#cost of living in Dubai

[uglyandtraveling]

Canada vs Dubai: 10 Reasons Why the Great White North Beats the Glittering Desert

Canada vs. Dubai: Discover why the Great White North’s nature, lifestyle, and charm outshine Dubai’s glitz. Find out more!

[delusionalbubble]

Dubai or Doha, Which is Better to Visit?

Dubai and Doha are two cities in the Middle East that have a lot to offer travelers. Both cities have modern skylines, luxury shopping, and cultural attractions, making them popular destinations for tourists from around the world. However, each city has its own unique character and atmosphere, and choosing between the two can be a difficult decision. In this post, we will compare Dubai and Doha…

[theprivatewolf]

Move To Dubai From UK: A Complete Guide

Embracing a life in Dubai, especially for UK residents seeking both career growth and a fulfilling lifestyle, presents an intriguing blend of opportunities. Dubai’s inviting business landscape and vibrant setting stand out as a prime choice for aspiring business founders. Its robust economic climate offers an ideal setting for both investors and entrepreneurs to delve into diverse business prospects. This guide aims to simplify the transition and business establishment process in Dubai, a city renowned as a global financial center, ready to offer a dynamic and prosperous future for those embarking on this exhilarating journey.

Business Setup in Dubai: Understanding the Strategic Importance Dubai’s pivotal geographical positioning at the nexus of Europe, Asia, and Africa positions it as a premier destination for global business endeavors. For those in the UK considering a move or initiating a business in Dubai, comprehending the procedural and legal aspects is crucial.

Identifying Your Business Niche The initial step in forming a business in Dubai involves identifying your business’s nature and its suitability for the Dubai market. Undertake thorough market research to identify opportunities and assess the demand for your offerings. Given Dubai’s varied economic landscape, it’s important to make a well-informed choice that aligns with your expertise and market dynamics.

Selecting a Business Structure Dubai offers various business structures, each with distinct advantages and stipulations:

Free Zone Company: These zones are advantageous for international businesses, offering complete ownership, tax exemptions, and streamlined import/export procedures.

Mainland Company: Suitable for conducting business across Dubai and engaging with the local market, including government contracts. Typically, a local Emirati sponsor or partner is required.

Offshore Company: Ideal for businesses seeking a Dubai presence without local commercial activities. Often used for asset holding or international trade.

Trade Name Registration Once your business activity and structure are determined, select an appropriate trade name. Ensure it reflects your business type and adheres to the Department of Economic Development (DED) guidelines. The licensing process begins with an application submission and, upon approval, leads to obtaining necessary documentation.

Understanding Costs and Licensing Fees Establishing a business in Dubai involves various financial aspects:

Trade License Fees: These vary based on your company’s structure and activities. Free zone licenses often have fixed rates, while mainland licenses might incur additional costs.

Office Rental: Office space rental costs depend on your business type, with prices varying by location and size.

Employee Visa Expenses: Necessary for staffing, visa costs are influenced by your business nature and office space.

Effective budgeting and financial planning are essential, considering these costs can vary between free zones and mainland areas.

M.Hussnain Private Wolf | facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Linkedin

[lyfeeonline]

Life of GCC Expats: Thriving in Shared Accommodation

Dubai, a city known for its vibrant lifestyle and towering skyline, attracts thousands of expats from across the GCC region seeking better career prospects. However, with rising living costs, many expats choose shared accommodation to manage expenses while embracing a unique communal living experience. Why Shared Accommodation Works Living in shared accommodation allows expats to split hefty…

[dubiz]

How to Start a Business in UAE as a Foreigner

UAE, especially Dubai, stands as one of the world’s leading spots for entrepreneurs to launch their ventures. According to Financial Times Ltd.’s ‘fDi Markets’ data, Dubai ranked first globally in attracting new greenfield foreign direct investment (FDI) projects in 2023, marking the third successive year it has achieved this top ranking. Starting a business in Dubai as a foreigner seems highly attractive due its booming and diverse economy along with availability of skilled labour, sociopolitical stability, generous incentives and various other benefits that city offers.  

If you are a foreigner looking to start a business abroad, look no further than Dubai, UAE. This guide will inform you about the perks of starting a business in UAE, how to start a business in Dubai as a foreigner, its requirements, and associated costs. 

[homestationrealestateindubai]

Renting in Dubai: Navigating the market for professionals. Explore average apartment sizes and income opportunities to find your ideal home in the city. #DubaiCareers #ExpatLife

[topneom]

🌆 Dreaming of a life in the dazzling city of Dubai? 🏙️ Before you pack your bags, let's talk dirhams and dirhams! 💰 Discover the real cost of living in Dubai in our latest blog. From housing to education, we've got you covered.

[racinggirl]

Racing Hearts - prologue

a/n: I've spent an entire evening trying to perfect this prologue. I wanted it to give away the essence and personality of both main characters, so hopefully I made that work. I have to say that I am slightly scared, because this is my first ever multi-chapter story I'm writing, but I'm trying! Hopefully you will enjoy it.

Repost, comment or any type of support is very welcomed! It keeps me motivated 🫣

Comment down below if you want to get added to the taglist

warnings: dark!lando, confident!lando, business!lando, nothing much really, just rich people stuff.

Racing Hearts Masterlist

next chapter

Olivia

The sky was filled with a range of colours, varying between bright pinks, pastel oranges and deep, dark purples contrasting against the black from the night sky. As the wind breezed past me, the few strands of hair that weren’t tucked into my messy bun flew up in front of my face. I tightened my grip on the balcony’s railing, inhaling sharply before slowly breathing out.

I can do this. I can do this.

Tonight was one of the most important evenings of the year, the annual Charity Gala in Monte Carlo, Monaco. Me and my family lived in London, but business isn’t tied to one city, or even one country.

I’ve travelled a lot, flying to New York City for an opening of one of Harrington Enterprises newest Jewellery stores, or going all the way to Dubai to accompany my mother to one of our fabric manufacturers. They were all business trips, as was the one I’m attending on my own right now.

Monaco, home of some of the most wealthy, successful and busiest people on earth. You only lived in Monaco for two reasons. A, you were born here. B, you had plenty of money and had no idea what to do with it. Seeing as the average net worth of a Monaco citizen is above ten million dollars, I’d say ninety-nine percent of the people at this gala belonged to category B. I had to make a great impression; it was my job as the PR Director at Harrington Enterprises.

I wasn’t a stranger to a high society gala; however, I had not experienced something as extravagant as this before. High ceilings, decorated with glass chandeliers that glittered in the big open room. Waiters moving effortlessly through the crowd, holding trays with glasses filled with champagne that cost more than your average rent.

My eyes roamed the big, crowded room, searching for the man that stood number two on my list; one of the reasons my parents informed me of this Charity Gala. He was a well-known fashion icon and businessman in this world. Nate Thompson.

I spotted him at the bar, talking to the women that were nearly drooling at his feet. The man was eye-candy for every woman at this event. With broad shoulders, a sharp jawline and masculinity that made multiple men run for their money, he was one of the most successful bachelors out there.

I gathered my courage and stepped towards the man, shoulders straight with a friendly yet professional smile plastered on my lips. As I approached, Nate’s eyes met mine and he gave me one of his warm, welcoming smiles.

‘’Olivia Harrington,’’ he said, extending his hand. ‘’I’ve heard a lot about you, it’s a pleasure to finally meet you.’’

‘’The pleasure is mine, Mr. Thompson,’’ I replied, shaking his hand firmly. ‘’Such a wonderful place, isn’t it?’’ I slowly let go of his hand, keeping my posture straight and professional.

‘’Please, call me Nate,’’ he said with a wink. ‘’Mr Thompson makes me feel old.’’

As the night went on, we struck up a conversation about his newest fashion items. He spoke about different designs, as well as places for shop openings. As much as I loved the fashion world – shopping at Versace, Prada and Chanel never got boring – I had to hold back a yawn once every few minutes.

‘’Your father has done a tremendous job attaining the vacant buildings at Bond Street.’’ Nate did exactly what I expected him to do, and it surprised me how little effort I had to put into this conversation. ‘’A very, very astonishing job.’’ Nate continued speaking highly of my father’s deals.

Bond Street was one, if not the most expensive street in London. My father bought most of the houses a few years back, when the house market was at it’s lowest. It was no surprise Nate Thompson was looking for the best of the best when it came to opening his new store in London.

‘’He did, indeed,’’ I reached into my designer bag, fishing out a business card of my father’s company. ‘’It would be a perfect location for Thompson’s, wouldn’t it?’’

Nate didn’t hesitate once and reached out for the card I held out with my fingers. ‘’Pleasure doing business with you, Olivia, you’ll hear from my team.’’ A satisfied smile appeared on my face when Nate gave me a curt nod, me returning the favour by raising my glass ever so slightly.

One down, one to go.

‘’Impressive.’’ The dark, smooth voice scattered goosebumps all over my skin, it made my body react in ways I hadn’t felt in quite a while.

My eyes followed the voice, and I was met by a tall figure. A tailored black suit that hugged those broad shoulders. Dark curls that looked a perfect combination of messy and neat. Eyes, a colour that I couldn’t quite decipher. Green, blue, a hint of grey or even brown, but what I did know was that those eyes pierced straight through me, looking into the depths of my soul.

The low chuckle that rose from his throat snapped me out of my thoughts. I gathered myself and lifted my chin up ever so slightly.

Let’s tackle the number one on my list.

‘’Mr. Norris, what a pleasure.’’

Lando

Emerald green never had been one of my favourite colours, it stood out great with my tan, though. It was sophisticated, elegant and not too in your face. You’d think it would be a colour that I adored, well, you couldn’t be more wrong.

Orange was more my colour, it was fierce, available in many different shades, perfect for every occasion. Mix it with a dark shade, it stood out. Mix it with a light shade, it blended in. A perfect representation of my life.

As a racing driver, you needed dark, to stand out to be the best of the best, to catch people’s attention to gain yourself a spot in the spotlight. But you also wanted to blend in, to move through the field without getting noticed, yearning for the privacy that was so hard to attain.

In the world of business, it was similar, yet different. You needed dark so you could make money, be the best of the best, without having that spotlight. Because having that spotlight in the business world meant you needed that light more than ever, needing to blend in so you wouldn’t have that target on your back.

Combine the two, and you learn to be ahead of everyone, two steps ahead to get whatever you want, whenever you want.

I reached for a glass and raise it to my lips, my eyes staying glued to the business deal being made in front of my eyes.

Everybody that attended this Gala wasn’t here for the good sake of their heart. No, a Charity Gala was the perfect way to make it look like you’re donating money for those in need, when in fact it’s the perfect cover-up for a business deal. One that was being closed a few meters away from me.

Once the deal had been made, I made my way over with a few long strides. She didn’t hear me approach, causing her body to react instantly to my voice.

‘’Impressive.’’ I never expected Olivia Harrington to strike up a deal with Nate Thompson in just under 17 minutes. The man was harder to please than a newborn baby that needed its mom. However, I suppose when you’re looking for a new location for your shop, Bond Street was the place to be, a coincidence that Richard Harrington had exactly what Nate needed? I don’t think so.

I never underestimated the Harrington family; they were one step ahead most of the time. It’s a good thing I’m always two ahead.

‘’Mr. Norris, what a pleasure.’’ I took a hold of her hand, ignoring the way her soft skin felt against my own. ‘’Ms. Harrington.’’ Her hand let go of mine, and I grinned slightly at the subtle flush of her cheeks.

‘’Surely not eavesdropping, I hope?’’ Her soft yet sharp voice was a complete contrast to the previous shock on her face when she laid eyes on me.

‘’Merely observing.’’

My gaze flew over her body, the way that emerald green dress hugged her body in the right places, the tanned legs underneath that dress going down to the Louboutin’s she was wearing. I wasn’t one to back away from a bit of flirting, I absolutely loathed the fake smiles and pretended interest at any business event. They were necessary, for the most part, and I was amongst one of many that took part in the fake contest, but that didn’t mean I enjoyed it.

‘’I see,’’ the smile on my face was less forced this time, but I blame it on how the woman in front of me swallowed hard, a clear indication of nervousness.

A chuckle rose in my chest. ‘’No need to be nervous, Sunshine,’’ I smirked slightly. ‘’I’m not as intimidating as they say.’’ I made sure my voice was smooth and filled with confidence, as always.

‘’Nervous? Is that another of your observations, Mr. Norris?’’

‘’It is,’’ I maintained eye contact as I took another sip of the Louis Roederer drink. At least they served some decent champagne. ‘’and I’m never wrong.’’

Another harsh bob of her throat.

I was aware of the fact I was on their list of business talks. Nate Thompson may be one of the most successful men at this event, but not nearly as successful as me. Like I said before, always be two steps ahead.

‘’Now, let’s cut straight to what brought you here. Let’s talk business, shall we?’’

TAGLIST

@smoooothoperator @tapedeck-hearts @cabbyhabs @wanderingreigns @samantha-chicago @alltoomaples @ironmaiden1313 @pinkbookloverslife @onlyzahraaaa

[ana-bananya]

Help Seme Support her family in Dubai

$27,066/$30,000 CAD

This campaign was previously shared by Sara (@/bsonblast).

Seme's family were able to evacuate to Dubai back in September, but they have been struggling to find employment. Seme has been trying to support them financially, but she is a single mother and cannot cover the costs alone.

Seme's family have rent, groceries, and medical expenses they are unable to afford. With the difficulty they've had finding work in the UAE, the family has recently been considering relocating to Kenya. But right now they do not have the means to afford to move. The funds from this campaign will help Seme's family be able to afford to continue living in Dubai and put some money away to afford to move, should they choose to do so.

Please donate and share to help Seme support her family and see that their needs are met.

[dawn-the-rithmatist]

Hmmmmm okay more scholomance posting!! Because I can’t stop!!

I just finished rereading the golden enclaves, and I really love how the other scholomance students are her strongest allies in this book. Maybe it’s just because they know her, but they’re the first ones to stick their necks out to speak for her. At first it’s in the “we desperately need help and El is maybe the only one who can save us” way, but even after that, when given the chance to side with enclaves (those things they’ve been fighting with their lives to be a part of for four! Years!) they keep choosing to side with her!

It doesn’t make sense from a selfish standpoint, particularly at the end with the enclave war. If they just kept their heads down and didn’t cross her, she wouldn’t have affected them. But the way that they all join her, even when it means turning their backs on their own enclaves, is so similar to everyone banding together in the Scholomance.

It feels like a big theme in these books that once these people- and the ones in Shanghai, and the ones in Dubai, and the ones in London in the end!- are shown there’s another option, one that may be uncomfortable but that WORKS without sacrificing people, they choose it! And continue to choose it! Orion chooses it too, once he knows the reality of what he is, even if choosing it means that he doesn’t survive.

It’s the most hopeful thing in the books to me, particularly when they end on Ophelia earning a position of power and El potentially being hunted down for her work in killing maw mouths. Once people know the cost of their ways, and know that there’s a better way, they keep choosing to be better!!

I just think that’s neat :))

[masons-tours]

Hi my name is Emma

Im really nervous posting this as its been such a big part of my life over the past 2 years but I’ve been putting this off for the last few months I guess I just didn’t want to let this blog go as I had become so attached but I know it’s time. Don’t worry I won’t be deleting the blog and all the content will stay. For those who will be concerned that it’s something deeper and that I need to Go WOW Hydrate myself I’ve just been slowly moving away from Mason over the last few months, some will have noticed that given that I have been ignoring certain subjects.

I have enjoyed every second interacting with all of you even the trolls who the escape the dungeon every so often. Finding stuff together that I had never seen and reliving all the fun memories from years past was always a joy. We have had good times like Nike Photoshoots and some anxiety ridden times like Trips To Greece🤣😂 We have followed traditions with bluebell season and Fluffy Winter Mason. We have argued about our 6ft kings 🧦 size but always agreed he has a big tongue and would use it to its full advantage. The amount of polls I subjected you all too should never be forgiven but I was always surprised you all liked them so much.

Masons Tours has been a successful business we have expanded to countless locations from Miami to Birmingham to The Dubai of South England but it’s time that the Australian location closed its doors. the cost of living effects even millionaire footballers 🤣😂

Last month I listed all my favourite blogs and in some way or another you have all made my time on Masonblr so much fun wether it’s gifs you’ve made, Fics you have created with your incredible imaginations and writing abilities, dirty filthy sexy chat at 4am when I couldn’t sleep, asking me about schedules that I have still never figured out

Love Aussie (Emma)

[inthiseverymoment]

silhouettes emerging: chapter i

“a Wide-Eyed Melancholic, Knowing and Unknown”

the interview begins.

iwtv oc, this chapter ~1.4k

backstory time babyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!

i always found the typical formatting of multi-paragraph monologues to be a bit odd, but there def won't be as many of those once we dive into the flashbacks in proper. next chapter, i promise-for now, gotta set this story up

enjoy!!

prologue fic masterlist chapter ii

Twenty Twenty-Three (The Next Day), New York City, United States of America

“You okay?”

She didn’t hear him. Unblinking, she found herself staring at the journalist’s laptop. The book surely didn’t include everything; there must be so much more in there, and the desire to know overwhelmed her-

“Earth to the soprano?”

“...Right.”

“Louis burned my laptop after what happened in Dubai. So the one in front of us isn’t ‘the’ one, if that’s what you’re thinking.”

They were in his apartment for the full interview, away from the prying ears of the city, and Isabelle was beginning to wonder whether the impulse to tell her story was indeed as good as she’d thought. It was a remnant of her human life, the self-righteousness that many called naive, the instinct to always get the truth out no matter the cost, to be included.

But her time at the Théâtre des Vampires was something she largely looked back on with shame, a shame that had grown even darker when she’d learned everything behind the horrors that had happened there once she had disappeared.

Do I really want my name on this?

I saved myself, I got out, but didn’t do anything to actually stop them once I was gone.

Despite the near-century of vampirism under her belt, her frozen state of early-twenties idealism still perpetually burned in constant guilt.

“I’ve thought a lot about Louis since your book, actually,” she said, remembering the conversation at hand. “Calling himself the ‘reticent vampire’, refusing to drain humans at the beginning, every grasp to hang onto humanity. I know how that feels.”

Daniel only nodded as he set up the microphone, and after a moment of semi-awkward silence Isabelle spoke again.

“I did like the part where Lestat killed the tenor.”

“I’ll tell him for you.”

She wasn’t quite sure what that meant.

It must have been easier for Louis and Armand-they always had the upper hand.

Being around so few vampires for so long, as she had generally isolated herself from them after leaving the Théâtre in a desperate attempt to live as human a life as possible, it was easy to almost forget the depth of her powers. Although she and Daniel had the same ancient blood within them, she had been around for quite a while longer, and she swore to herself to remember all that she held.

Daniel sat across from her and, on her nod, hit his space bar.

“I’m here with the vampire Isabelle de la Rue, who has a few corrections against the increasingly unreliable account of the vampire Armand. Namely, that he had, indeed, made another vampire prior to our last years’ interview, who now…sits in front of me.”

He blinked, as if still getting used to that idea himself.

“Ms. de la Rue, how long have you been dead?”

“Nice opening question,” she smiled.

“Hasn’t failed me yet.”

Then, with a polite laugh and something of a hum-

If I can face myself enough to say it all out loud, I suppose that’s the first step.

She took a breath.

Here we go.

“I was born in 1914. A typical story: small-town girl, only child, cloying upbringing, the arts as escapism. I was one of very, very few kids in my area growing up, and those who were there never liked me much. Too sensitive, they said, which of course only made me even more so. I liked school, because it was the one place I could be absolutely certain I was doing the right thing and no one could tell me otherwise. To be the only one who solved an equation or understood Shakespeare almost made up for watching them make plans with each other right in front of me. I didn’t know what I had done wrong there, and no one bothered to tell me; looking back, it probably had to do with wanting it too much. My parents and the adults in the neighborhood saw my struggle as being above my peers, especially when I started to sing and play the piano. But I didn’t want their ‘isolated gifted girl’ pity. I wanted to find people like me.”

“A desire for community so great that it left you vulnerable to a murder coven.”

“We’ll get to that,” came her half-shaking laugh. “I grew up, and grew extremely tired of the labels. Besides my writing, I didn’t have much of a chance to figure things out beyond what my family and the town put on me; I was only seen for what I could do, not who I was.

“And, contrary to popular belief, I always knew who I was.

“I needed to get out.”

“And Paris was ‘out’?”

“Eventually. Once my parents realized that no ‘polite young man’ from our town would look at me long enough to take me off their hands, they allowed me to go off and try my fortune as a performer, and I was gone before I could finish the word goodbye.

“In all that loneliness of childhood, my hope lay in tales of the great salons of 1920s Paris, where artists and thinkers would come together to create. That idea of a room draped in burgundy and pearls, wine and quotes flowing, relationships forming and breaking and healing all within a few hours, perfume and jazz in the air mingling with the light of endless stars-that romanticized ideal was all I had. A place where I could imagine not having to worry about what was right, a place to live in each moment. That was what I wanted.

“I wasn’t entirely surprised at the disillusionment that followed. At each theater or music club where I did manage to get an audition, I would come at it with the utmost hope, ready to make a home out of each dusty chair and creaky floorboard, but there was always something keeping me from it. Too tall, too eager, couldn’t kick high enough-that’s all par for the industry-but there was often a lot more going on. A leading lady that I had taken a few dance classes with spread rumors that I was an escaped thief, got her manager and her many friends to believe it, and there went my hope of artistic community. One director-clearly abusive, judging by the haunted eyes of the chorus girls I saw in passing-said he didn’t hire uglies with a mouth on them so he wouldn’t hire me, that people paid to see the girls shut up and look pretty. The most powerful theatre producing team of the time told me they couldn't figure out what to do with me-which is fine-but what stuck with me for decades was being told that they thought I hadn't figured myself out either.

"Racist producers I refused to work with, places steeped in favoritism where an outsider couldn’t even get a foot in the door, one place that apparently just didn't want redheads on their stage-simply put, I could not find a job.”

“You were a starving artist.”

“Precisely. And without even the friend group to make a La Bohème.”

“So your very last option…”

She nodded.

“And back then, the Théâtre wasn’t exactly the way it had become by the time Louis and Claudia got there. When the victim was killed, the other vampires didn’t immediately appear all at once and swarm, they’d have their fill offstage; for the initial draining, it was going for more of an intimate moment, just Santiago and whoever it was and a single violin. The stories got kitschier over time-audiences didn’t want to think at the theater quite as much during the war, but beforehand, most of the plays were actually quite lovely.”

“Lovely save for the nightly murder,” Daniel deadpanned. “A wonder that someone so caught up in morals, so desperate to be ‘absolutely certain of doing the right thing’, would wind up there of all places.”

She wasn’t sure how she looked at him then, something between a glare and a plea, but it must have had some kind of effect.

“And I’m about to hear the real story?” he continued after a moment.

Near-solemnly, she let out a breath.

Isabelle was aware that both she and Daniel knew what it was to be frozen in amber, to be caught in an entrancing web of both fabricated deceit and real sympathy. She wanted him to know that she would tell the truth.

She wanted him to know that she was not the same as her maker.

She also wanted to prove that to herself.

“I promise.”

[melanieph321]

Ruben Dias x Reader - Fake Love Part 7

Reader is a kindergarten teacher. Nothing more nothing less. But following an accident whistle vacation in Dubai she somehow makes her boyfriend believe that she does somthing else for a living, something that earns her way more money than she has. Her boyfriend, Ruben, is just happy to have found someone who understands him so well, someone who doesn't want him for his money since money isn't an issue for neither reader or himself. Or so thinks. Would finding out the truth ruin their newfound relationship? Readers thinks so, and does everything to keep up the lie, although it has some bad people from the middle east looking for her.

Enjoy!

"Okay, how much is that?"

"About 7 000 total."

"Ugh, we're still 13 000 pounds short." You groaned, falling back against your couch.

You and Alicia agreed to sell all the things that she had bought, in order to pay Mr Siddiq back. You managed to sell most of her designer items online, and some of the items that she hadn't even worn yet were returned to the store for a refund. You spent all week living like savages, glued to the computer, making phone calls to meet up with potential buyers.

"I don't understand why we can't eat, though? Or have heat?" Alicia asked, wrapping her body up in a blanket.

"Eating costs." You muttered. "So does heat. All of our money is going to paying back Mr Siddiq. I've told you this."

"Yes, but like you said, we're still 13 000 pounds short. I don't think we will be making that much money in 24 hours and I'm starting to get hungry."

You rolled your eyes. You really couldn't with Alicia. How could her financial judgment have been so poorly? I mean, her mother is an accountant for God's sake. However, it might have been her dad who used to spoil her as a child. The thrill of a man paying for everything she pointed to must be her aspiration in life. But today Alicia's aspirations had gotten you in a lot of debt.

"Would you please pick up your phone, my ass doesn't want to vibrate forever, and I'm pretty sure your boyfriend is calling me now."

It was true, you recognized Ruben's number on Alicia's screen. You stood up to take the call, disappearing into your bedroom.

"Ruben?"

He had been calling all week. But with everything going you weren't in the right head space to talk to him, let alone be honest with him.

"Hey, baby. Is everything alright?" He sounded concern, probably because you were talking to him through someone else's phone.

"Everything is fine. Life is just pretty hectic right now."

"Oh, sorry if I'm disturbing you..."

"It's fine Ruben. Hearing your voice is really what I needed."

"Good." He shriped and you imagined the dimples that came with his smile.

"I've actually got some news that might cheer you up?"

"Really? A man named Mr Siddiq and his entire family sadly passed away in a plane crash?

"Yeah, I'll be in London this weekend for our away game against Chelsea."

"Oh"

"Oh?"

You perked up. "I mean, that's...that's really nice Ruben. But I'm not in London this week?"

"No? Where are you then?"

Don't lie, don't lie, don't lie.

"Stevenage!" You blurred out, immediately regretting it.

"Stevenage? What is that?"

"Um, it's a city. Where I grew up actually. Where my parents live."

"Oh, you're visiting your parents?"

"Yes, so I'm pretty busy."

"I'd love to meet them someday."

"You do?" You paused, Ruben's answer suprised you.

"Of course. Wouldn't you like for me to meet them?"

You had just gotten comfortable calling Ruben your boyfriend, him meeting your parents would mean another milstone reached before you had told Ruben who you really are.

"Sure." You mumbled.

"Let's make it happen someday." He said, sounding happy about the fact.

"Um, I've got to get back to work..."

"Of course. It was nice to hear your voice too. Can I call you again later tonight?"

"Um, sure."

"Alright, talk to you later then. I love you."

"Bye Ruben."

The room fell silent as you ended the call, however the guilt and shame inside you was louder than ever. You dragged yourself back to the living room, handing Alicia back her phone.

"You good? What did he say?"

"He said he loved me." You plotted down on the couch, eyes staring blankly into space.

"Oh my god, really? What did you say."

"I said, bye Ruben."

Alicia frowned.

You turned to her with tears in your eyes. "He's never gonna talk to me again when he finds out."

"Finds out what?" She cought you as you slumped into her embrace. "That you're nothing but a gold digger?"

You sat back up. "That's not funny Alicia."

Her shoulders shrugged when she laughed.

"I am not a gold digger. You on the other hand...."

"Okay, okay. I get, I messed up. I'm the bad guy in all of this. But speaking of gold diggers...." She said, with that look that often haunted your dreams. "Wouldn't it be easiest to just ask Ruben for the remaining money? I mean surely he's good for it, and if he really loves you..."

You batted your eyes. Baffled by what was coming out of Alicia's big mouth. Surley anyone would agree that now would be the only right time to slap your best friend in the face. "Alicia." You said, with the lowest most calmest tone you could extract from yourself. You were convinced that this was the only way that she would understand you, if you were babying her.

"Yes, Y/N?" She said, with that naive twinkle in her eyes.

"Have...you...learned...nothing. You are NOT. I repeat NOT, borrowing money from anyone ever again, especially not Ruben."

"Then how are we gonna pay the last 13 000 back?"

"I'm...." You said, getting up and walking over to grab your coat. "I'm going to talk to someone I trust and know will lend me the money, with a promise that I'll pay him back with interest."

Alicia looked over to where you stood. "It's not Byron is it?"

"That's none of your business." You hissed, slamming the door on your way out.

Byron agreed to hear you out over a beer. You met in a small pub in town and to your suprise Byron agreed to lend you the money.

"And don't worry, you won't have to give me all of it until June."

"It's okay." He said.

"It is?" 13 000 punds was alot of money. However, there was something else on Byron's mind, a question.

"Is this you?" He asked, showing something off his IPhone.

Heat rose to your face seeing a photo of you in the club with Ruben and his friends, Ruben's arm waying over your shoulder as you sat next to him.

"Um..."

You had seen it before, the photo, going around the internet, with the caption talking about Ruben and his new boe. It was first posted on Lauren's Instagram. Lauren who was Ruben's teammates girlfriend.

"Yes, yes that's me." You sighed.

Byron nodded. Of course it was you in the photo, he wasn't blind. People in Stevenage watched Football and knew of the hype around it. You only belong to the few people who didn't.

"How do you know Jack Grealish and Ruben Dias ?" He followed up, in a way that sounded more like you were being accused of a crime rather than asked a simple question.

"I um....met them during a night out with friends." You lied. He wasn't  Ruben, you had no problem lying to Byron.

"And so the two of you...?" He was reffering to Ruben.

"Took a photo and then went our separate ways." You nodded. "Yeah, that's pretty much what happened."

Byron didn't look to believe you, but proceeded. "It's obvious that you're seeing someone Y/N, I mean you never come over for game nights anymore and I've seen you texting someone when you should be paying attention to your class."

You chuckled. "Byron I have no idea what you're point is, but if this is you criticizing the way I teach my kindergarten class then..."

He shook his head. "No, it's not that."

"Then what is it?" You really didn't have the  time. You should get back to the apartment, help Alicia sell her clothes. And Ruben would want to facetime soon.

"I like you Y/N."

"There it is." You sighed.

"And I'm not lending you the money so that you'll finally agree to be my girlfriend, but...."

"But?" You frowned. "There is no but in this Byron. Either you lend me the money out of the kindness of your heart, or you don't. This is not an exchange of services."

"Then, no." He said, fixing his posture as he sat across from you.

"No? What do you mean, no?"

He got up to leave, grabbing his jacket. He looked down on you with pitty on his face. "Life is about choices Y/N, and you seem to keep making the wrong ones."

With that he left.

You got back to your apartment, pretty sure that smoke was coming out of your ears.

"Y/N, there is something you should..."

"Not now Alicia."

You stomped across the living room.

"But you should really..."

"God, not now Alicia." You hissed, not meant to take your anger out on her. Nevertheless the damage was already done as Alicia crumbled where she sat on the couch. "I'm sorry I..." You ran a hand down your tired face. "I just got to facetime Ruben first. I have to tell him that I love..." The handle to your bedroom door pressed down just as you were about to do it. The door opened and he appeared in the frame.

"Ruben?"

He grinned. "You sounded down over the phone so I brought something that might cheer you up."

"W...what?"

He stretched out his arms. "Me!"

Warmth erupted inside you. You stumble forwards, melting into his giant embrace. Although this was a bad thing, a really bad thing that he was here, you really needed to be held right now.

[kitttttchaos]

YALL. People who just got off The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives and need another JUICY reality show to watch, please watch Dubai Bling.

SPOILERS IF YOU HAVENT WATCHED IT (please read on if you’re like me and love spoilers ;) These are just my thoughts

I see why Safa is a fan favorite. She’s definitely spoiled and likes to get what she wants, but I think her attitude brings a lot of entertainment to the show and she also really seemed to grow between Season 1 and Season 2. Still quite spiteful, but she seemed to have good intentions. And her husband Fahad is a saint.

I don’t think Zeina deserves all the hate she gets. She’s definitely not the villain that Ebraheem and Danya make her out to be. That being said, she’s definitely passive aggressive towards Farhana, which is not admirable. I understand her bitterness towards Ebraheem, but I feel like if the groups are going to keep intersecting she should probably accept peace, even if she doesn’t talk to him. (Haven’t finished Season 2 yet btw)

Ebraheem seems so manipulative, honestly. It seems like he makes all these dramatic gestures so that other people like him, like screaming at his friend because of Danya, telling Farhana that Safa and Zeina were talking about her…like all that does it start drama and tie people to you, bro.

Danya just seems really insecure. I feel bad for her because I think her husband has kept her at home, so she doesn’t seem super connected to the friend group, and I understand the bitterness that she has, but some of it seems clouded by her insecurities about things unrelated to the main drama.

Farhana did not need to be hated on all of Season 1, like that was so passive aggressive of Zeina and LJ. That being said, she is definitely self centered and wants attention and she speaks very performatively. I’m sure her job as an influencer has a negative effect on her self perception, but the way she conducted herself was a minor annoyance. The “google me” thing was crazy.

LJ rlly impressed me in Season 2, and somewhat in Season 1 as well. She definitely has some interesting beliefs about pleasing your husband, but I like her independent personality and she seems to genuinely want everyone to get along.

LO is the sweetest. No complaints. She’s literally always trying to help people and stays away from drama, and she’s so right that the people around her have no right to tell her who she can’t see. Like, what is up with that?

Kris is alright. But walking away from an expected confrontation is not a big man thing to do, that’s literally just putting off the inevitable, and why would you want to encourage that?

Bliss is fine, I guess. He’s just annoying.

Brianna, my queen. Protect her at all costs.

Love Mona so far, she seems unproblematic, but I did not like her attitude towards Brianna’s pregnancy. Like, it’s not your problem, bestie.

Anyway, those are just my opinions. I also want to be cautious since these are real people, and I don’t want to judge them entirely based on this TV show, but at the same time that’s the whole point, and they signed the contract.

[murfeelee]

IWTV 2022 INSP - The Most Dangerous Man in the World

Daniel: I told my editor I was meeting with the most dangerous man in the world. Gave him two choices. He came back with Bezos and Putin! Louis: I wasn't sure you'd remembered me. Your book makes no mention of our prior meeting. Daniel: Gritty memoir, drugs, humiliation, self-pity kind of thing. Mention vampires in one of those, readers tend to call bulls***. You've got your own hangar at the airport, privileges on the Royal Meydan Bridge, and zero presence online. I know the Emirates are big on privacy, and that's probably important to you, but I gotta ask: what does it cost, this haven't-aged-in-half-a-century, killer views in all directions anonymity? Louis: Quite a lot. I have to be very careful whom I let in. Daniel: Yeah, well, things didn't end well the last time, so forgive me if I'm a little nervous! Louis: Back in San Francisco, you said, and I paraphrase, "Give it to me. Make me a vampire now." Daniel: In the eyes of a 20-year-old, you were wasting the gift. Louis: You're in your 20s, Rashid. What do you think? Rashid: Well, Mr. du Lac presides in the most desired real estate in the country. I do not see the "waste" Mr. Molloy sees. Daniel: Yeah, well, he lived in a dump the last time we did this. Louis: I'd give it to you now.

– Interview with the Vampire, S01E01, S01E06

MY THOUGHTS & CC CREDITS

MY THOUGHTS

My contribution to @iwtvfanevents' Vampterview rewatch of IWTV Season 1! \(^0^)/ I basically rebuilt Loumand's Dubai Penthouse from scratch, cuz in my other post it was on the same lot as Loustat's 1132 townhouse. 🤭 And I decided to remake my Daniel & Rashid/Armand sims, cuz I was too lazy to crack open my old saves and save a copy of them to my bin. So...yeah, "a do-over," in Daniel's words. XD

I just love thinking about Louis' strange life as a billionaire mogul, and how AMC's nodding to the life he had with Armand in Miami & NYC in the books, and the life he now has with "Rashid" in Dubai. I have many suspicions about what went down to bring Loumand to Dubai, and where in the books' timeline we even are. I need answers, Rolin!!!!

CC CREDITS

Dubai world; Zen Tower at Youtube (I just gutted the interior)

Limo by FreshPrince

Helicopter by @dailycard

IWTV Books & Rollercoaster "bridge" w/ Fullbright in beta by me