, Finnish mortgage borrowers are doing well. Although reducing everyday expenses is currently a common topic of conversation, according to the study, it affects only every second Finnish mortgage debtor," Sari Takala, Danske Bank's head of personal loan services is quoted as saying in a release.

Conducted by YouGov Finland, the survey asked respondents how they had adjusted their spending.

A quarter said that they have not had to make any changes in their finances due to rising interest rates or prices. Ten percent said that they have had to postpone the payment of some other bills. Eight percent answered that they had to rely on financial help from family members. Six percent had had to take out a new loan.

"It's good to remember that everyone has their own, personal level of inflation. If there is no room for manoeuvre in your own finances, you should find out from your bank whether, for example, an extension of the loan period or a repayment holiday would help the situation," Takala said.

Hypermarkets to the rescue?

Helsingin Sanomat looks at the possibility of hypermarkets revitalising the capital's city centre.

It notes that the idea has proven to be successful in Tampere where a Prisma hypermarket is doing well after replacing a downtown department store.

Mika Sivula, the southern Finland regional manager for Kesko, a company with about 1,800 stores in Finland and abroad, told the paper that he believes that there would be sufficient demand for a selection of hypermarkets in the centre of Helsinki.

"But the problem is that it is very challenging to find large enough business premises in the densely built-up centre," he pointed out.

One of Kesko's K-citymarkets would require nearly 10,000 square metres of retail space, preferably all under one roof. In addition, transportation connections, and access by private car, would be a key factor. In this context, HS notes the issue of frequent street works in the city centre.

City officials do not object to the idea. Helsinki's director for urban environment, Ville Lehmuskoski, told the paper, "If there's a demand for it and it's a service that's wanted, the city will try to make it easier."

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Finland's high Covid death rate

Ilta-Sanomat reports that WHO figures show Finland to have registered the largest number of Covid deaths per one million inhabitants in Europe over the past 12 months.

Lasse Lehtonen, director of diagnostics at the Helsinki Universitry Hospital HUS, pointed out that the WHO collects statistical data from every country in the same way, with all persons who tested positive for coronavirus infections who have died within 30 days of infection being counted as Covid deaths.

Lehtonen considers WHO's statistical method "rough and simple", but the best available to make global comparisons.

"It is not the truth, above all it describes variations among the countries," Lehtonen said. "It does not measure the absolute number of coronavirus deaths, but how different countries rank in relation to each other."

The method used by Finland's Institute of Health and Welfare (THL) is based on a screening of death certificates which specify the coronavirus as the actual cause of death, or when it is recorded as a contributing factor.

Over the past year, more than 3,000 deaths from coronavirus infections have been recorded in Finland, which put the country at the top of the per capita list in Europe.

The overall total number of deaths attributed to coronavirus in Finland exceeded 10,000 at the beginning of July 2023. The total number in Finland is now clearly higher than in Norway and Denmark, which are roughly the same size in terms of population, but also clearly more densely populated.

Still cold, still wet

Iltalehti told readers that the latest monthly weather forecast calls for colder than usual weather for the first two full weeks of November.

Temperatures are expected to be about 1 to 3 degrees Celsius cooler than usual in large parts of the country. In southern Finland, temperatures will be more or less normal for the time of year.

Next week, starting 6 November, more rain than usual is likely to be seen in the south and in areas in the east.

"Unusually rainy weather can be expected in the southern and eastern parts of the country, while in the north precipitation should be less than average," the paper quotes Foreca meteorologist Joonas Koskela as saying.

The week starting 13 November, almost the entire country will see more precipitation than usual. The weather during the week starting 20 November is expected to bring average seasonal temperatures and precipitation.

There are signs that the final week of the month will again be warmer than average.