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couldawouldashoulda50 · 2 months ago

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A/N: I had this idea back in December when Alex was playing with the Marlies. He led the team in an incredible comeback after being down 3-0 against Bakersfield, finishing the night with five points—two assists, three goals, and the OT winner completed the hat trick.

I started wondering… what if Loren showed up at his game one afternoon—completely unprompted, just because she wanted to support him? Would that mean something to Alex? Would it affect him in a way he didn't expect?

I had so much fun writing this, and I hope there’s an audience out there for it. ❤️ *Note - as much as I try to keep real events aligned with dates and such, I realize that Ella Nylander was already in TO at the time but kept that fact out for the sake of the story.

Warnings - profanity, high level description during a hook-up (not terribly detailed smut), allusions to Loren and William in bed.

18+ only please.

Word count - 7k

Loren approached the usher at the entrance to the stands at Coca-Cola Coliseum, the home arena for the Toronto Marlies - the farm team for the Maple Leafs.

She showed the electronic ticket on her phone with her seat number. “Row CC - straight down to ice level…you’ll see a lot of the action - great view. Enjoy the game and let me know if you have any questions.”

Loren thanked him and began descending down the metal steps which creaked and shifted slightly with every step. She felt the energy and excitement in the air of the arena as she slipped into her seat by the glass. She was the lone person in her row at that moment, the coldness of the seat and the chill from the ice’s surface had her zipping up her vest and adjusting her knitted cream turtleneck.

William had left for Detroit the day before and told her to stay at the condo, take it easy - try to enjoy a rare weekend to herself. But sleeping in his bed without him had only made her miss him more. She decided to head home after lunch on Saturday, but as she merged onto the northbound Don Valley Parkway, she had a spur-of-the-moment idea and decided to go to see Alex (Nylander) and the Marlies play that afternoon instead. Taking the first viable exit off the parkway, she entered the address of the arena into her GPS at a traffic light. She decided not to even let Alex know she was coming - she would send him a congratulatory text or one with words of support afterward once she arrived home, depending on the outcome.

As she settled into her seat, Loren took another glance around the arena, her gaze lifting to the banners in the rafters and the large video screen hanging over center ice. William played here once. The thought crossed her mind as she imagined him at eighteen—this gorgeous, fresh-faced, highly touted rookie as he stepped onto this very ice. He had always been confident, that much she knew, but she wondered, aside from the hockey aspect, how he truly felt back then, navigating his life as a young player in a city like Toronto.

Smiling to herself, she pulled out her phone and snapped a quick selfie—her seat by the glass, trying to angle the shot to capture the Marlies emblem at centre ice. She sent it to William - no caption, no explanation - just a photo.

The response was almost immediate.

William: Beautiful ❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥 are you at Alex’s game?

Loren grinned, pulling her phone out of her pocket again.

Loren: Yes - I decided to come watch him at the last minute. I was actually going home because I miss my boys so much…but I turned around when I got the idea to come watch Alex play.

There was a pause—just long enough that she could picture him considering the words in her message.

William: That’ll mean a lot to him. Does he know ur there?

Loren: No - I didn’t want to bother him…he’ll be coming out soon for warm-ups so maybe he’ll see me. Snagged first row - I can’t even get first row to see you 😝😘

William: I’d be too distracted seeing you in the first row ❤️‍🔥🫠🥴

Loren: It would be distracting since I’d be in heat and licking the glass the entire time 🤤🫦

There was another pause, he was typing, then he would stop and start again.

William: Fuck, you really are the best. Please don’t go home afterward….it’ll be late but I really hope you’ll be there in bed when i get back.

Loren: I can hardly wait…have a good game. will be thinking about you.

She knew they could just go on and on with messaging so William just responding with another heart-on-fire emoji.

She slipped her phone back in her pocket, barely realizing her perma-grin that she was wearing. William had this way of making her feel like she could levitate. The warmth she felt from their brief exchange cut through the chill in the arena far better than her chunky turtleneck did.

Loren looked around at all the spectators starting to file into their seats. Kids started to line up along the class with some handmade signs for their favourite players - smaller scale than what she had witnessed at Leaf games but no less endearing. The energy in the atmosphere was building and there were moments where she felt just as excited to be there as she is when she sees William play.

With the bass pounding and the laser show flashing, the announcer riled up the crowd as the Marlies players began filing onto the ice, followed by Bakersfield, the opposing team. Her eyes darted around as she scanned the sea of jerseys and helmets. It wasn’t long before they landed on the jersey number 92, who was skating hard around the corners, a look of absolute focus on his face.

He skated past her spot in the stands, and Loren figured he hadn’t seen her. Her gaze trailed after him for a moment before shifting to a few other players she recognized. But when she glanced back, searching for Alex again, she caught him mid-lap—just as he turned his head and nearly collided with Alex Steeves. Both players stumbled, their skates catching awkwardly on the ice. He stopped abruptly, his skates gripping the ice as his brows furrowed, focusing on her and processing her presence. As he approached the glass, she gave him a small wave and an easy smile, mouthing, “Hi.”

Alex grinned, a mix of surprise and delight lighting up his expression. He shook his head slightly, as if to say, What are you doing here? Loren smiled and shrugged, pointing to the ice, mouth: to watch you play.

Alex was touched. He had never even thought of asking if she’d ever want to come to a Marlies game. And he liked Loren - he always had. They got along well and occasionally bantered back and forth but there was a part of him that felt something else whenever she was around. It wasn’t that he was uncomfortable - unsettling maybe? Not about who Loren was - he knew she was good to the core. But still - it was something he noticed, this vague feeling that he could never put his finger on it, but it wasn’t hidden enough for him to shake entirely.

As warmups continued, Loren noticed some of Alex’s teammates lining up along the glass and seemingly sneaking glances her way, nudging each other and laughing under their breath. She pretended not to notice, keeping her attention on Alex as he shot pucks at the net. He barely looked her way again, but she knew he was aware of her. His strides were longer, his shots harder. And when he lingered near her side of the ice, stretching, working his edges, it wasn’t an accident.

Some of the players were flipping pucks over the glass towards a group of young fans. A boy near Loren, not more than 9 or 10 approached her with a puck that he had just caught, and offered it to her.

Loren’s eyes went wide with appreciation, sweetly declining the offer.

“Oh my gosh, no….you keep this, but I really appreciate the offer! Thank you so much…that was very kind of you,” Loren smiling.

Alex laughed as he watched the reaction of the boy walk away grinning like an idiot as he approached his friends. If he was being honest, he didn’t blame the boy one bit.

As warmups concluded and the players all filed off the ice, Loren settled back down in her seat. She flagged down a vendor selling drinks and popcorn, and watched as her food was passed along towards her, promptly thanking her seat “neighbours” for obliging.

Once the game began, it was clear Loren was not bringing the Marlies any kind of luck. She tried not to be superstitious or think that because of her mere attendance that day, that she could set the entire tone for the game. Still, Toronto being down 3-0 by the end of the first wasn’t what she had hoped for.

The second and third periods made up for the abysmal start to the game. Bakersfield answered the first Marlies goal by scoring two more. But Alex clapped back and potted one in the net edging the game closer in scoring. What no one knew is that after the 5th Bakersfield goal, the Marlies would own the rest of the game.

With the game tied at the end of the third, heading into overtime, Alex had scored twice, and had two secondary assists.

Once OT had begun and bolstered by their amazing comeback to tie the game, the Marlies, and Alex specifically, had a dogged determination apparent to every spectator in the stands.

Over three minutes in, Loren was on the edge of her seat as she watched Alex hit an opposing player, then take off up the middle of the ice. United with the rest of the fan base, Loren could feel the roar increasing as the Marlies pushed down in to the offensive zone. With a teammate on his left, Alex took the pass keeping his stride, skating straight toward the goalie. Loren, along with everyone around her, shot to her feet as Alex veered right. A smooth backhand—perfectly placed—and just like that, the puck hit the back of the net. OT winner. Hat trick. First star of the game.

Loren chatted briefly with her seat neighbours before they began the ascent up the stairs towards the exit. Loren wasn’t in a rush as she hadn’t figured out what was in store for her for the rest of the night. Yes, she was staying in the city but there were hours before she would be ready to crawl into William’s bed. She considered texting Alice—Simon Benoit’s partner—to see if she and baby Adelaide were up for a little late-night fun. But, as Loren soon found out, both Alice and Adelaide were down for the count with a virus that had been making the rounds, for the second time that season. Although Alice texted she would love for Loren to come and keep her company, they both knew that Loren couldn’t risk transmitting to those she supported in the group home.

A woman’s voice called out to her. “Loren?”

Loren smiled, but she did not recognize the woman who called her name. “Hi, yes - I’m Loren.”

“Nice to meet you. Alex wanted me to try and catch you before you left. Sorry - I’m Kate Bascom, Media Manager for the team.”

Loren’s eyes flashed with recognition. “So nice to meet you, Kate. Alex wants to see me?”

“He asked that I bring you down the tunnel - they’ll be doing their media availability soon so I’ll find a spot for you to sit and wait for him, okay?”

“Oh - okay, sounds good. Thank you so much,” Loren blushed.

Loren followed Kate as she lead the way through the twists and turns of the corridors leading towards the lockers.

As they walked, Loren hesitated, her steps slowing. The last thing she needed was people jumping to conclusions about her and Alex. Explaining the truth felt almost worse—because once people started talking, through all the available forums for gossiping, it would be out in universe forever.

It was as though Kate could read Loren’s mind as they walked. “So Alex mentioned you’re William’s girlfriend?”

Their pace slowed. Loren flexed her fingers, her stomach tightening at the question. Loren Looked at Kate and spoke as quietly as she could. “Well, yes - we’ve been seeing each other exclusively since Thanksgiving.” Loren hesitated before she continued explaining her and William’s status to Kate. “Both he and I want to keep everything absolutely under wraps so I’d rather just sit somewhere off to the side until Alex is done his stuff.”

Being the Media Manager for the Marlies for a number of years, this was well within her area of expertise. Kate found it oddly refreshing - normally it was the player asking to keep things confidential, not the other way around. The worry in Loren’s face made it clear—this wasn’t just something casual. Whatever was between her and William, they were serious about keeping it private.

Kate led Loren through a small enclave that opened into a much larger room, packed with every kind of hockey equipment imaginable. “Loren, I’m going to grab Wil - he’s the Head Equipment Manager. He’ll find a spot for you to wait for Alex, okay? I’m sure you’re used to waiting around after the games,” she winked.

“I really appreciate it Kate - thank you so much,” Loren smiled, cheeks still aflush.

The life these professional players led often felt dizzying to Loren. Even after her time with William, she felt like she’d barely scratched the surface. And now, seeing Alex’s experience too, she was even more amazed. The contrast between William and Alex was vast—both professional players, both Nylanders, yet leading very different careers. And behind closed doors, she saw the unique bond they shared. The chirping they doled out to each other, the arguing, the laughter, their undying support for one another. She felt so fortunate to witness any of it.

Approaching Loren was a broad man with slicked back hair, accompanied by Kate. Kate began the introductions. “Loren, this is Wil Burns. He’s been a part of the equipment staff for the Marlies for many years. Wil this is Loren - ,” Kate looked at Loren to fill in the blank.

Loren extended her hand, a wide grin on her face. “Girard. Loren Girard. Wil - it’s so nice to meet you.”

“Likewise, Loren,” Wil smiled, shaking her hand. “You can come back into this area and watch all the goings on until Alex is through with his interviews. You came for the right game - pretty exciting, eh?”

Loren chuckled. “I thought maybe I should leave after the first - that maybe I was bad luck for the team,” she smiled. “I’m glad they grabbed that momentum and just ran with it. It’s such great hockey.”

Wil took the time to walk Loren through the post-game routines of the players and staff. She’d never been this close to it with the Leafs, so she absorbed every detail, fascinated by how much went on behind the scenes.

As the post game media scrums wrapped up, Loren saw Alex walking through the dressing room, followed by William Villeneuve. Both players had an incredible night - Alex with his 5 points and William with 4. She smiled watching Alex from a distance - there was no denying he was 100% pure Nylander. There were many different traits between William and Alex, both in stature and in personality, and Loren had begun to see those differences the more time she spent with the brothers.

Kate tapped Alex on the shoulder, nodding toward Loren. His grin spread wide before he could stop it, and—almost unbelievably—his cheeks flushed pink as he stepped toward her.

Then she smiled at him. Her expression was full of warmth mixed with excitement and pride. The way she looked at him made Alex feel like he was the only person in the room.

Something strange settled in his chest.

Up until that moment, Loren had always just been William’s girl. Hell, Alex had once flat-out told William to move on from her—to focus on hockey instead of whatever was happening between them.

But so much had transpired since then.

Alex remembered when William told him—plain as day—that no one brought anything close to what Loren brought into his life. Alex had brushed it off at the time, giving William some generic, emotionless response.

But now, standing in front of her, he understood what William meant in a way he never had before.

Alex barely had time to process the shift inside him before Loren stepped forward, her eyes dancing with excitement.

"Hej där!" Her Swedish was careful and a little hesitant, but the fact she tried made it endearing. "Oh my gosh, amazing game! Congratulations, Alex!" she beamed.

A warmth filled Alex’s chest - it was nice having someone waiting for him after a game. Someone that was invested and cheered for whether his team won or lost. Someone that was gorgeous on the outside, enough to make his teammates envious, but sweet enough on the inside to impress his grandmother.

Someone like Lo—no. No, no, no. Not someone like Loren. Not Loren.

She was William’s girlfriend. You cannot think about her that way.

Alex clenched his jaw, forcing the thought from his mind before it could settle.

And then Loren hugged him.

Brief. Polite.

But long enough for Alex’s cheeks to flush an even deeper shade of red. Long enough for him to catch a hint of her fragrance—warm and familiar, the same scent that marks her presence in the condo.

“I was thinking that I brought some bad juju or something in the first…I was going slink out and send you an apology later. But god, when you guys turned it around….well, I guess you don’t need my replay - you made so much of it happen,” Loren blushed, slightly embarrassed about her enthusiastic commentary.

Alex chuckled at the jab she made to herself. “Hey - well…uh, I think a bunch of us are going out…did you want to tag along or -?”

Loren’s expression was appreciative mixed with apologetic. “That sounds awesome but I think it’s best if I just head back to the condo. Watch William play, head to bed - pretty tame….you know me,” she smiled.

Alex looked around into the adjoining room where a few of his teammates had conveniently stopped to have a “conversation” about “their hockey sticks” all while unabashedly checking out Loren from behind.

“Nawh - that sounds good, some these guys might start creepin’ up to you anyway,” Alex remarked, looking over her shoulder and making eye contact until they unglued their gaze from Loren’s ass. “Some of them don’t know how to behave…,” he said loudly, getting their attention before Loren had a chance to turn around.

Loren sensed there was a moment that just occurred between Alex and the small group of players off to the side. Whatever just happened was more than enough to signify that it was time for her to go.

She and Alex chatted for a few more minutes, keeping it light—whether William had asked her to pick up Pablo and Banksy, or if she wanted Alex to grab something for her and bring it by later.

Loren thanked him and replied that William wanted to keep his routine with the dogs, then told Alex she might make something for herself, but she appreciated the offer.

And with that, she said she’d see him later—and to call if he needed a ride.

Alex reentered the dressing room, already bracing himself for the chirps and questions. He knew they were coming.

And sure enough—he wasn’t wrong.

After systematically shutting it all down with a casual, “She is 100% taken—no guy on the planet has a chance with her,” followed by a chuckle and a resounding, “Give it up,” Alex hit the showers, letting the hot water drown out all the questions, the teasing, and whatever the hell that weird feeling was from earlier.

—

Alex slid into his older brother’s Porsche. He sat for a moment, contemplating his options for the night.

He could drop the car off at home, grab an Uber, and really let loose.

Or he could just drive himself, keep it to one or two drinks, and call it a night.

There were plenty of options, but given his mood? Two drinks felt like enough.

Soon, messages began popping up—many from girls he’d connected with recently, all of them congratulating him on a great game.

One message caught his attention—not because of what it said, but because of who sent it. Nevaeh.

They met one evening at a popular Toronto night spot back in November when the Nylander siblings were all together. Alex had been dancing with another girl, her name long lost in his mind, drowning in a sea of possibilities—when Nevaeh scooched behind him to get by.

Her hands were planted firmly on his waist as she shimmied past, but given the dance floor seemed to have ample room, her touch left Alex a bit puzzled yet intrigued.

The two would keep bumping into one another, and by the end if the night, Alex had her online details. Over the course of the past weeks, Alex and Neveah kept in touch, though there were no real conversations to speak of. They sexted, sending provocative and extremely elicit messages and photos back and forth. He liked her confidence - her boldness - he had always been drawn to women who just lay it all out there.

Neveah’s message suggested that he come over for a bit while she got ready for the club. Just hang out, she said. Then we can go together.

Alex wasn’t an idiot. The invite was simple enough but it was the accompanying pictures that gave him the extra context he needed.

His lips quirked at the corner as he tapped out a reply.

Alex: Omw.

And with that, he pulled out of the lot.

—

Nevaeh wasted no time the second he closed her apartment door.

He barely had a chance to scan her body under the robe that she quickly untied. She was pressed up against him, threading her fingers through his hair along the collar of his jacket. She flashed a wicked grin, telling him how fucking hot he looked, before her lips pressed against his. Alex let her take control, let her pull him toward the bedroom, let her undress him with absolute efficiency.

This wasn’t about connection.

She was good—knew exactly what she was doing, knew exactly how to work him up, what to say and how to say it. She was on her knees, her expression covering all bases between innocence and unbridled sexual hunger. Before he had a chance to think, her hands and mouth moved on his cock with practiced skill.

It was good. It had its desired effect.

Later, she climbed on top of him, sliding his cock into her, rolling her hips, and taking what she wanted while Alex let her. His hands gripped her waist and watched her enjoying herself. He was feeling pretty good himself as well so win win at the end of the day.

He watched her as she bounced on him, closing in on her orgasm. He could feel his own climax beginning to take hold, and once she reached the height of her release, he flipped her onto her back and jackhammered her until he spilled out into the condom.

After the highs of their respective orgasms had faded, they lay apart in silence as their breathing returned to normal. Nevaeh barely spared him a glance as she pecked him on the cheek, reaching for her phone while curling into his side. Scrolling. Giggling. Liking. Typing.

Alex stared at the ceiling, waiting for that post-sex haze to settle in.

It didn’t.

The silence between them solidified their lack of compatibility, apparent to Alex only in that moment.

But what Neveah said to him, once she broke the silence, was the thing that really annoyed the shit out of him.

“So,” she started, her voice suddenly a slightly higher pitch, almost childlike. “We should skip the club and go back to your place. Introduce me to your brother.”

Alex brows furrowed as he tilted his head to look at her.

"What?"

"You know," she said, smirking at her screen, "I bet you and him would love me and…oooh, maybe even a couple of my girls." She finally glanced up, giving him a playful nudge. "You should make it happen. We'd be... very attentive to both you boys, if we were given the opportunity."

Alex let out a short laugh, mostly because what the fuck else was he supposed to do?

This wasn’t new. Not even remotely. Women had been propositioning them both for years—together, separately, in various places around the world. And of course, as young and virile men would do, they enjoyed in obliging the offers from time to time.

The annoying part was how casually Neveah brought up William. Like it wasn’t enough that Alex had just fucked her—she wanted a shot at his brother too.

Of course she did.

Even after a five-point night, even after leading his team to an OT win, William was still the focal point.

Alex didn’t resent his brother. Not really. But it was hard to ignore that no matter what he did, no matter how good he played, William was always the name people cared about.

He exhaled sharply, shifting out from under Nevaeh’s hold and reaching for his phone.

He tapped on a new message received. The second he saw her name, his stomach flipped.

Loren.

He frowned at his own reaction. That was weird.

Still, he opened the message.

Loren: Hey - hope you're out enjoying yourself - I just wanted to let you know that thanks to you, I'm hooked on Chipotle’s and I got a separate order of your favorite if you (and any potential company 😉😉😉😉😏😏😏) might be hungry when you come in.

A grin tugged at his lips. Even the insinuation made him chuckle.

And then, just as quickly, that strange feeling crept back in.

Loren.

How was she always like this?

God, she was so caring, so thoughtful. Even with him.

It wasn’t just her coming to the game today. It wasn’t just the healthy breakfasts and dinners that she made for them. There were so many little things. The way she always made sure that when she brought William little treats from some obscure place that there was something for him too.

William had once mentioned how Loren tried to make sure that he and Alex had their space to do their things together. She never wanted anyone to feel like she was encroaching on their time together. She understands how important our relationship is, William had explained.

Alex had been baffled by that at first. Almost suspicious at times thinking that it was set up. That she would turn into this overly demanding, over-bearing, attention seeking girlfriend.

That hasn’t happened.

Loren genuinely cared. About William. About their family. About him.

And the fucked-up thing? He liked how that felt.

Alex exhaled, locking his phone before he let himself think too hard about it.

"I should head out - not feeling great," he muttered, already grabbing his underwear and his pants.

Nevaeh barely looked up. "Mmm, Alex - let me come home with you. It’ll take me 10 minutes just to grab a few things."

*"*Not this time - got family visiting,” Alex countered, which wasn’t true — the family was arriving the next day.

She pouted, running her nails down his stomach. "Oh c’mon…..families love me, and I want to meet your dogs…they’re soooo cute."

Alex huffed a laugh. Sure she did.

Was it that she was confident? Or plain delusional.

“Maybe another time. I think I’m coming down with something… been going around on the Leafs too," Alex mumbled, already pulling on his jacket.

Nevaeh pouted, tugging at his wrist. "Fine. But next time, I wanna meet your brother."

Alex didn’t bother responding. He just grabbed his keys and walked out

—

It was a Saturday night—a night for celebrating, for drinking, for being out with his teammates and countless available women.

Yet for Alex, all he felt was the pull to go home.

He sat in the Porsche, the low idle of the engine filling the quiet space around him.

The club had been an option. Hell, it was still an option. He could turn around right now, meet up with his teammates, let himself get lost in the music, the booze, the girls who were always eager to celebrate a win or to soothe a loss.

But tonight somehow was different. Tonight, the only place he wanted to be was home.

What remained an issue in his mind - he was sat there not because he was tired. Nor was it because the post-sex emptiness with Nevaeh pissed him off.

He hated to admit it but he wanted to be home because of Loren.

Alex ran a hand through his hair, sighing as he stared out the windshield, the underground parking garage dimly lit around him.

Loren was William’s girl. That was unshakable. Undeniable.

She loved his brother in a way that made it clear there wasn’t a single other man on the planet for her.

And Alex? He would never—could never—betray William like that.

So why the hell was he here instead of out celebrating?

His fingers drummed against the steering wheel, thoughts circling, twisting, refusing to settle.

Maybe it was that he needed comfort instead of clubbing tonight.

Maybe he just liked having her around.

Maybe it was nice to talk to someone who wasn’t trying to use him, or compare him to his brother, or get something out of him.

And maybe, for the first time in a long time, that felt better than anything else.

Alex groaned, shaking his head. Jesus. What the fuck am I even thinking?

He grabbed the keys, cut the engine, and climbed out of the car.

When he got upstairs, Loren would be there. Probably curled up on the couch, watching the Leafs game, waiting for William to get back.

And for Alex - Alex was just going to walk in, sit down, and act like nothing was different.

Even if everything felt different.

The minute he walked in - he realized he had been building up an idea in his head that dissipated the second he saw her. She looked exactly as he envisioned her to be. Curled up on the couch, watching the Leafs and her beloved, his brother, try to win a hockey game.

She game him a warm smile when Alex appeared from around the corner. “They’re down 3-2.”

“Ooof, fuck.” Alex’s focus immediately went to the time remaining in the 3rd period as he stretched out on the opposing end of the couch. “Woller will be coming out soon.”

Loren covered her eyes. “See - I’m not good in these games…I can’t watch. I’ll grab you a glass of wine if you want?”

Alex chuckled. “Yeah - sure, go make your escape…some red would be great.” Relief washed over him as he sat and watched the dying minutes of the game. He felt okay - he felt in control, and he felt that whatever emotions he had going on earlier that night were circumstantial and very temporary.

Loren called from the kitchen asking Alex if he wanted his Chipotle’s warmed up.

Suddenly starving, Alex called back “Ja, tack.” A minute later, she heard him loudly mutter to her from the living room “Fuck - empty netter. Well, that’s that. 4-2.”

Loren walked back in and set down a coaster and a glass of wine for Alex and herself.

"Tack. Ser du? Kanske hade de kvitterat om du inte hade gått," Alex teased. "William tappade pucken med sex sekunder kvar." ("Thanks. See? Maybe they would have tied it if you hadn't left," Alex teased. "William lost the puck with 6 seconds left.")

"Oh no—jag borde ha stannat... Fan också, jag visste det..." ("Oh no—I should have stayed... God damn it, I knew it...")

"Jag säger till William att det är ditt fel..." ("I'm telling William it's your fault...")

Loren gasps feigning disbelief. "Du skulle aldrig...!" ("You would never...!")

Alex shrugs, taking a sip of his wine. "Mmm... jag vet inte..." ("Mmm... I don’t know...")

Loren grabs a throw pillow and smacks him with it. “Vilken liten skit…,” (”Such a little brat”).

Alex laughs and mockingly whines that she messed his hair up. Yeah, this was better that going out he thinks.

The timer on the oven sounded and soon after Alex retrieved his food, he returned to his spot with a glass of water. As he blew the steam off of his fork, he started asking Loren questions, mostly about little things at first - what she ordered for herself when she decided to pick him up something, if she’ll maybe come back to another Marlies game (he joked it might make William a little jealous if she started attending more games of Alex’s), if she’s finished Christmas shopping for William yet.

Loren answered each one, her typical buoyant personality - skirting around the William getting jealous if she went to see Alex play more with absolute modesty with “I highly doubt William would get jealous,” followed by a chuckle. She mentioned she was concerned about his Christmas gifts, confiding in Alex that she often worries that her gifts might be underwhelming.

'If I had the means, I’d buy him the world,' she admitted, her cheeks turning red. 'But I just… can’t.”

Alex didn’t know why that hit the way it did.

Maybe because women in his orbit seemed to want a guy who could buy them the world.

But Loren? She just wanted to give William everything.

And for some reason, that sat with him longer than he expected.

Alex shook his head, swallowing the last bite. “Awh - don’t worry, if it comes from you, he’ll love it. Trust me.”

Loren cocked an eyebrow. “That’s the kind of thing that people say while they’re bracing themselves to receive something that they’re never going to like in a million years,” her shoulders shaking as she let out a low giggle.

Alex chuckled. “Okay, so what’re one of his gifts then?”

Loren tried to stifle a smile, a mischievous glint in her eye. “Same thing as I got you.”

Alex’s expression showed intrigue. He sat back against a pillow and let his stomach rest from all the food he just ate. “Oh yeah, what’s that then?”

Without missing a beat, she smirked “Dayglo Condoms and a vibrating cock ring.”

Alex’s eyes grew wide as he started to laugh.

Loren covered her face, her cheeks hot to the touch. “Yeah, I gotta cut myself off for tonight, that last glass of wine…” Loren giggled.

She stood up and offered to take Alex’s glass. “Nah, thanks though. The wine’s going down a little too easily - I’m gonna have more.”

Loren laughed and shook her head again. “Sorry, I have the humour of a 9 year old boys sometimes - the going down easily comment…ah, sorry, don’t mind me.”

“Yeah… you’re cut off, you loon," Alex chuckled. His laugh was something else—apparently even more unique than William’s at times.

“Alright then Alex, good night,” Loren smiled.

“Night Loren. Thanks again for coming today and for dinner. It was really nice of you to do that,” Alex replied softly.

“Anytime,” Loren replied with a small nod. He heard her pad to the kitchen, wash her glass quickly and then into William’s bedroom seconds later.

Alex exhaled as he leaned his head on the back of the couch. He now has seen a glimpse - a mere glimpse - of what Loren is like naturally, just on her own. God, this is why he’s never seen his brother quite as happy, quite at ease, quite as open and loving the way he’s been since Loren has been around. She really was like a breath of fresh air.

The realization that Alex might be looking for that kind of connection - for the kind of love, understanding and devotion that Loren has, not just for William but his whole life…it hit him in that moment.

Alex stayed up for awhile - gaming, messaging, texting, swiping…all half-heartedly. He downed another glass of wine while watching the highlight reels of all the Saturday night games that had ended.

Around 1:30am, William arrived home. Pablo and Banksy b-lined it for the couch where Alex lay fast asleep - snoring with his mouth agape. He was jolted awake with Banksy climbing onto his chest, Alex groggily giving him a rub and setting him aside as he stood up from the couch and stretched.

Immediately the brothers caught each other up from the last 24-36 hours - Alex’s stellar performance versus a less than stellar one from his older brother, most of their family arriving tomorrow, and the oddly scheduled 5pm Sunday afternoon game, Leafs versus Buffalo. Alex even gave William a quick run-down of his hook-up, passing over the part that she wanted to meet William too. Him coming home instead of heading to the club where others on the team were just leaving.

“So what - you and Loren hung out?” William asked as he scarfed down part of Alex’s leftovers.

“Not for long really," Alex shrugged, maybe a little too casually. "She picked up some food for me just in case, and yeah—when I got home, we watched the rest of the game. Well, I did,” Alex chuckled, correcting himself. “She hid in the kitchen hoping you’d score if she wasn’t watching.”

“Didn’t work,” William joked.

“That’s what I told her. She even tried to call me a little shit or something in Swedish,” Alex smiled.

William grinned thinking about Loren and her potty mouth…in Swedish even. She’s been practicing…that’s my girl he thought.

For a split second, William thought about asking Alex what he thought of Loren—not because he was even remotely concerned. Not even a little bit. It would just make him happy to hear that Alex sees all the good in her. Given the hour, William shelved the thought…Loren was in his bed and he could hardly wait to be alone with her.

The brothers said their goodnights, and Pablo and Banksy followed William down the hallway to his bedroom. And once again, the condo was quiet and Alex was by himself.

With another back to back game against Bakersfield at 4pm that afternoon, Alex meandered down to his bedroom. He was tired and for a moment thought that all of the buildup surrounding Loren in his mind might just be from his tired mind taking Loren’s kindness and turning it into something else.

Alex shut off the water, catching the faint murmur of William’s voice through the walls as he walked into his bedroom. He smirked at the sound of his brother’s unmistakable laugh. Sliding into bed, he flipped onto his side, wrapping himself around a larger stuffed pillow.

Although he had achieved a satifactory release with Neveah earlier on, a familiar need reentered Alex. He tried to push out the images and thoughts of the women he’s “connected with” lately, knowing sleep was necessary, especially in a back to back game situation.

As he lay there, with the distant hum of traffic in the background, he soon heard what could only be a bed shifting back and forth, and it certainly wasn’t his. The pace of the sound was steady at first but gradually increased, mixed with the faint moans of two voices.

Exasperated, Alex grabbed his earbuds and sought out a distraction, the blood flow to his own cock starting to build pressure. He saw his ex-girlfriend Isla’s green dot indicating she was online. He tapped out a quick message to her…she was someone that really knew Alex well, and he needed that familiarity too.

Phone sex wasn’t ideal, but in a pinch, Isla obliged, lounging through a lazy Sunday morning in Stockholm. In some ways, it was nice to have someone—someone who knew him as well as she did, even if they weren’t always good for each other. Even if they weren’t together anymore.

After this impromptu rendezvous with Isla, Alex cleaned himself up and ventured out to the kitchen one last time. He jumped when he saw the refrigerator light illuminating Loren’s figure as she grabbed two ice packs from the freezer.

Loren jumped when she spotted Alex, giggling from the sudden jolt of fright that he gave her.

Alex gave a crooked smiled her way. “His knees?” nodding towards the ice packs.

Loren smiled sheepishly. “I swear, I didn’t break him - yeah, it’s his knees.”

Alex smiled and nodded. “He’s lucky he’s got you here to take care of him when he needs it,” he remarked warmly. “I’m not very sympathetic.”

Loren paused and looked at Alex with a knowing smile. “Ah, you are….it’s absolutely there - it’s just a flag you choose to not fly as high.”

God, she really is great he thought.

“Night, Alex…have a good sleep,” Loren said softly, before padding back towards William’s bedroom.

He was thankful their family was arriving later that morning. He needed the distraction. The noise. The chaos. The sublime madness of a full Nylander house leading up to the holidays.

Anything to help him tuck away this ridiculous little crush and pretend it had never happened.

#william x loren #alex nylander fic #alex nylander imagine #nhl fanfiction #ahl fanfiction #nylanders #alex nylander #william nylander imagine #william nylander

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misshoneyimhome · 10 months ago

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Hi ! I have a bit of an idea for a Willy Fic. He uses the metro a lot yeah? how about a fic where he took a round trip in the metro after a game cause it was still traffic out there and didn't want to deal with it by driving out at once. He bumps into the OC (friend) who worked overtime and is taking the train home (It's like 10PM ik it's not rush hour but humor me), she worked early but had to work late and they bump into each other and get pushed to a corner and he shields her from getting hit

Hello there 🤗 Oh, that's such a sweet idea, darling 🤍

So, I attempted to put something together, and I do apologise if it's not quite what you had in mind 💕 However, it seems my mind decided to add a touch of relationship complications to the mix 🙈 Anyway, I hope you like it 🤍

Tropes and warnings; friends to lovers; William kissing reader, though she's in a relationship; no warnings; is it cheating if it's just a quick kiss?

Word count; 2.9K

Taglist; @couldawouldashoulda50 @findapenny @justwanderingbutneverlost @cixrosie

➼｡ﾟ

Fall so Hard I William Nylander

William Nylander had never imagined he could fall so deeply. He was a typical bachelor in his late twenties, focusing on his exceptional hockey career and enjoying the company of his wonderful family and friends. His days were simply filled with intense training sessions, thrilling games, and the camaraderie of his teammates. Evenings were often spent celebrating victories or relaxing wither at home or his favourite spots around the city. Life was good, and he had no complaints.

However, when you entered his life, everything seemed to change. The first time he met you, it felt like the world shifted, as your smile was infectious, and your laughter was a melody he wanted to hear again and again. He felt butterflies in his stomach that he had never experienced before, and a nervous excitement that made him feel like a teenager once more.

And it wasn't just your appearance and smile that captivated him. It was your devoted kindness, intelligence, and the way you listened with genuine interest. He admired your commitment to your work and how gracefully you balanced your professional and personal lives while also putting other’s needs before your own. You simply had a knack for making everyone around you feel special, and there was no way he could grow immune to your charm.

In fact, he found himself thinking about you constantly. During practice, he would wonder what you were up to, and in the middle of a game, a fleeting thought of you would bring a smile to his face, imagining that you might be watching him. And soon, his teammates noticed his distracted state and teased him about it, but he didn't mind. Thinking of you was simply a delightful distraction that filled him with warmth and longing.

William eagerly looked forward to any chance to see you. He treasured every moment spent together, no matter how brief, and each encounter left him yearning for more, craving your company in a way that was both exhilarating and unnerving. The hardest part though, was that he knew he was falling for you, and it thrilled him as much as it scared him.

The Toronto skyline glowed against the night sky as William emerged from Scotiabank Arena. The Leafs had just secured a hard-fought victory, and the thrill of the win still pulsed through his veins as he made his way out of the arena and towards the metro station. Normally, he would drive home, but tonight was different. The streets were jammed, a chaotic mix of construction diversions and a bustling Friday night crowd. So instead, he opted for a more relaxing journey and decided to take the metro for a round trip.

Arriving at the metro station, William was greeted by the familiar hum of trains and the murmur of passengers. Despite the late hour past 10 PM, Union Station buzzed with activity, though most of the game's crowd had dispersed, leaving a steady flow of commuters. William had his ticket ready and boarded the first train heading towards his stop, seeking a quiet ride with headphones in to unwind after the evening's excitement.

Meanwhile, further down the line, you were wrapping up an unexpectedly long day at work. An early start and late finish had left you drained, yearning for the comfort of home. And opting for the metro as the quickest route, you hurried to catch the next train, already imagining the peace that awaited you.

The train was more crowded than usual for that hour. And manoeuvrings through the doors and down the aisle, clutching your bag tightly, you found yourself pushed towards the back by larger figures as the doors closed, and the train moved forward. Surrounded by strangers, you searched for a stable spot where you could stand without being jostled too much, while the rhythmic clatter of the train on the tracks provided a calming backdrop amidst the mild chaos inside the carriage.

Yet, amidst the crowd, a familiar face caught your eye. William Nylander, the star player for the Leafs, stood a few feet away, looking remarkably at ease and almost inconspicuous in casual attire. He must have changed from his game day suit after the match, you thought. His presence was unexpected, and for a moment, the weariness of your day faded, replaced by a flutter of excitement. You wondered if he had noticed you, if he remembered you from your previous encounters.

Meanwhile, William's thoughts wandered as the train swayed gently. The rhythm of the metro was a welcome change from the raucous cheers at the arena coupled with the music in his ears. His gaze drifted over the passengers and then suddenly settled on you. His heart skipped a beat as recognition dawned. There you were, as graceful and composed as ever, despite the fatigue etched on your face. The serendipity of the moment felt almost surreal, and he felt intrigued to walk over at start up a conversation with you. So, that’s what he did.

You and William had become friends through your boyfriend, who introduced you almost a year ago at a casual gathering filled with laughter, good food, and shared stories. The bond between your boyfriend and William, forged over their mutual love for hockey and years of shared experiences, was evident from the start. And when you met William, there was an immediate spark. Conversations flowed effortlessly, laughter came easily, and you often found yourselves drawn to each other in group settings, discussing everything from favourite movies to deeper philosophical topics.

It was clear to friends that you and William had a special connection, often teasingly acknowledged due to your undeniable chemistry. However, you never acted on this mutual attraction out of respect for your committed relationship with your boyfriend. And William, too, naturally valued his friendship with your boyfriend and respected the boundaries you both maintained.

However, what William didn't know about were the struggles brewing in your relationship. Over the past few months, tensions between you and your boyfriend had escalated, where minor disagreements grew into heated arguments, and a growing emotional distance left you feeling increasingly isolated and unappreciated. Work became a refuge from the turmoil at home, the long hours serving as a distraction from the strain in your personal life.

Despite these challenges, you kept up appearances, not wanting to burden anyone with your relationship issues, especially not William. He remained unaware of the depth of your unhappiness, though he occasionally sensed something was amiss. His concern for you was genuine, yet he respected your privacy and never probed into your personal struggles.

Yet you hadn’t expected to meet William on the tube. His handsome face made you smile like always, and though you were tired, you greeted him with all the energy you could muster.

"Hey, it's you," he said with a smile, his blue eyes lighting up with recognition.

"Will? What are you doing here?" you asked, equally surprised and relieved to see a friendly face.

"Just trying to avoid the traffic," he laughed. "How about you?"

"Just on my way home from work," you replied, grateful for the surprising company.

William was excited to see you, and your conversation flowed effortlessly as always. And while the train's movement pushed you both into a corner, William manoeuvred himself so that he was standing between you and the crowd, his size shielding you from the constant jostling. His presence was nothing but comforting, a protective barrier against the bustling passengers, as the two of you chatted.

"You must be tired," he observed, noticing the fatigue etched on your face.

"Long day," you admitted. "Started early, had to work late. You?"

"Just finished a game. Figured the metro was a better option than sitting in traffic."

The moment between you felt soft and tender as you shared smiles. However, all of a sudden, the tube hit the emergency brakes, causing you to fall further into the corner, with William almost colliding with you. But fortunately, he remained steadfast and instinctively protected you from anyone else that might have hit you.

You felt a shock coursing through you, yet William’s body shielding you made you feel safe and secure in the sudden motion. And while you were catching your breath, you slowly realised that your faces had come rather close to each other, closer than they’d ever been as you were pressed up against the corner, William’s arms on either side of you. Both of you felt the thrill within that had you gasp for air, and although you could easily quickly move apart, something between you kept you still, allowing you to share the air between you as you couldn’t deny the magnetic pull you felt towards each other.

For a moment, time seemed to freeze. The noise of the train and the bustle of the passengers faded into the background as you stood there, caught in the intensity of the moment. William's breath was warm on your skin, and you could see the sincerity and concern in his eyes as the connection between you, always present, now felt electric and impossible to ignore.

"Are you okay?" he then asked softly, his voice barely audible above the din.

"Yeah, yeah… I'm okay," you whispered, your heart racing.

But then, as the announcement over the speaker broke the spell, signalling a false alarm, you and William quickly stood up straight and shifted back to casual conversation about mundane topics like the weather and tonight’s hockey game.

You both tried to act nonchalant, brushing off any lingering hints of intimacy that had briefly surfaced. However, as the ride continued, your eyes kept meeting in shared glances that spoke volumes beyond words. The attraction between you was palpable, simmering just beneath the surface, as the tube's gentle sway seemed to mirror the sway of emotions between you, hesitant yet undeniable.

Approaching your stop, you felt a pang of disappointment, as a small part of you didn't want the evening to end this soon, even though you knew it was the right thing to do. "This is my stop," you said reluctantly, preparing to leave.

William nodded; his eyes warm with understanding yet tinged with a hint of regret. "I'll walk you out. Make sure you get home safe."

You hesitated, about to object, but William’s gentle insistence left no room for argument. It was late, and his concern for your safety was evident.

“It wasn’t a request,” he chuckled softly, his tone reassuring yet firm.

Stepping off the metro together, you both welcomed the cool night air that offered a stark contrast to the stuffy metro. William walked beside you, his presence comforting yet charged with an unspoken tension. And though you knew the attraction you felt was complicated and possibly wrong, the flutter of butterflies in your stomach whispered of a happiness you hadn't felt in a long time.

The streets close to your home were quiet, the city winding down for the night as you walked side by side. Occasionally, your hands brushed against each other, the contact almost innocent yet laden with unspoken desire, as each touch felt like playing with fire, tempting yet dangerous.

Despite the late hour and the growing distance from the metro station, neither of you rushed the walk. Conversation flowed easily again, punctuated by comfortable silences that spoke volumes. There was simply a magnetic pull between you, drawing you closer with each step.

As you reached your building, you turned to William with a grateful smile. "Thanks for tonight, Will. It was really nice catching up, and… thanks for the… you know, for having me in the metro."

"Anytime," he simply replied, his smile genuine. "Just promise me you’ll get some rest. You deserve it." You then said your goodbyes, preparing to step inside, when unexpectedly, William grabbed your hand and leaned in, planting a quick kiss on your lips.

Shocked and uncertain how to react, you froze for a moment as his lips lingered briefly against yours. And when you finally pulled away, your mind raced with a mix of emotions—confusion, guilt, and a hint of exhilaration.

Once inside your flat, you struggled to compose yourself. You replayed the moment in your mind, questioning its significance and what it meant for your relationship with your boyfriend. A part of you felt nothing but pure happiness, as if a deep desire, build over time, had finally had the chance to be set free. Yet, part of you wanted to forget it ever happened, to bury the conflicting feelings that had surfaced. So, you made a conscious effort not to let any hint of what transpired show in your interactions with your boyfriend, though every fleeting thought of William sent a rush through you.

Meanwhile, William couldn’t shake the whirlwind of emotions that had been stirred by that brief kiss. Being close to you, even for that fleeting moment, awakened feelings he had buried deep. You were incredible—kind, intelligent, and undeniably beautiful- and he simply couldn’t deny the crush he had developed on you any longer, despite knowing that pursuing it was complicated and potentially damaging.

As your phone lit up the following morning, William had sent you a heartfelt message, explaining that he was sorry if he’d overstepped any boundaries with the kiss, and he understood if you needed some time away from him. He’d added that he didn’t wish to complicate your relationship any further, yet he couldn’t ignore the feelings he held for you either. The kiss had made him rethink your friendship, and he wasn’t sure how much he could be around you, knowing he felt what he felt and that he didn’t have a chance with you.

However, as the message was opened and read, it wasn’t by you. Instead, your boyfriend, simply out of curiosity, with no suspicions of your behaviour, read the heartfelt declaration William had poured out from the bottom of his heart.

"What's this about?" he then asked, holding up your phone with William's message displayed.

You hesitated, your mind racing for an explanation that wouldn’t betray the complexity of your feelings. "It's... nothing. We ran into each other on the tube and he’s just apologising for a moment that got awkward."

“But he mentioned a kiss—what’s that about, y/n?”

He gave you a moment to respond, his expression a mix of hurt and confusion.

“It was a mistake,” you finally admitted, feeling the weight of guilt settle in your chest.

He let out a deep sigh, running a hand through his hair, his frustration palpable. "I know things have been tough lately, but kissing one of my good friends?"

“It wasn’t planned, it just happened,” you tried to explain, your voice trembling.

“Maybe we should have a serious talk about where we stand,” he suggested with a heavy tone.

You nodded, realising that this was a conversation you both had been avoiding for too long. "Yeah, maybe we should."

You wanted to text William straight away the following day after your boyfriend had packed his bags and gone to a friend’s house. Yet, you decided to wait a few weeks, giving everything some time to process.

However, fate had other plans. And just a few days later, you unexpectedly ran into William at a local coffee shop near your workplace. It was a pleasant surprise but also a bit awkward, knowing it was quite a distance from the usual places you both frequented.

Yet you couldn’t help but smile when you saw his handsome face turn towards you, his eyes lighting up with recognition and a hint of surprise.

“Hey,” his soft voice spoke, a gentle smile curving his perfect lips.

“Hey,” you replied softly, barely above a whisper, feeling a rush of emotions as you stood face to face again.

“How have you been? I mean… I heard about you and… you know.”

You chuckled softly, unable to resist teasing him a little. “Will, are you seriously just asking me how I’ve been?”

William rubbed the back of his neck, his laughter mixing with a touch of embarrassment. “Yeah, I guess so… I mean, I don’t want to pry or anything.”

You appreciated his concern and decided to lighten the mood by playfully nudging him. “It’s okay, I’m doing alright. It’s been a rollercoaster, but I’m managing.”

“That’s- that’s good… I mean-“

In a moment that felt both inevitable and unexpected, you suddenly leaned in and kissed him softly. It was a tender gesture, filled with the unspoken emotions that had been building since that intense moment on the metro. And William responded in kind, his hand gently finding your jaw, pulling you closer as the kiss deepened.

The coffee shop buzzed around you, the scent of freshly brewed coffee mingling with the warmth of your shared moment. And when you finally pulled apart, your eyes met in a tender gaze, both of you softly gasping for air.

“I’m sorry… I just really wanted to do that,” you admitted, your heart racing with a mix of excitement and relief.

William couldn’t suppress the smile on his lips, happiness radiating through him as he leaned in to kiss you again, this time more confidently. The magnetic pull between you was undeniable, and in that moment, amidst the sounds of coffee beans grinding and mugs clinking, you both surrendered to the undeniable chemistry that had drawn you together.

#my asks #wn88 imagine #william nylander imagine #william nylander x reader #toronto maple leafs imagine #nhl fanfiction #nhl imagine

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willcodehtmlforfood · 1 year ago

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(sadly paywalled

"Mohammed Marikar’s typical commute to his office in the City of London takes three and a half hours. On a bad day, it is more than four.

The senior director at RBC Wealth Management is one of a growing breed of “super-commuters”, many of whom moved out of town during the pandemic to increase their living space in more affordable regions, and now travel long distances to their workplace for part of the week.

The proportion of commuters globally doing a journey of 90-120 minutes at least once a week has risen from 2.4 per cent in 2020 to just over 4 per cent in 2024, according to Euromonitor. Those with a commute of more than 120 minutes rose from 2.7 per cent to 3.4 per cent.

Marikar and his wife, who runs her own business, moved with their four children from Eastcote, north-west London, to north Wales in 2022. Instead of his previous daily commute of 75 minutes, Marikar gets up at 5am on a Tuesday morning and is at his desk at about 10am — working a later shift so he can overlap with colleagues in Toronto. He returns to Wales after work on Thursday. On Mondays and Fridays, he works from home.

Marikar sometimes ponders the wisdom of his move when stuck in gridlock traffic, but on balance is happy. “You notice a difference in the air. There’s a lot more we can do at the weekends with the kids.” Even when they lived in London, making it home for dinner was pretty rare.

Love Whelchel now travels to his job in New York from Miami, having moved from New Jersey. He typically spends a fortnight at home and then a week commuting. Although he is away more he says the time he does have with his family is better quality. “It’s given me some balance and focus. This has been an amazing time to spend with my teenage son. When I was commuting in New York, I barely saw him.”

Some employers are attempting to ease the financial burden on long-distance commuters beyond allowing them to work part of the week from home and offering rail season ticket loans. For Marikar, the game changer has been his company’s electric car financing arrangement paid through salary sacrifice — an increasingly popular benefit among employers — that spurred him to switch from trains, which can cost up to about £350 a week, to driving, which is just under £50. “The journey is longer. [But] I don’t need to stick to train times. If a train is [delayed] I’m not stuck.”

Adam Wyman, employment partner at law firm Travers Smith, says companies tend not to incentivise commuting but will reimburse travel and accommodation for some high performers. “Businesses that have a skills gap are looking more widely than before. They can recruit someone in another country and pay for them to come to the office where and when.” He also observes a post-pandemic trend for some companies to provide discretionary packages for staff they want to retain who are moving to other countries to be closer to family."

#hybrid work #long commute #work life balance

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daisiesonafield-blog · 2 years ago

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Info for Faith In The Future World Tour TORONTO, ON May 30 2023

With special guests THE ACADEMIC & SNARLS!

Important Times:

6PM: Doors Open

7:00 PM Snarls

7:45 PM The Academic

9PM Louis Tomlinson

Show times approximate, subject to change. For more click here

General admission (pit tickets):

No pit, all seats. No need to queue.

GA in in the back in the lawn.

Here are important policies:

The venue is CASHLESS! Pay with a card or mobile pay!

Seat upgrades here ($15) Section LOOKOUT. Row GA1. Includes: Elevated lawn deck, Premium Bar, Private Restrooms, Premium Entrance.

Please give yourself extra time to get to your event. We strongly encourage fans to take public transit. Details here.

Parking can be purchased here ($35). Parking map here. Parking details here. Please note that parking on site at Ontario Place is extremely limited due to other events and construction projects taking place in the area of Budweiser Stage, as a result traffic and parking will be affected.

ADA info here

Cameras: ONLY non-professional cameras (point & shoots, disposables). Professional recording devices and cameras with detachable lenses are prohibited.

Homemade food wrapped in plastic is ALLOWED.

Blankets are ALLOWED.

One sealed plastic bottle of water ALLOWED.

Small collapsible umbrellas are ALLOWED.

NO drugs OR paraphernalia

NO glass, plastic or metal containers or bottles of any kind

NO hard sided coolers

NO knives, firearms or weapons of any kind

NO aerosols

NO Ipads, tablets, laptops

NO selfie sticks

NO animals (service animals excepted)

NO oversized lawn chairs

View food and drink menus and restaurants here.

Smoking and vaping is not permitted in reserved seating areas, lawns or East & West Plaza at Budweiser Stage. Should you need to smoke or vape, the Riverwalk and South Plaza is the designated smoking and vaping area.

Guests attending a show at Budweiser Stage or RBC Echo Beach may bring in and consume cannabis or cannabis accessories subject to the following policy.

Stay hydrated and drink lots of water

Wear sunscreen and dress for the weather

There is NO RE-ENTRY!

VIEW VENUE MAP

VIEW SEAT MAP

We are committed to creating a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience for everyone. We ask that your conduct contribute to everyone’s enjoyment of the event, be legally appropriate, and not be offensive or abusive to others. For your safety and comfort, unacceptable conduct is subject to ejection and includes, but is not limited to, the following:

Use of foul, threatening, offensive or abusive language or gestures.

Discrimination, bullying or hate that harasses, victimizes, degrades, or intimidates an individual or group of individuals on the basis of religion, race, national origin, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, age, ability, physical appearance or other.

Harassment, including unwelcome or hostile behavior, physical contact or sexual attention.

Fighting or any other type of violence.

Wearing or using clothing, signs, and banners which are offensive in nature.

Intoxication or impairment due to alcohol/cannabis or consumption of illegal substances.

Throwing objects or interfering with the progress of the event.

Possessing alcohol not purchased inside the venue.

Being a minor in possession of alcohol or providing a minor with alcohol.

Being in possession of weapons, illegal substances or any other prohibited items.

Smoking (including e-cigarettes, personal vapourizers, and cannabis) outside of the designated smoking areas.

Unpermitted access and breaching the perimeter of the venue.

Any other conduct that may be deemed by Budweiser Stage to be inappropriate or which may adversely affect the safety of persons or property, or disruption of the event.

For more details click here

Bag Policy

Bags that are clear plastic and do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12”

Small clutch bags, which cannot exceed 6” x 9” in size, with or without handle or a strap

One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc bag)

Medical Bags or kits are acceptable and will be searched at the gate

NO BACKPACKS

For more details click here

Banners, signs and flag policy:

NO signs or banners which are offensive in nature.

Contact:

For additional questions please call the venue at 416-260-5600. Email them [email protected] . You can also access their website. Check their twitter here and IG here for updates. Address: 909 Lake Shore Blvd W Toronto, ON

#fitfwt toronto #venue info #venue protocol

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skepticalarrie · 2 years ago

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Hi Allie,

Can you do me a favour? I am going to see Louis in Toronto tomorrow. I am not having a pit ticket , I mean I have a specific seat and its the first time I’m going for a concert that big. How long before the show should I be there? Can you answer or ask any of your followers please? I’m little nervous as well because I’m going alone.

Hi, anon! I think there are two opening acts before your show, right? So if you want to watch both of them you should get there before 7pm. But Louis is not playing until 9pm, so you can arrive a bit later as well. Personally, I always like to be inside the venue 30 minutes before the show starts, so I still have a little time to grab some water or have a wee and stuff like that. I think as long as you take into consideration the time you're going to be in traffic or if you're going to park your car and these kinds of stuff you will be fine! Here's some important info about your show. I hope you have the most wonderful time, I'm so jealous of you!!!

#ask

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worldcuphospitalitytickets · 27 days ago

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Hospitality Tickets for the World Cup: Canada’s Commitment to Delivering a World-Class Hospitality Experience

Hospitality Tickets for the World Cup: The Football World Cup 2026. A combined undertaking between the. United States, Mexico, and Canada, scripts a significant second for North American football. While the mainstream of matches will be. Presented in the US and Mexico, Canada plays an important role. Welcoming a share of the group stage and possibly knockout matches to its shores.

But where precisely in Canada will the world’s main sporting event take place This article investigates into the designated Canadian cities, their arrangements, and the general influence this tournament will have on the country. Three Canadian cities have been designated to host matches in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Toronto, Vancouver, and Edmonton.

Each proposals exclusive rewards and presents its own set of tests in formulating for the arrival of fans securing Football World Cp Hospitality Tickets and the logistical difficulties of presenting FIFA 2026 games. Toronto, Ontario the major city in Canada, Toronto claims a noteworthy prevailing infrastructure, counting the iconic Rogers Centre, a multi-purpose stadium with a telescopic roof, assembly it ideal for hosting Football World Cup 2026 matches irrespective of the weather.

World Cup Hospitality Tickets: Vancouver’s Stunning Appeal A Top Destination for World Cup Visitors

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laurafaritos · 30 days ago

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HDMS030. Search Engine Marketing for Comedians: How to Get Discovered (Without Relying On Going Viral)

Aiaiaiiiiii!!!! Can you believe we're halfway through March already???

Boy, oh, boy. We've got a long one, so buckle up (she says, as if all the other blog posts aren't long enough to be the Third Testament)

First things, first. Your girl is back at it again with another Harvard-inspired marketing breakdown!!! If this is the first post you come across, let me catch you up on my shit. By now, I’ve officially completed Harvard’s Digital Marketing Strategy Certificate, and while I’m still waiting for my actual certificate to be approved, I can already say this course has completely changed how I think about marketing and business. So, I’m finishing up this HDMS blog series as a way to document what I’ve learned, apply it to comedy, and help other comedians and creatives do the same.

Anyway!!! This post is inspired by my reflections on module 3.2.1 Search Engine Marketing. How can comedians get booked or sell tickets without going viral?? That’s what we’re tackling in today’s post... specifically, how comedians (or any creative entrepreneurs) can use Search Engine Marketing (SEM) to get discovered and build an audience in a way that’s actually predictable.

If you’ve ever wondered how comedians who aren’t constantly going viral still manage to get booked, grow an audience, and make money... this post is for you <333

Let’s goooo babyyyy!!!

I. SEO vs. SEM: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve ever Googled something and seen both ads at the top and regular search results below them, you’ve already seen the difference between Search Engine Optimization (SEO) and Search Engine Marketing (SEM)—even if you didn’t realize it at the time.

SEO (Search Engine Optimization) is all about ranking organically on Google. You don’t pay for traffic—you earn it by creating content that aligns with what people are searching for and making sure Google sees your website as relevant. It’s a long-term strategy that requires consistent content, strong website structure, and good keyword research to slowly climb the ranks and get discovered by new audiences.

SEM (Search Engine Marketing) is when you pay Google to show up first in search results. You’re essentially bidding on keywords so that when someone searches for a term related to your business (e.g., “stand-up comedy shows in Toronto” or “best comedy podcast”), your ad appears at the top before the organic results. SEM is a short-term, instant traffic strategy that gets your name in front of potential audiences right away—but it costs money.

Sooo, I don't know about you, but most comedians and creatives I know ONLY focus on social media, hoping to go viral and get discovered that way. And I can't even blame them!!! If they went to school, chances are that THIS IS EXACTLY WHAT THEY LEARNED!!! I know this because it's exactly what I learned.

Maybe this is a strategy that worked at some point for some people. But it is definitely not a strategy that works for MOST people I know... and that's because social media is unpredictable!!!!! And unless you have millions of followers, it’s hard to control how many people actually see your content!!!!! And even if you do have hundreds of thousands of followers, sometimes the algorithm doesn't deem your content worthy of showing it to your followers!!!!!

There is a science to this, people!!! It's not about luck!!! It's not about talent!!! It's not about posting the right joke on the right the day so the right person can see it!!! It ISSS about treating it like a predictable business practice for creatives who want to be self-employed.

So what are comedians supposed to do??? SEO and SEM, unlike the unpredictable realms of social media, are veryyy much predictable and very much search-driven—which means your content is shown to people actively looking for what you offer. And when someone is actively searching for something like “comedy show near me” or “how to start doing stand-up”, they’re already interested—you’re not fighting for their attention like you are on social media.

Do you understand what I'm saying?? If you're going to spend your time and energy on the internet trying to set yourself up for a future where you can eventually make a living off your comedy... you've got to be strategic about it!!! There is no such thing as luck!!!!

And I'm not saying that organic social media content isn't valuable. It absolutely issss valuable, especially for creating and establishing a comedian's brand voice and identity. I'm just saying that organic content is meant to reach people who already follow you... and that's IF the algorithm deems your content worthy within the first hour. But it's not necessarily going to reach new people to follow you, and it sure as hell isn't going to reach new audiences to buy show tickets...

So I want you, as a comedian, to start thinking of the following:

SEO is the long game—it helps you build credibility and get free traffic over time.

SEM is the fast track—you pay for immediate visibility and conversions.

Most big businesses use both—and if you’re serious about building an audience for your comedy (whether it’s for live shows, a podcast, or a YouTube channel), understanding how to combine these strategies can make a huge difference.

II. What Is SEM & How Does It Work?

Now that we’ve covered the difference between SEO and SEM, let’s break down how SEM actually works and what makes it such a powerful tool for comedians looking to grow their audience.

When you run a search engine marketing (SEM) campaign, you’re essentially paying for your website, show, or content to appear at the top of Google search results when someone searches for relevant keywords. But how does Google decide which ads to show and how much you pay? Here’s how it works:

1. Bidding on Keywords

Google Ads operates like an auction—you bid on keywords that you want your ad to show up for. For example, if you’re a comedian in Toronto, you might bid on:

“comedy shows in Toronto”

“stand-up comedy tickets near me”

“best comedy podcast”

“how to become a comedian”

When someone searches for these terms, Google decides which ads to show based on a combination of bid amount and ad relevance. It’s not just about who bids the most—Google also looks at how useful your ad is to the searcher.

2. Creating the Ad

A good Google ad has: ✔️ A compelling headline (e.g., “Hilarious Stand-Up Show in Toronto – Get Tickets Now!”) ✔️ A clear description that tells people what to expect (e.g., “Join top comedians for a night of laughs at [Venue Name]. Limited seats—book now!”) ✔️ A strong call-to-action (CTA) (e.g., “Buy Tickets” or “Watch Now”) ✔️ A landing page that matches the ad (Google ranks ads higher if the page they lead to is relevant!)

3. Paying Per Click (PPC)

Unlike traditional ads (where you pay just to be seen), SEM operates on a pay-per-click (PPC) model—you only pay when someone actually clicks your ad. The cost per click (CPC) varies based on competition, relevance, and quality score.

4. Optimizing for Performance

The work doesn’t stop after launching an ad! To make the most of SEM, you’ll need to:

Track which keywords bring in the best traffic

Adjust your ad copy based on what gets the most clicks

Optimize landing pages to convert visitors into ticket buyers or subscribers

SEM is one of the fastest ways to get in front of the right audience. Instead of waiting for social media algorithms to bless you with visibility, you can target people who are already searching for comedy content.

Immediate visibility – No waiting for organic reach

Laser-targeted audience – You reach people looking for comedy

Pay only for results – No wasted money on people who don’t care

Now that we understand how SEM works, let’s talk about what makes a good SEM campaign for comedians and how to choose the right keywords. This is where shit gets good.

III. The Right Keywords: What Should Comedians Bid On???

Now that we know how SEM works, let’s talk about the most important part of your campaign—choosing the right keywords. Keywords determine who sees your ads, how much you pay per click, and whether your ad actually converts into ticket sales, podcast listeners, or social media followers.

There are two main types of keywords in SEM:

1. Branded Keywords (People Searching for You Specifically)

These are searches that include your name, show title, or personal brand. For example:

“Laura Faritos comedy”

“Haunted Comedians live show”

“Failed by Sex Ed podcast”

Bidding on your own name or show might seem unnecessary (since you’ll probably rank organically), but it protects your brand from competitors who might run ads on your name. Yes, other comedians or venues can bid on your name and appear above you in search results—so securing your brand name ensures you control your audience’s first impression!!!

2. Generic Keywords (People Searching for Comedy in General)

These keywords capture people who don’t know you yet but are looking for what you offer. For example:

“stand-up comedy show near me”

“best comedy podcasts”

“Toronto comedy events”

These keywords help you reach a completely new audience, but they are more competitive and more expensive since bigger brands (comedy clubs, Netflix, streaming services) are also bidding on them.

3. Niche Keywords (Targeting a Specific Audience)

The best way to reduce competition and increase conversions is by going hyper-specific. Instead of bidding on “comedy show” (which every comedian and club is bidding on), try:

“immigrant comedy Toronto” (for Foreigner Diaries)

“comedy about dating fails” (for Failed by Sex Ed)

“horror comedy stand-up” (for Haunted Comedians)

These long-tail keywords (phrases with 3+ words) tend to be cheaper and convert better because they match exactly what people are looking for.

So Which Keywords Should Comedians Focus On??

For comedians, a strong SEM strategy should include:

Branded Keywords – To make sure you own your search results.

Niche Keywords – To target specific, high-converting audiences.

Selective Generic Keywords – To expand reach, but only if budget allows.

Once you’ve picked your keywords, the next step is creating an ad that actually gets people to click—which is what we’ll cover next!

IV. How Can Comedians Write Google Ads That Actually Convert??

Now that we’ve chosen the right keywords, it’s time to craft ads that actually get clicks. Your SEM ad is often the first impression people get of your comedy, show, or brand, so making it enticing, clear, and clickable is key.

The Anatomy of a Google Search Ad

A standard Google search ad includes:

Headline (Up to 30 characters each, 3 total)

Description (Up to 90 characters each, 2 total)

Display URL (Shows the link people will click)

Extensions (Optional add-ons like phone numbers, locations, or additional links)

Here’s an example of what a comedian’s Google ad might look like:

Headline: Hilarious Stand-Up in Toronto | Limited Tickets Left! Description: A night of comedy you won’t forget! Get tickets for Laura Faritos Presents live at [Venue Name]. URL: laurafaritos.com/shows

How to Write an Effective Google Ad for Comedy

1. Capture Attention with Strong Headlines

Your headline is the most important part of your ad. It needs to be clear, engaging, and relevant to the search query. Google lets you write up to 3 headlines that rotate automatically, so make them count.

✅ GOOD HEADLINES:

Comedy Show This Friday – Don’t Miss Out!

Dating Fails? We Turn Them into Stand-Up Gold!

Haunted Comedians – Horror Meets Comedy!

❌ BAD HEADLINES:

Stand-Up Show This Weekend (Too vague, doesn’t stand out)

Live Comedy Show Toronto (No urgency or personality)

Come See Me Perform (Why should they care?)

Use power words like “Limited Tickets,” “One Night Only,” or “Hilarious” to make the ad pop.

2. Make the Description Enticing & Specific

Your description should tell people why they should come. Use this space to add personality, a unique selling point, or urgency.

✅ GOOD DESCRIPTIONS:

Toronto’s funniest comedians, one night only! Book now before we sell out.

Love ghost stories & stand-up? Haunted Comedians is the perfect mix!

Breakup? Bad date? Laugh about it with us at Failed by Sex Ed!

❌ BAD DESCRIPTIONS:

We have comedy shows every month. (No excitement, too generic)

Come to our comedy event. (No details, no hook)

Comedians performing live in Toronto. (Boring, no urgency)

3. Use the Right Call to Action (CTA)

Your CTA (Call to Action) tells people what to do next. Examples:

“Get Your Tickets Now” → Best for live shows

“Watch Now on YouTube” → Best for digital content

“Follow for Daily Comedy Clips” → Best for growing social media

Avoid weak CTAs like “Check it out” or “Click here”—be specific!

4. Leverage Ad Extensions to Boost Clicks

Google allows you to add extra links or details to your ad with extensions. This makes your ad bigger, more informative, and clickable.

Great extensions for comedians include:

Sitelink Extensions – Add links like “Buy Tickets” or “Watch Clips”

Location Extensions – Show where your show is happening

Call Extensions – Let fans or press contact you

Review Extensions – Feature positive audience feedback

Using these makes your ad take up more space in search results, increasing visibility.

Example of a Strong Google Search Ad for a Comedy Show

Headline 1: Haunted Comedians Live – Limited Tickets! Headline 2: Horror & Stand-Up Collide! Headline 3: Get Ready to Laugh & Scream!

Description 1: Toronto’s funniest comedians take on ghosts, horror movies & haunted houses. Get your tickets today! Description 2: One night only – don’t miss out! Friday at [Venue Name]. Limited seats available!

Call to Action: Buy Tickets Now!

Extensions: Links to About the Show, Watch Clips, Get Tickets

How To Make Your Google Ads Pop

Use headlines that stand out (avoid generic phrases).

Make descriptions engaging & specific (add humor & urgency).

Always include a strong CTA (tell people exactly what to do).

Use ad extensions to make your ad bigger & better.

A well-crafted SEM ad can be the difference between an empty show and a sold-out night—so make every word count!

V. The Cost of Getting Clicks: Bidding & Budgeting for SEM

Now that we’ve covered how to write a great Google ad, let’s talk about something just as important: how much does it actually cost to run SEM ads?

This is where bidding strategies come in. SEM is a pay-per-click (PPC) system, meaning you only pay when someone clicks your ad. The cost of each click depends on competition, keyword demand, and bidding strategy.

How SEM Bidding Works

Google Ads uses an auction system to determine ad placement. When someone searches for a keyword, Google compares all advertisers bidding on that keyword and ranks the ads based on:

Bid Amount – How much you’re willing to pay per click.

Ad Quality – Google scores your ad based on relevance, engagement, and landing page experience.

Expected Impact – Does your ad get high click-through rates (CTR)? Does it use strong ad extensions?

Even if someone else bids higher, you can win the auction if your ad is better quality. Google rewards relevant, high-performing ads with lower costs per click (CPC).

Example:

Comedian A bids $3 per click but has a weak ad with low CTR.

Comedian B bids $1.50 per click but has a high-quality, relevant ad.

Google prefers Comedian B’s ad and places it higher, even though the bid is lower.

Choosing the Right SEM Bidding Strategy

Google offers different bidding strategies depending on your goals. Here are the most relevant for comedians:

Maximize Clicks – Google spends your budget to get the most clicks possible. Good for beginners.

Maximize Conversions – Google prioritizes getting actual ticket sales or sign-ups rather than just clicks.

Target CPA (Cost Per Acquisition) – Google tries to get you leads or sales at a set cost per action.

Manual CPC (Cost Per Click) – You set your own max bid per click, giving you control over spending.

If you're new to SEM, start with Maximize Clicks to drive traffic. Once you gather data, switch to Maximize Conversions to focus on actual ticket sales.

How Much Should Comedians Budget for SEM??

💰 Real talk: How much should you spend on SEM as a comic???

There’s no magic number, but let’s break it down:

Industry average CPC for Google Ads: $1–$5 per click.

Comedy niche CPC (estimated): $0.50–$2.00 per click (varies by competition).

Show ticket price: $20–$30 per ticket (your revenue per conversion).

If your CPC is $1.00 and 10 people click your ad, you’ve spent $10. If 1 out of those 10 actually buys a $25 ticket, you’ve made $15 profit. So SEM issssss worth it IF your conversion rate (clicks → sales) makes the ad cost profitable!!!

Pro budgeting tip:

Start small: $5–$10 per day to test ads.

Scale up once you see which keywords & ads convert best.

Avoiding SEM Budget Burnout

SEM can get expensive fast, so here’s how to spend wisely:

Set a daily budget – Prevents overspending. Even $5/day can work!

Use negative keywords – Stops your ads from showing up for irrelevant searches.

Track conversions – Focus on keywords that actually lead to sales, not just clicks.

Test & tweak ads – Run multiple versions and see which ones perform best.

Biggest SEM mistake comedians make? Spending $$$ on clicks without tracking what’s working. Use Google Ads’ analytics to see which keywords bring ticket sales vs. which just bring lurkers.

SEM Budgets Are an Investment, Not an Expense

Think of SEM as paying for digital billboards—except instead of hoping people pass by, you’re targeting fans actively looking for comedy.

Best approach:

Start small, test ads, track results.

Optimize your budget for keywords that actually drive ticket sales.

Scale up when you find what works best.

A well-managed SEM campaign can turn a small daily budget into consistent ticket sales & audience growth.

VI. SEM & AUDHD: How I Manage Search Ads Without Melting My Brain

Search Engine Marketing (SEM) is one of the most data-heavy, detail-oriented marketing strategies out there. And if you have AuDHD (Autism + ADHD) like me, you probably know how fast information overload can lead to burnout.

So, how do I manage SEM without frying my brain? Let’s talk automation, batching, and making SEM work for neurodivergent minds.

1. Automate What You Can (So You Don’t Have to Check 24/7)

ADHD brain + SEM dashboards = disaster. There’s too much data, too many buttons, and the constant urge to check stats every 5 minutes. That’s why automation is a lifesaver.

What I automate in SEM:

Bidding – Instead of micromanaging costs, I use Google’s Maximize Clicks or Maximize Conversions strategy to let the algorithm handle it.

Ad Scheduling – I set ads to run at optimal times (like evenings when people buy comedy tickets).

Negative Keywords – I add a list of irrelevant words upfront (e.g., “free comedy” or “comedy jobs”) so I don’t waste money on clicks that won’t convert.

Performance Reports – I set up automated reports in Google Ads so I can review once a week instead of every hour.

Result: SEM works in the background, and I don’t waste mental energy obsessing over it.

2. Batch Tasks to Reduce Decision Fatigue

AuDHD means my brain hates switching tasks constantly. If I have to think about SEM every single day, I will 100% burn out.

So instead, I batch my SEM tasks like this:

🗓 Weekly:

Review campaign performance reports.

Adjust bids & budgets if needed.

Add new negative keywords to block irrelevant clicks.

🗓 Monthly:

Test new ad copy variations (so I don’t hyperfocus on perfecting ads daily).

Check which keywords are driving conversions & remove underperforming ones.

Adjust targeting & scheduling based on what’s working.

🗓 Quarterly:

Do a deep dive into overall SEM performance.

Make big decisions about budget increases or campaign expansion.

Why batching works: It reduces decision fatigue, lets me focus, and stops SEM from feeling like a never-ending mental chore.

3. Use Templates to Reduce Overthinking

ADHD overthinking = writing a Google ad that takes 3 hours instead of 10 minutes.

To stop myself from spiraling, I use pre-made ad templates that follow a simple format:

[Keyword] + Unique Selling Point + Call to Action

Example: 🎤 Live Comedy in Toronto! See Top Comedians & Get Tickets Today!

This way, when I need to write new ads, I don’t have to reinvent the wheel—I just tweak a few words and move on.

4. Set “Checkpoints” to Prevent SEM Paralysis

A classic AuDHD struggle is either hyperfocusing too much or forgetting about a task entirely. With SEM, this can mean:

Checking ad stats every 10 minutes like a stockbroker.

Ignoring campaigns for weeks and realizing I burned money on bad keywords.

The solution? I set “checkpoints” to review SEM at specific times so I don’t go overboard or neglect it completely.

💡 How I do it:

Mondays – Quick 10-min check-in. Are my ads running smoothly? Any major changes needed?

Fridays – Deeper review. What’s converting? Where is money being wasted? Any tweaks?

Last day of the month – Bigger strategy review. Do I need to increase budget? Test new ads?

Why this works: It creates structure without overwhelming me, and I can trust past-me to handle SEM in a way that future-me won’t regret.

Make SEM Work for Your Brain, Not Against It!!!

If SEM feels exhausting or overwhelming, remember: it’s just a tool. You don’t have to do everything manually or perfectly.

Simplify where you can.

Automate what drains you.

Batch tasks to reduce burnout.

Marketing shouldn’t feel like suffering—especially for neurodivergent creatives. The goal is to build an audience without destroying your mental energy. SEM can help, but only if you set it up in a way that works for YOU.

TL;DR How SEM Can Help Comedians Get Discovered

We’ve covered a LOT in this post, so let’s break it down one last time.

✅ SEM (Search Engine Marketing) = paying to show up in search results when people are actively looking for something related to you. ✅ It’s different from SEO, which is about ranking organically over time. SEM is faster but costs money. ✅ Comedians & creators can use SEM to get in front of the right audience—whether it’s selling tickets, promoting a show, or getting booked. ✅ Managing SEM with AuDHD requires a different approach—using automation, batching tasks, and setting checkpoints to avoid burnout or overchecking ads 24/7.

At the end of the day, SEM is just a tool. It’s not a magic bullet, but if used strategically, it can help comedians & creatives get discovered without relying on going viral.

I know this was a long, in-depth post... but it's not like I expect people to be reading these long posts. This is MY PROCESS for retaining information from the course and understanding how it applies to me so I don't forget it in a few months and I'm actually able to put the theories to practice.

Still, I hope this long ass blog post was as valuable to you as it is to me!!! It takes me a long time to reflect on these submodules but I truly see value in retaining information this way. And if it helps anyone else along the way, EVEN BETTER!!!

As a reminder, these posts are inspired reflections from each submodule from Harvard's Digital Marketing Strategy (aka this HDMS series). I've got 30 posts already and I'm not even properly halfway through the course content. Sooooo lotsssss coming!!!!

In the next few posts we will be exploring the remaining submodules in Module 3: Acquiring Customers Via Paid Media.

See you in the next one!!! Tchau, tchau <333

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iammrait · 3 months ago

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Understanding the Role of Police in Canada: Guardians of Community Safety

When we think about the pillars of a safe and orderly society, the police force often stands out as one of the most visible and essential components. In Canada, the police play a critical role in maintaining public safety, enforcing laws, and fostering trust within communities. But what exactly does policing look like in the Great White North? Let’s dive into the structure, responsibilities, and challenges faced by police in Canada.

The Structure of Policing in Canada

Canada’s policing system is unique in that it operates on multiple levels: federal, provincial, and municipal. This multi-tiered approach ensures that law enforcement is tailored to the specific needs of different communities and regions.

Federal Policing: The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) The RCMP, often referred to as the "Mounties," is Canada’s national police force. They are responsible for enforcing federal laws, tackling organized crime, cybercrime, and terrorism, and providing policing services to provinces and territories that don’t have their own police forces. The RCMP is also iconic for its red serge uniforms and horseback heritage, symbolizing a rich history of service.

Provincial Police Some provinces, like Ontario and Quebec, have their own police forces—the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the Sûreté du Québec (SQ). These agencies handle law enforcement in rural areas and support municipal police when needed.

Municipal Police Cities and towns across Canada have their own police departments, such as the Toronto Police Service or the Vancouver Police Department. These forces focus on local issues like traffic enforcement, community safety, and responding to emergencies.

Indigenous Policing Recognizing the unique needs of Indigenous communities, Canada also supports self-administered Indigenous police services. These forces work to build trust and address the specific challenges faced by Indigenous peoples.

What Do Canadian Police Do?

The responsibilities of Canadian police officers are vast and varied. Their primary role is to protect lives and property, but their duties extend far beyond that:

Crime Prevention and Investigation: Police work to prevent crime through community programs and patrols, and they investigate crimes when they occur.

Traffic Enforcement: Ensuring road safety is a key part of their job, from speeding tickets to responding to accidents.

Community Engagement: Canadian police often participate in community events, school programs, and outreach initiatives to build trust and foster positive relationships.

Emergency Response: Police are often the first to respond to emergencies, including accidents, natural disasters, and mental health crises.

What is the equivalent of the RCMP in the US?

Challenges Facing Canadian Police

While Canadian police are dedicated to serving their communities, they face several challenges in today’s evolving society:

Mental Health Crises Police are increasingly called to respond to mental health emergencies. Many argue that these situations require specialized training and resources to ensure compassionate and effective responses.

Systemic Racism and Discrimination Like many institutions, Canadian policing has faced criticism for systemic racism and bias, particularly toward Indigenous, Black, and other racialized communities. Efforts are underway to address these issues through reforms, training, and accountability measures.

Technology and Cybercrime As crime becomes more sophisticated, police must adapt to new challenges like cybercrime, online fraud, and digital evidence collection.

Public Trust Building and maintaining trust with the public is an ongoing challenge, especially in the wake of high-profile incidents and calls for defunding or reimagining policing.

How is RCMP different from police?

The Future of Policing in Canada

The future of policing in Canada is likely to involve significant changes as society evolves. Some key trends and initiatives include:

Community-Based Policing: Emphasizing collaboration between police and communities to address local issues and build trust.

Diversity and Inclusion: Increasing representation of women, Indigenous peoples, and racialized groups within police forces.

Mental Health Support: Partnering with social services and mental health professionals to better respond to crises.

Technology Integration: Leveraging tools like body cameras, data analytics, and artificial intelligence to improve efficiency and transparency.

Conclusion

Police in Canada are more than just enforcers of the law—they are community partners, problem-solvers, and guardians of public safety. While challenges remain, the ongoing efforts to reform and modernize policing reflect a commitment to serving all Canadians with fairness and respect. By fostering trust, embracing innovation, and addressing systemic issues, Canadian police can continue to play a vital role in building safer, stronger communities.

What are your thoughts on policing in Canada? Share your perspectives in the comments below!

Disclaimer: This blog post is intended to provide a general overview of policing in Canada and does not cover every aspect of this complex and evolving topic.

Where is the Headquarters of RCMP NL?

#police

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trafficticketadvocate · 2 years ago

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Traffic Ticket Fighters Toronto can help you with your traffic tickets, accidents, speeding tickets and any moving traffic violation. We are conveniently located in Newmarket,

#Traffic Ticket Fighters Toronto

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azarymatanov · 5 months ago

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Welcome to My Corner of the Web

Hi, I’m Azary Matanov—a paralegal based in Toronto, Ontario, with a passion for making the legal system more accessible and less intimidating for everyday people. I’ve spent years refining my skills in legal documentation, criminal defense, and traffic violations, and this space is where I share a bit more about myself and my work.

A Bit About My Journey

I started my academic journey at the University of Toronto, laying the groundwork for a career dedicated to helping people navigate the complexities of the legal world. Furthering my education at the College of Alternative Dispute Resolution, I became a Commissioner of Oaths and a Notary Public, adding specialized tools to my professional toolkit. These experiences have shaped my ability to serve clients with professionalism and care.

As a paralegal, I specialize in assisting with legal challenges such as criminal defense and traffic violations. Whether it’s fighting a speeding ticket or defending against more complex charges, I aim to ensure my clients understand their rights and feel supported every step of the way.

Beyond the Legal World

When I’m not working, I’m often spending time with my family, enjoying the companionship of my dogs, or exploring new places. Traveling is a personal passion—it gives me fresh perspectives and a chance to recharge before diving back into my work.

Why This Blog?

I created this blog as a way to share my experiences, insights, and tips for navigating legal challenges. Whether you’re curious about my work, looking for advice, or just want to connect, this space is for you.

Thanks for stopping by, and I hope you’ll find value in what I share here. Feel free to explore and reach out if there’s anything I can help you with!

#toronto #azarymatanov #paralegal #legalservices

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misshoneyimhome · 1 year ago

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Haha that ask and your reply about Willys lil smug, smooth nature just inspired a request😂

Will knows he’s hot, he can get girls as easily as breathing, he’s charming and smooth - but let’s ponder what happens when our little Swedish hunny starts dating someone who makes him nervous! You’re unlike anyone he’s dated because you’re equally as calm, charming and alluring as he is but also incredibly smart and stunning so he’s met his match! And it’s early days only a month of casual dates in, but he’s planned a day for you two to walk around The Distillery Winter Village (Toronto’s Christmas Market) to shop and during it he wants to express that he’d like to be exclusively together (uncharted waters as has never the one to bring up the convo) but for some reason he’s in his head about it, fumbling words and getting rosy cheeks! But as the day wears on and you’re just happy to hold his hand, chat, and laugh together he can’t help but express what he’s feeling because the nervousness excites him, and he knows he’s not letting you go!

My emotions! God yes, darling 🥰 This is just so dream-scenario-take-my-heart-Willy-and-leave-me-to-die - and I’m here for it! ❤️

I know there were several ways to go about this, and I could have written so much more, but I tried my best to keep it simple - I hope you enjoy it ❤️

[btw, when researching about The Distillery Winter Village, it almost had me book a plane ticket just to go there 😍]

Word count: 3K

➼｡ﾟ

Is This How It Feels To Be In Love? I William Nylander ✿❄︎

One touch, electric shock Eyes locked, like, did you feel that too? World stops, just us Here under dots in the darkness Of the blue, out of the blue Is this how it feels to be in love? This is magical, this is magical

“Magical” - Ed Sheeran

Accelerated heartbeat. Sweaty palms. Racing pulse.

Usual indications following a good workout or training session. Yet this time it wasn’t caused by that.

No. William Nylander was having these symptoms, accompanied by deep feelings that he'd never experienced before, and it was all because of you.

What initially had appeared to be a rather typical Thursday evening for William, coming home from a match, involved taking the subway to avoid bad traffic, and it was during this commute that he had met you for the first time.

You had stayed back late at the office, so feeling rather exhausted, you absentmindedly scrolled through your phone, when suddenly, the train abruptly stopped, causing you to lose your balance and tumble forward, landing face-first directly into the lap of the stranger seated in front of you.

"Shit," you’d exclaimed, attempting to regain your balance with your hands to avoid a complete collision with the person. However, your movements had lacked coordination, bringing your face closer to his. "I'm really sorry," you apologised with a sweet smile, and in that moment, William's gaze had immediately locked onto yours.

His deep Scandinavian blue eyes had delved into yours, creating an oddly intimate closeness between two complete strangers.

Oh, he's handsome, had been your first thought, well first thought following: 'fuck,' 'shit,' 'oops,' and 'nice move, y/n.'

But, handsome indeed. His slightly long blonde hair complemented by a well-maintained scruff accentuating his prominent cheekbone structure, along with those notably rosy, desirable lips.He wore a simple, yet finely tailored black suit with a white shirt and a black tie that suited him impeccably.

And despite the initial frustration of the situation, William had simply chuckled as you hastily regained your composure. "No worries, it wasn't your fault."

His voice held an adorable charm, accompanied by a cheeky smile that diffused the awkwardness, swiftly replacing it with a relaxed atmosphere.

"I guess I'm just naturally clumsy," you’d playfully remarked, as you’d noted his casual, unbothered reaction to the unfortunate incident. And his composed and laid-back demeanour immediately intrigued you, leading to shared laughter and friendly smiles during the following few subway stops.

And when it was time for you to exit, a couple of stations before his, you couldn't resist casting a quick glance back at the handsome stranger, offering him a sweet smile.

It had been from that moment on, William had been unable to shake you from his thoughts. Despite reflecting on the night's great win and chatting with his best friend Sandy and brother Alex, you somehow managed to continuously seep back into his mind. Your endearing smile remained etched in his memory, while the sound of your slightly embarrassed laughter lingered soothingly in his ears.

And as the night progressed, he couldn’t help but mentally scolding himself for not taking the opportunity to get your name and number.

Normally, William was adept at charming the ladies. Undoubtedly good-looking and well aware of it, he usually effortlessly engaged in conversation, flirted, and dazzled them.

Over the years, he'd been in a few relationships, some short, some a little longer. However, none seemed to last very long. Occasional hook-ups during the off-season were common, and during hockey season, he'd have a girl or two he could call upon if needed, but nothing too serious.

And this year was shaping up to be just like the others. His complete focus was on the hockey season, which seemed to be a defining one in his career. He ramped up his dedication, intensified his training, and minimised any potential distractions from the outside world.

However, as days passed following your encounter on the subway, he found himself unable to erase you from his thoughts. Which was very unfamiliar territory for him. Usually, he could discard any woman entering his life as easily as changing underwear. But for some reason, your reaction to him had been different.

He even caught himself searching for you each time he rode the subway, although he knew it was a lost cause in a city as populated as Toronto with countless trains running daily.

And just as William was gradually beginning to push thoughts of you aside, refocusing his mind on hockey, your lovely smile reappeared.

This time, it was in a downtown coffeehouse. He was out for an early stroll with his dogs on a chilly November morning and decided to warm up with a beverage. And when walking into the coffeehouse somewhat still sleepy, he instantly recognised your face. You were casually waiting for your coffee, and now William knew he had to make a move. At least try to flirt, like he’d normally do with any attractive girl like yourself.

So, he ordered his drink and casually walked towards the waiting area.

"Hey," he greeted, a mischievous grin adorning his face as he approached you.

"Well, hello there, stranger," you smiled, looking up from your phone. "How are you?"

"Good," he chuckled. "And yourself?"

"Good as well, thanks."

A moment of shared smiles passed, yet the silence grew uncomfortable for William, prompting him to break it.

"So, are you here to bump into more strangers?" he teased playfully, evoking chuckle from you.

"Oh no, I reserve that for the subway," you replied jokingly with a cheeky wink, which caused him laugh as well.

And amidst the laughter, the barista handed you your drink, and you gently took it and turned towards the exit.

"It was good to see you again," you said softly, offering a smile, as you were about to pass him and walk away.

"Likewise," William replied. However, as you began to leave, he quickly interjected. "Wait, I didn't catch your name?"

"It's y/n," you smiled.

"Well, it's nice to meet you, y/n."

There was another fleeting moment where you simply gazed up at his smiling face, shortly waiting for him to continue.

"...And this is the part where you tell me your name?" you asked with a playful grin, as he didn’t say anything.

"Wait, you don't know who I am?" William asked, slightly puzzled, considering he was a well-known figure in Toronto.

"No," you merely chuckled once more.

Though he did seem familiar to you, you couldn’t precisely place him. Probably a sports person, you guessed, based on his level of confidence. But the specific sport or anything else about him, you had no idea of. "Why? Are you, like, famous or something?"

"Or something," he grinned. "I'm William, William Nylander."

"Well, it's lovely to meet you, William Nylander," you emphasised both his first and last name, flashing another smile before casually heading out of the coffeehouse.

It took William a few moments to gather himself.

What was it about you?

And just as the barista handed him his drink, he hurriedly exited, aiming to catch up with you before you got too far.

"Hey," he called out, hoping to catch your attention once again. "How about giving me your number?"

"Why?" you flashed him another grin.

"So, if I wanted to ask you out and meet up, you'd be there?" he suggested.

"And what makes you so sure I'd say yes?" you playfully challenged his confidence.

"I don't know, call it an intuitive guess," he chuckled.

And you couldn’t deny that his effort intrigued you.

"Alright, then," you agreed, taking his phone and dialling your number, calling it, and retrieving your own phone from your pocket to answer the call before hanging up. This way, you both had each other's numbers. "I'll look forward to the invitation."

You flashed him a sweet smirk before turning on your heel once more and heading back to the office.

Only a couple of days passed before William asked you out for coffee. Though trying to appear cool and casual, attempting not to seem too eager, it was proving quite challenging. He couldn’t deny the fact that he longed to see you again, and more importantly to get to know more about you.

In many ways, you remained a mystery to him. You simply seemed to be so calm and sweet, as well as extremely stunning and charming.

You were funny and smart, sometimes a bit of a brat yet incredibly understanding and empathetic. Family held immense significance for you, something you both shared, and the way you always wanted to help others before yourself resonated deeply with him.

As it turned out, the more he got to know about you, the more he found you captivatingly interesting. The way you simply rested in yourself coupled with a gentle confidence intrigued him. You didn't seek drama or excessive attention from him, and everything between you felt relaxed and comfortable.

Surprisingly enough, it was William who felt more nervous as the two of you started dating.

He felt like a teenager, constantly checking his phone in anticipation of a message or Snapchat from you. Every time you met, whether for coffee, casual dinners at either of your places, or elsewhere, he eagerly looked forward to it.

And this was a strange and new feeling for him.

Usually, it was the girls who craved his attention, bombarding him with multiple messages if he didn't reply immediately. They'd fret over his hectic hockey schedule and quickly push to define the relationship, introducing him to friends and family prematurely, all of which often became overwhelming for him.

However, with you, it was nothing like his previous experiences. Quite the opposite.

When he’d first tried to ask you out after your first coffee meet up, his hectic schedule had naturally come in the was. Yet, you were understanding. You simply suggested to reschedule, and found a day that worked for both of you, even if it meant waiting a little bit longer.

And then when there had been more adjustments due to his schedule changes or delays, you’d simply adapt to it.

Instead casual dinners with takeout on the sofa became a norm, as well as late-night chats when he was away. And you were fine with it all.

You merely recognised the strong connection between you two and appreciated the easy-going nature of your relationship.

But as time passed, things gradually snowballed, and William found himself wanting to spend more time with you, as his heart raced every time, he saw you.

Your presence had a way of quickening his pulse and making him nervous, and these new and unfamiliar feelings left him immensely intrigued. The gentle tingling when thinking about you or the sudden anxiety of you not thinking about him were sensations far from his world. Yet, he felt somewhat drawn to it.

He took you out on dates as best as he could, eventually making his move and kissing you on your forth date. And on the fifth and sixth dates you took it a a few steps further, and soon enough, he felt compelled to share everything about you with his close group of friends; the team.

Naturally, the boys had noticed William's sudden change in behaviour, teasing him a bit about it as well. However, understanding their own unspoken boundaries, they let him be and didn't delve too deeply into sentimental details, as boys will be boys.

So, as December enrolled and the two of you had been casually dating for a little over a month, William organised a day at The Distillery Winter Village for you to shop, indulge in delicious Christmas treats, and soak up the holiday spirit.

Knowing your love for this season, he took the opportunity to create a proper Christmas experience for you, as he had some time to spare.

And your immediate 'yes' was a testament to how just much you enjoyed spending time with William. He simply had a way of making you feel incredibly good about yourself, and being around him was just pure joy. He filled a void that felt like the best friend you had been missing for so long. Yet, beneath it all, you sensed there might be deeper feelings between you. But you weren't in a rush. You cherished being around him, revelled in his wonderful company, and simply appreciated the incredible connection you shared.

And the day turned out to be simply magical. The bustling atmosphere, extraordinary with Christmas carols filling the air, mingling with the delightful scents of sweets and the joyous laughter all around.

However, amidst this enchantment, William's mind was slightly preoccupied.

The gentle intertwining of your fingers, holding hands as you casually strolled through the market, had him contemplating.

He thought about how this was exactly what he wanted to experience every Christmas with you. He wanted to have these profound, warm feelings he experienced every time he was with you, every day of his life. He wanted to wake up to your gorgeous face daily, have you by his side through the highs and lows, introduce you to his family, and contemplate a future together.

So, as he witnessed the Christmas lights reflecting in your eyes while leisurely strolling from boutique to boutique, William's mind raced, and he felt the need to articulate his thoughts. Firstly, attempting to broach the subject casually, he started the conversation with, "There's quite a lot of couples here, huh..."

Hoping to drop hints, without saying too much.

"Sure, but there are also quite a few families,” you responded with a simple smile. “I mean, all the children want to meet Santa, right?"

William felt flustered. Desperate to express his feelings and recent thoughts to you, he found it far more challenging than anticipated. This territory was beyond his expertise, as he had never been the one to initiate the 'where are we' conversation.

But, as he thought of you more and more, he concluded that he didn't want to see you with anyone else but him. The mere thought of you dating someone else at this point tore him apart.

So, as the evening progressed and you indulged in various foods and drinks, he gathered the courage to try again.

"You know, a lot of people find Christmas really romantic," he blurted out seemingly out of nowhere, feeling his cheeks flush slightly, which could easily pass off as a reaction to the cold weather.

"Well, I suppose it is,” you spoke, as you gently sipped your hot chocolate. “You don’t think it’s romantic?”

“Or course I do,” he smiled, finally summoning the courage to express his thoughts. “In fact I think it's a good time to... maybe, be with someone... you really like," his voice slightly trembling.

"For sure, that's what this season is all about, being with the ones you love,” you replied, as you slowly made your way through the crowd. “Although, it can also be a little cheesy, right? Like those people who propose on Christmas Day or something like that. I mean, let's just enjoy the holiday for what it is," you chuckled lightly, unknowingly causing William's heart to sink in his chest.

He might not have had a proposal in mind, but considering he'd never asked someone to be his girlfriend before, it felt almost like it.

"I guess," was all he managed to say. And then another 30 minutes passed with more conversation, during which William's heart continued to race faster than usual, and his palms grew sweatier. He nearly pulled his hand away when you tried to hold it as you resumed walking side by side.

"Willy, are you alright?" you asked, genuinely concerned, noticing his distant gaze and absent-mindedness.

"Um, sure."

A moment of silence passed as you both headed towards the giant Christmas tree, illuminated with the bright DIOR sign flashing its lights.

"It's beautiful, isn't it?" you spoke softly as you stood admiring the tree.

"Yes... yes, it is," William almost whispered, though his gaze was fixed on you rather than the tree.

"You know, there's a funny story from my hometown—"

"Y/n, I want you to be my girlfriend."

His mouth had spoken faster than his mind could process, and suddenly the words had slipped out, unintentionally interrupting your story.

"What?" you asked, slightly baffled.

"I want..." Uncertainty overwhelmed him once again, but he knew he had burst the bubble and now had to articulate what was truly on his mind. "I want to be... you know... together, like, just you and me..."

His heart pounded fiercely, almost outside his chest, as he struggled to convey his thoughts. He had never been this nervous, not even on drafting day or during his first NHL game. Asking you to be his girlfriend felt like the most anxious thing he had ever done.

"Willy, you want us to be exclusive?" you asked timidly, though you had heard him perfectly clearly. Your mind just needed to process what he had asked.

"Yes, y/n," he breathed out, feeling a sense of relief. "I want us to be exclusive. I don't like the idea of you seeing anyone else, and I know I only have the right to ask that of you if you're..."

"Your girlfriend," you finished his sentence with a sweet smile. "Willy, I'd want nothing more than to be your girlfriend."

Your voice resonated with profound sincerity, reflecting what he had been trying so hard to articulate. Of course, you wanted to be with him. You just simply hadn't felt the need to push the matter but hearing him express it so earnestly left you with no doubt.

And amidst the Christmas lights and the festive cheer, William felt an immense relief coursing through his body as you said yes to being his.

It felt like a magical experience amid the joy of the season, and he had never been more certain of anything else. So with gentle tenderness, he pulled you in for a soft kiss under the shimmering lights and stars of that December night.

#my asks #william nylander imagine #william nylander fic #toronto maple leafs imagine #nhl hockey imagine #wn88 imagine

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