#coffee roasting packing machine

[newbusinessideas]

How to Start a Coffee Roasting Business: A Comprehensive Guide

👋 Hey there! Are you ready to turn your love of coffee into a successful business? ☕👨💼 Here, we'll show you How to Start a Coffee Roasting Business and take the first steps towards making your dream a reality! 🔥coffeemanufacturing #smallbusiness

Coffee roasting involves the process of roasting, grinding, and packaging coffee beans into powder form. And, Coffee is a widely consumed beverage all over the world. The coffee industry is one of the most lucrative industries, with a market value of over $102.15 billion in 2020. India is known for producing approximately 3.5% of the world’s coffee production. The North-Eastern and Southern parts…

[altruistic-meme]

rip this poor damn coffee maker. im putting her through the ringer rn.

i didn't get the specific one i was after, but i DID get a k-cup coffee maker!!! fuck yeah!!! and it came with a coffee filter too, so i can still make regular coffee in it :D

[shadowbriar]

Matt Murdock - Waste My Time I

Pairing : Matt Murdock x (she/her)Reader  Word Count : 4.6k Warning : Some curses. Fluff. Some cliff hanger, I think? Sets on Matt's uni years. Notes : I will do some updates on the prologue to better fit the plot. Let me know if you wanna be tagged for future chapters. Cheers! x If you like this story and would like to support me, please visit my kofi page and perhaps get me a coffee?☕

↞ Prologue

The smell of sugar and roasted beans were thick in the air. The establishment was packed with people. It wasn’t the usual cafe Matt and Foggy would go to. No, the cheap coffee truck on the way to the campus or perhaps the vending machine by their Advanced Constitutional Law class would do to grab a cup of americano from, but today isn’t one of those days. 

Today is one of those days when Foggy would drag him to the other side of the city just to pick up some special sandwich that would guarantee a forgiveness pass from Marci. Today is one of those days when Foggy would pay for his americano, only to forget his wallet by the bedside table. Today is one of those days when Foggy would have to make another promise to pay for his meal as the blonde had to bail and run to give Marci her sandwich.

Now Matt, ever the understanding friend, certainly paid no mind with all of the troubles Foggy dragged him into this morning. He figured he could use the long way to his classes this morning. To try and see what exactly is on the other side of the campus when the sun is still out. When he was in his normal clothes and not hunting robbers. When he could actually be Matt Murdock and not the Daredevil.

But now standing by the side aisle to pick up his order, Matt knew that the lady who was too busy arguing on the phone with who seems to be a disastrous ex-husband, accidentally picked up his americano and left him with what smells to be a matcha latte with twice if not thrice the normal sugar level.

Matt’s lips pout a little. He’s certainly not in the mood to jump start his day with a lethal dose of diabetes, but Foggy’s left minutes ago and he couldn’t just call the barista to exchange his order without actually tasting the beverage. What excuse would he give? That he could smell that the drink in his hand isn’t what he ordered?

“Hi, sorry,” A voice of salvation echoes from his right. A woman who’s now approaching him with a gentle voice greets. Matt could taste the uncertainty in her tone, how her heart beats a little awkwardly as if she wasn’t sure if she was doing the right thing yet she does it anyway “I’m really sorry to be coming off as a creep like this, but I don’t think that’s your order.”

“No?” Matt asks with a raised eyebrow.

“No, I think the lady before you mistook your order.” She explained, taking the cup away from his hand “I overheard your order with your friend earlier, I was queueing behind you. You ordered an americano, right? This is a hot matcha.”

“Oh,” Matt says, feigning surprise “I wouldn’t have known.”

“Yeah.. Here, you can take my americano.” She offers, pushing her cup to his hand “I haven’t touched it or anything, I promise. It’s clean.”

“No, it’s fine I can just ask the barista—” Matt’s words were interrupted when his phone beeped, followed by the automatic reminder: his Conflict of Laws class starts in five minutes “Shit.”

“Yeah, just take it,” She insists “I’ll ask the barista to redo my order. It’s fine, really.”

“Thank you.” Matt says, accepting the warm cup at last “I appreciate it.”

“It’s no big deal.”

Matt wanted to prolong their conversation. She seems to be a genuinely kind person. Had he not been in a rush for being on the other side of the campus and having to come to class on time as Professor Barton would lock the door a second past nine, he would have stayed and continued talking to this one kind soul. At the very least, he would have asked for her name and asked if he could repay her kindness, perhaps with a slice of pizza and cold beer after class. But today isn’t one of those days.

Today is one of those days when he passed by someone he would wish he had more time to spare with. Today is one of those days when he met someone he would think of longer than the time he spent with said person. Today is one of those days when he hoped that he would meet her again.

—-

Her hair was dishevelled. She dares not to look at the time as it would only fuel her anxiety even worse. She planned to have her essays done before the clock strikes nine, but it has been hours since and she could barely call herself half way there.

The bigger side of the library has now turned dark. Students have retreated back to their bedrooms or have found themselves better things to waste the night with. It was Friday, afterall. Most wouldn’t even think of stepping their foot inside for the night, yet here she is, trying her best to stay afloat on the ocean of assignments that she’s evidently drowning in.

But when she was ready to take the consolation prize for being the most pathetic student of the year, a boy took the seat in front of her. He took out the things from his bag—several heavy textbooks and a laptop—as he tried to find comfort on the table, completely oblivious to her presence.

It was that boy. The boy she helped the other day in the cafe. Well, the word help would certainly be an overstatement as she only pointed out that he was holding the wrong order and offered hers in replacement, but she had a slight nervousness in her bones as she felt it was overstepping of her when she offered the proposal, so thinking that she was helping him feels a little rewarding and helped soothe her nerves a little.

She silently stares at him as he continues his work. His fingers trace the braille on his textbooks, mouth slightly moving as he tries to read the passages. The boy was beautiful to say the least. Like a beautiful painting you wouldn’t grow bored of even after hours of staring. The soft light of the library was hitting his face in all the right directions, enhancing his features that truthfully need no betterment yet it accentuates his beauty nonetheless.

Five if not fifteen minutes after her staring, she realises that she has to make her presence known. She wouldn’t want him to be startled if she makes any noises or movements, or worse makes him feel unsafe by her stealthy actions. The last thing she would want is to make him feel like she was a threat instead of a friend.

She taps on the table lightly, catching his attention, “Uh, I just want to let you know that you’re not alone at this table.”

“Oh, right,” The boy answers “Should I move?”

“No, no! I just wanted to let you know, that’s all. Please don’t move.” She says fast.

The boy’s lips curved into a smile but his brows knitted, “I’m sorry, have we met before? You sound familiar.”

“Uh, yeah, I’m the girl from the cafe,” She says, the same uncertainty lacing her tone “I swear I’m not trying to stalk you or anything. I just happen to be in the same place you are for some reason.”

“I never thought of you as one,” The boy says with a smile “I’m Matt, by the way.”

She tells him her name.

Matt whispers her name, letting it roll on his tongue like it’s going to settle for a long time there, “I don’t mean to be rude, but what are you doing in a library on a Friday?”

“The same reason as you have, I’m sure.” She says with a sigh, not wanting to elaborate “What major are you taking?”

“Law, you?”

“International Affairs.” She answered, biting on her pencil as she judged him “Law, huh? Well, aren’t you a smarty pants.”

Matt chuckles. 

Her heart skipped a beat.

Stupid heart.

“Listen,” Matt says after a visible nervous lick of his lips “I hope this isn’t too straight forward, but I really appreciate what you did the other day, and I figured I owe you some form of gratitude, so I was wondering if.. You’d be free some time soon? Maybe this weekend? We can grab some food and sit by the park or do whatever it is you find amusing.”

Her smile grows, “Are you asking me for a date?”

“No, I’m showing you my gratitude,” He argues “But masked as a date, yes.”

It was practically impossible for her to bite down her grin by now. Eternally grateful that most of the lights in the library are out and that he couldn’t see the stupid smile on her face. She was sure that her cheeks were red and that her eyes were as big as puppy’s with how charming Matt is. Exactly how more perfect can the man sitting in front of her be? Beautiful face, delightful talking, and certainly a brilliant mind. At this point he could either be her knight in shining armour or a complete psychopath, no in between.

“So.. Would you have any free time?”

“How’s next week? Friday?”

Matt nods, smiling softly, “Friday it is.”

—-

Days leading up to the date passed as slow as it could get, even when they were spent by meeting her at the library before his night patrols. Matt knew that it was practically wrong of him to insert himself in her life. To come uninvited to her table that night, acting as if he didn’t know it was her nor did he not know of her presence, but in his defence, he didn’t deliberately plan to meet her. It only so happened that he finished his nightly patrol quickly that night and that she was in the library when he initially wanted to spend the rest of the night finishing his paperworks.

At that moment, he thought that God was aligning their stars. It wasn’t everyday that he had the urge to finish patrol early. It wasn’t everynight that he wanted to spend the rest of the night in the library. It certainly wasn’t every Friday that he would find her there. In fact, he couldn’t recall if she’s ever been to the library before. He would’ve caught the familiarity of her scent at the cafe if she was a regular there.

Though Matt knew that he couldn’t offer much to her, not his full time nor attention as they’re both reserved to keeping Hell’s Kitchen a little safer each night, Matt was willing to give everything he has left to get to know her better. It wasn’t everyday he could meet someone who would treat her with kindness that is pacifying without any hint of humiliation. She knows just the right amount of care to show without having to walk on eggshells around him and that’s something Matt very much appreciates.

All of it felt like it was meant to be. That he was meant to get that wrong order and that she was to intervene and rescue him from that God awful latte. It felt like he was meant to go to the library that night and meet her once again. And it certainly felt like their date tonight was meant to happen.

“Oh, this is gold,” She moans as she takes another bite of their pizza.

Matt smiles, satisfied to hear her blissful commentary, “It’s good, isn’t it?”

“The best,” She says shortly. There was a sudden silence from her and Matt wonders if something had happened but she quickly speaks “Uh, you’ve got.. Um, you’ve got some sauce on your lips.”

“Yeah?” Matt asks, his free hand wiping the sides of his lips.

“It’s still there. I think it’s dried a little,” She says, that hint of uncertainty reappearing in her voice “Can I just?”

“Yeah, go for it.”

And she wipes the corner of his lips gently. The warmth of his skin was in contrast to the cold wind that gushed their way and it only amplified the butterflies in her stomach as their skin made contact. Supposed he felt the unexpected jolt of electricity too because his jaw tenses a little before he lets out a sigh when she finishes wiping his lips.

“Thanks.” Matt whispers with a smile.

She didn’t say a word, only humming a little to show response.

Had Matt not have his heightened senses, he would have thought that something wrong happened but he could hear the not-so-steady beat of her heart and how her body heat rises a little. She was just nervous, just as much, if not less erratic than he is. If only she could feel his heart and hear just how loudly it’s beating right now, acting as if it’s trying to burst forth his ribcage, she would perhaps feel a little less agitated.

It was too soon to say, but Matt couldn’t ignore all the blissful connections they’ve shared. He felt as if he’s finally met his match. The knot to his strings, the solace to his rage. He knew that there’s still so many layers of himself that he’s yet to show her, the sides of Matt Murdock and Daredevil that he’s yet to expose to her, but for reasons he couldn’t explain, he felt like he could take his time and savour the moment as it unfolds.

A little egoistic of him, but what exactly can he do at the time?

“This is great,” She says, breaking his train of thought “I very much enjoyed tonight.”

“Oh no, are we reaching the end of the night?”

“No,” She chuckles, shaking her head “I just wanted to say it, just in case I forget to and you wonder if I’m having a great time or not.”

Matt grins, his heart swells in pride and joy, “I’m having a great time, too.”

The night passes far too fast for either of their liking. There seems to be a never ending topic for the both of them to discuss. From the major they’re taking, their roommates, down to how honking your car is illegal here in New York, everything feels like an interesting subject to dissect. Like an overflowing flow of soft ripples that hit your ankles on the beach shore. Soothing and intriguing at the same time.

Both their feet now carry them around the city, directionless yet certainly not lost. She was clutching on his arm, trying to make sure that he wouldn’t trip as they walked through the park and around the neighbourhood. For most it would certainly be the most bland date as neither of them knew where to go nor what to do, but neither of them had any complaints. It was perfect as it is.

Until it wasn’t.

Matt could feel the sudden spike of her heartbeat. Whoever it is that’s standing by the porch, whoever’s house party it is that they stumbled upon, she certainly didn’t have any intention to join nor stopped by at it, yet from the sweat that’s starting to build on her skin, he knew that she has to.

“About time you appear!” Some girl yells, clearly directed at her.

“Shoot,” She mutters, sounding like she was caught red handed over some crime he wasn’t sure about “She’s going to have my head on a spike for this one.”

“Is everything okay?” Matt asks, his brows knitted in confusion.

“Yeah, it’s just my friend’s birthday and I— Fuck,” She curses, running a hand through her hair “I completely forgot it’s today.”

Matt forces a smile, “It’s fine, we can call it a night.”

“No, I’ll be right back,” She whispers to him, squeezing his arm a little before she jogs a little to the group of people on the porch.

“Oh, you’re in so much trouble,” One of the girls says as she approaches them “Gaby’s been asking for you for hours! Your phone’s dead, we couldn’t reach you—,”

“I know, I know, I’m sorry,” She apologises, she was honest with her apology, Matt could hear it in her heartbeat “I completely forgot about her birthday party, and I double booked tonight, and I just—”

“So you chose to bail on your best friend's birthday instead?” Her friend argues.

“I mean, he’s cute, I would totally bail on Gaby’s birthday too,” Her other friend commented, making Matt smile a little “Who’s he? I didn’t know you’re seeing someone.”

“I— It’s a long story, okay? I’ll tell you guys later,” She frantically says, trying to save herself from the wrath of her friends “I’ll call it a night with him. Please don’t tell Gaby that I forgot about her birthday, okay? Just tell her I overslept or something.”

Matt bites the inner of his cheek. One of the downplay of hearing every and each conversation others have is knowing what’s to come before it actually hits you. Sure it might come as useful for certain times, but Matt was reluctant to bid his goodbye just yet. He wanted the night to last just a little bit longer, to feel her presence just a few hours longer and to walk around with her just a few miles further. Now it’s clear that he would have to scrape those desires off of his list.

“I am so so so sorry about this,” She says as she comes close to him, her words dripping with regret and guilt “I completely forgot about her birthday party and I just— God, we should’ve taken a left from that park.”

Matt chuckles, “We should have, yeah.”

“I’m really sorry,” She says once again “I’d invite you in but I don’t know how Gaby would react with me being four hours late to her birthday party and I really don’t want you to be trialled for it with me.”

“I understand, don’t worry about it.”

“God, I’m really the biggest arsehole there is, huh?”

“For now, yes,” Matt jests “But don’t worry about it. I had a great time.”

“I had a great time, too. Do you.. Do you know the way back?”

Matt nods, “I’ll manage.”

“Okay,” She smiles apologetically, clearly not wanting to part either yet her feet are already moving towards the house as her friends continue to call for her “I’m really sorry, Matt. I’ll make it up to you, I promise.”

Once again, Matt nods and smiles.

He turns his body away from the house, retracing his way back to the campus. Sure it wasn’t the most ideal way to end their date, he feels like he could and deserves to yell a bit to her friends for stealing her away from him ever so rudely like that, but he figures that he’s had his fair share of her tonight. He reminds himself that it was a Friday night. It was honestly a little too good to be true for someone as delightful as her to have her night free of dates and appointments, so to find out that she’s actually booked for a party is certainly not much of a surprise. Matt only wished that he didn’t know it the way he did.

They certainly should’ve taken a left from the park and avoided this neighbourhood altogether.

“Wait, Matt!”

Matt’s pace was put to a halt. He turns back to face the direction of her voice. He could hear her slight pants and the slight jog she made toward him. A small smile returned to his face, “Yes?”

“You surely didn’t think I’d let you go without a kiss, did you?” She asks, her breathing fickle from the short exercise “Or did you not want one?”

“I’d love one,” He says fast “Please.”

Matt’s grip on his cane tightened a little as she took a step closer. She places her arms around his shoulders and Matt swore he suddenly forgets what’s to do with his limbs. He wasn’t sure if he should put his hands on her waist or should he keep still. It was very much out of character for him. He’s had kisses before, had dates with plenty of other girls, but how is it that he has no idea how to act when it comes to her?

When their lips met, Matt swears that he could climb the Empire State Building with his bare hands. It was an uneventful kiss, certainly not the most creative that he’s ever had, but the electricity he felt was beyond compare. It was as if the kisses he’s had before were mere teasers to what it truly is. Like he was deprived of something he’s been so hungry from. Like he was deprived of her.

“I had a great time tonight,” She says as they part, sounding as if the kiss didn’t just flip her whole world upside down like it did to him “I’ll see you soon?”

“Tomorrow,” He promises “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Okay,” She agrees through her smile “Goodnight, Matt.”

“Goodnight.”

—-

She chews on her lower lip as if determined to make them bleed once again. Her eyes were glued to the clock, watching as it ticks with each second instead of averting her focus back to the papers on her table. Finishing her tasks prove to be a more challenging issue to tackle with each passing day.

Before she knew it, it was already Thursday. Matt promised to meet her the next day after their date, yet such a promise was never fulfilled. She figured that he might just have to do a rain check about their meeting, perhaps having some last minute task that he has to finish before the weekend ended, but even when Monday comes, he still was a no show.

Sorry, something happened. Will be in touch once it’s resolved. M

Now what should a girl do with such a short message?

Each day she would wake up early to go to the cafe where they first met and each noon when her classes were finished, she would try to run herself to the library, hoping that he would magically pop up out of nowhere like he did the very first night they met. Those efforts prove to be no avail as the expected man never bothered to make an entrance.

She wonders if their abrupt separation was what caused him to ghost her. She argues, the kiss they shared should’ve been enough to make him overlook the unpleasant farewell. It was much more than enough for her end, but could it be that it wasn’t the same for him? Could it be that he was more baffled about her last minute dick move that he decided to cut it off? Could it be that he’s had enough of her?

“Is this seat reserved?”

Her head perched up, excited to hear the familiar voice that she so missed about, “Unfortunately, yes. It’s been reserved for a week, actually.”

Matt shows an apologetic smile, “Is it still reserved?”

“Depends,” She teases, closing her laptop as she realises that there would be no work done for the rest of the night “If the culprit could explain and give a life-threatening excuse to save himself, I suppose he can still claim his reservation.”

“What if he could only offer an apology and say that he’s desperately sorry for being a douche?”

“No explanation?”

Matt hesitates, “No, none that he could disclose.”

“Not even a little?”

“I—,” Matt licks his bottom lip. It was a habit he does whenever he’s nervous, she notices. He takes the seat and rests his white cane on the side of the table. He looks troubled, like he’s trying to piece words in his mind that he’s not familiar with “Look, I.. I don’t exactly have any explanations to give you. I just.. I have been away. And I fear that I will have to be away for more times than I’d like in the future.”

She remains quiet, listening and watching as he tries to speak.

“I like you, a lot. We had the best date of my life last week, but I don’t think I have what you’re looking for,” He continues, looking conflicted and hurt with his own words “I just— I’m sorry, I really hope I could give more than what I have, but at the same time, I selfishly don’t want to lose you either so if we could just— If we could just be friends, I think I would like that very much.”

Matt could sense the piqued beating of her heart. The news he came to bear was certainly bitter, even more to him than her if he could only be so honest. But what happened earlier this week made him realise that he wasn’t in a position to be in a relationship with anyone. Especially not with someone who looks like she’s willing to go the extra mile for him.

It was supposed to be an easy rescue mission. Some petty robbery that happened on some dingy alley of Hell’s Kitchen that he expected to be settled an hour at most, only to turn out to be a complicated one as he came home with more bruises and wounds than he could count. He had to once again lie to Foggy and say that he was the one being robbed by a group of thugs in order to be able to go to their dorm room and sleep in. But as the lies roll off of his tongue, Matt realises that she would be another person he would have to lie to everytime he comes back bruised from a patrol. She would be another person he would have to deceive with excuses that never truly touch the truth. She would be another tally in his long list of people to ask forgiveness from.

And that’s something he doesn’t think he could live in for long.

So he figured to lock himself inside for a couple of days until his bruises heal. He refuses to meet her when he’s still littered with wounds he couldn’t explain to her about. Even when his finger itches to text her, even when his feet were begging him to let them carry him to the library, even when he was yearning for him more than ever, Matt has to hold himself within the walls of his dorm room that feels like they’re closing in with every passing day.

Now that he finally looks decent enough to go back to his classes, he finally gathered the guts to see and talk to her. There was a mix of bittersweet feelings when he sensed her sitting by their table alone. Relieved to know that she’s waiting, yet sorry that he has to come bearing bad news.

“I.. I don’t know what to say,” She says, blinking rapidly as she tries to digest his words “Are you in some kind of trouble, Matt? You can talk to me if you are. We can try and figure it out.”

“No, no, I’m fine,” He answers “It’s more of a.. Me thing. I just have to deal with some things first.”

She nods, feeling a hint of grief pooling in her heart, “I see.”

There was a pause. Neither have the slightest idea to go forward from this. Both clearly want to continue whatever it is they left off, but they’re truly on a stalemate here, aren’t they? What could she do when he’s asked her to let this go and stay as friends instead? What could he do when he wanted to have her close but only have just started to be the Daredevil? What could they do when they have so much to say yet so little to share?

“I’m really sorry,” Matt says instead.

“No, I understand,” She shakes her head, forcing a smile “Friends it is, then.”

And so it begins. The never ending loop of wasting each other’s time for the sake of wasting time. The never ending cycle of stealing a brush of the other’s hand under the table for the sake of accidental touches. The never ending series of pouring each others’ heart through the stories they share just for the sake of sharing. Always more than what friends do, but never less than what lovers should.

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Walking on Sunshine 4

Sister series to Sunshine, Lollipops, and Rainbows

Warnings: non/dubcon, antisocial behaviour, and other dark elements. My username actually says you never asked for any of this.

Characters: God The Bounty Hunter x reader

My warnings are not exhaustive but be aware this is a dark fic and may include potentially triggering topics. Please use your common sense when consuming content. I am not responsible for your decisions.

As usual, I would appreciate any and all feedback. I’m happy to once more go on this adventure with all of you! Thank you in advance for your comments and for reblogging.

You have your muffin with tea. It’s a special treat for the night even if it remains confounding. With every bite, you can’t help but think of that man. His piercing blue eyes bore into your soul and his silence piques your curiosity. 

The question you can’t help but ask over and over is why you? Why is he leaving you muffins? And seemingly, why is he following you to the cafe?  

The question follows you to bed. Most nights, you’re tired enough to pass out just before ten, watching some crafting video or another. Often, you wake up to the idle screen of your laptop. Not that night, your sleep is splintered by the ghost of your waking hours. 

As you get ready for work, pulling on a loosely crocheted cardigan over a light blue plaid dress, you think of him. You try to place him. Is he new? You don't think you've seen him before. You aren’t exactly the most observant; apparently, he’d been following you and you didn’t notice. 

You put on a pair of socks with scalloped tops and some well-worn oxfords. You check your work bag to make sure everything’s inside and grab your travel mug of tea. It’s a new flavour from your sample pack; sweet pear. 

You take your usual route to work. You can’t help but glance over your shoulder as you do. You doubt he’d be hanging around that early. Besides, he’s not a stalker. He just wanted to give you the muffin. 

You yawn as you enter the office building and wait for the elevator. You blow over the lid of the thermos. The tea won’t be cool enough to drink until you get to your desk and untwist the cap. You have your routine. Your boring, repetitive routine. 

You near your desk as a few early comers settle in. The smell of coffee wafts in the air as you hear the single-serve machine grinding over the lazy clacking of keys. You put your thermos down and pause.

You look over your chair, turning it slowly as you examine the arm. This isn’t your chair. There’s a piece missing out of the arm rest, a chunk you can’t help but pick at but this arm is brand new, the whole seat is a different style. The wheels don’t squeak. 

You look around. Maybe the cleaners switched it up by accident. Hard to say who they would switch it with, you don’t exactly go around checking out chairs. You go around to examine your neighbours to see if it was a simple switch. Nope. 

You peer around and blow out through your lips. You don’t want to be accused of trying to acquire someone else’s chair. It looks new, almost like one of the ones from the managers’ offices. You really can’t be on the wrong side of the higher ups. You get by on your invisibility. The job is safe so you play it safe. 

You spin the chair. No squeaking, no creaking. The fabric looks as pristine as the rest of it. A seat should not cause so much concern. 

Your neighbour appears and drops their bag beside their desk. You glance over at their dark hair, barely getting a glimpse before they set off for their first coffee of the day. Dark roast. You can tell by the smell. As they strut away, either unaware or or deliberately ignoring your existence, you assume the latter, you stay standing, staring at the mysterious chair. 

“You don’t like it?” A gritty voice startles you as a figure appears from behind the next group of cubicles. 

It’s him. That man. He crosses his arms as he watches you. He wears a grey button up and corduroys a shade darker. His tie is skinny with a flat end. His square jaw is shadowed with stubble and his hair is unstyled but not messy, a short trim along his forehead. 

“It’s not mine,” you utter bluntly. 

“Expense report was approved. It’s yours,” he insists. 

“You?” You wonder. 

He gives a short nod and unfolds his arms, standing staunchly across from you. You look down then back at him. “Thanks, but, you didn’t have to.” 

“I did,” he counters. 

You don’t know what to make of him or his responses. Or the chair. You gulp and once more examine the cushy backrest, touching it, squeezing it’s firm but soft padding. 

“The muffin was goo--” you look up and he’s gone. What the heck? This is getting really strange. If it wasn’t for the very real chair in front of you, you might think he’s a ghost. 

Your cubicle neighbour returns and sets his cup down. You don’t miss the pointed way his eyes flick across you before he sits. He must think you’re talking to yourself. You do your best not to do that at work. If you can help it, you try not to make much noise as his sighs and grumbles keep you on edge. 

You shrug and roll the chair back. You sit. No squeak! Your neighbour doesn’t huff. You pull yourself smoothly towards the desk and boot up your computer. This is nice, but you’ll have to figure out who your kind benefactor is. You owe him a million thanks, and you have a million questions. 

[aikuse]

-> They find something in the other’s trouser pockets/etc. right before putting it into the washing machine. (x) | 891 words. notes: gn!reader, established relationship, reader drinks coffee with creamer. reader and kakucho are both employed. kakucho calls reader "love", "darling".

Adult life was really beginning to seem like an endless supply of dirty laundry.

You awaken from your slumber to an empty bed; Kakucho has been awake for hours already, being an early riser. The glow of the lamp downstairs glows faintly, the lamp on the lowest setting so he didn't wake you. You spot the laundry basket next to the stairwell, overflowing, while also catching the clothes strewn about on the floor. Guess it's laundry day.

Rolling out of bed, you ignore the need for clothes as the chilly air hits your bare thighs and instead search for body heat, following the warm light down the wooden, creaky stairs and into the kitchen. His head lifts, red and white eyes meeting your own with a soft smile as he takes a sip from his coffee. A book is in his lap, something philosophical, but you don't have a mind to pay attention to it as you shuffle over to the coffee pot, pouring yourself a glass.

"Sleep well?"

You shrug. "Better if you stayed in bed."

He murmurs a sorry, love as he stands, the floorboards creaking under his footfalls as he approaches you, grabbing the creamer from the fridge on his way and handing it to you. It's your favorite; pumpkin spice, reminding you of one of your favorite seasons.

You can feel Kakucho's broad chest against your back as you stir the sugar and additives into your coffee, watching the spiral clouds of creamer turn the dark roast into a lighter brown. His arms wrap around your middle, a kiss pressed against your temple. You hum, leaning back against him as you take a sip from the coffee, your eyes sliding shut as the warmth floods through your system.

You get to chatting, as you always do; the morning debrief, Kakucho likes to call it. You lean back against the counter, sipping your sugary concoction as he talks about how long he'll be at work today, what he's doing, about the happy hour later that he wants to take you to so you can meet his coworkers—

And before you know it, he's dressed, packed up, and pressing a kiss to your lips as he ventures out the door, telling you he won't be home late tonight. He'll make sure of it.

You laugh as the door shuts behind him, knowing he's a liar. Kakucho was never one to come home on time; and it was nice, having the house to yourself the few days during the week he went into the office. Working from home together was lovely, but having your space was even better.

Nevertheless, the first thing to tackle was the giant pile of overflowing laundry you'd wandered past in your search for caffeine.

Placing your coffee down, you venture upstairs, grabbing the basket first and, before throwing the clothes into the washer, you check all the pockets. You'd run into this issue before, where Kakucho had failed to remove his earbuds from his pants once, and they somehow managed to survive a washer and dryer cycle.

Unfortunately, it happened again, and they weren't so lucky. Your face had been bright red with shame as you'd gone upstairs to his office, handing him the broken earbuds worthlessly as he let out a whistle, taking them from you. There was no anger in his eyes, only surprise as he placed them on his desk, reaching up and pressing a kiss to your cheek. Not your fault, I can get another pair.

Still, you didn't want to make that mistake again as you rifle through the pockets of his sweatpants that had been discarded on the ground last night.

There is something in his pocket, but it's not his earbuds.

It looks like a note.

You unfold it, and in his messy handwriting, it begins with a cute i love you <3 on the paper. There's more, talking about how amazing you are and how you always keep the house clean and how he's so proud of you for being who you are; how you work so hard and someone will notice, he swears it, and if they don't then they're clearly blind. It's a sweet gesture, not out of character, but the tenderness in the chicken scratch writing has your eyes going glassy with tears.

He knew you'd had a hard few weeks. You'd ranted and raved to him about your job, about how you're not happy but no one else seems to be hiring so you're stuck. How you're getting more work than you should be handling due to your role, how frustrating it is that you're doing managerial-level work without the title because they can't be bothered to pay you more.

Seeing the person you love most include a note, possibly on purpose, in his pants he knew you'd pick up on laundry day to rifle through before cleaning so he knew you'd see it...it made your chest feel light.

You do text him about it, later. Did you write that note in your pants last night so I'd see it? you ask him, straight to the point. He texts back almost immediately with several crying laughing emotes, and then says of course, darling. needed ya to know i love ya even if no one else does <3

It's the little things, you know?

divider credit: benkeibear for the gradient divider!

networks: @thehoneypotserver @enchantedforest-network

disclaimer: DO NOT copy or repost my works for any reason. translations are acceptable, but please ask for permission first!

© kakuchari 2023-2024

[cyberrose2001]

Not a request but a question, what do you think the autobots's favorite food in general would be if they were humans? And how do you think they're reaction would be eating human food for the first time??? CURIOUS LOL, I think op would love sweets

TFP human!Autobots - Favourite Food Headcanons

I agree that OP would love sweets! Here you go and I hope you enjoy my headcanons!

Warnings: None

Word count: 626

Optimus: When Optimus first tried human food, he was a little hesitant. But when he was introduced to sugary sweets he was instantly hooked and understood why the humans liked it so much. However, he eats them in moderation at the demand of Ratchet. He loves any sweet, flavoured foods and the classic vanilla ice cream is his favourite. He also loves sweet coffees/frappes.

Bumblebee: He was extremely excited to finally try human food! He wanted to try them all. He loves chocolate, but his ultimate favourite would be ramen noodles. They’re quick, easy and the salty taste is a whole new experience for him. Once, he tried to combine chocolate and noodles but quickly learned that it was a terrible idea and suffered stomach aches for the rest of the day.

Ratchet: He was less than thrilled that instead of consuming energon, Ratchet had to eat human food. The thought made him sick, and he tried to avoid it for the longest of time. But as humans do, they get hungry, so he was forced to try at least some of it. Black coffee quickly became his favourite and now has a whole coffee machine and only uses the purest of the devil beans. He also likes something quick and easy like a grilled cheese when he is in a rush. But prefers more healthier options like a salad sandwich. LOVES dark chocolate.

Arcee: Much like Optimus, she was sceptical, but came to also enjoy sweeter foods. She loves combining strawberries and chocolate. When Arcee saw Miko carrying around a smoothie, she asked if she could try some. Now it’s her absolute favourite! Loves combining the flavours and you’ll never see her without one in her hand. Also big on fruit salad.

Bulkhead: Bulkhead was incredibly happy that he could enjoy foods with Miko now. He tried traditional Japanese foods like sushi with her and can’t get enough of it. Despite that, he also enjoys a big steak or anything meaty, something to fuel his muscles and his appetite. He also enjoys raiding the base kitchen with Miko for lollies. Whatever food it may be, he will be sure to enjoy it.

Smokescreen: For his first trip outside the base as a human, Jack took him to the fast-food place he works at and tried out all the different selections of greasy foods. He was overwhelmed by the amount of options humans had, but found he absolutely loves the chicken nuggets. Also enjoys milkshakes, strawberry being his favourite. Will also start a food fight in the restaurant and Jack has to drag him out by his ear.

Wheeljack: He was curious before about human food, but now he’s forced to eat it now that he is human. Doesn’t like too many foods, so Wheeljack opts for something more protein packed to feed his muscles. He loves protein shakes, chocolate being his favourite flavour. You’ll find that he will also carry around fifteen protein bars because in his words 'you never know'. Also shoves cheeseburgers down his mouth when no-one is looking, those are his guilty pleasures.

Ultra-Magnus: Ultra-Magnus was very very reluctant to try any human food but decides to try it when he sees the other team members enjoy it. Ratchet put him onto coffee and enjoys his coffee bitter with just a splash of milk. One night, June made everyone a classic baked dinner with roast pork, vegetables and gravy and it became one of his favourite meals. Also likes something a little sweet at the end of the day, like a slice of carrot cake to go with his evening coffee and has made it a daily ritual for him. If only he could stop Miko and Bulkhead from stealing his cakes from the kitchen…

[leggerefiore]

Empty Café

cw: fluff, confession fic

pairing: Ingo/Reader

Summary: A strange man lingers in your café, catching your attention. You think he's cute.

----

You giggled at the man who had been sat at your café for hours now, just scribbling away at a pile of paperwork and going onto his computer. He was quite a looker, with his dark, knitted mock-neck top and slacks complimenting his natural paleness and light hair. You smiled at him as you took his cup again for a refill. His order had just been a plain dark-roast coffee. Seeing as he drank it all, you could only presume that is how he normally took his drink.

His presence was not unwanted, seeing as your café was a smaller, out of the way one, but the amount of work he seemed to be going through was strange. You wondered if he was usually busy or if this was normal for him. The sound of the saucer being placed on the table caught his attention from the sheets that had consumed him. His neutral facial expression, yet gentle eyes, made you all the more curious about him. You smiled at him softly.

“Are you okay?” you asked finally, “... You've been here for so long and haven't taken a break from your work even once.” It was concerning to see someone possibly overworking themselves. You typically did not bother people with conversation, but something about him was so distantly familiar.

“Ah, thank you for your concern,” he started, voice strong and a bit laid, “I'm quite fine, I assure you. I was just trying to get caught up on some things I had let fall behind.” His words were a bit reassuring. Still, you also could not help but notice his lack of eating, too.

“We sell sandwiches,” you told him, “... I'll make you one, on the house.” His eyes grew wide as they finally took a glance at the clock on the wall. The soft pink that dusted across his cheeks was a pretty sight. Who was he? You wanted to assume he was a model. If he was not, he certainly could be.

“No need for that, I'll pay,” he shook his head, “... Do have a muffuletta sandwich?” He asked, trying to gaze at the menu board hung up behind the counter. You nodded.

“Mhm, sure do,” you beamed at him, “I'll have that right out for you.” And, you were still going to give it to him for free. His company had been enough for the day, as it did get quite lonely when you locked customers. The sandwich was easily prepared as you brought it back out to him. His thanked you so politely and finally took a break from his work to eat. You tried not to watch him too much, as you went back to the counter.

Time passed as it usually did, a few customers lingering and most taking their drink to go, but he remained. You felt oddly attached to him, even though you barely said a word to each other. When he finally started to pack up and came to pay at the counter, you genuinely grinned at him.

“Say, are you a model?” you questioned him as you worked your POS machine. His stiff expression broke as a small laugh came from him. He shook his head.

“No,” he replied as he placed his card back into his wallet, “You're the second person to ask me that since I moved here.” The small smile on his lips warmed your heart. Well, your intuition may have been wrong, but at least you made him smile. “I work in the subway,” he explained, “... If you ride it, you'll probably catch me around the Gear Station.” Suddenly, it stuck you.

He looked so different out of his uniform!

“Oh,” you gasped, “Are you Emmet?”

The sudden laughter from him alongside the shaking of his head made you fall into hysterics, too. Well, he certainly looked like Emmet! “I'm his twin brother, Ingo,” he corrected, “Thank you for letting me stay here for so long… I really do enjoy venues like this.” You nodded, a bit stunned at the thought the odd Subway Boss you met on a late trip back from Undella was a twin.

“No problem,” you told him, “Feel free to come back whenever. I really did enjoy your company.” Ingo agreed to return and bud you farewell for the night. You sighed and got ready to close.

You regretted not trying to talk to him more now.

Well… You supposed you would just have to wait for his return. Or, maybe, you could actually try your hand at the Battle Lines.

~

A week had passed since then, and you rode the train back home after closing late one night. Few people joined you on the train, most choosing to ride back into the city rather than out of it. You yawned and rubbed at your eyes as you shifted your bag around. The gentle movements of the train were seriously about to rock you to sleep. You closed your eyes for a moment and…

… Felt a firm hand on your shoulder, shaking you awake. Startled, you tried to jump away from the tight grasp. Your eyes surveyed around you and found a familiar face gazing at you. His clothes may have changed since then, but you could recognise him easily. Ingo seemed a bit startled, too. He released your shoulder and stood up tall. “… We meet again,” his voice was still loud, yet the gentleness was there, “You fell asleep on the train. It's come back to the station, now.” Heat rushed into your face as embarrassment coursed through your veins.

Averting your eyes, you let out a sigh. Nimbasa. You were stuck in Nimbasa. Standing up, you politely bowed your head at the man. “I'm sorry for this,” you spoke courteously, “Thank you for waking me up.” You had been a bit tired as of late, but you did not think it was enough to fall asleep on the train. Ingo remained with stiff body language.

“… How far is the station from your home?” he asked, clearly concerned, “I hope I do not sound like a creep, but I simply am worried about letting someone like you walk alone so late at night.” He was worried about you? You felt a small smile on your lips.

Shaking your head, you replied, “Don't worry, Ingo. I'm not too far away.” You readjusted your bag and stood up tall. It was a lie, honestly, but you were not about to burden someone apparently as overworked as him with that. “I'll call a friend, and they'll come get me,” you explained, “Once again, thank you for waking me up.” He nodded and led you off the train and into the station proper. You quickly sent a text to a friend letting them know your situation.

“Please do be safe on your return to your home,” Ingo's voice was softer now, “… Do not overwork yourself, either.” You smiled at him.

~

You were working a few days later and cleaning some dirty equipment when the bell chimed, signalling the entrance of a customer. You chirped out a greeting as you turned around but stopped midway. Ingo stood near the counter alongside… You presumed, Emmet. He was truly a twin. While you had not disbelieved him, it was more stunning to see two identical people in person. Ingo gave a polite grin to you, while Emmet beamed brighter than the sun.

“Ah, hello,” Ingo greeted you, too, “Did you make it home safely the other day?” You nodded as the smiling twin took his time to eye your dessert display. “I believe you mentioned knowing of my younger brother previously, but I wish to introduce him again,” he pulled Emmet away from the sweets, “This is my twin, Emmet.” His brother waved excitedly at you.

“Oh, you are who brother was verrry worried about,” Emmet's tone almost sounded like he was teasing, “Check safety, do not fall asleep on the train!” You laughed at his tone. He was certainly more animated than his older brother. Their fashion styles were completely different, you noted. Emmet wore a baggy sweat shirt, while his brother had taken to a fitted sweater and overcoat.

“I don't plan on it,” you assured them both, “What would you two like today?” You quickly took down their orders. Emmet seemed to want to drown his coffee in sugar and sweet cream in comparison to how Ingo still took his plain. The younger also ordered a slice of marble cake. They sat down at a table and quickly feel into an easy discussion about the subway and pokemon battles. You continued your cleaning until you heard coughing. Turning around, you saw Ingo's face bright red and Emmet lightly patting his back.

“I-Is he okay?” you asked in a panic. Emmet nodded and motioned you over.

“He is just flustered,” Emmet's eyes cut into his brother, “Thank you!” You calmed down as Ingo regained his breath and shot a glare at Emmet.

“My brother made an ill joke,” Ingo explained, “I am sorry to have worried you.” You shook your head. You backed away as you headed back to the counter. “… Hey,” he called out, “Er… Are you free any time soon?” You flinched.

“… Shop's closed on Mondays,” you told him, “That's my day off, usually.” Emmet giggled at his brother as he switched his gaze between you and his brother eagerly.

“Could… Would you mind meeting me at the Gear Station?” he asked, “I would like to spend some time with you…” You felt warmth rush to your cheeks as you realised his words. Was he waking you out? Judging by how Emmet was acting, you felt like he was.

“I'd love to, Ingo,” you told him.

The sweet, relieved smile he gave you made your heart warm.

[secretlythepits]

Coffee and Oncology

If you haven’t been around cancer, let me tell you, you can judge how serious your situation is by the coffee availability. Regular doctors don’t have coffee machines for patients, but once you’re in the cancer world, they do. When you’re waiting in general areas, like where patients go for labs, the coffee machines are hit and miss. Generic pods. Lipton tea. Expect powdered creamer. On a good day you might find a packet of cocoa, but not two so the caregiver gives it to the patient who takes it but only drinks a sip.

The radiation waiting room has fancy coffee pods. You can choose your roast or a delightful tea. The creamer is liquid.

The specialist oncologist’s waiting room has top notch coffee, your choice of creamer and a variety of brews. All specialty.

The new oncologist literally has a Starbucks coffee machine. Choose your roast; it freshly grinds it for you. Or press the button for a steamy chai latte. It was glorious coffee and it will be mine every three weeks for who knows how long.

I always get a coffee, because first of all I am an accepter of beverages. I always say yes. But also, I feel like I deserve a little treat on these crap days and it’s nice to sip something and not have to pack and clean a travel mug. Another cancer luxury: free valet parking.

Ah, the perks of malignancy!

I like the new oncologist. He is my favorite so far and my husband loves him too. He is extremely careful with his words. He wants patients to feel hopeful and positive. It would be easy to gloss over his painstakingly choreographed phrasing and forget anything is wrong. This is good for my husband. My legal eagle brain, trained on 2 decades of Law and Order, noticed the sidesteps and avoidance of promises. I notice how he said “some” patients instead of most, or all, or you.

The doctor met with me privately afterwards, at his suggestion and with my husband’s permission, to answer the more realistic caregiver concerns. I like that he prioritizes the mental well-being of his patient. It is very hard to ask direct questions when the answers would be painful to my husband. I got the distinct impression that he likes to drip information. I told him it’s hard to tell my husband he needs to get financial matters in order because he takes it as a blow of negativity, so his doctor told me that he would talk to him at the next appointment. Such a load off my shoulders. He also told me that he doesn’t push treatment once quality of life is compromised. Another relief. I left the appointment feeling freer. A wonderful surprise.

So now it’s what I expected: immunotherapy with or without a gentler chemo (depending on labs). We just see if it works in a few months. Then we see how long it works and we hope the adverse effects don’t make treatment infeasible. Most likely, this treatment will be much less horrific and painful than the first time around, and the schedule seems doable. I think the next few months should be pretty even keel.

All of this is for now.

Drip.

Drip.

Drip.

This coffee is too damn good.

[lexiepoch]

How You Meet For The First Time

Warning: Almost all of the following short fics contain cursing. If you are sensitive to that sort of thing you have been warned.

Word Count:4135 (this does not include the characters name before their part or the A/N at the end)

Tony Stark: You wander into a coffee shop around the corner from your apartment when someone bumps into you, spilling hot black coffee all down your scrub top. "Ah shit! Fuck! That's really fucking hot!" you exclaim, pulling the fabric away from your skin.

"Oh my god! Sorry! I wasn't watching where I was going! Let me buy your drink!" says a males voice. You don't look up at his face but get the feeling that you know who this man is.

"No, it's fine. It's fine. Just leave it. This thing needed to go in the wash anyways. Holy fuck, you're Tony Stark." you say, finally looking up at the man who spilt his drink all down your front.

"Yes I am, my dear. Will you please let me buy you your drink?" he says, smiling softly.

"No, honestly, you don't have to. And don't worry about my shirt either, it's been through worse at the childrens hospital. But thank you for the offer. It was lovely to meet you, Mr. Stark." you say, trying to leave the conversation.

"I insist. I need a new drink anyways, seeing as most of it went onto your shirt. Come on, just let me buy you a drink and something to eat. You look exhausted and in need of some nutrition."

"Alright, thank you very much. My name is Y/N Y/L/N, by the way."

"A beautiful name for an equally beautiful woman." He buys your usual drink in a large and a few scones as well as himself another black dark roast coffee. A week later you get a gift left at the front desk for you.

"Was dropped off by Mr. Stark himself. He asked for you by your full name, Y/L/N. You got a lover I should know about, kid?" says the clerk, winking.

"No Brent, not a lover. I bumped into him last week, he spilt his drink down my shirt and insisted on buying me a drink and a bite to eat. Thanks for holding this for me," you say, taking the package from his hands before heading down to your locker. When you open the package later that day, after your shift, you see that there is a handwritten note along with a new set of scrubs.

Pepper Potts: "Good morning! Welcome to Starbucks! How are you and how can I help you today?" comes your faked cheery voice through the speaker.

"Good morning Y/N. It's Pepper again. I'm pretty good today. I'll get my usual sweetheart."

"Alright Pepper, that will be a grande iced caramel macchiato with a double espresso shot and extra caramel drizzle?"

"That's right Y/N."

"Alright, I'll see you at the window." When she drives up to the window she had a slip of paper prepared as well as her card.

"Card and this is for you sweetie. Text me when you get off your shift, cutie." she says handing you the slip of paper as you stick the machine out the window for her to pay. Your nose scrunches in happiness at her little pet names. You hand her the drink and she throws you a wink before driving off.

Peter Parker: "Peter, you're going to be paired up with... Y/N," says your biology teacher before moving onto the next pair. When your teacher finishes going through his list he lets you go off into your pairs.

"Hi, uh, I'm Peter. Nice to meet you," he says, sticking a hand out for you to shake.

"Hi, I'm Y/N. Can you explain to me what we're doing? I kinda zoned out when he was explaining what we were doing."

"Oh, yeah totally. You did look kinda blank faced for a while. Is anything wrong?"

"No, just tired. So, the project?"

"Oh yeah! So we're..."

Sam Wilson: "Watch out!" comes a yell from above you. You're sitting on the edge of your apartment complex, not expecting a man with a metal wings to be coming in for a landing, aimed right where you sit.

"Shit!" you exclaim, rolling back onto the main part of the roof, leaving the edge for the man to land safely.

"Thanks!" he says, as the wings fold themselves into a pack on his back. He pushes his goggles up on his head and smiles at you. "Sam Wilson. Nice to meet you," he sticks his hand out towards you.

"Y/N Y/L/N, you too," you says as you climb back onto the ledge. You ignore his and and pull your phone out of your pocket.

"What'cha doing out here? Sitting out on the ledge isn't exactly safe, you know."

"Oh I know. I'm fine. Just waiting for the right photo op. I should've taken one of you, now that I think about it. That would've been a really cool shot," you say, holding your phone in your lap.

"Photo op? Are you a photographer?"

"Oh no, I just like taking pretty photos in my free time. It relaxes my brain after a long day."

"I'd love to get to know you some more. Would you let me take you out for coffee sometime?"

"Sure! I'd love that! Here, put yourself in my phone." You hand the man your phone. He types in his number.

"Text me sometime beautiful." he winks at you before heading to the other side of the roof before leaping off and spreading his wings.

Steve Rodgers: "Miss. Y/L/N? I'm here to see Nick." says the blonde super soldier coming through the door.

"Hello Mr. Rogers. Mr. Fury is on a phone call of a personal matter at the moment. You'll have to wait a moment until he hangs up. Please have a seat. These calls sometimes take a few minutes." you say, not looking up from your laptop.

"Do you really call him Mr. Fury?" asks the man, sitting in the chair across from yours.

"When speaking about him yes, when speaking to him no. I try to be professional, you know."

Bucky Barnes: You're sitting curled up in a chair in your favourite little cafe on Broadway, tears streaming down your cheeks as you continue to read on your laptop. "Y/N! Need another drink, love?" calls one of the baristas.

"Yes please. The usual, please. Just add it to my tab."

"Sure thing! I'll bring it out to ya in a minute." she calls. You refocus on the words in front of you and scroll to the next page of the book. When she places the drink down next to you, you absentmindedly reach for it and accidentally grab a mans hand.

"Hi there doll," he flirts, interlacing your fingers together. Your cheeks flush under the tear stains.

"Hi, sorry. Didn't mean to grab your hand," you mumble, trying to pull your hand away.

"It's okay doll. Do you want to talk about why you're crying?"

"I'm editing a book. Its a sad romance novel. It's my job. My name's Y/N by the way."

"I'm James but my friends call me Bucky," he says softly, thumb rubbing softly against the back of your palm.

"Can we stay holding hands for a while?" you ask shyly.

"Of course doll. You can lean on me as well, if you like. I won't mind." You blush harder than you did before as you tilt yourself to lean against his shoulder.

Bruce Banner: As you walk into the lab at the Avengers complex for your first day, what you weren't expecting to see was Mr. Stark and Dr. Bruce Banner waiting for you. "Um, hi?" you say, grabbing a lab coat off the wall.

"Hello, good morning. I take it that you're Y/N?" says Stark, coming forward to shake your hand, a flirty smile on his face.

"Yes and it's Dr. Y/L/N to you Mr. Stark, same as you Dr. Banner. We are not to the point where you can address me as my first name, we just met. Dr. Banner, where do you want me to start this morning?" You say, ignoring the billionaires hand, slipping the white coat on.

"I have a stack of chemical equations that need reviewing. If you wouldn't mind, Dr. Y/L/N. They are at the back, on the lab bench."

"Not a problem." You nod to the pair of men infront of you and walk away.

"Hardass."

"I heard that Stark," you call over your shoulder.

Natasha Romanoff: "Morning Romanoff. Have you met Agent Y/L/N yet?" calls Maria Hill as the Black Widow enters the training room at the Shield Head Quarters.

"No I haven't, but I've heard about her a bunch from Clint."

"Not surprised. That's her doing pull ups over there. Hey! Y/L/N! Get your ass over here."

"I'm busy Hill!" you yell back, completing another rep before hopping down to the floor. You walk over to the treadmills and start one up for a brisk jog. A couple minutes the red headed assassin joins you, running on the machine next to you.

"Hi, nice to meet you Y/L/N," she says as she runs at the same speed as you.

"You to Romanoff. Big fan of your work with the Avengers Initiative," you say, calmly.

"Thanks. Wanna go for dinner sometime?"

"Sure, why not. Get my number from Clint." You hop off the treadmill without another word, grab your towel and walk out without looking back. Your actions leave the red head stunned.

"Yeah, she does that a lot. She's got ADHD or something, forgets about social formalities a lot. Don't worry, Nat. That means she likes you and her brain was to fogged over by your presence to remember that it's not normal to just leave a conversation hanging," says Hill, coming up behind Romanoffs shoulder.

"Okay then. Real cutie she is though, don't you think?"

"Oh hell yeah. She's fucking adorable, especially when she gets really excited about something. When Fury assigned her her first mission, she was quite literally bouncing in place. She's so fucking cute Nat."

Clint Barton: "Y/L/N! Your four o'clock is here!" yells Samantha from the front desk. Your head whips up from your desktop at the sound of her voice and you push your chair back as you stand up.

You open the door to your massage studio and step out. You stride down the hall as fast as your heels allow to the waiting area. "Mr. Barton? Come on back." A dirty blonde man stands up and begins to follow you back to your studio. When you get inside and the door is shut, the man in front of you visibly relaxes. "Have a seat Mr. Barton. This first session is to mainly just get to know your needs. First things first, hello, my name is Y/N Y/L/N. Where did you hear about me?" you ask softly, returning to your seat at your desk. You gesture to the man to sit alongside you.

"My best friend, Natasha Romanoff, is one of your clients and she suggested I come to get help for some of my past injuries that still hurt. I'm a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent and you're like the only approved massage therapist on the list they gave me."

"Oh! Nat reccomended me! You must be the man she affectionately refers to as 'BirdBrain' am I right?" You giggle, thinking back to your last session with the ginger woman.

"Yep, that would be me. Call me Clint, please. My shoulders and lower back have been killing me recently. Tasha says you do wonders for her phantom injury pain, figured I might as well give it a try."

"Well I'm glad you did. Let's get started, shall we? If you wouldn't mind taking your shirt off and laying face down on my table, that would be great. I'll give you a moment of privacy." You say, leaving the room briefly. "You don't mind if I use oil, do you?" You ask as you re-enter a couple of minutes later.

"Not at all. Tasha said you have a really nice lavender one, could you use that?" You roll your eyes at his comment and pull out your lavender oil from your pot of boiling water.

"Nat does love this one. You might not, it's pretty strong." you warn, pouring some onto your hands before you begin.

Wanda Maximoff: "What's in that crate?" Asks Wanda, pointing at wire crate in the middle of the lab floor. As she stares, the crate rattles, as if whatever is inside is throwing itself around.

"That is another experiment, Miss. Maximoff. Leave it at that. Someone take the twins back to their quarters. It's time to unveil our masterpiece," says one of the scientists. The twins are pulled away and forced into their induvidual cells. A couple hours later a limp female body is thrown on the bed in the cell across from Wandas.

"Hello? What is your name?" calls Wanda through the fiberglass. The girls head raises up slightly, and she gives the twins a confused look, pointing to herself weakly. "Yes! You! What is your name, dear?"

"Y/N... Y/L/N."

"Hi Y/N, I'm Wanda this is my twin Pietro. What did they do to your ears?"

"I- I don't have human ears. I have the ears of a cat. I'm what they called a Panthera pardus hybrid. I don't know what that means, but my teefs hurt and so does my back," the girl, Y/N, slurs before passing out.

Pietro Maximoff: You sit on a bench, in the midst of Central Park and just close your eyes, notebook in your lap. You had just finished an interview with a witness of a story you were writing, and it was a tough one. You let the tears roll down your cheeks in silence. You feel a cold gust of wind blow past you then you hear someone rapidly backpedal before a heavily accented voice speaks to you. "What is a beautiful lady like you doing crying?"

"I'm fine sir, just leave me be please." you say, not opening your eyes. After a moment you assume he left, but when you open your eyes the man still stands there. You let your eyes scan his frame as you take in his foreign beauty.

"Please, miss. Don't cry. Sadness doesn't suit a beautiful woman's face, such as yours." He runs off then, a blue blur leaving you shocked.

Thor Odinson: You wander through the royal gardens as the sun begins to set in the far off distance. You hear footsteps behind you but think nothing of it, probably someone else taking in the beauty of the gardens."Hello," booms a voice behind you. You freeze in your tracks, you would recognize the voice of Prince Thor anywhere.

You twirl around on your heel, your abnormally short skirt flaring out around your thighs, presenting the Prince with a pleasant smile. "Good evening, my Prince." you greet, beginning to bow.

"No need for the formalities outside of the palace m'lady. May I join you on your walk?"

"I would be honoured!"

"Wonderful! Would you mind telling me your name, m'lady?" he asks as he offers you his large arm.

You slip yours through his and let him lead you forward. "My name is Y/N. It is an honour to meet you, Prince." you say, your cheeks flushing red as you tilt your head to peer up at the man.

"Please, call me Thor. Do you come here often, Y/N?"

"As often as I can."

Loki Laufeyson: "Y/N! Hurry up! We can not be late to the banquet!" your sibling shouts. You roll your eyes as you lace up your dancing shoes.

"We are fine! The banquet doesn't start for another half hour!" you yell back. Fluffing your skirt as you drop it back down your legs, you make your way over to your mirror to fix your hair. Adjusting a few strands, you also touch up your lipstick.

"Are you finished yet?"

"Yes! Yes I am! I'm coming! Gods, you're so impatient!" you grumble aas you throw open your bedroom door.

~Time Skip~ *Fourty Five Minutes Later, At The Banquet In The Palace*

You stand against the wall, watching all of the people twirl around as they dance along to the music. Suddenly you feel a light tap on your shoulder, causing you to jump with surprise. To your great shock, Prince Loki is standing next to you. "Hello. May I have a dance, m'lady?" he asks, holding his hand out towards you.

"Oh! Yes! Yes, you may! I must warn you, I'm not a very good dancer," you say, placing your hand in his.

"No worries, love. I'm very capable of leading you in a simple waltz." he says, winking at you. You let him wisk you onto the dancefloor and into his arms. His hands are very gentle as he leads you through the steps with practiced ease. When the song ends you expect him to let go of you, but to your surprise he doesn't. "Come with me to the balcony. We can chat a little better out there." He says, a light hand on your lower back, leading you from the bustling crowd.

Lady Sif: "Hello? Is there anyone in here?" calls a females voice from the doorway of the armoury.

"Yes! One moment!" You call back from the curtained half of the room. You put the blade you were mending onto a nearby anvil before wiping your hands on your apron. You slip past the curtain and are faced with the legendary warrior Lady Sif. "Hello, Lady Sif! What can I do for you this morning?" you greet, heart fluttering in your chest.

"Hello, my blade is becoming slightly dull right here along the edge. Could you sharpen it for me quickly? And it's late afternoon now, sweetie." she teases, pointing to a spot along her sword’s edge.

"Is it really?! Wow! I've been back there all day mending blades, so I guess I really wouldn't know all too well. I'll go sharpen that for you now, shouldn't take long." You take her sword from her and walk back behind the curtain. Grabbing your sharpening stone you quickly sharpen the dull part off the edge before wiping off residue of the stone with bottom of your apron. You walk back out to the woman and hand her the weapon back which she sheats with ease.

"Thank you..?"

"Oh, sorry! My name is Y/N!" you giggle, holding your hand out for her to shake. She shakes your hand and smiles lightly at you.

"Nice to meet you Y/N. I'll see you another time, sweetie." she winks at you before leaving. You jaw drops as you stare after her.

Stephen Strange: "Who's that?" asks Stephen, pointing at a woman floating ten feet above the ground as she meditates. He points to her floating form, confusion etched onto his face.

"That is Y/N. She is one of most advanced people here other than the Ancient One. She's been here for years and refuses to leave. The Ancient One continuously reminds us to stay away from her when she meditates, she can hurt you immensely without an eye opening. So stay the fuck away from her, Strange. I know she is gorgeous but she is not one to be fucking with. The woman could kill you in a heartbeat," warns Wong, as he watches you float with ease.

"How long has she been here?"

"Roughly six years if I remember correctly. She came here in worse shape than you. I remember her first day clearly. She refused to speak to any of us, but was clearly accepting all the information, unlike you did,"

"How powerful is she?"

"No one really knows, she refuses to spar or demonstrate any form of power. She also isn't one for speaking to strangers. Someone she tolerates would have to introduce you to her, though this is one of the few times a month she leaves her room."

"Does she not leave her room very often?"

"No, she doesn't. She isn't one for people or disturbances. Shit, she is going to hit the branch! Fuck she's gonna be pissed at lunch."

Carol Danvers: "Fury, who's the newbie at the computer?" asks Carol.

"That is Agent Y/L/N. She's been here for a few months now, she's not all that new. She's a great field agent and she's comfortable behind a desk. She works really well with most of the agents I've paired her with, except Hill. The pair of them despise each other for some reason. I find it extremely amusing to force Y/L/N to sit in a briefing or debriefing held by Hill. All the kid does is roll her eyes at her and Hill glares at the kid the entire time."

"Cute. I'm going to ask her on a date. She seems my type. When's her next day off?" asks Carol, glancing towards Nick.

"Thursday. Her next day off is Thursday."

"Thanks Nick!" she says, walking towards you. "Hey, I'm Carol Danvers. Nice to meet you." she perches on the edge of your desk.

You glance up at her and gape. After a moment you collect yourself enough to actually speak to the woman in front of you. "Hi, I- I'm Y/N! It's nice to meet you Miss. Danvers! Is there something you need?"

"Yeah actually. I was wondering if you would wanna go on a date with me. Just something small, to get coffee or something. I was thinking this Thursday, if you like?"

"Uh, yeah I'm off Thursday so, why not! Where do you want to meet?"

"Oh, no. Give me your number, text me your address and I'll pick you up at eight." She hands you her phone and you quickly type your number in. "There, I texted you. Text me sometime, cutie."

T'Challa: As you slip out of your office building you notice a small crowd around a single man. You roll your eyes as you walk down the street. Throwing your hood up against the slight wind, you keep your head down. "Hey! Hands up!" yells one of the men.

Your head jerks up as you look behind you, thinking they were talking to someone else. "What?" you ask confused, seeing that you were the only other person on the street.

"Put your hands up!" the same man yells again.

"No! Fuck off! I'm just trying to go home! I'm not doing anything illegal." You shout back, stepping onto the road to walk around the group. After you walk past them you hear a slight muttering from the group.

"But Your highness-"

"No! Ma'am! Could I have a moment of your time?" calls a kind voice behind you. You stop in your tracks and turn back to face the man speaking.

"What is it? I've been at work since six this morning, I'm tired and I really just want to go home." you say, looking up at the man in front of you, eye bags prominent under your eyes.

"This won't take long. I just wanted to apologize for the way my men reacted. My name is T'Challa, I'm the King of Wakanda, I just wanted to give you my number. You're a very beautiful woman and you're clearly very hard working. That is the type of person I like to put myself around. If you ever need a break from the city, send me a message." says the man, handing you card with a phone number scrawled on it.

"Thank you sir. Apology accepted. I might just take you up on that offer," you say as you turn away from him. You slip the piece of paper into your pocket as you continue to walk down the empty street.

A.N: I know Pepper's wasn't necessarily their first time meeting but it's cute so oh well

[thistleandpoppies]

Star-Crossed, p.1

The real problem with stories—if you kept them going long enough, they always ended in death. Perhaps Hob knew that better than anyone.

But what he also learnt better than anyone was how to go on with his life despite deaths all around. How to wake up, make some coffee, cook himself a hearty breakfast, and go on. Sometimes that required occasional crying at the most inconvenient and embarrassing moments, and sometimes that required wiping down his whole personality and starting life anew somewhere in Goa. If so, who was there to judge him? He was on his own, blessed with the gift of immortality (or cursed with the gift of death being withdrawn, as Morpheus would dramatically phrase it), free to roam as he pleased. And roam he did. Quite a lot.

And that’s how he found himself at 6 AM in his Airbnb in Stockholm, where he had taken off without a single thought of the mess he had left behind in London. Somewhere there, his colleagues were struggling to fill in his lectures, his students were trying to understand whether their charming history professor really abandoned them mid-term, and his neighbors were gossiping the hell about his disappearance. Not like any of that mattered anymore.

Hob rose from the sofa and automatically tried to stretch his neck, muscles tense as a stone. He would often tell himself that he was too old to sleep anywhere but on a good mattress—one of the few luxuries that absolutely made it into his must-have list over the centuries—and even now, he realized that he did himself no favors having collapsed last night in the living room, twenty meters away from the proper bed, but truth be told, it was a rare moment when he couldn't care less about his beauty sleep.

He made it to the kitchen, opened the tap, and swallowed a glass of cold water in one go. There was a very basic Nespresso machine awaiting on the counter, a colorful assortment of capsules filling the glass vase next to it. Morpheus’ favorites were amber Whiskey Essence (upon learning it, Hob stocked an obscene number of packs in his pantry—it was a limited edition, after all) and frozen blue Ice Forte. Unlike him, Hob was happy with literally anything—his friends and colleagues dragged him to multiple coffee masterclasses, and while Hob appreciated their concern and could now distinguish Vienna Roast from Dark Roast, he was still happy with any coffee-like substance in his cup. Dream and Death could take a guy out of the Middle Ages, but they could never take the Middle Ages out of a guy.

Nespresso growled, pouring Ice Forte into the plain Ikea cup, and Hob did everything he could to focus on the sound of the machine’s mechanical insides and the smell of freshly brewed coffee, to ground himself at the moment, but his daydreams, as always, overpowered him. Who was he but not a slave to his dreams, in the end?

“This does not sound. Pleasant. At the slightest,” said Morpheus suspiciously and wrinkled his nose the first time he saw Hob making coffee at home.

“True, love, but you’re going to appreciate the result. I still like to make coffee the old-fashioned way, in a stovetop maker, but this thing,” he nodded at Nespresso, “just saves the day when I’m late to class. Besides, I really wanted to show you the coffee machines. One of the greatest inventions of recent times, if you ask me.” Hob smiled cheerfully and handed Dream the iittala cup he had bought specifically for him. Not that he was about to confess it. At least, not now.

Dream regarded black strokes gracefully adorning white ceramics and took the cup in his hand, lightly brushing Hob’s fingers.

“I know this dreamer even though I met him. Only recently. He found inspiration when I was not here. Still.”

Hob smiled gently and just pointed at Dream’s mug with his own, coming from the same set but painted in vibrant blues and reds.

“You should try it while it’s hot, you know. Of course, cold coffee is also a thing, but we’ll leave ice latte and frappuccino for some other time.”

Morpheus nodded solemnly, as if agreeing to a new political alliance instead of trying a new type of beverage, and slowly took a sip. Hob barely breathed, watching him and smiling like a lovesick fool.

Hob shook his head, discarding the reverie, and finally brought the mug to his lips.

His coffee was already lukewarm.

---

The beginning features the quote by Neil Gaiman from The Sandman Vol. 1: Preludes & Nocturnes: "She's realized the real problem with stories—if you keep them going long enough, they always end in death."

[ace-vending]

How to Curate the Perfect Office Pantry: Essentials Every Workplace Should Have

A well-stocked office pantry is a crucial element of workplace culture. It not only fuels employees throughout the day but also fosters camaraderie and enhances productivity. To create the perfect office pantry, it’s essential to curate a selection of items that cater to diverse preferences and dietary needs. Here’s a guide to the essentials every workplace should have.

1. Coffee and Tea Selection

Quality Coffee

For many employees, coffee is an essential part of their daily routine. Offering high-quality coffee can make a significant difference in their workday. Consider providing a variety of coffee options, including:

Ground Coffee: Offer a selection of blends (light, medium, and dark roast) to cater to different tastes.

Single-Serve Pods: If you have a single-serve coffee machine, provide a range of pods, including decaf options.

Creamers and Sweeteners: Include milk, non-dairy creamers, sugar, and artificial sweeteners for personalization.

Assorted Teas

Not everyone drinks coffee, so having a diverse tea selection is vital. Offer a variety that includes:

Herbal Teas: Options like chamomile or peppermint for a caffeine-free choice.

Green and Black Teas: Classic options that many employees enjoy.

Specialty Teas: Flavored or seasonal teas can add variety.

2. Healthy Snacks

Fruits and Vegetables

Fresh produce can provide a nutritious snacking option. Stock up on:

Whole Fruits: Apples, bananas, and oranges are easy to grab and eat.

Veggie Packs: Pre-cut carrots, celery sticks, and cherry tomatoes can be paired with hummus or dip.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are excellent sources of protein and healthy fats. Offer a variety of:

Mixed Nuts: A blend of almonds, walnuts, and cashews can be both satisfying and nutritious.

Trail Mix: Pre-packaged or homemade trail mix can provide a quick energy boost.

Granola and Protein Bars

Granola and protein bars are convenient, on-the-go options that can help sustain energy levels. Look for:

Variety Packs: Offering different flavors ensures there's something for everyone.

Nut-Free Options: Be mindful of allergies and include nut-free bars for those with dietary restrictions.

3. Indulgent Treats

While healthy options are essential, it’s also important to have some indulgent treats to keep morale high. Consider including:

Chips and Popcorn: Provide a selection of chips or popcorn for a crunchy snack option.

Cookies and Brownies: Individually packaged or homemade treats can brighten up the workday.

4. Hydration Options

Water

Staying hydrated is vital for overall health. Ensure your pantry includes:

Bottled Water: Offer still and sparkling options.

Infused Water: Provide fruits or herbs (like lemon or mint) for employees to infuse their water, encouraging healthy hydration.

Alternative Beverages

In addition to water, include other beverage options, such as:

Sparkling Water: A refreshing alternative to soda.

Juices: 100% fruit juice can be a tasty addition to the beverage lineup.

5. Essential Supplies

Lastly, don’t forget the essential supplies to support pantry functionality:

Utensils and Plates: Keep disposable or reusable utensils, plates, and cups on hand for convenience.

Napkins and Towels: Having these available can help maintain cleanliness and organization.

Conclusion

Curating the perfect office pantry involves a thoughtful selection of items that cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs. By providing quality coffee and tea, healthy snacks, indulgent treats, hydration options, and essential supplies, you can create a pantry that boosts morale and productivity. A well-stocked pantry not only keeps employees energized but also fosters a sense of community in the workplace, making it an invaluable resource for any organization.

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Blind Offer 4

Warnings: this fic will include dark content such as noncon, manipulation, and possible untagged elements. My warnings are not exhaustive, enter at your own risk.

This is a dark!fic and explicit. 18+ only. Your media consumption is your own responsibility. Warnings have been given. DO NOT PROCEED if these matters upset you.

Summary: After a leak causes you to evacuate your apartment, your landlord offers a vacant unit that’s too good to be true. (short!plus!reader)

Character: Steve Rogers, Bucky Barnes, Lloyd Hansen, and August Walker

Note: Monday was like a punch in the face. This is one of my Corrupt-A-Wish requests but I won’t reveal which one right away because it’ll be part of the plot!

As per usual, I humbly request your thoughts! Reblogs are always appreciated and welcomed, not only do I see them easier but it lets other people see my work. I will do my best to answer all I can. I’m trying to get better at keeping up so thanks everyone for staying with me <3

Your feedback will help in this and future works (and WiPs, I haven’t forgotten those!)

Love you like I love turning intended one shots into series. Take care. 💖

It’s not often you manage to sleep in. It’s a true feat for you to wake up after nine on your days off and not lay wakeless and frustrated at six in the morning. Despite this, you feel less than rejuvenated. In fact, you’re exhausted as you sit up and rub your eyes with the heels of your hand.

Dizziness follows you from the bed as you stumble to the bathroom. After letting out the pressure in your bladder, you rinse your face with cold water in an attempt to chase away the dregs of fatigue. You grumble and leave your reflection in the dark.

You snatch up your phone and head downstairs. You flip through your notifs, including a message from your landlord. You’re not entirely surprised by the good night. He seems to struggle with his social filter and timing. Sending you sweet dreams after midnight isn’t exactly sauve.

Whatever. He’s a bit strange but he could’ve lied and charged you for the washer. He could’ve even made you pay for a hotel. As odd as this whole arrangement has become, your complaints can’t outweigh the trouble saved.

You set up the coffee machine to brew and turn to lean in the crook of the counter, enamoured with your phone. You know it’s bad to just sit there staring at a screen at first light but you’re slightly disoriented. You feel like you have to do something to keep from thinking too much.

The coffee is a bit strong. You choke it down as you bring up your inbox. Maybe you should check in about the apartment. Today would be perfect to get back to normal. You have a stretch of five days coming up and you would rather not be scrambling to pack up on a work night.

You bring up Steve’s chat and ignore his last text; ‘sweet dreams, sweetheart ✨’. That’s better left unacknowledged. 

‘Hey, wondering what it’s looking like at my apartment. When do you think it’ll be ready?’

You hit send and stare into the depth of your coffee. The taste isn’t what you’re used to. You like a lighter roast over the smoky dark flavour. You force it down for the much-needed dose of caffeine and rinse the cup. You pause and stare at the dish rack. It’s empty.

You set your glass inside and reach to open the cupboard above. All the dishes are neatly stacked. The plate you used last night set with the rest. The pans are away and the cutlery too. You swore you left them to dry.

You shake off the ripple of unease. Your phone buzzes and you look down at the incoming call. He can’t just text?

You answer it, clearing your throat before you croak out a hello.

“Hey, uh, sorry I haven’t updated you. Been pretty busy,” Steve jumps right in. You can hear activity on his end of the line, “it’s not looking like this will be done today.”

“Oh, really?” You sigh, “well, okay. Thanks for letting me know–”

“Rogers–” Someone calls from his end and he quickly shushes them.

“Yeah, it’s turning out to be a bigger issue than I thought but if you need anything at all, let me know.”

“Of course, thanks. Um, I’ll let you go. You sound pretty busy.”

“Just a lit–”

The line cuts off. You pull the phone away from your cheek and look at the screen. The timer is paused and the call moves to your history. You’re sure if there’s anything important, Steve will call you back.

You bring up the tab viewer and clear away all the windows. You open a new app and stare at the logo, waiting for it to load. It doesn’t. You close out and try again. Hmm. You pull down the menu and check the wifi; connected without internet. Really?

You notice the bars at the top of your phone are gone too, a circle with a line blink over them. No service either. What the hell? A tower might be out. You put your phone screen down and leave it in the kitchen. You’ll give it twenty and hope it’s back up once you’re dressed.

Upstairs, you dig out an outfit to lounge around in and start on your daily routine. Brush your teeth, cleanse, moisturise, the very basics that make you feel human. Usually, the process renews you but today, everything is a task. You feel and look drawn.

You pull on your lavender sweat and plain white tank. You go back downstairs and retrieve your phone. Still no signal. That means you have to entertain yourself. Or… maybe you can find a coffee shop with a functioning hotspot. You could use something sweet after the bitter dark roast.

You pull on your sneakers and slide your phone into your purse. You jingle the keys as you approach the door. You tend to use the doorcode, it’s just easier, but just in case the wifi is messing with the system. You flip the latch back then grab the handle and twist.

The door doesn’t budge. You try again, yanking harder. You use both hands, pulling on it until you’re out of breath. What the fuck? Are you locked in?

You go to the small box mounted beside the door and check the screen. Armed and secured. Okay? You punch in the code Steve sent you but the thing just beeps at you five times and shows ‘incorrect passcode’. You try again, making sure you punch it in slowly so you don’t get any numbers backwards. The same incessant beeping sounds.

“Ugh!” You cross your arms and step back. You can’t even call Steve to tell him.

You fish out your phone and raise it above you. You walk through each room, trying to find a signal. Nothing. You sniff and try to disconnect and reconnect to the wifi. It doesn’t work. You don’t even know where the router is to reset it.

Panic starts to crawl its way up your body. This is so strange. You’re trapped here, alone, isolated. On your day off, too.

You put your purse down and your phone and go to the window in the front room. Try to push it open but it won’t move. The clasp does nothing to free it and your distress begins to build. What is going on?

You lean forward and look outside, hoping you might chance on an elusive neighbour or a passerby. Nothing. The street is just as empty as usual. 

What do you do? Just sit and wait? You’re at a loss.

You stagger back and fall heavily onto the couch, holding your head in your hands. Something isn’t right, you can feel it, but your mind nips at your intuition. It’s nothing. These things happen. Bad luck comes in threes; broken washer, shitty encounters, and now, you’re cut off from the world. 

You’re through the worst, right?

🖤

You doze off in the tedium of your new wireless existence. You don’t realise until you come too, face down on the leather couch with an arm hanging down to the floor. You bend your elbow and push yourself up, a pang sparking across your lower back from the stiff cushions. You look around, searching for your bearings.

You lean forward and take your phone. It’s been almost two hours since the world shut you out. The service bar is still blinking and the wireless is still disconnected. Goddamn it!

You climb to your feet and shake your head, trying to free yourself from the cobwebs. You’re hungry. You should eat. It’ll give you something to do.

You take out the prepackaged salad in a plastic container. You should eat it before it starts to wilt. You pop the lid off and add the little packets of nuts and cranberries, then drizzle over the dressing. You stir around the leaves, coating them with the oily vinaigrette.

You eat slowly, staring at the fridge and the touchscreen set into it. Fancy fridge. Fancy everything in this place. You almost miss the simplicity of your rattling fridge and leaky washer.

You get about halfway through the salad and give up on the dry kale. Not enough dressing in the world can make that good. You close up the container and put it back in the fridge.

You trail back up the hall to the entryway. You grab the handle again, wrench as you pull on it with all your might. You plant your feet and grunt, fighting to pull it from the frame. You stop and flip the latch, thinking maybe you accidentally locked it. Nope, still stuck.

“It’s not going to open,” a voice echoes from the high ceilings.

You spin and press your back to the door, looking around frantically for the intruder. You don’t know that voice. There’s no one there. Oh god, are you going crazy?

“What the fuck is going on?” You ask aloud, cringing as you realise that is definitely insane. You’re talking to a house.

“I said, it won’t open,” the deep timbre comes again. You gulp.

“Wh- where are you? What– Who–” you sputter, confused at what’s going on. You push away from the door and spin, searching for a shadow or ghost. Whatever it is that’s possessed this place.

“I can see you but you can’t see me,” the narrator says.

You still and turn back to face the security box. Still armed and secured. You pivot slowly, searching the walls and the corners.

Even if you found the cameras, what would you do?”

You squeak and clap your hands together. Okay, this is fucked up. This has to be a nightmare. You close your eyes and bow your head, willing yourself to wake up.

“Rogers is right. You’re a nervous one.”

You pop your head up and stare at the ceiling, “what are you talking about? What is going on?”

The voice laughs. You shake your head as you sink your nails into the back of your hands, clenching them tight. Your heart pounds behind your ears, spinning your head.

“Steve? You know Steve?” You ask desperately.

“Doll, you can ask all the questions you want. You give answers, I don’t.”

You whimper, eyes wetting in horror. This can’t be real. It can’t be. Whatever this is, Steve will come and let you out. Whoever this creep is who hacked his system if just fucking with you.

“Shut up,” you snap, “you… you weirdo. What the fuck?”

“You got a filthy mouth,” he rebukes, “lady’s shouldn’t talk like that.”

You reel and stammer. You scoff and pull your hands apart, trying to steady yourself, “fuck you, dude. Men shouldn’t be doing whatever the fuck it is you’re doing. Spying on me, or whatever.”

There’s a click and silence. You wait for a response. Nothing. You spin again, searching. “Hello?”

Your voice reverberates around you. No answer. Just the still, stolid silence of the house.

A low whir underlines the quiet and you face the door again. The narrow windows along either side begin to disappear. You can’t believe your eyes. Black barriers descend over the glass and block out the sun.

You rush into the front room, finding the same thing on the wide bay window. You rush over but can’t stop it, recoiling before the barrier can crush you. Shit, shit, shit. 

“What is happening?” You holler as you face the open room.

Again, you’re left with your own question. You don’t get it. Is this a joke? Wait, what if this isn’t Steve’s place? You were always told not to trust a landlord…

🖤

You pace and pace until your legs give out. You're weak and wilted. Your mind as addled as your body. You don't get it!

You cry out, begging for an answer; what's happening? Who is this bodiless voice? What do they want from you?

Is this what it's like to snap? To enter psychosis? It can't be real yet you don't think you could machinate such a fantastical terror on your own.

You lay in a heap on the floor, waiting for whatever comes next. It's all you can do. Your fingers are bruised and scraped from clawing at the door and windows. Your eyes are swollen from the flow of tears that rises without permission only to recede to a pulsing anger that makes your skull throb.

You hear a jingle. Digital and bubbly. You pop up and reach for your phone. You keep it on vibrate but you never know. No change. No service.

You huff. What the fuck was that? You clasp your phone tight and wobble to your feet. You walk between the couch and the low coffee table, following the jingle as it sounds again.

You enter the kitchen and find the screen of the Amazon Echo flashing at you from the counter. Where it once displayed the time and weather, you see a blaring font. You get closer and lean in to read it.

'Go to your room. Put the dress on.'

You blink. Huh? What dress? You don't wear dresses. You shake your head and stand straight, looking up at the ceiling.

The device chimes again. You read the new message. 'Do it.'

You sigh. What the hell is this dystopian fever dream?

The screen clears, a new message; 'bad girl, your disobedience has been noted.'

Your chest knots. You don't like the sound of that. It's both frightening and enraging.

You tap the screen. Maybe you can access something through there. Maybe get the wifi working. It does the respond to your touch, it changes again.

'Turn around.'

You retract your hand and stand stalk straight. Eyes wide. You quiver as you slowly shift around. You shield yourself, expecting someone to be waiting for you.

You only find the small flatscreen mounted in the corner of the kitchen lit up. The TV screen plays the very scene you stand in. You get closer, lowering your arm as the figure on the screen does the same. The angle is high, you follow it up to the corner.

You take as step back and glance again at the smart screen on the counter. You jump as music erupts from it, a song you know, that you heard recently. 

'The world is a vampire Sent to drain Secret destroyers Hold you up to the flames And what do I get for my pain? Betrayed desires And a piece of the game'

Another message blips up on the screen. You near, hugging yourself as you read it.

'Last chance.'

You shudder and nearly swallow your tongue. You should be defiant. Be strong and stand your ground. You're utterly terrified. Is it Steve? Did he do this?

You turn solemnly away, accepting defeat. You enter the front room and almost in a trance, traipse up the stairs and down the hall. You stop in the doorway of the bedroom. You gasp.

There's a dress on your bed. It wasn't there before. You've never seen it. The red checker pattern, the wrap cut. It's old fashioned in a way. 

The music wafts up louder from the first floor. You spin back to the empty hallway. Someone else was here… are they still there?

[kupofkusa]

Discover the Kupofk Starbucks K-Cups Variety Pack: A Coffee Lover’s Dream

Are you a coffee enthusiast looking to elevate your morning routine? Look no further than the Kupofk Starbucks K-Cups Variety Pack! This carefully curated selection offers an exciting range of flavors and blends, ensuring that your coffee experience is as dynamic as your day.

Why Choose Kupofk’s Starbucks K-Cups?

Diverse Flavor Selection: The Kupofk variety pack features a delightful assortment of Starbucks' most popular blends. Whether you crave the rich, bold taste of Pike Place Roast, the smooth notes of Caffè Verona, or the refreshing essence of Starbucks® Blonde Roast, there's something for everyone.

Convenience: With K-Cups, brewing your favorite coffee has never been easier. Just pop a cup into your machine, and in minutes, you can enjoy a steaming mug of premium coffee without the fuss of traditional brewing methods.

Quality Assurance: Kupofk is committed to delivering only the best. Each K-Cup is packed with freshly ground coffee, ensuring you get the same high-quality taste you’d expect from a Starbucks café.

Perfect for Sharing: Planning a get-together or simply wanting to explore different flavors with friends? The variety pack is ideal for sampling multiple blends, making it easy to discover new favorites.

Perfect for Every Occasion

Whether you’re kickstarting your day, enjoying a midday break, or winding down in the evening, the Starbucks K-Cups Variety Pack has you covered. Each cup is designed to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle, providing that much-needed boost at any time.

How to Order

Ready to enhance your coffee experience? Ordering your Kupofk Starbucks Variety Pack is simple! Visit Kupofk’s website to explore their selection, check for deals, and find the perfect variety pack that suits your taste.

Conclusion

With the Kupofk K-Cups Variety Pack, every sip is an opportunity to explore the rich world of coffee. Treat yourself or a fellow coffee lover today and indulge in the convenience and quality that only Kupofk can offer. Say goodbye to mundane mornings and hello to an exciting coffee adventure!

[fegency]

Discover the World of Illy Capsules: A Gourmet Coffee Experience

When it comes to enjoying a rich, aromatic cup of coffee, illy capsules stand out as a premium choice for coffee enthusiasts around the globe. Known for their exquisite blends and commitment to quality, illy has revolutionized the way we experience coffee at home. At Fengany, we are excited to offer a wide range of illy capsules that bring the coffeehouse experience right into your kitchen.

Why Choose Illy Capsules?

1. Unmatched Quality

Illy has built a reputation for excellence, sourcing only the finest Arabica beans from the best coffee-growing regions worldwide. Each illy capsule contains meticulously selected coffee that is expertly roasted to create a smooth, balanced flavor profile.

100% Arabica: Illy uses only high-quality Arabica beans, known for their sweet, mild taste and rich aroma. Unlike Robusta beans, which can be bitter, Arabica beans provide a smoother, more complex flavor.

Sustainable Sourcing: Illy is committed to sustainable farming practices, ensuring that every cup you enjoy contributes to the environment and the livelihoods of farmers. They participate in the Illycaffè Sustainable Quality Program, which focuses on ethical sourcing and supporting coffee farmers.

Consistent Quality: With illy capsules, you can expect the same great taste every time. Their rigorous quality control ensures that each batch of coffee meets their high standards.

2. Convenience at Your Fingertips

With illy capsules, brewing your favorite coffee is easier than ever. The single-serve format allows you to prepare a fresh cup in minutes, eliminating the hassle of grinding beans or measuring coffee.

Quick Brewing: Simply insert an illy capsule into your compatible machine and enjoy a perfect cup in under a minute. This is especially convenient for busy mornings or when entertaining guests.

No Mess: Say goodbye to coffee grounds and messy cleanup. illy capsules provide a clean and convenient way to enjoy coffee. The capsules are designed to be easy to dispose of, making them a hassle-free option for daily use.

3. Variety of Flavors and Blends

Illy offers a diverse selection of coffee capsules, each designed to cater to different taste preferences. Whether you prefer a bold espresso or a smooth lungo, there’s an illy capsule for you.

Espresso: Rich, intense flavor with a thick crema. Each espresso capsule is packed with coffee that is specifically roasted to bring out its full-bodied character.

Lungo: A longer extraction for a lighter, milder taste. This is perfect for those who enjoy a more diluted coffee experience without sacrificing flavor.

Decaf: Enjoy the same great flavor without the caffeine. Illy’s decaffeination process retains the rich taste of their coffees, making it a fantastic option for evening enjoyment.

Flavored Varieties: Explore illy’s flavored capsules, including options like Caramel and Vanilla, for a sweet twist on your classic coffee experience.

4. Compatibility with Various Machines

Illy capsules are designed to be compatible with a range of espresso machines, making them a versatile choice for coffee lovers.

Espresso Machines: Compatible with illy's X1, X7.1, and Y3 machines, illy capsules are engineered for optimal extraction.

Nespresso Machines: illy capsules are also compatible with most Nespresso machines, offering flexibility for users. This means you can enjoy illy coffee regardless of the machine you have.

5. Innovative Packaging

Illy capsules are not only designed for performance but also for freshness. The packaging technology used in illy capsules helps preserve the coffee’s flavor and aroma until you’re ready to brew.

Airtight Sealing: Each capsule is hermetically sealed to lock in freshness and protect against oxidation. This ensures that every cup tastes as fresh as the day it was roasted.

Eco-Friendly Materials: Illy is dedicated to sustainability, and their capsules are made from recyclable materials. You can enjoy your coffee guilt-free, knowing you are making an environmentally responsible choice.

How to Brew the Perfect Cup with Illy Capsules

Brewing coffee with illy capsules is simple and rewarding. Follow these steps to ensure you get the most out of your coffee experience.

Step 1: Choose Your Capsule

Select the illy capsule that suits your taste. Whether you’re in the mood for a robust espresso or a smooth lungo, the choice is yours.

Step 2: Prepare Your Machine

Ensure your espresso machine is clean and ready to use. If you’re using a Nespresso machine, make sure it’s properly set up.

Step 3: Insert the Capsule

Place the illy capsule into the machine, ensuring it’s positioned correctly for brewing. Close the machine’s lid securely.

Step 4: Select Your Brew Size

Choose the brew size based on your preference. For a stronger flavor, opt for a shorter shot. For a milder taste, select a longer extraction.

Espresso Option: Typically around 30 ml (1 oz).

Lungo Option: Usually about 110 ml (3.7 oz).

Step 5: Enjoy Your Coffee

Once brewed, take a moment to appreciate the aroma of your freshly brewed illy coffee. Pour it into your favorite cup and enjoy the rich flavors. Pair it with a small treat to elevate your coffee break experience.

Tips for the Perfect Brew

Water Quality: Always use fresh, filtered water to enhance the flavor of your coffee. The quality of water can significantly impact the taste of your brew.

Temperature: The ideal brewing temperature for coffee is between 90-95°C (194-203°F). Ensure your machine is set to the right temperature for optimal extraction.

Storage: Store your illy capsules in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain their freshness.

The Perfect Pairings with Illy Capsules

Enhance your coffee experience by pairing your illy capsules with delicious snacks and desserts. Here are some suggestions to elevate your coffee moment:

1. Chocolate

Rich dark chocolate or chocolate pastries complement the robust flavors of illy espresso, creating a delightful contrast. The bitterness of dark chocolate balances the coffee’s acidity beautifully.

2. Pastries

Croissants, danishes, or biscotti provide a perfect crunchy texture that balances the smoothness of your coffee. A buttery croissant with a shot of illy espresso is a classic combination.

3. Cheese

Pair illy coffee with a cheese platter featuring creamy brie or aged gouda for a gourmet experience. The richness of the cheese enhances the coffee’s flavors and creates a unique tasting experience.

4. Fruit

Fresh berries or a slice of citrus cake can brighten your coffee break, adding a refreshing touch. The acidity of fruits like berries can complement the rich taste of illy coffee.

Exploring the World of Illy Coffee

The Illy Legacy

Illy was founded in 1933 by Francesco Illy in Trieste, Italy. With a passion for coffee and a vision for quality, Francesco started roasting and selling coffee, setting the stage for a legacy that continues today.

Illy has maintained its commitment to quality and innovation over the decades, introducing advanced technology and sustainable practices to enhance the coffee experience.

Innovations in Coffee Technology

Illy is known for its commitment to research and development. They have introduced innovative brewing technologies that enhance the extraction of flavors and aromas from the coffee beans. This dedication to innovation extends to their illy capsules, ensuring that you enjoy the best possible cup of coffee with every brew.

The Art of Coffee Tasting

For those who wish to delve deeper into the world of coffee, illy offers a unique experience through coffee tastings. You can learn how to appreciate the subtle flavors and aromas of different blends, enhancing your overall coffee experience.

Flavor Profiles: Discover the various flavor notes in illy coffee, such as chocolate, caramel, and floral hints.

Tasting Techniques: Learn the proper techniques for tasting coffee to fully appreciate its complexity.

Joining the Illy Community

When you choose illy, you join a global community of coffee lovers. Engage with other enthusiasts, share your experiences, and explore new blends through online forums, social media groups, and local coffee events.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a coffee aficionado or just starting your journey into the world of gourmet coffee, illy capsules offer a convenient and delicious way to enjoy high-quality coffee at home. With their rich flavors, sustainable sourcing, and easy preparation, illy capsules bring the café experience directly to you.

At Fengany, we are proud to offer an extensive collection of illy capsules that cater to every taste. Explore our selection today and discover the perfect illy capsule to elevate your coffee experience. Embrace the rich traditions of Italian coffee and indulge in a luxurious coffee break—one cup at a time.

[bussiness-stuff]

Brewing Perfection: How to Make the Most of Your Premium Medium Roast Coffee Pack

Introduction to Premium Medium Roast Coffee

There's something undeniably special about a perfectly brewed cup of coffee. When you open your premium medium roast coffee pack, you're greeted with an aroma that promises warmth and comfort. It’s not just a beverage; it’s an experience. Medium roast coffees strike the perfect balance between rich flavor and smoothness, making them ideal for any time of day. Whether you’re looking to kickstart your morning or unwind after a long day, mastering the art of brewing can elevate your daily ritual into something extraordinary. With various methods at your disposal, there’s every opportunity to unlock the full potential of those beans in your premium pack. Let’s dive into how you can brew perfection right at home!

Brewing Methods for Maximum Flavor

To unlock the full potential of your premium medium roast coffee pack, brewing method matters. Each technique brings out distinct flavors and aromas. Start with the classic drip brew. It’s simple yet effective. Use a good quality filter to allow oils and fine particles through while capturing any unwanted grit. French press fans will enjoy a fuller body in their cup. The immersion process extracts rich flavors, resulting in a bold taste profile that lingers on the palate. For espresso lovers, investing in an espresso machine is key. This method highlights intricate notes and sweetness, giving you a robust shot or creamy latte experience. Pour-over aficionados appreciate control over every step. Adjusting water temperature and pour rate can significantly alter flavor nuances for those who seek perfection in each sip. Experimentation is part of the journey; find what best complements your chosen beans for an unforgettable coffee experience.

Storage and Preservation: Keeping Your Pack Fresh

To truly enjoy your premium medium roast coffee pack, proper storage and preservation are key. Coffee is a delicate product sensitive to light, air, moisture, and heat. Protecting it from these elements ensures you savor every drop of its rich flavor. First off, consider the packaging. If your coffee comes in a resealable bag with one-way valves, that’s ideal. These bags allow gases to escape without letting air in. If not, transfer the beans into an airtight container made of glass or ceramic. Next is temperature control. Store your coffee in a cool place away from direct sunlight—think your pantry rather than on the countertop or near appliances that generate heat. Extreme temperatures can compromise flavor profiles over time. Moisture is another enemy of fresh coffee beans. Keep them away from areas with high humidity like kitchens near the sink or stove. Avoid storing coffee in the refrigerator or freezer unless you plan to use it all quickly afterward; condensation can ruin those precious beans when taken out. And don’t forget about how long you keep it around! While roasted beans maintain their best flavors for about two weeks post-roasting, ground coffee begins losing freshness within hours after grinding. With mindful storage practices, you'll ensure that each cup delivers maximum enjoyment and retains its delightful aroma—a true testament to what premium medium roast has to offer! Take care of your brew today for an extraordinary experience tomorrow.

For more information:

Whole Bean Dark Roast Coffee

Best Whole Bean Coffee Medium Roast

Whole Bean Medium Roast Coffee

[lamieus]

Unlocking the Power of Coffee: Health Benefits and Tips

☕ Why Coffee is Good for You: A Brew with Benefits ☕

Coffee is more than just a morning pick-me-up—it offers numerous health benefits that make it a valuable part of your daily routine. Here’s why you should enjoy your coffee with confidence:

1. Boosts Mental Alertness

The caffeine in coffee acts as a natural stimulant, helping to increase alertness and improve concentration. Drinking coffee can enhance cognitive function, making it easier to focus and stay productive throughout the day.

Tip: Enjoy a cup of coffee in the morning to kickstart your day with a mental boost.

2. Rich in Antioxidants

Coffee is packed with antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants play a vital role in reducing inflammation and lowering the risk of chronic diseases.

Tip: For an extra antioxidant boost, choose high-quality, freshly roasted coffee beans.

3. May Lower Risk of Certain Diseases

Research suggests that coffee consumption is linked to a reduced risk of several diseases, including type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer. The compounds in coffee may have protective effects on various aspects of health.

Tip: Moderate coffee consumption—around 3-4 cups a day—can offer these health benefits while minimizing potential risks.

4. Enhances Physical Performance

Caffeine can enhance physical performance by increasing adrenaline levels and improving endurance. Drinking coffee before a workout can give you an extra energy boost and help you perform better.

Tip: Enjoy a cup of coffee about 30 minutes before exercise to maximize your workout performance.

Brew the Perfect Cup: To experience the full benefits of coffee, use a high-quality coffee capsule machine like the Lamieus BrewMaster Pro. With its robust 1400W power rating and intelligent temperature control, the BrewMaster Pro ensures you get the perfect cup of coffee every time—whether you’re at home or on the go.

Sip and savor the benefits of coffee with Lamieus!