#as well as get advice and feedback. This will then rotate

[angelwings-crossbowstrings]

Hello, its me again, the ‘’long ask anon’’ i should totally stop being na anon, i’m too chatty to only show up once in a while, but being the kind of insane anon that shows up from time to time just to ramble is my true calling.

First off i’d like to thank you for being so sweet, i’m glad you enjoyed my feedback to this degree and took time to answer my questions, i really enjoy knowing your thought process in the creation of this fic and what it might become in the future. Anyway, onto your answer.

I totally agree with you on the importance of wintertime for the group, i think its really a shame how they didn’t show us any of it, though its understandable why they didn’t show us its like, come on, winter is prime apocalypse time, even normal winter is tough as we see in the comics. But here’s the thing, Rick in the comics doesn’t really grapple with Lori’s pregnancy at all like we see Daryl do in this fic, and i think its brilliant, sure everyone else is getting it rough too but reader and Daryl are in a constant state of worry, which makes the joyful moments that much more intimate and special and its portrayed perfectly, i get the sense that in the beginning Daryl deals very well with the negative stuff, but really doesn’t know how to behave during the good times (Like Birdie’s first kick etc.) and yea, that’s the essence of Daryl, a great caretaker, kind of self sabotages tho. Poor guy.

And omg i had no idea babies were capable of that sort of stuff, like recognizing who is who even in the womb?! Kind of amazing, i can barely recognize people through phone calls nowadays lol, and the fact you based it on your own little thumper? Ugh i could die from the cuteness.

And Merle, oh well, i know he hasn’t done anything in the story and i have the sense that he will ( leave birdie alone!!!) but wherever he is i hope he’s getting his ass beat right this instant, excited for him to show up tho! He better not start messing up Daryl’s head!!! Or he’ll suffer the consequences!!! I know our reader would not let it slide. :).

And about Lori, i’m still obsessed with the Lori Reader duo, recently rewatched season 2 which has, so many Lori scenes, So many, and it only makes me like her even more in the BT universe, and you really hit the nail on the head with your interpretation of her, she truly is mainly motivated by fear but strongly adheres to her sense of right and wrong. I also love her offering Daryl advice, the fact that most of the interactions between these two in the show are hostile never sat right with me and i’m glad that she is a trustworthy figure to Daryl, enough for him to take her advice to make our reader feel better. It really is sad that the burden she carries is not the baby (ITS RICK!) and that she tries to seek in others what she can’t have is tragic, but very noble in my opinion.

Carol is our perfect angel, best cheerleader ever, she’s Always there for backup even while she is working through her pain, i imagine her pregnancy wasn’t easy on her (cause Ed) and she wouldn’t want to see any other woman struggle with it, the fact that even in the show she tries to learn from Hershel about medicine to help Lori, and sticks next to her Always, and when Hershel is out of comission starts training her C-section technique thinking of Lori, Carol has Always deserved the world honestly. And she is such a great friend in the fic as well, one thing about her is that she really has the reader’s back no matter what, so sweet.

About chapter 30

After Reading it over and over for like an hour i can say, I’M OBSESSED. Daryl??? So cute??? Omg the fluff had me rotating in my room like a rotisserie chicken , You’ve done it again, It really shows that at this time Daryl is aprehensive, but still so in love with Birdie from moment one, that the first thing he does after making sure everything is ok is to make himself presentable for his daughter,OMGGGG, that he doesn’t really want her to see all of him yet and has to trust that his little Bird will accept him as he is (and she Always will!!) is just peak fluff to me, but also sad that it makes me think that he’s Always been afraid of his father, so much so that he believed it would be the first thing she would feel towards him too. I’m enjoying the hell out of the scenes of them both just hanging out and being cute with her and seeing as Daryl gains more confidence as the chapter progresses, when he realizes Birdie loves him as well, when they both hold onto each other, maybe i’m wrong but in my interpretation that’s when Daryl gained the confidence he needed to think of a name for her (who knows, maybe i’m dead wrong, but that’s how i interpreted his silence) And Carol too, being emotional over Birdie makes me wanna scream, what a bittersweet moment it must have been for her, i just know she’ll be the best aunt ever.

This chapter has really entered a new territory of Daryl’s development in my eyes, now that he is so passionate about birdie, he’s already trying to show service for her and reader in a way, i just know that serving his Family and making sure they are happy will be so good for him in the long term, he’s got it all to be happy now. And i’m eating it up.

Anyway, a Thousand words again who would’ve though, no objective analysis this time, just rambling non-stop, being an overly-chatty anon is my true calling fr.

The fact that some random person out there in the world can write more than a Thousand words about your work must make any author proud tho, so i sincerely hope its the same for you, from what i’ve read through it seems you’ve been having a few Hard days, so i hope to make it even a little better with my feedback and appreciation, better days will come for all of us even if the world is an ugly place right now, we still have beautiful things to look foward to and to keep working towards.

About the fanart i cited in the last text, it does indeed exist. Now it does .      

                              https://imgur.com/a/t9VdHC4

Since my last ask i’ve challenged myself to have it more or less ready by the time the next chapter was here, and though its not anything impressive i took a little of my day to work on it every day, i hope you enjoy knowing that ( and since copying and pasting a link from any anon is not safe, i recomment pasting it to VirusTotal if you feel the need, and i don't really know if the anon mode just gets rid of them completely, if yes let me know and i'll find another way to get it to you after i get over my embarrassment)

Bye bye <3

Okay! As you saw, I got a little distracted from doing this. Also, if my post affected you negatively in any way, I'd like to apologize to you too. It was in poor taste regardless of my intentions. I am so sorry. I really wish we could have seen more about their survival. What we saw, they were always on foot and barely had food. Well, we will get to that soon. Daryl is scared shitless but there's just that bond that was formed while reader was pregnant. That's his baby girl. And he's already wrapped around that tiny finger. I absolutely cannot WAIT to bring Merle into the mix. It might be a little different as far as timeline but it will be at the prison. So we have a ways to go. But it will be interesting. Oh, the plans I have!

Lori will play a more pivotal role in the next couple of chapters. Daryl is going hunting. Reader is alone with Birdie. "HELP!" I feel like Lori would have gotten along with Daryl if she didn't have so much on her plate and could really see him. Yeah, he could be an asshole but he was hiding behind his walls, deflecting. She just had way too much going on, no time to offer that chance. Well, goddamnit, I'm giving her that chance. I want to delve into the problems with her and Rick a little more too, with reader involved. Daryl is going to be a helicopter parent, absolutely no doubt. I think he will be more in tune with her feelings and how to handle them because he didn't have that growing up. He'll know the cues of anger or sadness. And she's his daughter. -squeal- I can't wait to write more of daddy Daryl and little Birdie.

I'm not sure if you noticed but at first, it was always reader suggesting the names and he stayed quiet other than to say nah. But every time he had Birdie, she had her little bird blanket. However, he's going to give an explanation of her name in the next chapter. He was too damn sleepy in this one, lol. Carol is my warrior queen! Forever and always! There will be a bond there that is unlike any other. Not just because of losing Sophia but because Carol has found best friends in Daryl (well, it's a work in progress, lol ) and reader. So Birdie is a product of two of the most important people in her life. She will absolutely fight tooth and nail, savagely to protect her.

I need to be careful or I'm going to spoil so much! But I love getting the chance to talk about it like this! Just to explore the thought process and where it's headed without too much detail, I hope.

OKAY. THAT ART. OMFG. I screeched, even half asleep! When I woke up properly, I was just in awe. It is SO beautiful and I would love to add it to the series Masterlist and share if you are comfortable with that. I mean I realize the link is right up there but I want it to be seen every single time someone goes to see the chapters. I cannot say thank you enough for that. It is GORGEOUS. Perfect. And captures them so well. My three favorite things are reader with the vest and that belly, Daryl holding onto her leg, and Caryl hovering in the background! But I also LOVE that you included the truck! Everything about it is just perfect. Perfect, perfect, perfect! My heart was just so full. Thank you so much. 🩵🩵🩵🩵

[cantsomeoneelsedoit]

Ch 37: Undead + Unluck

Little fanartist

This cover is super sweet and the little details like the stubby crayon and the way the socks gather are so wholesome! I love the blending of genres, too. Little Fuuko has drawn a sports manga scene from You-Me and has a magical girl on her shorts, and the cover itself is a time travel.

Space soccer club invasion arc sounds like a real page-turner, tbh. I'd read it.

The panels we're shown all match up with something that happened during the Acks battle. ⬇️

They point out several times that To You, From Me has 101 volumes, which corresponds with the tablet that keeps track of penalties.

Something that bugs me here is that Juiz gives them instructions without explaining why doing those things is important.

I wish she would give them more context like what she thinks they might find. It feels like she's still keeping some of the important info to herself.

Andy concludes that they'll need to make a manga to get into Shueisha HQ. Which is just an absolutely delightful thing to happen after the heavy Unbelievable Arc.

Fuuko has every fanfic author's dilemma:

Andy mentions Osamu Tezuka, the "Father of Manga," whose famous works were created in the 1950s-80s. One of his later works was Black Jack, and the main character has some similarities with Rip.

Black Jack also has some chapters that have been changed or removed from publication, much like You-Me.

Tezuka used what he called a "Star System," which was his rotating cast of recurring characters that appear in works in his universe, similar to looping in UU using the same character types for each loop.

Andy tells Fuuko to write what she knows best.

Fuuko says she's especially interested in learning more about herself through writing the story, so that she'll be able to summon even greater strokes of Unluck, which takes us back to Chapter 4, when Andy was trying to do the exact same thing:

BUT, now that Andy knows he won't die even if the world ends, what's the point of Fuuko trying to give him the best death??

What's the point of Andy's big dream to have a wicked sick death? What's the point of him staying with Fuuko? Unless, of course, he's developed feelings for her!

Andy gathers a team of helpers (except Shen, whose power is too dangerous for this project, but it's nice to see him speaking Chinese) and says he'll do the storyboards. Mico even brings Fuuko a set of robot arms to help her draw more quickly. Tatiana gives her some interesting advice on how to use them...

"Imagine looking down at yourself from above." BECAUSE THAT'S HOW FUUKO'S GONNA WRITE THE STORY! She's looking down at her own life and putting it on paper. She's writing what she knows!

There's even a panel of her drawing her manga!

Having Fuuko write her own manga is fun in a Bakuman kind of way, but I also think it's a comment from the God/Author. This is just one of the many ways the God/Author is making them suffer and toil, and of course the author feels that this is a real test of character and strength. They're making the characters suffer as they have.

It also gives the IRL author Tozuka a chance to throw in some light gags about the manga business and let Andy wear a fun hat.

No, he doesn't look like a shoujo manga artist--- he looks like Osamu Tezuka!

Poor Andy, he tried!

The Shueisha rep tells her a lot of very specific feedback that's probably the same kind of things Tozuka heard when he submitted Undead Unluck! The manga Fuuko submitted, with its wilder-looking Andy, matches up pretty well with the one-shot that started UU. I hope she left out the gropey parts.

Anyway, the manga impressed the Shueisha rep enough that she agreed to let Fuuko see the original manuscript for To You, From Me.

Now we know why we've been hearing so much about this manga, starting from page 1, chapter 1 where Fuuko is holding it while standing on the bridge over the trains. It's not just an "artifact" in the story. An ARTIFACT was used to write it!

Masterpost

[wayfaringmd]

Wise Wayfaring (can we call your advice posts this?)! I'm a medical student and due to unfortunate circumstances I find myself having to repeat a year of med school :( this sucks esp. after working so hard. I'm trying to work on my study habits and improve, but I was wondering if you had any advice on how to address this for residencies?

Wise Wayfaring….I like the sound of that.

Anywho, yes, I have advice.

1. Make sure your Step scores are competitive AND show improvement from step 1 to step 2. When my program is recruiting we start with a Step 1 score baseline to screen people out. So if your score is good, that may get your foot in just so your application can be seen by programs. When there are academic troubles early on, we look for growth in the later years, so improved test scores as you advance further are key.

2. Do outstanding on your clinical rotations. Ask for feedback as you go along so you can be constantly working on improving yourself. When we see “functions as a fourth year” on a third year rotation evaluation or “functioning almost as a resident” in a fourth year eval it bodes very well. These are the things that get you interviews so you can then have the chance to explain your repeated year.

3. Don’t make excuses. There are a lot of reasons why people have to take a leave of absence or have to repeat a year. If your reason was purely just crappy grades due to your own crappy study habits, own up to it and then explain what you learned from it to make your grades better in the subsequent years. Tell the programs what you have changed about your study system in order to do better.

4. If you had to repeat or you got behind because of a personal or family tragedy or something, know that programs (at least mine) are forgiving about that kind of stuff. It’s not your fault that bad things happened and got in the way of med school. We occasionally see someone who had to take an extended leave of absence because they had a parent dying of cancer or something and we don’t hold that against them as long as they maintained good academic standing when they came back.

5. If you had a mental health crisis that led to bad grades and repeating the year, it’s important to show how your mental health has improved. You don’t have to tell all your business, but it does help to be sort of open and honest about what went on. Explain what you learned in therapy and changed about yourself. Tell them you’re on a good med regimen if you are. Have a plan for how you’re going to manage stress in residency so you don’t have another crisis.

6. Be prepared for interviewers to ask you about the repeated year. Have a good answer prepared but don’t make it sound like a practiced speech.

7. Don’t be a victim. Programs like to see applicants take personal responsibility. It generally translates into a resident who is going to be conscientious and a team player. Don’t act like the repeated year was the worst thing that ever happened to you, even if it was. Don’t dwell on the negative aspects of it. Talk about how you grew from it and how it’s going to make you a better resident.

[changingplumbob]

Villareal Household: Chapter 3, Part 3

Devin films Dignity & Decorum, improves her work connections, and checks out the local gym with her siblings.

When possible, Devin likes to practice her romance scenes with Luna. By acting through it with someone she is attracted to, she can more easily bring the emotions through in her final performance. They do standard romance then a horror scene just in case any vampires rock up in Dignity & Decorum.

Ever the multi tasker, Devin is livestreaming her morning run when she gets a pop up to inform her she is now a 3 star celebrity. Skipping auditions here we come! When she gets back home she finds the washing line has broken so despite her fame she does the menial task or repairing it.

Before the filming she piles together as many positive moodlets as I can think of. Still having time she works on some of her knitting projects. Looks like she has chosen to start work on hanging pot plants between rotations. Eventually we are whisked to set and I guess many things are filming?

Rudolphus: I knew you could get this part

Devin: Thank you. Do you know what else is filming today?

Rudolphus: Beats me, you're the only one who ever seems to come to hair and makeup

Devin: Really?

Rudolphus: I guess everyone else arrives camera ready

Devin: Is that a polite way of saying I run late

Rudolphus: No I- what have you done to your hair

Devin: I just got some extensions

Rudolphus: At least the stylist half knew what to do, we're going to have to wig you

Devin: My hair won't like fall out or turn green will it

Rudolphus: No but best not stress the hair. New person in wardrobe today, Emily

Devin: It's Emily right?

Emily: We have work to do, on the platform

Devin: Right, can do. How's your day going?

Emily: Hmm, have to adjust that, that won't fit her colour at all

Devin leaves the woman to talk to herself and measure her with an invisible tape measure until finally she is able to twirl into costume.

Devin: Hey Norah

PA: Do not disturb the director miss

Norah: She's a Mrs and she's my friend

PA: Make it quick, we have a schedule

Devin: She seems fun

Norah: *laughs* she is dedicated. We don't have the stage for another hour though so feel free to grab some food and meet the rest of the crew

Trusting Norah's advice Devin approaches the food. She makes sure to introduce herself to the production crew who seem new when she spots a familiar face.

Devin: Girl I did not recognise you in that get up

Clea: How far we have come from Critters days

Devin: Commemorative selfie?

Clea: You know it

At last Norah announces filming is ready to start and Devi has another quick word with her director before heading on to stage. After having some time to centre herself she launches into her monologue. She takes some risks with it and gets nods of approval from behind the camera, success is hers.

Next up are her romance scenes with Clea. The two have worked together for several years so are accustomed to bouncing off each other. An oddly dressed actor and producer refuse to clear the set, staging a sit in on the lounge furniture. Norah assures Devin they can cut around the sims.

Finally Devin has some argument scenes to complete with Mina, another old friend. The two trade insults, apparently no one comes to blows on this show. Norah yells a final CUT and production wraps for this episode.  Devin receives positive feedback and gets well paid for her work.

You know how normally if a couple sits down to eat in Sims 4 and you direct them to interact they'll get up and do a hug or kiss on the cheek before talking? Luna's style is to get up and do a passionate kiss with Devin and it's so cute! Never had a couple had that as their default before.

Devin is able to skip auditions now thanks to her fame points but before her next acting gig she has to work on her work relationships. She invites over her director Norah, and her co stars. She has already met Connor but Anaya is a new introduction. Anaya seems unimpressed with Devin's home but Norah smooths things over

Once Anaya relaxes enough to jam on Devin's guitar, Devin takes the opportunity to do some knitting and have a proper catch up with Norah. While they're busy discussing how the traditional actor/actress categories should be reshaped to support non-binary sims in their industry Anaya has a dance.

Once the catch up draws to a close Devin takes care of Luna's flowers when suddenly

?: Mrs Villareal! Mrs Villareal! Over here!

Devin is shocked to see a paparazzi sim staking out her house and sporting her old haircut to boot. Initially she ignores the sim but they eventually invade her yard.

At last the sim leaves and Devin takes to social media to scold anyone who tries to mess with people in their own homes. Soon enough Luna is home and Devin rants and raves about the paparazzi. Luna is used to her wife's complaints and knows the best thing she can do initially is just listen to her problems without trying to solve them.

Devin offers to cook dinner tonight while Luna tries again to find some family connections online. No luck in that department so far, she may have to question her brothers again. After dinner Luna does more grading in her portfolio while Devin improves her comedy skill by writing some jokes.

The next day Devin arranges to meet Joey at the gym since she knows fitness is not his favourite. Deanna also decides to tag along, and so do two member of the paparazzi

Devin: Hey De, nice to see you again so soon

Deanna: What's up with the paparazzi

Devin: They know stars frequent this gym

Joey: Doesn't that one have your old haircut

Devin: guess I'm a trendsetter now to

Joey: Hey, you think I could get that one's number?

Devin: Coral is married to Don

Joey: Don Lothario? Do we trust he's not already stepping out on her?

Deanna: What makes you think she'd like you

Joey: I'm charming with an attractive face

Devin gets into her regular routine, taking time to wave at the paparazzi between sets. Joey tries to impress Coral but her camera is firmly fixed on his older sister. Deanna has disappeared and I discover she's gone to fan girl and faint over Cassandra. Like you know her personally Deanna, why???

Devin wraps up her workout at which point Deanna has awakened. Joey keeps pushing on the machine while Devin checks on her. Devin then goes over to the fans who have come to the gym, signs a few autographs and takes a few selfies.

Devin then heads off alone to Ward park to do a livestream in nature. She fires up her drone then starts to sing while playing her guitar. I don't think any acting gigs require singing so far but there are ones that she needs high guitar skill for. Some sims show up to see her play and tip well.

Before heading home Devin gets set for pictures. The drone thinks he has the best camera but nevertheless fans use their phones for selfies and the paparazzi use their giant handheld cameras.

Luna gets back from work and does her daily pregnancy test (If you haven’t tried the Childbirth Mod by Pandasama you should). Today she is shocked to discover that the mods have worked. She has managed to get pregnant with Devin's child! No father required in sim world.

Devin: You're smiling awfully big, what are you up to

Luna: You mean what are we up to

*shows test*

Devin: Wait, does this mean what I think

Luna: Yeah baby, we're pregnant!

Devin: OMW yes! Oh Lu I knew you could do it, low fertility be damned

Luna: Our next chapter is starting, we did it together

The couple embrace and take a moment to stare at the test while they adjust to their new reality. Luna was the one always dreaming of a kid but Devin is so darn excited about this pregnancy. She gets a baby with Luna without having to go through the physical changes herself, winner scenario.

Previous Part ... Next Part

[help-im-a-medstudent]

hi! im studying medicine(gonna be an intern in summer this year) and ive been wanting to be an internal med or dermatology resident in the uk for a while now. do you have any ideas/advice? why did you choose anesthesiology? should i just start with plab or get a phd first and then start residency? sorry if those are a lot of questions 😅😅

Hi! apologies for the amount of time it took me to reply to this

As I'm a UK graduate I don't know loads about starting in the UK as an international graduate but I'll try my best to answer your questions

To train in dermatology in the UK you have to have done internal medical training first where you rotate through different medical specialties, then apply to a specific one after 2 or 3 years. I'd recommend looking at these two websites [1, 2] for information on requirements for application etc.

There are sometimes individual non-training posts in specific specialties which can be good for international graduates to get used to working in the NHS, there's lots in internal medicine (that's what I'm currently doing) but there are some specific to dermatology - look on the NHS jobs website, individual hospital trusts advertise these throughout the year

PhDs are not necessary for working in medicine in the UK, most people never do them, and those that do it tends to be after several years of training, but if you've done one then it will make you look good at interview for jobs. It depends on how soon you want to get to the UK, but it's definitely possible for you to get a job here without a PhD

I want to do anaesthetics because I just really clicked with it. The practical side of it suits me, the possibility of training in intensive care as well (and loads of other subspecialties) and still doing the diagnostic part of things, being able to see immediate effects on physiology with drugs, also the fact that it is a very training focussed specialty so as a consultant you're doing lots of direct supervision of trainees and also as a trainee you get immediate and ongoing feedback. There's probably loads of other reasons that I just can't articulate right now but basically I just love it

[dinosaurcharcuterie]

I think a lot of people don't realize why we have free play in kindergartens. Circle time and show and tell in early grade school. Rotating station work in higher grade school. Group projects and class discussion and presentation feedback in high school.

The two overarching skills you're supposed to learn and practice between pre-K and the end of your college freshman year is "asking for help when we need it" and "being civil to people who get on our nerves and are obviously wrong instead of punching them in the face".

And a lot of jobs will regularly sit you down and make you attend a seminar about those two skills, rephrasing them as "cooperation" or "synergy" and "conflict resolution" or "interpersonal skills" on the advice of some overpaid PR consultant.

I'm not saying it's taught well or that many people don't forget those lesson as quickly as the ones where you gotta memorize capitals of countries you will never see, but the opportunity and means to learn are offered again and again and again.

[daniealnamd]

Ensuring Optimal Vehicle Performance: Essential Tyre Services in Dubai

Dubai, known for its opulence and luxury, is also home to a sprawling network of roads and highways. With a city built for driving, maintaining your vehicle's tyres is crucial for safety and performance. Tyre services in Dubai are essential for residents and visitors alike, ensuring that vehicles remain in top condition to navigate the city's diverse driving conditions.

Types of Tyre Services Available

Tyre Replacement

Tyre replacement is a common service offered across Dubai. Whether due to wear and tear or damage, replacing tyres is crucial for maintaining vehicle safety. Many service centers provide a range of tyre brands and models to suit different vehicle types and driving needs.

Tyre Repair

Tyre service dubai are essential for fixing punctures, leaks, or minor damages. Professional technicians assess the extent of the damage and determine whether a repair or replacement is necessary. Quick and efficient, these services help drivers get back on the road with minimal disruption.

Wheel Alignment and Balancing

Proper wheel alignment and balancing are vital for the longevity of tyres and the overall performance of the vehicle. Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tyre wear and affect the handling of the car. Regular alignment and balancing services ensure that tyres wear evenly and that the vehicle drives smoothly.

Tyre Rotation

Tyre rotation involves changing the position of each tyre on the vehicle. This service helps to distribute wear more evenly across all tyres, extending their lifespan and improving performance. It's typically recommended to rotate tyres every 10,000 to 12,000 kilometers.

Mobile Tyre Services

In a fast-paced city like Dubai, convenience is key. Mobile tyre services have gained popularity, offering on-the-spot tyre repairs and replacements. Equipped with the latest tools and technology, mobile service units come to the customer's location, whether at home, work, or stranded on the roadside. This service is especially beneficial for busy professionals and those in need of urgent assistance.

Choosing the Right Tyre Service Provider

Reputation and Reviews

Selecting a reputable tyre service provider is crucial. Reading customer reviews and testimonials can provide insights into the quality of service and customer satisfaction. Well-established service centers with positive feedback are typically more reliable.

Range of Services

A comprehensive service provider offering a range of tyre-related services, from replacement and repair to alignment and balancing, ensures that all your tyre needs can be met in one place. This convenience saves time and effort.

Price and Value

While price is an important consideration, it should not be the sole deciding factor. Assess the value offered by the service provider, including the quality of tyres, level of expertise, and additional services like warranties and aftercare.

Seasonal Considerations

Dubai's extreme temperatures, especially during the summer months, can significantly impact tyre performance. Heat can cause tyres to degrade faster, making regular checks and maintenance even more critical. Service providers often offer seasonal checks and advice on the best tyres suited for Dubai's climate.

Conclusion

Tyre services in Dubai are integral to ensuring the safety and performance of vehicles navigating the city's roads. From replacement and repair to alignment and balancing, these services help maintain optimal driving conditions. With the added convenience of mobile tyre services, maintaining your vehicle's tyres has never been easier. By choosing a reputable service provider, drivers can ensure they receive high-quality service and value for their investment.

[chargelessautosau]

Finding the Best Mechanic Car Service Near You: Tips for Ensuring Quality Repairs

When your car needs a repair or routine maintenance, finding a trustworthy mechanic is essential. A reliable mechanic can make a significant difference in your vehicle's performance, safety, and longevity. If you're searching for a “mechanic car service near me,” this blog post will guide you through the steps to find the best local mechanic and ensure you receive top-quality service.

Why Choosing the Right Mechanic Matters

Ensures Quality Repairs:

A skilled mechanic ensures that repairs are done correctly the first time. This minimizes the risk of recurring issues and extends the lifespan of your vehicle.

Enhances Safety:

Regular maintenance and timely repairs by a qualified mechanic keep your car running safely. From brake checks to engine diagnostics, professional service helps prevent accidents and breakdowns.

Saves Money in the Long Run:

Investing in quality repairs and maintenance can prevent costly future problems. A reliable mechanic identifies issues early, reducing the need for major repairs and ensuring your car operates efficiently.

Provides Peace of Mind:

Knowing that your vehicle is in good hands gives you confidence and peace of mind. A trusted mechanic provides honest advice and transparent pricing, building trust and reliability.

How to Find the Best Mechanic Car Service Near You

Research Local Options:

Start by researching mechanics in your area. Online search engines, review sites like Google Reviews and Yelp, and social media platforms are valuable resources for finding local services. Pay attention to customer feedback and ratings to gauge the quality of service.

Ask for Recommendations:

Seek recommendations from friends, family, and colleagues who have had positive experiences with local mechanics. Personal referrals often lead you to trusted professionals with proven track records.

Check for Certifications and Experience:

Look for mechanics with certifications such as ASE (Automotive Service Excellence) or brand-specific qualifications. These certifications indicate that the mechanic has undergone rigorous training and meets industry standards.

Evaluate the Range of Services:

Choose a mechanic who offers a comprehensive range of services, from routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations to more complex repairs such as engine diagnostics and transmission work. A well-rounded service center can address all your automotive needs.

Assess the Shop’s Reputation:

Investigate the mechanic’s reputation within the community. Established shops with a strong reputation are more likely to provide reliable and high-quality service. Look for awards, affiliations with automotive organizations, and community involvement.

Visit the Shop:

If possible, visit the mechanic’s shop in person. This allows you to observe the cleanliness and organization of the facility, as well as interact with the staff. A professional and well-maintained shop is often a good indicator of quality service.

Inquire About Warranties and Guarantees:

A reputable mechanic should offer warranties or guarantees on parts and labor. This demonstrates confidence in their work and provides you with added assurance that any issues will be addressed.

Get a Written Estimate:

Before authorizing any repairs, request a written estimate. The estimate should detail the cost of parts, labor, and any additional charges. Clear and transparent pricing helps you avoid unexpected expenses and ensures you understand what you’re paying for.

Evaluate Customer Service:

Good customer service is crucial. The mechanic should be approachable, willing to answer questions, and able to explain repairs and maintenance in a way that you understand. Effective communication and a friendly attitude contribute to a positive experience.

Look for Convenience:

Consider factors such as location, operating hours, and the availability of loaner vehicles or shuttle services. Choosing a mechanic who offers convenient options can make your service experience smoother and more hassle-free.

Conclusion

Finding the best mechanic car service near you involves a combination of research, recommendations, and careful evaluation. By focusing on factors such as reputation, certifications, range of services, and customer service, you can ensure that your vehicle receives the quality care it deserves.

Charge Less Autos are a fully equipped and experienced mechanical workshop with the latest electronic diagnostic equipment. We can perform handbook servicing to maintain your new car warranty. From a basic oil change to a full service or break down repair, you will experience personalised service and real value for money.All work performed by us carries a 12 month warranty.

[diwanautocare]

Choosing the Right Car Tyre Dealer: A Comprehensive Guide

In the realm of automotive care, few aspects are as crucial as ensuring your vehicle is equipped with the right tyres. Tyres not only influence your car's performance but also impact safety, comfort, and fuel efficiency. Whether you're a seasoned driver or a new car owner, navigating the world of tyres can be daunting. This guide aims to demystify the process and help you understand why selecting the right car tyre dealer in thane.

Understanding the Importance of Quality Tyres

Tyres are the only contact points between your vehicle and the road. They play a pivotal role in:

Safety: Quality tyres ensure optimal grip and traction, crucial for maintaining control in various road conditions.

Performance: The right tyres can enhance your car's handling, braking, and overall performance.

Comfort: Tyres affect ride quality by absorbing road imperfections and reducing noise levels.

Fuel Efficiency: Properly inflated, high-quality tyres can improve fuel economy, saving you money in the long run.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Car Tyre Dealer

Selecting the right car tyre dealer involves more than just purchasing tyres. It's about finding a reliable partner who offers:

1. Product Variety and Quality

A reputable dealer should offer a wide range of tyre brands and types to suit different vehicles and preferences. Look for dealerships that carry well-known brands like Michelin, Bridgestone, Continental, Pirelli, Goodyear, and more. Each brand has its strengths, whether it's durability, performance, or specific features like all-season capabilities or run-flat technology.

2. Expertise and Advice

An experienced tyre dealer employs knowledgeable staff who can provide expert advice. They should understand the nuances of tyre specifications, including size, load index, speed rating, and tread patterns. This expertise ensures you get tyres that are not only compatible with your vehicle but also optimized for your driving needs and budget.

3. Customer Service and Support

Excellent customer service is paramount. A reliable dealer should offer assistance throughout the tyre-buying process, from initial selection to installation and beyond. They should be transparent about pricing, warranties, and any additional services they offer, such as tyre rotation, alignment, and maintenance.

4. Quality Assurance and Warranty

Choose a dealer that prioritizes quality and backs their products with solid warranties. This demonstrates their confidence in the tyres they sell and provides you with peace of mind knowing you're covered in case of manufacturing defects or premature wear.

5. Convenience and Accessibility

Consider the location and accessibility of the tyre dealer. Opt for a dealership that is conveniently located, making it easier for you to visit for tyre purchases, installations, and routine maintenance. Flexible hours and online booking options can also enhance convenience.

6. Reputation and Reviews

Research the reputation of the tyre dealer through customer reviews, testimonials, and word-of-mouth recommendations. A dealership with a strong track record of customer satisfaction and positive feedback is likely to provide a superior experience.

Why Choose Diwan Auto Care as Your Trusted Car Tyre Dealer?

In Thane, one standout option for car tyre dealers is Diwan Auto Care LLP. Established as a family-owned business with a legacy under various names like Tyre Best, Battery Best Sales-N-Service, and Auto Care Centre, Diwan Auto Care embodies the qualities of an ideal tyre dealership:

- Extensive Selection of Brands and Sizes

Diwan Auto Care offers a diverse range of tyre brands, including premium options like Michelin, Bridgestone, and Continental, among others. Their inventory includes tyres for all types of vehicles, ensuring they cater to diverse customer needs and preferences.

- Expert Guidance and Personalized Service

The knowledgeable staff at Diwan Auto Care are experts in the field of tyres. They provide personalized advice to help you select the right tyres based on your vehicle type, driving habits, and budget. Their goal is to ensure you make an informed decision that enhances your vehicle's performance and safety.

- Comprehensive Services

Beyond tyre sales, Diwan Auto Care offers comprehensive services such as tyre installation, balancing, alignment, and maintenance. Their skilled technicians use advanced equipment to ensure your tyres are installed correctly and perform optimally throughout their lifespan.

- Commitment to Quality and Customer Satisfaction

Diwan Auto Care prioritizes quality and customer satisfaction. They stock only high-quality tyres from reputable brands and back their products with robust warranties. This commitment to excellence has earned them a loyal customer base and positive reviews within the community.

- Convenient Location and Accessibility

Located conveniently in Thane, Diwan Auto Care is easily accessible for local residents and businesses. Their commitment to customer convenience includes flexible hours and a user-friendly website where you can browse products and schedule services online.

- Trusted Legacy

With a history rooted in providing top-notch automotive care, Diwan Auto Care has built a legacy of trust and reliability. They continue to uphold their family-owned values by delivering exceptional service and fostering long-term relationships with their customers.

Conclusion

Choosing the right car tyre dealer is crucial for ensuring your vehicle's safety, performance, and overall driving experience. Whether you prioritize quality, expertise, customer service, or convenience, Diwan Auto Care LLP stands out as a premier choice in Thane. Their extensive selection of brands, expert guidance, commitment to quality, and excellent customer service make them a trusted partner for all your tyre needs. Visit Diwan Auto Care today and experience firsthand why they are the preferred car tyre dealer in Thane.

By prioritizing these factors and choosing a reputable dealer like Diwan Auto Care, you can rest assured that your vehicle is equipped with tyres that meet the highest standards of quality and performance.

[nadinezeinoun]

What Are the Main Elements of a Successful Emerging Leaders Program? Strong leadership abilities are now critical to a company's success in the modern commercial climate. Experience is a prerequisite for professionals and creative leaders. Acknowledging this need, organizations are using the Emerging Leaders Program more and more as a strategic program to identify, nurture, and empower people who can have an effect on the future. An effective ELP is more than just a course of study. It is a comprehensive plan that combines several components. It facilitates the formation of a new leadership team with organizational needs. This article looks at six key components, each of which plays a different role in determining how successful an Emerging Leaders Program is.

Top Elements of a Successful Program for Emerging Leaders

As businesses negotiate a period of rapid innovation, shifting market dynamics, and global complexity, effective leadership is more crucial than ever. Strategic leadership initiatives and Emerging Leaders programs have become indispensable tools. It assists in identifying and nurturing the next wave of leaders who can overcome these challenges and propel business expansion. Let's examine the key elements of an effective Emerging Leaders Program, highlighting the vital elements that support the growth of leaders.

Thorough Instruction in Leadership Any effective Emerging Leaders Program must include a thorough curriculum for leadership development. A wide range of skills, such as compromise, communication, decision-making, and strategic thinking, should be included. By tailoring training to the unique needs of aspiring leaders, the gap between their continuing capacity for goal-setting and the demands of leadership positions can be closed.

Coaching and Mentoring An effective ELP must pair up aspiring leaders with mentors and professors with relevant experience. These educators can share their experiences, impart insightful knowledge, and offer advice on both professional and personal growth. A well-run mentorship program facilitates members' organization-building, exposes them to different perspectives, and provides constructive feedback.

Difficult Projects and Rotational Tasks By means of practical projects and alternating tasks, expose aspiring leaders to a range of difficulties and interactions. This method broadens their comprehension of many organizational facets and enables them to apply theoretical information in real-world scenarios. To foster adaptation, find out what initiatives call for cooperation with cross-functional teams.

Opportunities for Ongoing Education and Growth A culture of continual learning should be prioritized by a successful Emerging Leaders Program, emotional intelligence, and leadership. Permit access to pertinent resources, such as online courses, trade shows, and leadership training. Motivate up-and-coming leaders to pursue more training or certifications in order to enhance their skills. This commitment to ongoing learning guarantees that leaders maintain their adaptability in the face of changing circumstances and market trends.

Performance Evaluation And Reward Systems Establish measurable performance indicators that are in line with authoritative goals in order to evaluate the development of future leaders. Frequent feedback meetings provide an invaluable opportunity to assess areas of strength and progress and establish realistic goals for a professional outcome. Positive criticism fosters a culture of continuous development, enabling aspiring leaders to hone their abilities and make even greater contributions to the success of the organization.

Get The Greatest Expert-Led Emerging Leaders Program Right Here!

The Emerging Leaders Program is being used by organizations as a strategic initiative more and more. Because they understand this need, it helps to identify, nurture, and empower those who have the potential to have an impact on the future. It assists in identifying and nurturing the next wave of leaders who can overcome these challenges and propel business expansion. Click this link to visit Coach Nadine Zeinoun Inc. to learn more about this program!

[drakeinsuranceagency]

Drake Insurance Agency

Everything you own, including your house, car, business, and motorcycle, is secure, so you can relax insurance agency near me You should be able to speak with a real person when phoning your insurance company to make a claim. No automatic system, such as an answering machine, will ever answer your call.

The news has been devastating to the employees of the local insurance company.

We want you to know that right now, you have our complete focus. If you live in Connecticut and need coverage for your motorcycle or scooter, go no further than Drake Insurance. Building security should never be neglected. We'll look into it to make sure appropriate safety measures have been done. Drake Insurance Group will save money as a result of fewer and smaller claims. One way we may potentially attract new customers is by offering free tire rotations. Our drivers and cars are protected on multiple fronts.

Health insurance premiums are our primary source of financial stress. Safety nets come in many forms, and auto insurance is only one of them. Bundling your insurance policies with us could save you money if you own multiple properties or run a business. This arrangement will ensure that your most prized possessions are protected from danger for a whole year.

No matter which insurance provider a customer choose, they will receive the same excellent service from The Drake Insurance Agency. Doing something that you enjoy will make it seem less like work. If at any point you have questions about submitting a claim, you can get in touch with our professional staff. The loyalty of our customers is crucial to the success of our company. We focused entirely on resolving the issues identified by the government representatives.

To lessen the severity of accidents in the workplace, we offer a variety of services. We have been catering to the specific requirements of our commercial clientele for quite some time now, therefore we are experts in this field. Everything is taken care of by Drake Insurance. If you have any questions or concerns concerning the insurance coverage we provide insurance company near me please don't hesitate to get in contact with us. While you're sound asleep, we'll risk everything to keep your most prized possessions safe.

Home

If you don't know much about insurance, don't worry; we have experts in your region who can help you find a policy that fits your needs and your budget. We won't give up on this procedure until we achieve success.

Auto

We've collaborated with more than 15 of the top companies in the area to get you the lowest possible auto insurance premiums. Drivers who perform well will receive financial compensation.

Motorcycle

In the state of Connecticut, motorcyclists are required to carry liability insurance. Having insurance for both yourself and your motorcycle is a smart move.

This item is covered by insurance from Drake & Company.

Please leave feedback on our performance in the space provided. Thanks! We can connect you with an insurance professional in your area who can provide you tailored advice if you give us a call.

Do you feel as though we've forgotten about our most devoted clients?

My visit to Lynn's office, where I met Aimee Hedrick, was the high point of my trip. The time we spent talking was quite enjoyable to me. Making Aimee feel cherished and unique is a waste of time. He worked nonstop till the task was completed. When I had a lot of questions concerning insurance, he was always pleasant and informative. After much deliberation, I decided to follow his recommendation. Aimee's trustworthy practices and suggestions have made him a sought-after business advisor. This experience has made me have a lot more faith in him.

Canadian philosopher Sandra H. Hamilton will have put in a lot of time by April 2023 doing her dissertation.

Abby conducted some price shopping around and was forthright in her appraisal of The Drake Insurance's pricing. We grew really close after she helped us solve out the problem. Her input was crucial since it provided new perspectives. She was quite helpful as I attempted to make sense of the health insurance maze. I was able to save $500 annually by bundling my auto and home insurance policies. Even though I have more coverage now, my premiums have stayed the same. If you can't seem to find coverage at a price you can afford, you might want to look elsewhere. If you need to reach Abby, please call the number she gave and leave a message. When something like this happens to you, your sentiments of pride and enjoyment will skyrocket.

In April of 2023, when I was looking for a company that would provide me the best return on investment possible (both financially and in terms of the kind of care I could anticipate), I met Aimee for the first time. His faith in me allowed me to relax and appreciate life for what it was. He was a joy to collaborate with because he was both well-informed and responsive. Because of his tireless advocacy, I was able to secure better terms than were first offered. I have received excellent service from Drake Insurance. I stand behind them wholeheartedly.

[topdesignwebcharlotte]

Solid Advice About Web Design That Can Help Anyone

In terms of ways to earn money, millions are finding that websites are fun, easy, and reliable earners. However, a website needs to not only have ample traffic to be successful; it has to be attractive and functional. So for every SEO tactic you know, you would do well to learn a web design tactic right alongside it. Here are a few different tactics you can use for your site. Also more information please visit here web designer Charlotte.

Make sure your text and background have the proper contrast. Evidence shows that white text on a black background is easiest for most people to read, but other colors are fine so long as they're readable. Also, keep in mind that people with visual impairments may not be able to read your site if the contrast is poor.

It may look pretty, but avoid having too many animations on your site. Having your sales splash page rotate, spin and blink may look cool, but it will likely drive potential viewers away. When you add too many flashy splashes like that, your site looks amateurish, which is not the message you want to convey.

Keep your pages to a reasonable length. Add content through new pages on your site instead of tacking it on to the end of a home page. For the most part, readers are hesitant to keep going on a page that seems to scroll forever. If you must have a lot of content on one page, include hyperlinks at the top and in sections throughout the page. This allows users to navigate through the available content without excessive scrolling.

White space is an important part of web design, so don't be afraid to use it. Cluttering up your web pages with too many images or too much text, or using a distracting background, will only irritate your visitors. White space can make the important elements of your page more visible.

Always ensure you are giving meaningful feedback, as this creates communication between a website and its visitors. For example, if an action taken by a visitor results in an error, do not simply display "error occurred."� Instead, provide a message that explains what happened and how the visitor can correct the error by taking a different action. Without this feedback, visitors will grow frustrated and give up by leaving your website.

The tips above don't cover every single aspect of web design. You will have to research further if there is more you need to know about the subject. As you can see, the tips provided here will help you get and stay on the right path. Use these tips wisely to build a great site.

Design Web Charlotte

Address: 310 N Polk St Suite 200, Pineville, NC 28134, United States

Phone Number: (980) 216-1740

[havethetimeofyourstyles]

Chapter One.

a/n: welcome to the first chapter of wtsgd! i’m so excited for you all to read this story and for what’s to come. please please please support content creators bc we’re doing this for free and it takes up a lot of energy to put out stories. so reblog, leave feedback, and send a message to motivate and support them. happy reading everyone <3

SERIES MASTERLIST | word count: 6.4k

come talk to me about wtsgd! i’d love to know your thoughts!

March 4, 2017

The trunk was filled with heavy boxes that were labeled with thick black sharpie, which didn’t seem to leave Luciana’s senses; and one too many suitcases filled with her many articles of clothing that she couldn’t get rid of—no matter how hard she tried—since she was too much of a hoarder and every piece of clothing seemed to have a lost memory in them that she tried very hard to think of, which only meant that it was worth keeping. 

A droplet of sweat leaked down the side of her face due to  her nonstop packing and heavy-lifting from her childhood room upstairs to her dad’s car in the driveway. It didn’t help that the sun was beaming down at her with every move like she was on center stage, in front of the spotlight, but it made much more sense for the sun to do that because that’s where she belonged: on stage. 

Moving to Brooklyn, New York from Cambridge, Massachusetts during, what felt like, the coldest but the sunniest day of March wasn’t the smartest move—to be fair, Luciana was never one to make a smart move, anyways—but it was one that needed to be done. Plus, all the lifting seemed to have warmed her up. 

Her destination, or now, home, in New York was one that she’d been anticipating for a while now. She had auditioned for the role as Kim in Miss Saigon on Broadway in November, and she’d gotten a callback in January for the role as the second Kim, meaning she would be on rotation to perform every week or two weeks, so the main Kim could rest. But she would still have to go to rehearsals and be on the side of the stage watching the show just in case she needed to jump in at the last minute. 

It wasn’t her ideal way of playing the main lead, but nonetheless, she was grateful for the opportunity, and she would take any chance that was thrown at her to not only take another step towards her dream, but also another learning opportunity to make her a better actress. 

Little Luci would’ve been so proud of the present Luci because it’d been her dream ever since she was younger, to be on stage and eventually, be on the big screen. Although she was far from completing her dream of being a face in Hollywood, this was a step that would take her to where she wanted to be in the future, and for that, she was proud of herself. 

As a child, Luci had been in various commercials; from being the kid that played with slime and had no lines but to just put on a big smile while the sticky substance ran through her small hands, to being the daughter in a car commercial with one line that said “Are we there yet?” with a groan and a face of exhaustion as if she were the one driving the car. She hoped that these commercials would have someone recognize her talent, to cast her as a Disney star, but that would require moving to California, which her parents were wary of. 

The commercials stopped when she reached middle school. Her early adolescent years consisted of an abundance of attitude and mood swings; Luci was a very tough and determined kid. Her love for acting had grown into a big balloon that was let go and on its way into the galaxy where no one could reach it—where no one could mess with her achieving her dream. 

She would always stand in front of her white wooden framed mirror—with delicately painted colorful flowers around the border—reciting lines that she heard from a television series or the films that she watched, and she would write them down in her blue notebook. Sometimes, her parents would let her search the script up if it was available online. But oftentimes, she would test and challenge her memorization, and listen to it by ear; testing her mind, and eventually, her memorization skills were immaculate by the age of eleven. 

It was perfect timing because by the time she was in middle school, she was able to snatch the roles she wanted when her school’s drama department held school plays. Her family thought that she would start to hate being on stage since school plays always ran until late evening, but being part of the productions had only enhanced her love for her talent, and it only prepared her for a quarter of what her future may look like. 

All in all, from a very young age, she always knew that she wanted to become an actress. The spotlight or the center of the camera was where she always craved to be. 

And she was finally making that dream come true. 

A black Toyota Camry pulled into the space behind the car that was filled with her belongings. Ren and Beatrice, Luci’s lovely parents, both get out of the car with a pink box of donuts—a snack for the road and for when she gets to her new apartment. 

“Ready, Lucky?” Beatrice asked, rubbing her daughter’s back. She was quite bummed to see Luci leave her childhood home, but she’s proud to see Lucky Luci chase her dreams. She was, after all, twenty-five and was bound to move out at some point, but to see it actually happen made Beatrice quite emotional. 

“Ma, please, don’t cry…” Luci frowned as Beatrice pressed her fingertips to the corners of her eyes. She wrapped her arm around her mother’s shoulder, comforting her. “You’re all coming to New York in a month, right? To watch me on stage?” Luci asked, reassuring herself that she would see her family in a different state to rescue her from her loneliness. 

Luci was an independent woman. She could do tasks by herself, go places alone, and she wouldn’t have a problem with it; she enjoyed the company of herself. But to know that at some point she might be alone—that everyone had left her behind or forgotten about her—was what scared her. She needed to know that the people who loved her unconditionally wouldn’t forget about her. 

“Of course we’re going!” Ren exclaimed with a smile that Luci was going to miss seeing everyday. “We can’t miss our baby on the Broadway stage. If we could, we’d go to every damn show that you’re in, but that would be a lot of gas, no?” 

She chuckled, nodding her head. She felt tears pricking her eyes at how supportive her parents were—they’ve always been. If she could, she would take them with her to New York, but her one bedroom apartment and their work said otherwise. 

“Now, Lucky, don’t cry.” It was Beatrice’s turn to comfort her daughter. Like any parent, when they see their child cry, it breaks their heart and they cry too. “We’re gonna see you real soon. You can always come back anytime you want. We’re just a phone call away and we’ll pick you up,” Beatrice said between sniffles. The mother and daughter were embracing so tenderly and comfortingly—enjoying every last moment together until they got to see each other again. 

“Jeez, you’re both the same—always crying!” Ren interrupted, making the two women laugh; and he was glad they found what he said amusing because he couldn’t handle the sad moment. “C’mon here, my Lulu.” Luci settled into her father’s arms, hugging him tightly. She’s always been her dad’s girl, despite having a close relationship with her mother, her relationship with her father was something that felt like home; he always knew what to say and when to say it. It helped that she was the female version of him. “You’re gonna be the best star out there, I’m sure of it. Now, I want you to have fun, alright? The fame, the fortune, the big city…it doesn’t amount to anything if you’re not having the time of your life” He comfortingly rubbed Luci’s back, holding her in a warm and tight squeeze. 

Luci smiled at her father’s words. She was always a bit hard on herself when she would mess up or forget a line or a movement that correlates to a specific line in her script. When she was younger, she would beat herself up for a sliver of a moment; she would cry into her pillow—sobs loud enough that they were heard from downstairs. Luci would think that she wouldn’t become a well-known actress just because of the minor forgetfulness her mind had presented. But Ren would gently tap on her ocean blue door, letting himself in because he knew his daughter didn’t have the energy to get up and let him in, and he would sit beside her, gently urging her to sit up with him. Once she complied, after many groans of refusals, she would be glad she did because her father looked deeply into her eyes—and it was like looking into the reflection of clear and clean water—and told her she was a star. It was only three words, but those three words reminded her to never give up and get up when she would hit the pavement of what she felt like were her fallen hopes and dreams. 

Ren would then end it with a statement of advice that had always lingered in her mind, resonating to the silent and harshful words that she tells herself. ‘Nothing will amount to anything if you’re not having the time of your life.’

A rush of gratitude settled upon her as her eyes became glossier by the seconds she was in Ren’s arms. Beatrice looked at her greatest treasures fondly, a smile appeared on her face only for it to be replaced by a look of confusion. 

“Where is that damn brother of yours? He said he was going to be here at ten!” Beatrice interrupted the sweet moment she was having with her father, making them disconnect from the hug—just as Ren did with Luci and Beatrice.  

Speaking of the devil, her dear brother was making his way towards home on the side of the street, wearing a grey sweatshirt that was stained with his sweat as his earphones were nestled in his ears, loudly playing music. He loudly sang along to some rap song, breath staggered as he rapped along with his hands. 

Nathan smiled once he stepped foot onto the driveway as he took out his earphones, seeing his family look at him vigilantly. Luci laughed, shaking her head. 

“Hey, there’s our superstar, little Ana!” Nathan opened his arms, ready to hug you but she quickly stopped him, curving her spine backwards to deny his hug. Ana had been one of the many nicknames her family had called her when she was growing up from the second half of her name, but Ana seemed to have stuck with Nathan as no one else really called her that, so it was his own personal nickname for her. 

“Ew, please, do not hug me.” Her face wrinkled in disgust from the spell of her brother’s sweat from his run. Nathan chuckled, playfully rolling his eyes before turning towards his parents. 

“Ooh, donuts-”

Beatrice slapped the back of his hand before he even got a chance to open the pink donut box. “Not until you shower and change. Lulu needs to be in Brooklyn by three!” 

“Ow, mother!” Nathan whipped his hand away from Beatrice’s burning slap, although he was just playing around and being dramatic. “But fine, alright. The star always gets what she wants, am I right?” He dropped his head towards Luci, sighing before he hurried inside the house to take a quick shower and change. 

Luci giggled, telling her parents that she would be right back to go up to her room to check if she’d gotten everything, even though she knew that she had everything, she just needed to reminisce alone for a moment. 

Her feet took her up the wooden stairs, where she, for some unknown reason, always spent her time sitting on as she leaned her back against the wall and read or drew. Nathan always found it weird of her when they were doing homework when they were younger, but it was just one of the many fun anecdotes he could tell reporters if he’s asked about their childhood. 

Pushing open her ocean blue door that she never changed because she loved the color, she was met with the emptiness of what was once her sanctuary. Despite the paint on the wall changing, the replacement of furniture, and rearrangement of her childhood room, Luci could still see the baby pink walls where she hung up various posters of her celebrity crushes when she was eight. She could still see herself walking over to her Cinderella white wooden dresser as she pulled out an inflatable microphone from her drawer before she walked over to her bed to sing her heart out with her cousin. In the corner of her room was her mirror that she painted colorful flowers along the border when she was younger, and she definitely did not want to change or get rid of it; it wasn’t difficult to stir up a memory when she was in front of that mirror because up until now, she was always reciting her lines to her own reflection until the late night. 

All of these memories that Luci held within her heart would help her ground herself—remind her where she came from. No matter where her career took her, she would always be the girl that was firstly known in her room, crying, laughing, and acting within the four baby pink walls until she was sixteen, and then it changed to an ecru white. The feeling of nostalgia clutched her chest, and for the second time today—not even noon, yet—she found herself crying. 

She silently sobbed in her sanctuary. Her chest felt tight, like her heart was grasping onto the memories, begging her to not leave, to not move on. But moving on would mean being stuck, and she didn’t want to feel stuck—she just never wanted to be in one place where the walls would slowly feel like they were closing in on her. She didn’t want to be in one place and eventually hated it, so for that, she had to move on. 

A soft knock was heard from the outside of her bedroom, making Luci turn around hastily. She found Beatrice standing in the doorway, warmly smiling at her daughter, and keeping the tears at bay because she needed the comfort of her mother more than her mother’s tears. 

“My Lucky Star…” Beatrice walked into the room, welcoming Luci into her arms. “You okay?” 

Luci deeply inhaled and exhaled as she calmed herself down from her cries. “I’m alright. It’s just hard saying goodbye to this place—to my room.”’

“Oh, Lulu. You don’t need to say goodbye. I know you’ll be coming back here soon, anyways. I know you love home too much to completely stay away.” Beatrice was subtly trying to remind Luci about her love for her hometown, for her home, but her words also were trying to remind her about that certain love for her home and to never forget that love so she doesn’t stray away because Beatrice was simply afraid Luci would never want to come back once she discovered the luxury of her career. And even though she knew her Lulu wasn’t one to forget about her family, Beatrice would never admit her fear. 

Luci sniffled, wiping her tears away as she pulled away from her mother’s embrace. “Yeah, I know. Just…doesn’t feel real that I’m leaving.” 

“Sure, you’re leaving, but you’re going off to do bigger and better things. You were never one to stay in one place, physically and mentally—you were always moving, always loved learning more. And I’ve always been so intrigued and interested in how your mind works.” 

“Ma…” The waterworks seemed to be the highlight of the move. 

“I’m serious! I’m so genuinely proud of you. You’ve been keeping your talent—and I don’t mean ‘high school plays’ talent. I mean your Broadway, Hollywood, Academy winning talent. Now, you get to showcase your light in front of thousands of people.” Beatrice always had a way of boosting Luci’s self-esteem, making her ego a tad bit more bigger than it already was. She didn’t mind if her self-esteem had skyrocketed into the galaxy of her dreams, but she always reminded Luci that being humble and kind always outweighed being obnoxious and arrogant. “Now, enough with these tears. You’ve got a road trip to New York. C’mon, now.” 

They made their way downstairs and out the door where Ren and Nathan were talking about the latest basketball game of the Celtics. The trunk was closed, and the only thing waiting was Luci herself. 

“There she is! Ready?” 

Luci took a deep breath, turning her head to look back at the pastel yellow house that had kept her safe for the past twenty-five years. From here, she knew everything was going to change. Whether it’d be for the good or if things would go downhill from here? She didn’t know; all she knew was that she was going to be doing what she loved and she was going to have the time of her life doing it. 

“Yeah, I’m ready.” 

The state of Connecticut seemed to pass by quickly from the car as Nathan drove at a decent seventy miles per hour; the state vanished just as quickly as when they entered. 

Luci mindlessly looked out the window, thinking about everything and nothing at once as she drowned out the music playing through the speakers of the car and Nathan’s voice singing along. 

The cars passing by, the bystanders, and the locals filled the streets and highways, making her wonder what all of these people’s stories were—wondering if they lived in this city or if they were just stopping by to visit, or if they’re just going through the state to get to the one next door just as she was. Maybe she’s had an encounter or simply passed by them on the street in a world that seemed too large but small at the same time. She always pondered on whether everyone else thought the way she thought—if they wondered what her story was or the people around them. 

The world is an interesting place and there were so many intriguing people out there, making her more excited by the minute as she takes on this new adventure in her life that would be completely life changing. Luci’s going to be meeting so many new people that, she would hope, have an impact on her personal life or career. 

“Nervous?” Nathan broke the comfortable silence between them. 

Luci raised her brows and curled her lips into her mouth. “A bit.” 

He nodded, thinking for a moment. Nathan was always one to think before he spoke, and it was a quality that some people needed to learn how to do. He quickly learned that lesson when he was in high school; one of his friends, Johnny, and him were going back and forth joking around with one another. And for some odd reason, teenage boys liked to joke around about fucking everything, so Nathan had said “Yeah, I fucked your mom, what about it?” without thinking. Johnny stayed silent, the rest of their friends were waiting for his comeback, but they only received tears that glossed over his eyes before he ran off to a different part of campus, away from the lunch tables. Nathan found him behind the orchestra building with his face pressed on his kneecaps, crying. Later, he found out that Johnny’s mother had passed away before their sophomore year started and he hadn’t told anyone, which left Nathan quite speechless, but it was a lesson that he learned: to think before anything comes out of his mouth. 

“I know you’ll do great. You were born to do this, born to be on stage. Everything you do is to greater your experience and opportunities. All the mistakes you’re gonna make, which we both know you’re gonna make, they’re gonna be learning lessons for you to continue doing what you’re good at doing; the mistakes are there so you can better yourself,” he reassured, occasionally glancing at you briefly before averting his eyes back onto the highway. 

Luci smiled, never taking her eyes off her older brother. She leaned closer to the middle console, where his right arm was resting on the padded console. Hugging his arm tightly and resting her cheek on his shoulder, she accepted and appreciated his advice, his words. They made her heart fill up with so much gratitude and love, insanely grateful and happy that she had such an amazing and supportive family who always knew the right things to say when they could sense her nerves and anxieties powering through the roof. 

“You’re gonna kill it out there. This is just a step towards where you wanna go, where you actually wanna be.” 

She nodded, looking to her right as they quickly passed the ‘Welcome to New York’ sign from the state line of Connecticut and New York, and it was the sign indicating her new home. 

Nathan pulled into the apartment’s parking garage, entering in with the code that the complex gave Luci on the silver keypad as the two watched the automatic gate arm swing up to the side, and Nathan entered the parking structure, parking in one of the many spaces available. 

Luci excitedly got out of the car, rushing to the trunk where Nathan had opened it from inside the car. Unfortunately, she had forgotten to bring the hand dolly to help carry the boxes, which meant that the siblings were going to have to carry the many boxes she packed by her own hand and strength. But luckily, some of them weren’t that heavy; most of the items in the brown boxes were kitchenware and she figured she could just drag those. 

One by one, they took one box each and headed for the elevator, where it took them to her apartment floor—floor four. Luci grabbed the keys from her purse that contained two copper keys hanging on one single silver loop and a small keyless sensor, and she unlocked her navy blue door, revealing her new apartment. 

When she entered, she was met with a door across the entrance that she would use for her coats and shoes, things that she would need when she’s rushing out the door. Going through the small hallway in from the entrance, it led her to another small hallway to her left where her bedroom and guest bathroom was; and to her right, it would take her to the kitchen and living space. With four big windows with black window frames, the natural light really came in, making her place brighter for saving electricity. 

Walking in and putting the boxes against the black cabinets in the kitchen, she immediately fell in love with the space, her space. Despite already taking a tour of the apartment a few months prior to her official move in day, it felt different being there for the second time because she now knew that this place was hers. She saw it in a different light, and she was already anticipating the memories she was going to make in her new home. The place was empty; and with every step and every noise from her mouth, the room would echo, and she loved it. There was something satisfying about the echo in an empty space that was hers, like she wanted to furnish the hell out of it, but at the same time, she didn’t mind the echo. 

“This is your new home.” Nathan put an arm around Luci’s shoulder. He got a bit emotional seeing his baby sister grow up and move away from home, but he was excited for all of the experiences and memories she was going to make. Luci looked up at him, not saying anything but smiling as she was speechless. Nathan could practically feel the excitement run through her and all he did was chuckle at her speechlessness. “C’mon, let’s go get the rest of the boxes.” 

For the next fifteen minutes, Luci and Nathan hauled the boxes from the car, to the elevator, and down the hallway to her apartment. There were about four more boxes left in the trunk, and they would’ve been finished by now if they hadn’t been taking breaks. 

Nathan’s phone rang as he was sitting on the floor, leaning against the cabinets of the kitchen across from Luci who was sitting in the corner where her dining table would be. 

“Hello?” Answered Nathan. “What? Tonight? I’m in New York. I’m helping my little sister move here. Uh, okay. Sure. Bye.” He groaned, standing up. 

“Who was that?” Luci asked, nosy as she was. 

“That was one of the board members at Mass General Hospital.” Luci’s eyes widened. “They just asked me if I could come in tonight to teach and supervise the new residents.” Nathan was a general doctor working in the Emergency Room as Mass General back in Boston. He’s always wanted to teach with all the knowledge he’s stored in his brain—always wanting someone to learn a thing or two when they spoke to him, and this was his chance. 

“Holy shit, that’s amazing, Nate!” Luci stood up, excited for him.

He started to breathe a bit heavily and Luci immediately took notice; she could practically feel the nerves coming out of him, the same nerves she felt while going in for an audition. “Yeah, I actually have to leave, like, right now.” 

“Hey, hey.” She quickly stopped him from running out of the building and out of his mind. “Come here—breathe with me for a second.” She held onto his wrists gently. 

“Luci, I have to-”

He pulled away, but she tugged him back. “You’re going to drive yourself through the highway, and who knows what will happen, you might get pulled over and you won’t make it to the hospital. So, just take sixty seconds to breathe with me.” 

For the remainder of the time that they had together, they took some deep breaths. She spoke encouraging and uplifting words to him to calm down his nerves and anxieties that he seemed to drive himself over a cliff for, and it seemed to work as Nathan’s shoulder’s weren’t so tense and the grip on her hands had loosened. 

The two of them walked down to the parking garage where Nathan took down the last four boxes and placed them by the entrance of the complex. He was adamant on helping her get the last few boxes up to her apartment, but she shrugged it off, telling him that she was able to carry them and that he needed to leave because he’s most likely going to hit traffic during rush hour. 

“Call me if you need anything, okay? I mean it. I will drive here in a heartbeat.” 

“I will, I will-”

“Just not tonight,” he joked. “This is the highlight of my career.” His smile was so bright that it was like he was a little kid on Christmas again who just received a Hot Speed set from Santa. 

Luci laughed, hugging him goodbye. “And call me if you need anything too. I’ll miss seeing you everyday,” she admitted, a slight frown on her face. She thought she’d have the entire day with Nathan, but it was cut short due to his work but she wasn’t mad about that at all because she knew there'd be plenty of times when he would drive down to walk along the New York streets and see her perform. 

“I’m gonna miss you too, Ana. But I love you and I’ll see you next month!” He hurried into his car, and Luci watched him as he pulled out of the driveway, waving at the rear view mirror to say one last ‘see you later’ to his little sister. 

Walking back to the curb where all of the boxes were set, Luci picked one up to test how heavy it was and she barely made it upright without almost hurting her back, so she put the box down to take a proper breather. She decided to drag the box closer to the door of the complex—which saved her a few steps without completely dropping the box that was labeled ‘glass plates’—and pulled the handle of the door, only to find it completely locked. There was a slight panic that flew through her until she realized that she needed her keyless tag that she had to press against the pad on the wall to get inside the complex, so she blew out a sigh of relief before reaching down to her pocket for her key, and with just her luck, her keys weren’t in her pocket or with her at all. Then she started to panic again. 

Luci quickly walked out of the parking garage and to the front of the building where the leasing office was to find them closed, which was odd because it was Saturday, but apparently their servers were down so they just decided to take the entire day off. She rolled her eyes annoyingly, walking back to the garage in a fast manner because she didn’t want anyone to take her boxes, and so she figured that she could just wait until someone left the complex or arrived. She even left her phone at her place, so it wasn’t like she could call anyone to help her, but some sort of entertainment would help the time go by quicker. 

Sitting on the curb in the garage, pacing back and forth on the sidewalk, and humming the melody from the Miss Saigon soundtrack, an hour goes by until she sees someone walk past the automatic gate barrier, heading towards the entrance where he opened the door with his tag. Luci sprinted towards the door, calling out for help. 

“Wait, wait!” The man turned around confusingly, taking his AirPod out of one ear. She caught up, taking deep breaths as she waved at the man. “Sorry, I’ve been out here for an hour and I completely forgot my key.” He didn’t say anything but stared at her, wondering why he’s never seen this woman before. The apartment complex really only had four floors, and he’s sure that he’s seen everyone who’s lived here. She noticed that he looked down at the boxes and back at her. “Oh, I just moved in.” He nodded more understandingly. “Do you mind holding the door for me?” 

“Sure.” Was the first thing he told her before stepping aside to hold the door. She took another deep breath, getting into the correct form so she doesn’t throw her back out, and began to lift the heavy box. He noticed her struggling, and he felt foolish for not offering his help in the first place when he noticed the four boxes on the cement. “Here, sorry, let me help with that. Get the door, yeah?” Luci’s heart flipped once she heard his deep, accented voice before she gratefully thanked him and he grabbed the box from her, replacing her hands with his and the slightest brush of their fingers made her flustered; he held the box tightly to his chest without much struggle. 

“Yeah, let me just get this one.” Luci grabbed a much lighter box that had all of her shoes, and held the door for him with her foot as he made his way inside of the building and to the elevator. He pressed the button with the arrow pointing up, and luckily, they didn’t have to wait for more than five seconds before the bell at the top chimed and the stainless steel doors opened. 

With the heavy box in his hands, he still let Luci walk in first, which made her smile and he followed in as she pressed with the bold ‘4’ printed on it. He held the box in between his chest and the other end of the bar on the wall as they waited in silence as the elevator lifted them up to her apartment floor, and she brushed past him when he lifted his arm, gesturing her to go first. 

Her front door was closed but it was unlocked, which only made sense, so she opened her door, putting the box next to the entrance and politely asking the man to put it next to the one you put down. 

“Thank you so much, really. You have no idea how much I appreciate your help.” 

“It’s no problem. I was the same when I moved here too—forgot my keys and was locked out.” He related to make her feel lighter about the situation since it was an honest mishap. 

“Did you go to the leasing office?” She asked curiously. 

“Yeah, but they were closed.” 

“They’re closed today too! It’s like they do that on purpose whenever someone new moves in.” The man chuckled, scratching the back of his neck. 

She hadn’t gotten a proper look at him since she was too distracted by trying to get into her building, but just by one real look at him, he was very attractive—probably too attractive to where she couldn’t think straight. He was wearing a pastel yellow and white striped button down that was a bit flowy and open, showing his white tank underneath that was tucked into his black skinny jeans. His tank top was low enough, exposing a patch of chest hair and his necklace that rested against his skin, in between his swallow tattoos just below his collarbones. Rings hugged his long fingers on both hands as he held two brown paper bags from Trader Joes. He was handsome, that’s for sure, and she felt like she was going to compare his beauty to all the other men that she was going to encounter in the future. 

“They’re not very good at going into work, but if you give them a call then it’s like they’re a 24/7 help center.” 

Luci nodded, chuckling. “Good to know. I’ll keep that in mind.” 

“I’ll help you with the last boxes.” Before she was about to protest and tell him that he didn’t have to help her anymore because she was sure the last ones were light, he made his way towards the elevator and she quickly followed. 

To her surprise, one of the boxes was heavier than the other and she was glad that the man was able to carry it for her. They took the boxes up to her apartment, stacking it on top of the ones that were set down before she thanked him gratefully again. 

“I really appreciate all your help.” She smiled, leaning against the doorframe. 

“Not that I’m doubting your strength or anything, but how were you supposed to get those boxes up to your apartment?” He asked softly, not wanting to offend her by his words. 

“Oh, my brother was supposed to help me, but he had to go back home for an emergency at work.” The man nodded, seeming that was the most acceptable answer, not like he was searching if she was lying. “But thank you for your help. You’re a true lifesaver,” she said with a soft smile on her face. Her tone was a bit flirty than she wanted it to be, but it naturally came out. 

“It’s not a problem. I’ll see you around.” Luci hadn’t closed her door yet, but she found out that he was literally her neighbor on the opposite side of the wall. He didn’t even have to take two steps to get to his place—all he had to do was turn around and he was home. She smiled at the thought of that, glad that her neighbor was already so kind to her. 

As he was fumbling with his keys, he eventually got his door unlocked, and Luci was itching to ask what his name was—maybe make her first friend during her first day living in the big city. The man felt his neighbor's eyes on him, burning through the back of his head, so he turned around at the same time she spoke. 

“Uh, hey,” Luci called out. He was looking over his shoulder, pursing his lips as he raised his brows. “I was wondering if…you’d like to have dinner with me tonight? Y’know, to thank you for all your help and practically saving me while I was stranded.” She chuckled, playing with the tips of her fingers as she looked at him with hope. 

He thought the invitation was nice, but…“It’s okay, really. I, uh, have plans already tonight,” he admitted honestly because he doesn’t make a habit of being dishonest. 

Luci had some thick skin—she grew it throughout the years, and she had always been pretty confident. So many people would think that she could handle rejection well because she’s auditioned for many roles in her lifetime, and had been rejected for most of those roles. But the rejection that her neighbor handed to her so respectfully and politely was one that hit her the most, and she didn't know why. 

Curling her lips into her mouth as she felt the pang of her heart sinking into her chest, she nodded and placed a small smile onto her face. 

“Have fun tonight, then. I’ll see you around.” She grinned, hiding the slight bit of pain that she felt. He nodded, walking inside his apartment as she was in her doorway as well. “Oh, I’m Luci, by the way.” She introduced herself, feeling like she should have done that ten minutes ago, but it had slipped her mind. 

The corner of the man’s mouth turned up into a sly smirk, and she nearly felt herself fall as she gripped the door handle tightly. It was enough to make the pain in her chest disappear, and all thoughts of the rejection that she would think about for the rest of the night vanished. 

“Nice to meet you, Luci. I’m Harry.” 

With that, Harry closed his door, putting a barrier between him and Luci, who was still standing in her doorway. She let out the longest sigh of her life, feeling like she’d been constricting herself from breathing properly for the last ten minutes. 

Luci closed her door and leaned against it, looking down at the boxes that were resting by her feet. She softly smiled, her cheeks were starting to get warm, and she was fully aware that Harry was the cause of it.

come talk to me about your thoughts and feelings! hope you all enjoyed the first chapter, thank you for reading <3 

ty to @sunflowers-styles​ for beta reading!

[enmy-writes]

Just Let Me Help You

Summary: Zuko, trying to keep is girlfriend safe, unintentionally gains the trust of the Gaang after a showdown with Combustion Man.

Word Count: 2728

Fandom: ATLA (Avatar: The Last Airbender)

Pairing: Zuko x Fem!Reader

Genre: Mostly fluff, is fluff-angst a thing? Idk guys I’m soft, you tell me.

Rated: 18+

Content Warnings: Profanity, some gore graphics (brief mentions of blood, killing, murder), uhhhh that’s it I think I’m sorry if I forget anything else.

****Huge shout-out to my friends Kenz and Jenna for editing this and hyping me up. Hopefully, since this semester from Hell will be over soon, I’ll be able to write more. Please request things! Thank-you all for supporting this and let me know more of what you want to see in the future :) Also, feedback is always welcome. Enjoy!****

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They had landed the war balloon days ago, stalking the tired and defeated Team Avatar and trying to figure out how the complicated Fire Prince would convince the people he chased for months that he wants to help them now.

(Y/N) was stoking the hot flame provided by the fire bender, making sure the coals were burning a cherry red before she added leaves and herbs into a pot to make a stew for the two to enjoy. Her eyes followed Zuko as he paced back and forth, practicing what he was going to say when he finally decided to confront the rebel group, lips turned upward in an amused smirk.

“Hey, Zuko here…” she heard him say before he started rambling a bunch of nonsense about his past; from his discovery, to Azula, to his father-- all the tragic topics. It took him about three minutes, but he finished with a hopeful look in his direction.

“Well?!” He clenched his fists at his side in a nervous gesture, only wanting to get this right.

The girl on the log cleared her throat before speaking, obviously hiding her laughter from the sensitive boy. “Well… it’s perfect. I especially liked the ‘Hey, Zuko here’ part. I’m sure that Aang and his friends with be very pleased to finally learn your name instead of thinking you’re called ‘Angry Ponytail Hotman’.’’

He groaned loudly, rubbing his eyes with clenched fists. The melodic laughter from his companion tempted him to give up his quest and just run away with her and live a happy life free of his father and his destiny… whatever that may be.

Still laughing, (Y/N) stood from her log by the fire and made her way to Zuko, coming up behind him. Her arms slid right around his slim body, holding on tight as she tried to pull his mind from the depths of his insecurities.

“Zuko, love.” Her voice is soft, but intense. “Just go down there. I won’t lie, they might not take you right away. You have done a lot of damage to them and their goals.”

His warm hands slide down the tops of her forearms and slide between her chilled fingers, entwining them together as Zuko grips her like she’s holding him down on the land they’re on.

“I… I just…” He struggles to get his feelings out, finding it hard to convey how he feels even to the girl wrapped around him.

She shushes him. “I know.” Is all she says, as they stand there in a momentary comfortable silence before she detaches from him to continue dinner.

____________________________

Zuko had told her to stay behind, that he’d be back to either get her or because he failed to convince the group that he came to support them, instead of harm them.

“Zuko! I could easily be an alibi for you. A reason for them to trust you!”

“No. End of story. They could attack me and you’re in Fire Nation clothes. You’re staying here.”

A staring match between the two only lasted a few seconds, but (Y/N) let it go; remembering Iroh’s advice that sometimes the boy has to do what eases his mind to grow.

The empty pot gleamed an orange glow from the flames, a light in the dark woods that surrounded the two as they lounged by the fire.

(Y/N) was carding her fingers through the upset prince’s hair while he stared at the sky; confused. His emotions spilling onto (Y/N). He didn’t talk much about the encounter, only enough to tell her that they wouldn’t be helping the Avatar defeat his father anytime soon. Rather than pressure him, she offered her solace with calming actions rather than words.

The two had met in their early childhood, (Y/N)’s father being the leader of the Yuyan Archers and of course the Fire Lord wanted the talented girl to meet his… troubled son. In hope that she could help bend his son into the ruthless leader the nations needed to proceed him. Though they didn’t see each other as much as they should have due to (Y/N)’s schooling, the two quickly became close friends and were often found with Lady Ursa quietly running around the palace grounds.

His banishment led to (Y/N) perfecting her skills, and becoming the master she was destined to be, given there was no more distraction. No one could understand her in the way that Zuko did— they fit together like they were made for one another. Where he was hotheaded, she was cool; Where he was nimble and direct, she was resourceful and hidden. The two were the perfect set of opposites who ultimately balanced each other. And one without the other was a heartbreak everyone could see.

When she heard the news of his return, she rushed to the palace; radiant as ever. In an instant, the two fell back into where they left off;  barely any words needed between the two. Her fingers and lips had trailed over his scar often in those few days, brushing away the tears and insecurities that came with it.

Leaving the Fire Nation with Zuko wasn’t even a debate in her mind. She was tired of the life of lies and torment that her nation inflicted upon the world. She had spent the last two years relocating and rebranding people who were targets to the Fire Nation. In total, about one hundred innocent lives were saved from her dangerous missions. Her skill level was better than even her father’s, and she prided herself in her abilities. (Y/N) was truly a professional in her art with the eye of an eagle.

When she caught Zuko writing a letter to her with packed bags on his bed, she instantly went into the shadows and caught up with the boy easily, hiding in the balloon behind the engine for a while until it was too late for him to turn back. It was hot and the most uncomfortable thing she has ever done, but she regrets none of it. She joked with the boy; how did he not question a pile of fabric behind the piece of equipment that holds fire? She let it go after he hugged her close and cried for a while.

“Don’t do that shit again, Zuko.” Her voice was stern, though her voice stern, she held him close. She ghosted her fingers over his tense shoulders; the shoulder that carried such burdens. She pressed her fingers into his shoulders; trying her best to rub the tension from his body. 

“I won’t. Never again. Don’t leave me, I need you.”

A rustle of leaves and broken trees in the forest near the edge of their little camp put the two into defense, instantly gripping her perfectly crafted bow and quiver. Her ears pricked at a slight movement and she aimed her bows in the direction of the noise without even looking. Suddenly, green clothes fill the area as a younger girl makes her way into the clearing. Startled, Zuko sends a wave of fire towards the intruder, burning the girl.

Everything happened fast.

(Y/N)’s left foot—her plant foot—sunk into the ground and twisted inward, releasing a loud crack into the air. The Earth girl was long gone now; Zuko had been screaming at himself when he heard the cry of pain and the sickening noise that left the lips of his girlfriend.

The earth has released its hold on her, but the damage was done. She kneeled, trying to hold back tears but failing as they kept streaming down her face in a pain response. Zuko’s own eyes filled with tears as he ran over to her, helping her sit down and take the tension off of it.

The joint was already beginning to swell, black and blue and purple and yellow starting to show up in swirls around the area. Zuko carefully tried to feel the injury, barely touching the girl in fear of hurting her more. (Y/N) sighed, pushing his fingers away and ignoring his protest. She rotated her foot outward, cringing at the pain, but crying out when she turned it the other way. Zuko cupped his hands around her ankle, hands heated slightly to hopefully alleviate the pain.

“Baby… it’s okay—”

“No, you’re hurt! I knew this would happen!” He cuts her off with a panicked yell. (Y/N) places her hands on the sides of his face, forcing his eyes upon hers with a slight wince of discomfort.

“It’s most definitely, at worst, a fracture. I can still move it outwards without a lot of pain. It’s, like, a week off my foot at most and then another week with a splint and a crutch. I am okay, Zuko.” They stared at each other for a solid minute, saying nothing.

"Promise?" Zuko whispered.

"You think I would lie to you, Zuko?" She says as she wraps her pinky his for good measure

They turn in not too long after, (Y/N)’s ankle wrapped up in some extra clothes for stability. Zuko’s arms hold her to his chest as they slip off into the world of dreams.

_________________________

Oh shit. She thought from her perch on top of the cliff edge. The assassin that they have also been trying to find has been blowing up the place, really testing the stability of the edge of the cliff in shakes after shakes like an earthquake. Zuko had told her to stay at camp, but unfortunately for Zuko; (Y/N) was never that good at listening to commands.

She was sitting down, watching the Avatar, his friends, and her boyfriend try to figure out how to win this fight against the combustion bender, feet dangling over the edge. She didn’t want any pressure on her foot from standing on it; settling for the dull throbs of pain coming from the force of gravity alone.

Some third eye. (Y/N) thought to herself as she watched her boyfriend get too close to being blown off the edge of the cliff, wincing. She quickly strung her bow, aiming it at the man. She smirked, a devious smirk, and aimed it in a precise location.

Zuko was still trying to talk the man out of it when suddenly, his eyes went blank and the grossest sound he has ever heard reached his ears. Everyone watched the man, confused as to why he just stopped. It’s not until red trails down his forehead and around his nose in a slow trickle that they look at his eye.

In the middle of the red eye, that at one point seemed indestructible; an arrow sat; a perfect shot — his perfect shot. "Bullseye!" (Y/N) howled, her voice resonating in his ears.

In the midst of Zuko's panic, he failed to recognize the cliff he was standing on becoming increasingly unsturdy; turning he locked eyes with the archer. A ghost of a smile graced her lips, pride radiating off of her. Though he was angry, he couldn't help but share her pride. He locked eyes with his girlfriend who was sitting nonchalantly on the cliff edge above them all, waving nonetheless, when he told her to stay back. It’s then that the earth beneath him rumbles and falls, taking him with it.

“Zuko!” She screams, jumping to her feet; a loud crack coming from her ankle, buckling under the pressure and bringing her to her knees.

With a hobble in her step, (Y/N) climbed down the cliffside. The tears ran down her face at a ferocious pace, making her way over to the cliffside, a loud sob relented from her mouth as she saw Aang helping Zuko up over the edge of the cliff. 

"Spirits, Zuko!" She breathed, limping her way over to him and hugging him tight. "I should kill you, you fucking idiot!" She sobbed, pulling him into her chest. 

Zuko huffed out a laugh, wrapping his arms around her. He took deep breaths, calming his nerves from his near death experience; he focused on the feeling of her hand carding through his hair to grip it tight, and the hold on his shoulders. As he calms down, he remembers that he told her to stay put; and he sharply pulls away.

"I told you to stay at camp!" He huffed, "I told you I was coming back for you!”

She scoffs pushing on his forehead with two fingers. “In case you have forgotten, Zuko, I have authority issues. If I weren’t here, who would be saving your stupid royal ass? No one! You’re welcome, by the way. He wasn’t going to negotiate, Prince Pouty, and you and everyone else here is no good to the world dead.”

“You—You---You could’ve been hurt! (Y/N)! Or worse!” His protest was a whisper, trying to make the scene more private as he’s aware of the crowd around them.

“Zuko, love, I can handle myself. I’m a master at my craft--.”

"—your craft of carelessness, you could've been killed—"

"—but I wasn't Zuko!"

"That's not the point." His voice stern, making it clear that the conversation was done for now. (Y/N) simply nodded, pulling away from him and fixing her clothes.

Aang, Toph, Katara and Sokka watched the two as they argued; watching as they continuously tried to out-care the other. They watched as the two eventually stopped arguing, instead remained staring, as if daring each other to speak

“That was a ... nice shot? I guess?" Aang spoke, clearing his throat and drawing the couples attention to him. "He's definitely you know, dead."

(Y/N) smiles at the boy. “Thank you, Avatar, for helping save this dumb ass from falling off a cliff.” She gets up and bows to him. Zuko suddenly picks her up, the world turning sideways as he put her bridal style in his arms.

“Stop putting weight on your ankle!”

“I’m literally showing respect to the person who just helped you, is that a crime?”

“What if you break your ankle so much that you have to cut it off.”

“Oh, now you’re just being ridiculous.”

“Okay well you were first when deciding to sit on the edge of a cliff with a broken ankle.”

“You’re right! Sitting is dangerous. Next time, I’ll make sure to stand so at least I’ll have a better chance of reacting if the cliff side starts falling from under me. Oh wait, you were standing, and you still fell.”

Zuko sets her down on a broken rock that’s suitable enough for her to sit on. “Will you just shut up already and let me help you.” He reaches for her ankle, but she moves it from his grasp. Their eyes meet again and narrow in competition.

A mess of limbs as the (Y/N) evades the grip of Zuko, occasionally slapping his hands away if they get too close.

Sokka tilts his head in confusion and opens his mouth. “Is he—is he actually caring for someone?”

Aang nods. “I think? I don’t know, they’re kind of fighting a lot.”

Toph cringes, “Guys, I think it was me who hurt her in the first place. Last night at their camp. Zuko instantly stopped trying to help me when I heard her scream.”

“Guys… I think I’m supposed to let him be my master. I mean, he did just risk everything to save us.” Aang says, eyes locked on the one member who he cares more about than anyone.

Katara, still holding off on agreeing, looks to the two Fire Nation kids again.

“Ow! You bit me! Are you crazy?!” Zuko yells, shaking his left hand out.

The stranger girl laughs cheerfully. “Only crazy for you, stupid.”

And a phenomenon occurs. Prince Zuko of the Fire Nation blushes and looks down at the ground, a huge smile on his face.

“I hate you.” Is all he says.

“Yeah, I love you too.”

Katara, seeing the humane side of the prince, finally lets her guard down and walks over to them. Zuko’s eyes widen at her proximity, but the water tribe girl holds his gaze.

“I’ll heal the girl if it gets you two to shut up. And you have to find dinner for tonight.”

Katara’s eyes widen again at the sight of the crying prince who suddenly bows to her feet, thanking her with his whole heart. He then turns to his smiling girl beside him and pulls her into a hug.

“Thank you, (Y/N). For everything.”

“I’ll always help you… stupid.”

[karajaynetoday]

for the prompts, can I get “I’m so in love with her/him, I don’t know what do do.” with luke, pretty please?? tomorrow or next week is fine

Hi Shelbi! Thanks so much for this request, hope you enjoy this lil blurb xo

(and by lil I mean 1.6k words but I got carried away as per usual. anyway, enjoy some soft Luke weekend away in a cabin-based friends to lovers!)

(This is a fem reader insert blurb)

More writing here | send thoughts/feedback/suggestions here | if you’d like to be on my taglist go here

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This weekend trip away to the lake with your close friend group had been in the works for months. The date had finally arrived, and all week your group chat had been buzzing with notifications from people  talking about the fun supplies they’d bought, or screenshots of the excellent weather forecast, or memes about bears (that, to be honest, made you a little nervous).

Luke had offered you a carpool spot in his car, along with Michael and Crystal, which you gladly accepted. Originally the idea of camping in tents had been floated, but you were definitely thankful when instead Crystal found an incredible cabin on Air BnB that had more than enough room for all of you, plus private lake access and heaps of nature trails and other activities nearby.

When you showed up at Luke’s, overnight bag in tow, you suddenly felt super nervous. These were all your best friends that you’d known for years, and it definitely wasn’t your first trip away together as a group, but lately things between you and Luke had been… different, somehow.

He’d always been a great friend to you, making sure you had a ride home after a night out, or buying your favourite snacks whenever he hosted an event at his house, or inviting you on walks with Petunia because he remembered you had a dog similar to her growing up and it helped with your homesickness. But lately, you found yourself thinking of him more often than not. In those moments where you’d slip into a daydream about your future, and envisaged travelling the world, or walking down the aisle, or settling down into a house with little ones of your own one day, the only person you could see by your side in those daydreams was Luke. But then reality would set in, and you’d have to remind yourself that he’d never really shown any interest in you beyond friendship, so you couldn’t get your hopes up too high.

Michael and Crystal were already there when you arrived, so you helped pack the remaining supplies into Luke’s car and got on the road as soon as you could. The lake was about a four hour drive away and you’d agreed to share the driving, so you all rotated through various seats in the car. For the final hour of the journey, sunset had passed and you were driving through darkness as you made your way through the wooded area leading towards the lake. Michael had offered to drive the final shift, and Luke sat next to him in the front passenger seat, leaving you and Crystal in the back. You’d both assured the boys that you’d keep them company, and you wouldn’t dare fall asleep, but the steady rhythm of the car quickly lulled you into sleep.

You couldn’t have been out for more than 20 minutes or so when you silently stirred and blinked furiously to try and wake yourself up more quickly. You were about to make a joke to Luke and Michael about definitely not falling asleep, when your ears picked up on them having a murmured conversation amongst themselves up the front.

“I’m so in love with her, Mike. I don’t know what to do.” Luke sounded exasperated, and you saw him run a hand through his mop of curls – a clear sign he was feeling anxious.

“Mate, I’m telling you, there is a solid 95% chance that the feeling is mutual. I see the way her face lit up when you offered her a lift to the cabin, or when you invite her on walks with Petunia, or when you have her favourite snacks at your house parties. I would bet a solid amount that she’s in the exact same boat as you.” Michael was trying to be patient and kind, but you could tell from his tone that he was a little amused by Luke’s predicament.

You froze when you realised they were talking about you. No. Surely not? Luke… Luke didn’t have feelings for you, did he? He couldn’t be IN LOVE with you? Plain, boring old you? Was this a dream? It has to be a dream. You pinched yourself, hard, and let out a small gasp at the pain before you could realise what you’d done. Luke’s head whipped around to the back seat, and you made eye contact.

“H-hey, sweetheart. How long have you been awake?” He asked, his tone wobbly and unsure.

“Oh, literally just woke up a second ago. Must’ve moved around in my sleep and bumped my elbow too hard, that’s why I gasped. Sorry if I gave you a fright!” You were desperately trying to sound as normal as possible.

Luke’s face visibly relaxed, and you knew you’d sold the lie well enough. Your heart was still pounding over what he said, but in this car right now was not the time to address it. You could see Michael eyeing you curiously in the rear-view mirror, almost like he didn’t believe a word of your elbow bump story, but you just flashed him a smile and focused your gaze out the window, even though you could barely see a thing in the darkness of night.

When you arrived at the cabin, the others in the group had beaten you there, and already started claiming bedrooms and stocking the kitchen, and they’d even used the outdoor grill for dinner which gave the area a delicious aroma. Stepping out of the car, you gave your arms a nice big stretch and took a deep breath in and out. You’d lived in a more rural area growing up, and being near the trees and the water really made you feel more at home.

Before you could protest, Luke was carrying your bag inside as well as his own, and you scurried along to claim a bedroom before they were all gone. You settled for a small bedroom that was more like a nook just off the kitchen, but it had a nice big window that you thought would give wonderful sunrise views of the lake when you woke up the next day, so its size and the single bed didn’t bother you.

After a welcome night cap and a brief discussion of plans for tomorrow (Calum offered to cook breakfast, Ashton was coordinating yoga down on the lake’s shore, Crystal and Sierra had mapped out some easy hikes, and Michael and Luke had organised boat hire and tubing), you all adjourned to your own rooms for some sleep. You’d been tossing and turning for what felt like hours, replaying Luke’s words that you overhead in the car in your head, when you heard someone step into the kitchen and open the fridge. You’d left your bedroom door slightly ajar because it was kind of warm in the cabin, so you were able to crawl up the bed and squint out into the kitchen to see who was on the hunt for a midnight snack. Even without your glasses on, you could tell the blurry, broad-shouldered, white-singlet clad kitchen intruder was Luke from a mile away.

You didn’t want to startle him, but you weren’t sure how many other chances you’d get this weekend to talk to him entirely alone. You pulled a sweater over your head, located your glasses and slowly shuffled over to the doorway.

“Hey, kitchen intruder. What’s on for midnight snack?” Your voice was soft, but Luke still jumped a mile and clutched at his chest, and you couldn’t help but giggle.

“Sorry, didn’t mean to frighten you. To be fair, hearing the fridge open metres away from me unexpectedly was a bit of a heart stopper too, pal.” You teased, crossing across the kitchen to lean up against the counter next to where Luke was making a nutella sandwich.

“I guess that makes us even then, sweetheart.” Luke shot you a wink, and you felt your heart leap in your chest.

“Gonna make one for me too, or what?” You said, making grabby hands at Luke’s sandwich.

“Well considering you asked SO nicely…” Luke stuck his tongue out at you, but pulled out more slices of bread onto the cutting board and started making you a sandwich anyway.

You paused for a moment, and took Luke in. Even in the middle of the night, after a long and tiring drive, he still looked so damn good. And he was making you a chocolate-y snack. What a dream. A dream, that if you just took a little leap of faith, could maybe be part of your reality.

“Hey, Luke?” You half-whispered, almost not wanting him to hear you. His head perked up immediately, sparkling blue eyes meeting yours with a curious look.

“Yeah?” He half-whispered back.

“I know what you should do.” You spoke louder and more purposefully this time, the adrenaline taking over as you angled your body towards Luke’s.

“About what?” Luke countered, not moving an inch as you got a little closer.

“About the girl you’re in love with.”

Luke froze, dropping the butter knife covered in nutella onto the kitchen counter with a loud clang. He swallowed audibly, before fixing you with a look that you couldn’t quite read.

“Oh yeah? What should I do, do you reckon?” The mystery stare was gone, and the familiar mischievous glint you loved to see in Luke’s eyes replaced it, as he moved in and closed the gap between you, bringing you chest to chest.

“I think you should tell her. Mike gives good advice, there’s a pretty good chance she feels the same.” You could feel yourself smiling uncontrollably, as you glanced up and realised how close Luke’s face was to yours.

“I guess I’ll take my chances, then.”

Before you could respond, Luke cupped your face with both hands and kissed you, hard. You felt like your skin was on fire, and your heart was about to burst out of your chest, but kissing Luke also felt like coming home and finding everything you’d ever hoped and waited for.

The nutella sandwiches could wait. You had some making up for lost time to do first.

Taglist: If there’s a line through your name, I couldn’t tag you, so please message me to let me know your new URL or what the go is! Tumblr might just being dumb, who knows. @suchalonelysunflower @blackbutterfliescal @redrattlers @loveroflrh @spicycal @notinthesameguey @metalandboybands @cheekysos @ashton-trash  @another-lonely-heart @queenalienscherrypie  @becihadshawn  @allthestarsandthemoon 

[khulan5367555]

Week 2 reflection

This week’s tutorial was quite enjoyable, sketching the simple objects that we brough to class. I brought my apple charging port. The overall rectangular form of the object made the outline rather straighforward, however I struggled measuring the radius using the circle tool, as well as the circle grip on the side of the object. I figured out that the slope they are on meets in the middle of one side and the two points end where the outer corner would, which made it easier in the end. I tried my best to be as accurate as possible this week, however I still have plenty of room for improvement. 

The purpose of the box exercise which involved cutting out a box to fit around our simple objects was meant to aid in visualising the different dimensions of the item. However, personally, I found the task to facilitate my overthinking and over complicate the task. I’m not certain why the exercise had this effect on me. 

Aside from the box exercise, I also struggled due to my lack of materials, once again, and have identified that I am lacking in pens, which is why my lines are roughly all the same width. In order to adhere to the correct line thickness hierarchy required in engineering drawings. I did two drafts, the second one to address feedback I got about the spacing of my drawings in the first one, and to correct the distance of the outline. Having thinner pens would have not only made my drawing more technically correct and follow the conventions appropriately, but also would have made the task easier as my pen was too thick to be used easily for the labelling. 

The drawing of the item itself was not accurate as I discovered because of the continuous curvature of many Apple products, meaning that there are fewer straight lines than expected. 

I learned the habit of continuously rotating my mechanical pencil to keep the line thin and straight which was brought up during the lecture. Having a T-square this week was very beneficial and I am getting used to double-checking that it is correctly aligned before using it, which was another reason I restarted the task, as some of my lines in the first attempt were quite inaccurate. 

In future I hope to improve my accuracy and internalise the advice, “measure twice, cut once,” into all of my work. As well as improve my use of the different tools and pick up more useful habits that will improve my sketching further. Currently I’m not the best, but I am eager to improve and learn more.