#it's not my fault that you won't buy things I'll eat or things i can cook

[uwuthomasuwu]

Getting real pissed at my family

[wearehea]

Fever dream

Hey everyone. I'm down with the sickness. The "I love Han Jisung more than my life" sickness. No but for real, I just wanted to write pure fluff involving a flu-stricken, slightly delirious Hannie. If that sounds like your thing go right ahead!

Fluff. Light mentions of kissing. sick!Han Jisung. Bestfriend!Seo Changbin

"Ha! I win again!" You throw your arms in the air, triumphant. Across the couch, Changbin pretends to throw his controller at your face.

"It's not my fault! You picked the best kart!" he pouts.

You poke him with your foot teasingly. "Okay then, rematch. I'll let you pick any kart you want."

He chickens out faster than lightning, flashing you a defeated smile. "Congratulations on your victory."

You both laugh—loudly. Changbin puts a finger to his lips. "Shhh!"

You hit his bicep. "What? You laughed the loudest!"

"Jisung is still sleeping," he whispers, nodding toward the hallway.

"Oh." Now that you think about it, Changbin did mention his roommate feeling under the weather when he invited you to play Mario Kart. But that was already a few days ago.

"He's still sick?"

"Yeah," Changbin sighs. "Sounds nasty, like the flu or something. I feel bad for him, but he's also being super annoying about it."

You snort. You've known Changbin since childhood. He's a total drama queen most of the time, especially when he's sick. You met Jisung sometime last year, so you can't say for sure, but you have a feeling nobody can be more dramatic than flu-stricken Changbin. Still, a part of you feels slightly... off. Must be a bad flu if he hasn't left his room for days. Shouldn't he go to a clinic? Shouldn't Changbin buy medicine? And why are you so worried about it?

You start a solo round while Changbin scrolls on his phone. Your legs rest on his. It's comfortable, easy. Normal. The perfect opposite to how it feels when Jisung is in the same room as you. Your mind pretends nothing is going on, but your body can't. Everything feels… electric. Every look he gives you makes your heart pump faster, and it ripples through you like waves. Those big, bright brown eyes of his. He has no idea, of course. Twenty-three years of social anxiety taught you how to hide your feelings—especially the ones that make you feel like this. Feelings you don’t quite understand.

Your thoughts are interrupted by Changbin's phone vibrating. "Hello? Oh, hi, Hyung. Yes. Yes. WHAT?!" he shouts.

"Shhhh!" You throw a pillow in his general direction, your eyes focused on a tricky looping.

"Sorry... Yeah. Okay, I'll be there!" He hangs up, looks sheepish for a second, then bursts out laughing when you finally pause your game and turn towards him.

"I forgot my computer at the company."

You roll your eyes. "Changbin..."

"I know, I know. God, how did I leave without it?" he says, standing up and tossing the pillow back at you. "Anyway, I have to go get it. I need to prep for a meeting tomorrow."

You put the controller down. "It's okay, Binnie. We'll have a rematch soon."

You try to get up from the couch, but two big palms push you back down.

"Yup. Right after I come back. Come on, I haven't seen you in weeks. I won't be long. I'll pick up something to eat on the way back, okay?"

"But you take forever when you're alone..." You whine. He does. Changbin is not exactly a pro at solo errands.

"I'll try to be quick. Bye, Y/N!" he says, slamming the front door behind him.

You wince. If Jisung wasn't awake, he definitely is by now. Should you go and apologize? Maybe offer to make some tea? It's not like you miss the sound of his voice or anything. You’re just being polite. You get up slowly, quietly making your way through the hallway to his bedroom door. You stop, let out a shaky breath. Why is your heart already about to explode just from looking at his door?  Your knock is shaky too, a faint sound in the chaos of your thoughts.

"Jisung?"

No answer. You wait a minute. Then two. Then, guided by both curiosity and a bit of worry, you open the door slightly.

The room is dimly lit, but you can distinguish a classic case of sickness-induced disarray. Clothes are scattered on the floor, curtains drawn shut, a hot pack and a pile of syrup bottles layed on the bedside table. It smells like peppermint, camphor, and... him. You spot a head of tousled curls peeking out from the comforter and smile. Quietly, you shut the door behind you and take a few step in.

"Jisung..."

Still no movement from the human-sized squirrel. You clear your throat.

"Hmmpf... Changbin, why are you so loud? You should work at the fish market, not sing," he grumbles, turning away from you in the bed.

"It's me," you whisper, trying hard not to laugh.

He sits up so fast you jump. His hair looks like a bird's nest, his cheeks are flushed, and his eyes shine even brighter than usual—probably the fever, you think. He doesn’t look bad, but you suddenly realize he could have been... less presentable. You didn't think this through. Luckily, he's fully dressed in a plain white t-shirt and gray sweatpants.

"Hi." He gulps.

"Hi. I..." You stop, feeling cold all of a sudden. Why did you do this? What did you expect to happen? Not only did you basically trespass into his personal space, but you woke him from what seemed like a deep slumber, and he might not get back to sleep easily. "I... Changbin said you were sick, and I thought... you might need some tea or something," you mumble to your socks.

"Oh. I'm good. Thanks. I'm just so glad you're here."

"What?" you croak, hoping he doesn't notice the heat creeping up your face. If he does, he doesn't show it, plopping back down and pulling the covers up to his chin.

"I was having the worst nightmare. You shook me out of it."

It's impossible to hold his gaze for long, especially when he looks so sleepy and adorable. The flu seems to have dimmed down his shyness, too, which you find weirdly enticing. Jisung is your friend, but your relationship always felt a bit awkward. In a crowd, he could be loud and sassy, but when it was just the two of you, he'd quiet down. His voice would lower, his gaze would soften. Was it because he tried to match your introverted nature? Did he know how often you replayed those moments, alone in your room, over and over?

You swallow hard. As if drawn by a magnet, you step closer until you're sitting on the edge of the bed.

"What was it about? Your nightmare."

His brows furrow as he grabs a pillow and hugs it tight against his chest. "Ah, Y/N, it was awful. This guy I know was trying to teach me 'High and Dry' on the guitar, but I couldn't feel my hands! He made me do it over and over. Ugh, it was the WORST!" His throat barely allows more than a whisper, and he ends up coughing and flailing dramatically, squirming like a worm.

You can't help but laugh at his antics. He glares at you, pouting.

"Sorry, sorry. Who was the guy?"

"Godzilla."

That's it—you lose it. Laughter spills out of you uncontrollably. By the time you compose yourself, your stomach hurts. You glance at him, worried he might feel mocked, but he's grinning ear to ear, giggling softly.

"You're so pretty when you laugh."

What? Did you hear that right? Oh god. This boy is going to be the death of you.

"Jisung... I think your fever's worse than I thought," you mumble, sure your face looks like a traffic light.

"I don't have a fever."

You roll your eyes. Are he and Changbin secretly brothers?

"Right."

Instinctively, your hand reaches for his forehead, checking for heat. Except now you're the one feeling like you’re on fire. Your palm rests on his skin, and you realize you don't want to move it. Ever. You're acutely aware of how close you are—inches—and how he's looking at you with devotion, like you're an angel, a goddess, or a unicorn.

He murmurs something so softly you can't catch it. Reluctantly, you pull your hand away.

"You're burning up." You're not sure if you're talking about him or yourself.

You avert your eyes, searching his bedside table for medicine or anything helpful. Without warning, you feel his hand grab your wrist.

"Don't go."

You turn back to him. He’s wide-eyed, almost scared. His thumb presses lightly against your pulse, and somehow, this feels like the most intimate thing in the world. It sets your whole body alight, and that’s when you realize.

You want him. All of him. His lips, his body, his heart. You want to bury your hands in his hair. You want his tongue on your throat, your name on his lips. You want all of him, and you have since the beginning. Tentatively, you bring a shaky hand to his temple and stroke his cheek lightly. He leans into your touch, practically melting, his head sinking back into the pillow. His grip on your wrist loosens, but he keeps his hand in yours, mirroring the soft circles you trace on his skin.

You don't know what this all means. You'll figure it out later. For now, all you know is this feels like heaven.

"Should I sing for you?" he murmurs after a moment. You chuckle softly.

"You're the patient, Mr. Jisung. If anything, I should be the one singing you to sleep."

"Then please do. Hurry up, I'm dying here," he jokes, though his eyes are already half-closed.

"What should I sing?"

"Not Radiohead."

You smile, watching as his eyes close completely. His hand still holds yours, fingers occasionally brushing over your arm, your wrist, then back to your palm. The tender motion almost makes you want to cry.

You start humming a tune absent-mindedly, your mind focused on capturing every detail of this magical moment, for later. When your song is over, you look at Jisung. He's completely knocked out, lips slightly parted, his breathing deep and steady. You smile, hoping his dreams don’t involve musically gifted lizards.

Maybe, just maybe, they involve you.

A huge crash echoes from the living room, followed by a booming voice.

"HEY! Y/N! WHERE THE HELL ARE YOU? I BROUGHT CHICKEN!"

[snowywolf1005]

JURASSIC WORLD CHAOS THEORY X READER

Note- you and darius are dating. You two found out brooklyn death. And something gonna turn your world upside down.

You're cleaning the dishes, cleaning up the house, then you hear a phone ring. "Hello?" You ask, "Oh! (Y/N)! Is darius here?" It was brand, darius older brother.

"No, he went shopping to buy some food, I bet he's after the allosaurus. He won't stop talking about," you said, "well, how's he doing?"

"He's good, but he's not. He's working through some things"

"Okay, that honest, maybe it would help to talk to the camp fam? Kenji, maybe?"

"Kenji doesn't wanna hear anything what he says. I try to make him talk kenji, but it seems he doesn't want to."

"Oh, boy. Alright, look, my mom would kill me if I didn't ask darius this stuff. Is he eating?"

"Yep."

"Not junk food, right?"

"Mhmm..."

"Is he staying out of trouble?"

"Yes."

"Okay... sigh, we're just worried about him"

"Yeah, I know, I'll handle this"

"Thanks (Y/N), if you see darius, tell him to take care and tell him that i love him"

"Okay, bye."

"Bye"

You end the call, and the dishes are all clean. Then you saw the truck, you unlock door, darius came with groceries. "Hey, darius, your brother calls mak-"

"Hey, honey! Talk to you in sec" darius get supplies, "um, darius, what are you doing?" You said watching him looking at his computer.

Darius went outside, "what happened to the truck tires?" Darius got another tire, but it was flat. He took a deep "why!" He shouts, you watch him walk away and try to hit the flat tire, but he fell.

Darius went back inside and saw you with your crossed, "you were saying." He said, "I got a call from your brother, asking me how you're doing," you said.

Darius sighs, you look down at the groceries, "do you want to me help put back the groceries?" You ask, "yes, please."

You two finsh put the groceries away, and watch old recording of when you, darius and the campers returned to the mainland. You guys have pretty fun vacation.

Later, at the middle night, you and darius were woken up by phone ringing, "I got it," you said. You pick up the phone, "Hello? Hello?" No call.

"Who is it?" Darius asks, "no clue." Then you heard a jingle, someone or something is at the cabin. "Stay back," said Darius as he grabbed the taser and proceeded to open it while attempting to attack whoever was at the door.

"Woah!" Someone grab the taser, it was ben, "Darius, (Y/N), you are home." He said, "Ben?! What are you doing here?" You ask, then you saw how tall ben is.

"I'm never gonna get used to this." Said Darius, "yeah, me neither." Said ben, you guys hug. "It so great to see you. Uh, how's college?" Darius question.

"Um, actually, I'm taking a little break." He said, get inside the cabin, "Hey, would you look at this place? This is really, wow, great staff, guys. " Ben turns off the lights.

"Uh, thanks? Look, we know we haven't been in touch with you or, well, anyone lately, but I-" "I remember the view here's just... breathtaking"

"Well, it is when it's not the middle of the night," you said, turning on the latturn, but ben turn it off. "You get rain fall?" He asks, "Ben, we've been knowing each other for a long time, and it time to tell us what you're doing here." Said Darius.

"Uh, I kinda wanted to ease into it," said ben, "yeah, I'd say that ship has sailed," you said. "Right, okay, okay, um... here it goes. Try not to freak out. So, that night, that awful night that... the allosaurus..."

"The allosaurus! That's what this is about. You're tracking the allosaurus, too." Said Darius, "what?" You and ben said.

"I saw it today. I'm heading after it in the morning. You can come with us! We're gonna need more supplies. I almost had it. I was so close. I even called Brooklyn-"

"What?" You said, darius, stop and look at you two. "Darius... brooklyn is dead." Said ben, "I know. Of course, I know that..."

"Darius, it wasn't your fault," you said, "we both know it wasn't true if I met her at night. Like I said, I would, then she might-"

"No. That why I'm here. It wouldn't have mattered. Brooklyn death was no accident. She was targeted. That allosaurus-"

"Was a wild animal, ben. A mindless killer. When I finally got there, when I saw-, it was a random dinosaur attack. Happens way too often these days." "It wasn't random!" Ben shouted.

"What do you mean?" You ask, "There's too much coincidence. What was Brooklyn even doing there at night? She never told you, did she? And how did she and the allosaurus end up at the same place at the same time? How did the DPW truck respond so quickly? Why wasn't her phone recovered from the scene?"

"Wow! That is a lot of questions, ben. Is something wrong?" You question, ben look at you, "somethings off. I've been reading some stuff on dark jurassic -" you cut of ben "wait, dark jurassic?" You ask.

"That website where all those randos share their weird dinosaur conspiracy theories?" Darius question, "we're actually an online community of like-minded individuals who-"

"Ben." You said, "some of those theories are a lot more sane than you think. Come see." Ben, open up the computer, "I was reading all about allosaurus migration patterns and looking at leaked crime scene photos. Suddenly, someone anonymously starts asking me. If I was a number of the nublar six."

"Nublar of six?" You said, "I figured it was a goof, but then I started getting DMs, hostile DMs asking why I was so interested in the night Brooklyn died. Look!" Ben shows the inbox, but there's nothing there.

"What?! They're not here. Someone must have deleted them." Ben, try to search it up, but no use. "Look, ben. It's been through on all of us since we got back."

"Don't patronize me, darius! Something is on!" Said ben, turning off the lights, "Okay, why do you keep turning off the lights?" You ask.

"Because we're being haunted!" You and darius were shocked, "those messages I got, they were threats. Whoever killed Brooklyn is coming after the rest of us, too. You, me, Yaz, Sammy, and kenji. We're all in danger."

"We have to find out why, and who's after us, before it's too late." Darius was so sick of it. "How do you know? Where's the proof?" He said, turning the light on. "I... don't have any." He said, "So you show up here, prank call us, then go on and on-"

"I didn't prank call you guys. I didn't call you two at all." Ben said, "So it wasn't you, then who?" You said then Darius looked at windows and turned off the lights.

You and ben turnaround to see atrociraptors shadow window. You guys didn't make a sound. "Random dinosaur?" Darius asks, "Why didn't your fence alarm go off? I closed the gate behind-"

"If we stay quiet, they'll just move on and -" but the atrociraptors crash inside, breaking the windows. Darius saw the taser and went to grab it. The atrociraptors charge at Darius but miss and get by the book shelf.

Then another atrociraptors comes through the window at the kitchen. You grab your gun from your waist, "(Y/N), you have a gun?!" Ben shouts, "of course I do, I have all of them!" You said.

You shot the atrociraptor, but Miss, you and ben went to the stairs. The atrociraptor jumps the stairs, and you and ben jump off the stairs.

Ben grabbed the table. The atrociraptor broke the table in a hole, but its head got stuck. Darius toss the tesar to ben, and he grabs the net. Darius shot the net atrociraptor, and ben tese the atrociraptor face.

You, darius, and ben went outside. Catching your breath, then you heard something, another atrociraptor. "Aw crad." You said.

Then the atrociraptor outside of the cabin, and it lunges at you guys.

Part 2 is coming soon!

[agvstdr]

new bodies, different Sam and Dean.

it's a morning like any other but as soon as sam and dean start talking, i realize that something is wrong.

"you're weird." i point out looking at them

they both shake their heads, it's clear that they're hiding something from me.

i pretend nothing's happening, maybe sooner or later they'll tell me what's happening to them, in the meantime i try to take care of some hunting.

"sam did you check if there's any cases?" i ask while i drink the coffee they made for me

i look at sam, but dean answers me:

"i think i found something." as soon as dean answers me, sam clears his throat

"did you do the research?" i ask dean surprised as he always leaves this job to sam

"no, i meant that sam found something, right sammy?"

"uhm yeah sure."

it's all too weird, but i can't understand what's going on.

"what are you hiding from me?"

"nothing." I reply at the same time

"if I find out that something happened and you're hiding it from me, I'll be really pissed off."

when it's lunch time, I decide to go out to buy something.

when I come back, I find them sitting around the table, ready to have lunch.

"cheeseburger for dean and salad for sam." I say putting their usual dishes in front of them

their reaction is strange, however, because they look at the dishes almost disgusted.

"did I get the orders wrong?"

"no no." replies dean starting to eat his cheeseburger but he does it with a grimace, and it's very strange because dean always compliments them on how good it is.

"something is happening here and you are not telling me anything."

the day goes by like this: the winchesters continue to act strange but they do not tell me anything.

in the evening, i go to dean's room and i find him intent on reading a book... dean winchester reading a book, this is stranger than all the things that happened today. dean and i do not have a relationship, but it happens that in the evening i find myself in his room or he in mine: sometimes we talk, other times it happens that we remain in silence in each other's company while other times it happens that we have sex, tonight this is exactly what i want.

"what are you reading?"

dean looks at me and is surprised to see me in the room, as if it was the last thing he expected.

"uhm i found it in sam's room and i took it."

once again everything is weird but i don't ask for explanations because i know i won't get one.

i sit on the bed next to him and i feel him stiffen.

"are you okay?"

"yeah why wouldn't i?" he's lying, he never reacts like this

"do you want to be alone?"

"no stay."

i smile and give him a light kiss on the lips and as soon as i pull away, his eyes are wide with surprise.

"okay what's going on? you never react like this. i want to know the truth, now."

my tone is unapologetic and so dean tells me the truth.

"you mean you're sam and dean is in your body?"

"exactly."

all that was missing was for someone to switch the bodies of the two brothers.

"do you know who did it?"

dean or rather sam shakes his head.

"tomorrow we'll call rowena to help us."

"that's the best thing."

we remain silent, an awkward silence because i kissed him and so now sam knows about me and dean.

"sorry for before i didn't know it was you."

"no problem, i'll pretend nothing happened."

i give sam a smile and after wishing him goodnight, i go to sam's room, to talk to dean.

"dean are you awake? can we talk?"

i hear noises in the room and then after a few seconds the door opens, revealing sam who is actually dean.

"you're in the wrong room."

"no, i know about the body swap, let me in."

"i knew sam would talk." he says rolling his eyes and I feel like laughing

"he had to, I kissed him and he reacted badly."

"you kissed him?"

"are you deaf? yes I kissed him. I wanted to kiss you but you didn't have the courage to tell me what was happening! so it's your fault."

"i didn't mean to worry you."

"so it's better that i kissed sam?"

"you kissed me, sam is just passing by."

i can't help but laugh, at what he just said but also at the whole situation.

"you should have seen his expression, he didn't know how to say that he didn't want me to come near without getting into trouble."

"typical sam."

"what does it feel like to be in the body of the more handsome brother?" i ask just to tease him

"if you find him more handsome why do you come to my room almost every night?" i see him smirk satisfied with his answer

"you're right, i think that from tomorrow you'll find me here in the company of sam."

"don't you dare."

we both laugh, because we know that this is something that will never happen, sam really is like my brother to me.

the next day, rowena shows up at our place, because sam called her explaining the situation, the witch after having a good laugh at the expense of the winchester brothers, with a spell, simple as she says, brings things back to normal.

dean returns to his body and sam to hers.

"so everything is okay?" sam asks rowena to accept herself

"my work is done, bye guys."

"well now we want to talk about the fact that you are together?"

OOPS.

[euclydia-family-au]

Chapter 7: Change of plans | Euclydia family AU 

IN ENGLISH:

After everyone left the house, Stan didn't dare to speak or even look at Ford; he knew that, in some way, this would make him angry if he tried.

—Well... it seems we have a change of plans... —Elena's words snapped everyone out of their small trance.

—Yes... We should go to some hotel to spend the night... —Erick looked at the sky—. It's getting dark... Tomorrow we can organize ourselves better...

Stan nodded while Ford continued to stare at the house. Both brothers watched their mother say goodbye with tears in her eyes.

A few minutes later, they found a good hotel to spend the night: one of the advantages of being disgustingly rich.

The rooms were comfortable from a common person's perspective, but Elena made sure everything was free of dirt before the children went to their room.

—I'm going to buy something to eat... Do you want anything?

Stanley shook his head; he didn't want to ask for anything that would make him seem spoiled, he could tell that Ford would think that.

—Come on, Stanley... —Elena smiled—. You know you don't have to feel that way... —It seemed like she could read his thoughts—. Remember that with us you don't have to pretend...

—Just something light... —Stan looked away, embarrassed.

He couldn't tell her that he didn't want to; the look of love in those eyes.

—Then I'll find something with your favorite food: french fries... Oh, I remember that you said Ford prefers specific food... I'll see what I can find...

—In fact, the restaurant he likes is just a few blocks away... —interrupted carefully Stan—. That's where they know how to prepare his food.

—Then I'll go there. Thanks —said Erick while smiling before taking his things and leaving.

—Oh! Don't forget to bring me candies! —added Elena—. And cookies and...

—Yes, my queen, whatever you want —Erick smiled with affection before leaving.

Finally, the room was silent; an uncomfortable silence, due to Ford not saying anything.

Elena sensed something, as always she did; she was very good at that.

—Then, Stanford... Lee told me a lot about you.

—Only I can call him "Lee" —interrupted, defensively, although in a low voice.

—Well... I got to know your brother a little, and he told me wonderful stories about you...

—How so? —he seemed skeptical.

—Like you're the smartest person on the planet... Or that one day you'll invent something like time travel... Or that you're very talented, that sometimes you need to rest, but that you always give your best...

—And about my science project, what did he say?

The silence became tense and Stan shrank in his place.

—It's his fault... All the time...

—Yes, of course... —whispered Ford with sarcasm.

Elena changed her friendly expression for a serious one.

—I've only known Stanley for a few months, but I can only tell you that, in the little time I've known you, I begin to understand why all this happened...

Ford looked at Elena, surprised by the change in behavior.

—What do you mean?

—The reason your invention failed wasn't because of Stanley... It's because you're a failure...

Ford felt like something was breaking in his head, but he tried to pretend it wasn't anything.

Stanley got up immediately and stood between Elena and Ford.

—Elena, I appreciate everything you've done for me, but I won't let you insult my brother —he was defensive now, but his fear of making her angry was obvious.

—Darling, sit down... Your brother needs to hear this...

Stanley hesitated, so Elena sat him down next to Ford.

—Listen, lady, you don't know me and you can't just—

—You're pathetic... You're a golden child... Do you know what that means?

Ford looked at Elena without understanding.

—A spoiled child... A child who lived his entire life in a bubble... Isolated from reality... Even now you don't understand that no one out there will treat you well, that you won't always be right, that not everyone will be against your decisions or in favor of them... That not everything revolves around you... That the world won't stop if you fail miserably...

Ford seemed affected, but he remained defensive.

—I don't have to listen to this...

—Oh, you will listen, and you will listen carefully... What happened was an accident that was fixed, it's over. There's nothing more to discuss... Stan fixed the problem, his "debt" with his father was paid and now he's free... What's your problem? Why do you cling to an invention?

—Because it was the work of my life! Because it was something important to me! Because it was my opportunity to get away from everyone and be someone! Because I didn't want to be just one of the Pines twins! Because I wanted to be important!

—And do you think getting away from everyone you love and an expensive university will help you achieve that?

—... And I... I...

—I know... You hate him... You hate that he's near me... Our dream of traveling the world together never mattered... All I ever wanted was for you to be there with me... But I ruined it...

Stanley got up from his seat and walked towards the hotel window; it was unusual for Stan to meditate his words like that.

Where was the Stanley Pines who took on all comers? Where was the one who was quick to respond and defend himself?

Why was Stanley so thoughtful?

—... I always thought we could never be separated... But you chose another path... And the truth... that's okay... Although you told me at the last minute... That doesn't excuse what I did... I'll never justify what I did... But... I... I'm sorry... I'm sorry for betraying you like that... I should have left the machine alone and not just get even with the table... Maybe things would have been different... I'm sorry...

Stanley let his words sink in Ford, who was stunned.

—... There's one more thing I want to tell you...

Stan looked at Ford with a soft smile, as if saying those words brought him some peace.

—... Thank you... I met two wonderful people... Who believe I can achieve something... I still don't know what I can achieve, but... thank you... thank you for being my brother... and for... helping me... in everything... I hope you find what you're looking for...

Ford was speechless at Stan's gratitude.

He never imagined that his own brother would smile like that... Not with his typical showman smile... With sincerity... With gratitude... With a peace he had never seen before.

Where was the Stanley Pines who would yell at him for leaving him behind? Where was he?

—So... —said Stanley looking at Elena—. Thank you, but... Ford doesn't deserve to hear that... He's smart... He just needs help... That's all... I know, no matter where I go, he'll always be my brother...

Elena looked at Stan with a glow of pride and tranquility; it seemed like she had been waiting for him to react in that way.

When she was about to respond, Ford was interrupted by Erick, who brought food packed in bags from a local place that Ford recognized.

—Alright... here's the food —said the man with a smile while looking at Stan—. Prince, could you set the table, please?

Something that Ford didn't expect was that Stanley nodded with bright eyes before running to get something to serve the food.

—Prince? —interrogated Ford with some discomfort.

—Well, the truth is that Stanley is a good boy... And... It's an apellation we gave him... And he likes it a lot... Do you see how his eyes shine when I call him that?

—Moreover, he's a prince; you would have seen him at the table yesterday, he's learning fast —added Elena with sweetness.

When everyone sat at the small dining table in the room, Ford observed how Stanley was more careful when eating, even using the cutlery properly.

—Now that we've talked about some important things, we should discuss our plan from now on —said Erick, leaving his empty container and making everyone look at him.

—Yes... The reality is that we had considered the possibility that you two would be under our custody, so the rooms and general expenses will be covered, you'll go to a good university and we'll have tutors to help you improve in the subjects where you're not good —dictated Elena before taking a sip of her drink.

—Another important thing is that, as students in this area, both of you must continue to attend school to finish high school on time... So we'll stay in an apartment and we'll help you in everything we can —added Erick with determination—. That means you two must study hard.

While Ford didn't look embarrassed with the proposal, Stan seemed as nervous as when he entered the pawn shop, something that Erick seemed to notice.

—... And even if you don't manage to do it, you can try again until you succeed... With our support, you'll be able to pass... So don't worry...

Stan smiled relieved, as if those words had an effect on him.

—And now that we're talking about university, you should ask yourselves what you want to study in the future... There are very good universities around New York and New Jersey.

Ford thought for a moment, but then stopped any thoughts.

—Wait, then I won't go back home?

The room fell silent.

—... It depends... Do you really want to go back?

The question from Elena was very accurate; he no longer wanted... Not to go back to that house... But it was all he knew; he hadn't seen anything outside of Glass Shard Beach.

—It's your choice —said Stanley, surprising everyone—. He also has the right to choose...

The married couple looked at Stan with worried eyebrows.

—... It's too soon to decide, dear... Maybe we should just focus on high school and take it from there —soothed Elena with a smile.

Ford nodded, anxious to end the conversation.

Later, when everyone was sleeping except for Ford, he began to question many things.

How did his life change so much in such a short time?

He had thought everything would go according to plan; now he was trapped with two strangers and his brother who... his brother who... apologized... Apologized for everything... Found a couple willing to do whatever it took to take care of them both.

His dream of going to the most prestigious university was crumbling in just a few hours...

He couldn't help but feel this way; he felt like a failure. Now he didn't know what to do... If he went back home, Filbrick would be ready to throw him out or bring him back with the couple...

And if he stayed... Well... He had the opportunity to go to that university, but... the idea of Elena warning him about what awaited him was not encouraging.

Now that he was in that bed, looking at the ceiling and listening to his brother's snoring, he could say something with certainty: although he hated him...

He missed his brother.

EN ESPAÑOL:

Una vez que todos salieron de la casa, Stan no se atrevió a hablar, ni siquiera a mirar a Ford a la cara; sabía que, de alguna forma, este se enojaría si intentaba hacerlo.

—Bueno... parece que tenemos un cambio de planes... —las palabras de Elena sacaron a todos de su pequeño trance.

—Es cierto... Deberíamos ir a algún hotel para pasar la noche... —Erick miró al cielo—. Está oscureciendo... Mañana podremos organizarnos mejor...

Stan asintió mientras Ford seguía mirando hacia la casa. Ambos hermanos vieron a su madre despedirse entre lágrimas.

Unos minutos más tarde, encontraron un buen hotel para pasar la noche: una de las ventajas de ser asquerosamente ricos.

Las habitaciones eran cómodas desde la perspectiva de alguien común, pero Elena se aseguró de que todo estuviera libre de suciedad antes de que los niños fueran a su habitación.

—Iré a comprar algo de comer... ¿Les apetece algo?

Stanley negó con la cabeza; no quería pedir nada que lo hiciera parecer un niño mimado, ya intuía que Ford pensaría eso.

—Vamos, Stanley... —sonrió Elena—. Sabes que no tienes que sentirte así... —Era como si ella leyera sus pensamientos—. Recuerda que con nosotros no tienes que aparentar nada...

—Solo... algo ligero... —Stan desvió la mirada, avergonzado.

No podía decirle que no a los ojos llenos de amor de esa mujer.

—Entonces buscaré algo con tu comida favorita: papas fritas... Oh, recuerdo que dijiste que Ford prefiere comida específica... Veré qué puedo encontrar...

—De hecho, el restaurante que le gusta está a unas cuadras... —interrumpió con cuidado Stan—. Allí sí saben cómo preparar su comida.

—Entonces ahí iré. Gracias —dijo Erick mientras sonreía antes de tomar sus cosas y salir.

—¡Oh! ¡No olvides traerme dulces! —agregó Elena—. Y galletas y...

—Sí, mi reina, lo que tú quieras —Erick sonrió con cariño antes de salir.

Finalmente, la habitación quedó en silencio; un silencio incómodo, debido a que Ford no dijo nada.

Elena percibía algo, siempre lo hacía; demonios, era muy buena en eso.

—Entonces, Stanford... Lee nos contó mucho sobre ti.

—Solo yo puedo llamarlo "Lee" —interrumpió, a la defensiva, aunque en voz baja.

—Bueno... conocí a tu hermano un poco, y me contó maravillosas historias sobre ti...

—¿Cómo qué? —se veía escéptico.

—Como que eres el más inteligente del planeta... O que algún día inventarás algo como los viajes en el tiempo... O que eres muy talentoso, que a veces necesitas descansar un poco, pero que siempre das todo de ti...

—¿Y sobre mi proyecto de ciencias qué dijo?

El silencio se volvió tenso y Stan se encogió en su lugar.

—Se culpa por eso... Todo el tiempo...

—Sí, claro... —susurró Ford con sarcasmo.

Elena cambió su expresión amable por una seria.

—Solo conozco a Stanley desde hace unos meses, pero solo puedo decirte que, en el poco tiempo que llevo de conocerte, empiezo a entender por qué pasó todo esto...

Ford miró a Elena, sorprendido por el cambio de comportamiento.

—¿A qué se refiere?

—La razón por la que tu invento fracasó no fue por Stanley... Es porque tú eres un fracaso...

Ford sintió como si algo se rompiera en su cabeza, pero trató de fingir que esto no era nada.

Stanley se levantó de inmediato y se puso entre Elena y Ford.

—Elena, te agradezco todo lo que has hecho por mí, pero no dejaré que insultes a mi hermano —estaba a la defensiva ahora, pero su miedo a hacerla enojar era obvio.

—Cariño, siéntate... Tu hermano necesita oír esto...

Stanley dudó, así que Elena lo sentó al lado de Ford.

—Escuche, señora, usted no me conoce y no puede simplemente—

—Eres patético... Eres un niño dorado... ¿Sabes lo que eso significa?

Ford miró a Elena sin entender.

—Un niño mimado... Un niño que vivió su vida entera en una burbuja... Aislado de la realidad... Aún no entiendes que nadie allá afuera te tratará bien, que no siempre tendrás la razón, que no todos estarán en tu contra ni a favor de tus decisiones... Que no todo gira a tu alrededor... Que el mundo no se detendrá si fracasas estrepitosamente...

Ford pareció afectado, pero seguía a la defensiva.

—No tengo por qué escuchar esto...

—Oh, vas a escuchar, y escucharás detenidamente... Lo que pasó fue un accidente que se remedió, ya está. No hay más que discutir... Stan arregló el problema, su "deuda" con su padre la pagó y ahora es libre... ¿Entonces cuál es tu problema? ¿Por qué te aferras a un invento?

—¡Porque era el trabajo de mi vida! ¡Era algo importante para mí! ¡Mi oportunidad de alejarme de todo el mundo y ser alguien! ¡De no ser solo uno de los gemelos Pines! ¡De ser importante!

—¿Y crees que alejar a todos los que amas y una universidad cara te ayudará a lograrlo?

—... Y-yo... Es una buena universidad...

—¿Según quién? ¿Según sus folletos? Mira, niño... Yo estudié ahí y fue un infierno... Los maestros eran pésimos con los estudiantes; jamás podías destacar sin hacer que alguien te odiara por ser mejor, e incluso destacar era imposible... Es una jaula de oro en la que pasarás horas suplicando que alguien te mate antes de tener que pasar otra hora estudiando... Sin contar con toda la mierda que ocurre, como la falsificación y sobornos, el abuso, la negligencia, las peleas y las drogas... West Coast Tech no es más que un nido de cucarachas millonarias y ratas que puedes sobornar...

Elena dejó que esas palabras se asentaran.

—Y créeme... Preferirás ir a cualquier otra universidad si no quieres que la gente te haga sentir inferior... Eso es algo que depende de ti... Pero un título universitario no define tu futuro...

Ford sintió como si finalmente sus esperanzas se rompían; su oportunidad en realidad lo iba a llevar a un peor lugar. Toda su vida pensó que estudiar sería su único talento y, ahora que escuchaba esto, sentía una terrible decepción.

—Stan pudo cometer un error... Pero tú también has cometido errores... Como no intentar reparar tu invento... O dejar que Stan se quedara en la calle por meses... No digo que pudieras hacer algo, pero... La realidad es que es tu hermano... Y, aunque estés del otro lado del mundo, jamás borrarás su existencia...

Ford miró a Elena, sintiendo una mezcla de impotencia y dolor.

—Yo... yo...

—... me odias...

Las palabras de Stanley pesaban con fuerza en Elena y Ford.

Ford miró incrédulo a Stan.

—¿Qué...?

—... Me odias... Odias que esté cerca de mí... —susurró—. Odias que yo siquiera esté cerca tuyo... Nuestro sueño de viajar juntos por el mundo jamás importó... Yo solo quería que estuvieras ahí conmigo... Eso era lo único que tenía... Pero lo arruiné...

Stan se levantó de su asiento y caminó hacia la ventana del hotel; parecía meditar sus palabras detenidamente, algo para nada normal en Stan.

¿Dónde estaba el Stanley Pines que se lanzaba a los golpes contra aquellos que lo insultaban? ¿Dónde estaba aquel Stanley que era rápido en responder y en defenderse?

¿Por qué Stanley parecía tan pensativo?

—... Toda la vida creí que jamás nos podríamos separar... Pero tú elegiste otro camino... Y la verdad... eso está bien... Aunque me lo dijiste al último minuto... Eso no excusa lo que hice... Nunca justificaré lo que hice... Pero... yo... lo siento... Siento haberte traicionado así... Debí dejar la máquina en paz y no solo desquitarme contra la mesa... Tal vez las cosas habrían sido diferentes... Lo lamento...

Stanley dejó que sus palabras se asentaran en Ford, quien estaba anonadado.

—... Hay una cosa más que quiero decirte...

Stan mira a Ford con una sonrisa suave, como si al expresar esas palabras se sintiera un poco en paz.

—... Gracias... gracias a ti... conocí a dos personas maravillosas... Que creen que puedo lograr algo... Todavía no sé qué podría lograr, pero... gracias... muchas gracias... por ser mi hermano... y por... ayudarme... en todo... Espero que encuentres lo que estás buscando...

Ford se quedó sin palabras ante el agradecimiento de Stan.

Nunca, en todos sus años, habría imaginado a su propio hermano sonreír así... No con su típica sonrisa de estafador o showman... Sino con sinceridad... Con agradecimiento... Con una paz que nunca había visto.

¿Dónde estaba el Stanley Pines que le reclamaría por haberlo abandonado? ¿Dónde estaba?

—Así que... —dijo Stanley mirando a Elena—. Gracias, pero... Ford no se merece oír eso... Es bueno... es muy inteligente... Solo necesita ayuda... Eso es todo... Sé que, a dónde sea que vaya, será el mejor... Es un genio...

Elena miró a Stan con un brillo de orgullo y tranquilidad; parecía que, fuera como fuera que esperaba que reaccionara Stanley, para ella, lo hizo de la mejor manera.

Cuando iba a responder, Ford fue interrumpido por Erick, quien traía comida empaquetada para llevar en bolsas de un local que Ford reconoció.

—De acuerdo... aquí está la comida —dijo el hombre con una sonrisa mientras miraba a Stan—. Príncipe, ¿podrías poner la mesa, por favor?

Algo que Ford tampoco esperaba es que Stanley asintiera con ojos brillantes antes de correr a buscar algo en lo que servir la comida.

—¿Príncipe? —interrogó Ford con algo de incomodidad.

—Bueno, la verdad es que Stanley es un buen muchacho... Y... Es un apodo que le dimos... Y le gusta mucho... ¿Viste cómo sus ojos brillan cuando lo llamo así?

—Además, es todo un príncipe; lo hubieras visto ayer en la mesa, está aprendiendo rápido —agregó Elena con dulzura.

Cuando todos se sentaron a la pequeña mesa del comedor de la habitación, Ford observó cómo Stanley era más cuidadoso a la hora de comer, incluso usaba los cubiertos adecuadamente.

—Ya que hemos hablado de algunos asuntos importantes antes... Deberíamos discutir cuál será nuestro plan ahora —dijo Erick, dejando su recipiente vacío y haciendo que todos lo miraran.

—Es cierto, la realidad es que ya habíamos considerado la posibilidad de que ustedes dos quedaran bajo nuestra custodia, así que las habitaciones y los gastos en general serán cubiertos, irán a una buena universidad y tendrán tutores para mejorar en las materias en las que no son buenos —dictó Elena antes de tomar un poco de refresco.

—Otra cosa importante es que, al ser estudiantes en esta zona, ambos deberán seguir asistiendo a la escuela para terminar a tiempo la preparatoria... Así que nos quedaremos en un apartamento y los ayudaremos en todo lo que podamos —agregó Erick con firmeza—. Eso significa que ustedes dos deben estudiar duro.

Mientras Ford no se veía mortificado con la propuesta, Stan parecía estar tan nervioso como al entrar a la casa de empeños, cosa que aparentemente Erick notó.

—... E incluso si no lo logran, pueden intentarlo de nuevo, hasta conseguirlo... Con nuestro apoyo, lograrán aprobar... Así que no se preocupen...

Stan sonrió aliviado, como si esas palabras tuvieran un efecto en él.

—Ya que estamos hablando de la universidad, deben preguntarse qué quieren estudiar a futuro... Hay universidades muy buenas alrededor de Nueva York y Nueva Jersey.

Ford se quedó reflexionando, pero luego detuvo cualquier pensamiento.

—Esperen, ¿entonces no volveré a casa?

La habitación quedó en silencio.

—... Depende... ¿De verdad quieres volver?

La pregunta de Elena fue muy certera; ya no quería... No quería volver a esa casa... Pero era todo lo que conocía; no había visto nada fuera de Glass Shard Beach.

—Es su elección —dijo Stanley, sorprendiendo a todos—. Él también tiene derecho a elegir...

La pareja casada se miró con ceños preocupados.

—... Es muy pronto para elegir, querido... Tal vez por ahora solo debamos centrarnos en la preparatoria e ir avanzando por ahí —tranquilizó Elena con una sonrisa.

Ford asintió, ansioso por terminar la conversación.

Más tarde, cuando todos estaban durmiendo, excepto Ford, empezó a preguntarse detenidamente muchas cosas.

¿Cómo es que su vida cambió tanto en tan poco tiempo?

Se suponía que todo iría según el plan; ahora estaba atrapado con dos desconocidos y el hermano que... el hermano que... se había disculpado... Se disculpó por todo... y encontró una pareja dispuesta a hacer lo que fuera para cuidarlos a ambos.

Su sueño de ir a la universidad más prestigiosa se hizo añicos en tan solo unas horas...

No podía dejar de sentirse así; se sentía como un fracaso. Ahora no sabía qué debía hacer... Si regresaba a casa, Filbrick estaría listo para tirarlo a la calle o regresarlo con la pareja...

Y si se quedaba... Bueno... tenía la oportunidad de ir a esa universidad, pero... la idea de que Elena le advirtiera con sus experiencias sobre lo que le esperaba no era alentadora.

Ahora que estaba en esa cama, mirando al techo y escuchando los ronquidos de su hermano, podía decir algo con seguridad: aunque lo odiaba...

Extrañaba a su hermano.

[raethereptile]

It's been a year now since I started my first job (and moved to a second one) and I want to share some of the things with yall

Interviews are a two way street. They are seeing if they like you. But you need to decide if you like them. Ask questions and don't be afraid to listen to your gut.

There are two types of questions you should ask at an interview: to get more knowledge about the company, and to make yourself look good. The ones that make you look good are more important.

Buy a notebook. Make notes every day. You'll thank me.

Manage your pain. Take the god damn painkiller.

Set "yes but" goals. "This is my goal for this period of time but if something happens I will do this instead." " This is my goal for the year but if something happens before then I'll do this."

Don't be afraid to leave. Seriously. It's not worth it.

If they say they want to extend your probation period/training period, start looking for another job. They might be doing you a kindness and actually mean to help you, but if they're not and are only trying to cover their own skin you want to get out of there before they hurt you.

There will always be people who cannot admit fault and or will try to blame you for things you haven't done. Handle it however you please but accept that this is a universal truth.

Your colleagues are not your friends. They may become friends in time, but they are your colleagues first. Remember this. It may protect you one day.

"if you love what you do you'll never work a day in your life" is mostly true. It should still feel like work, but if you can find a job that you love, don't waste it. Your lucky.

If you stop loving it, it's a sign of a bigger problem.

If you stop doing the things you love because work has made you mentally/emotionally/physically incapable, don't be afraid to reassess.

If your place of work doesn't have a wellbeing and or disability support system, it's not for you. Even if you're able bodied, neural typical, and in peak mental and physical health.

Be a team player, but not at the expense of yourself.

You can be professional and still be the little freak that you really are. Just remembered when to wear which face, ok?

Eat some fucking fruit.

Work is just work. If you find it fulfilling, fantastic. But you need more that just work. Friends, family, hobby's, join a club, get a pet, start a project, take a class, go to the theatre, bake a cake, anything. But have something

Never stop learning. Either on the job or outside of it. But especially on the job. If your place of employment won't encourage you to keep learning and progressing, find a new job.

Comfortable, practical shoes. That is all.

Health and safety is your friend. I know. Everyone's least favourite department. But they are there to protect you. Go to them if you have concerns. If you don't have a h&s department and or your concerns are ignored, leave. No job is worth your life.

[acti-veg]

i am 14 and I live with my parents, what can i do to be vegan when my parents refuse to buy other than seasonings bell pepper and onion?

I'm assuming you mean that they won't buy vegetables or vegan food for you in general, so I'll answer on that basis!

If your parents aren't going on about health or cost, then I'd say it's likely that this is an issue of convenience for them, or just not knowing what vegan food loooks like. A lot of the time what it comes down to is that your parents are worried that it’ll involve a lot of extra effort to accommodate you. It is up to you then, to make your transition to veganism as smooth and effortless for them as you possibly can. You could volunteer to cook your own meals if you don’t already, you won't be able to pay for your own food yet but you could accompany them to the supermarket to point out good vegan options, or you could make a list if that would be easier for them.

Just showing them the kind of meals you can make and how simple the food can be can sometimes be enough, because many people just can’t conceive of what a meal without animal products even looks like. If they only think of veg as peppers and onions, they are probably picturing themselves having to buy expensive ingredients and cook from scratch because none of the meals they cook for you now are vegan. This isn’t the case of course, but it will take some time for them to realise how simple and straightforward cooking and eating vegan can be.

The early days of your veganism may be difficult with them, but even if they are never supportive of it, they usually learn to adapt and accept it. The really important thing in the first few weeks and months is to be patient with them, and be polite but firm with your boundaries. You know your parents, so only you can really figure out where you can get away with putting those boundaries, what you can get away with and what you'll have to compromise on. If they're open to it, sitting them down and having a proper conversation about it can help figure that out, and show them you're serious about it.

If you are willing to compromise and eat non-vegan things because they have bought them or served them to you, then they will take that to mean that you will bend on these things in future, too. When it comes to your veganism, people will generally continue to push your limits if you show them that you will bend. It makes it more difficult, but being firm and uncompromising in the early days will pay off in the long run, when they realise that this is something that you just won’t budget on regardless of the context.

If none of this proves effective, if you have the option to do so you can still insist on it, and simply refuse to eat anything which isn’t vegan. It may take a few days, but they will likely get the message that this isn’t a fad, and most won’t let you go hungry. If they have refused and you are unconvinced they will ever relent or it is unsafe for you to disobey them, then you may just have to be as vegan as you can be under the circumstances.

This means eating vegan whenever what you eat is your choice, and buying vegan items whenever you are able to. This isn’t your fault, and you can still make some difference for animals and keep your parents happy until you are able to move out. If your parents ask you anything you can’t answer, or you run into any specific issues or need further support, please feel free to get in touch by sending me a message or an ask; it may take a couple of days to reply to you due to the volume I receive, but I’ll be more than happy to help you.

In the meantime, the best thing you can do is be as well informed on this topic as you possibly can. I've got tonnes of resources on my website to help with this, particularly look at the education section and the FAQs. If all else fails, you can live as vegan as you're able to in their household, learn all about the philosophy of veganism and how to cook vegan meals, order vegan meals when you're out and prepare for when you'll be able to move out of their house and control your own food.

[juleshollow]

Reese/Dr. Kelly decision

(Episode 4 Spoilers)

This one is pretty straight-forward for me, but the choice I feel is "right" still leaves a guilty, sad aftertaste.

I give Dr. Kelly the tranquilizers.

I see it like this: when Reese starts to transform and Wayne arrives, you find yourself in the middle of a crazy dangerous situation that keeps getting worse. Unless you are Hot, you're powerless to stop it from escalating.

I was presented two bad options: help Dr. Kelly imprison her son again or let Reese murder his mother. I felt helpless because I didn't want any of those outcomes, so how could I make the most out of a situation that was so out of my control? By thinking ahead and picking the alternative that didn't have irreversible consequences.

I want Reese to be free AND happy. There are some things you can't go back from, and killing and eating your mom is one of them (seriously, he didn't need to devour her). No matter how awful Dr. Kelly's parenting was, that's something irredeemable that would clearly hurt Reese as well. Do you think Kaneeka and Stella would treat Reese as if nothing happened? Or that Reese wouldn't carry the guilt with him for the rest of his life? Would he internalize that murder is an acceptable solution to his problems, and weaponize his power again in the future? Reese transforms into something supernatural, but what he does with that power is what can make him a monster.

This turning moment makes me think of how all of Reese's story is about choice. Joan knew her son was different and she tells us that she had no choice but to keep him restrained for everyone's safety. But of course she had a choice. She couldn't know that he would harm anyone, she just feared it. It's the suffering that she inflicts to her son that makes Reese despise her in the end. I love that the game actually gives you the chance to call her out on that ("don't you think it's a self-fulfilling prophecy?").

She absolutely could have done things differently. She could have been honest with Reese about his nature (and how little they knew about it) and educate him to accept and control it. It's her fault that she didn't even consider it. Can you imagine having a super strong gym bro son and making him sick because "he could hurt someone with his powerful build"? That's basically what she does. She imprisons her son on the grounds of possibility, for a crime he hasn't committed and might never commit. She never trusted Reese, never gave him a chance. If she did, Reese could have been a fully functional Jersey Devil (or whatever kind of goblin he is) that used his powers for harmless purposes.

But Dr. Kelly's fear makes her narrow-minded when it comes to Reese. And in Episode 4 she tries to make us buy into her black&white philosophy - she frames the crisis as a situation with only two possible outcomes: either she tranquilizes Reese and locks him up, keeping everyone safe, or Reese kills her and rampages free to terrorize the town. NICE DICHOTOMY IDIOT, WHAT LIES OUTSIDE IT??

As I said, I want a different outcome and I won't let Dr. Kelly trick me into thinking that's impossible. So, despite being powerless to get my way in that moment, I focus on what I can do after. I cannot bring Dr. Kelly back from the dead. I can absolutely break out Reese later, and that's what I intend to do.

Reese transforms and becomes a bit insane PROBABLY because of the influence of the carving (so a bit my fault 😬 sorry I brought unearthly despair to your household, I'm a Scarlet). I hope that it will pass and I'll be able to reason with him when he calms down. I wasn't hot enough to appease you before, pal, I'll give it another try after your nap!

So my intention is to free Reese and maintain his innocence. Let's disrupt the self-fulfilling prophecy before it self-fulfills! There is a better way to do things and it's about time the Kellys hear about it.

I'm determined to do that, but it still feels awful to know that Reese thinks I betrayed him. I barely said a word to Dr. Kelly when she walked me out of the house, because she acted like we were sort of on the same page while all I could think was "you're still wrong and I'm going to get your son out of here as soon as I can, I just didn't want him to gobble you up".

[iwontheidgafwar]

Fifteen Years From Now

Fifteen years from now, I wonder if we will look back and remember how cruel we became during this time. Fifteen days ago I had a conversation with a cousin of mine about the time we find ourselves in. He is a nut-job. Centrist rambler who would not shut up about dopamine cycles and how he had cut out sugar... all while finishing five pieces of nicotine gum. He has a funny man-way of being right. In pretending I'm dumb by intentionally misunderstanding me, he was better able to label me an idiot. Same thing my dad does. It is a fruitful weapon.

I think a lot of our cruelty comes from these dopamine cycles that are a byproduct of the capitalist hell we live in. He agreed with me on this. Maybe that says something about the point I made. Anyways, I made the point that we are essentially mind-fucked beyond belief, in the sense that we believe the state we live in is the only state there is to live in. Specifically, Americans believe this—that capitalism is the only true form of society.

In consumerist America, buying is equated to living. Experience is buying. You share beautiful experiences over the third shitty t-shirt you bought off of the backs of exploited children. Quickly, too. All in an instant. Earn, buy buy buy, grieve, earn... So that you can buy again. I buy these clothes, therefore I am. I buy this book to read, to have, therefore I am. I buy, therefore, I am. Our phones are just another gear in the production of a material self that will cease to exist, along with your favorite vinyl and the ironic sweater you "had to buy" at the thrift store.

Our phones are capital in a sense. My time is money, attention and content are products, and this exchange seems to contribute to our faulty sense of self in the same way products do. I receive this acclaim, therefore I am. I view this type of content, therefore I am. I jack off to this type of porn, therefore I am. This subsection of people hates me (and I hate them), therefore I am; but, I won't always be.

We will never except this though. Who would? So, in place of our fear of death, we turn to "living." Reactionary beliefs. Hatred. Obsession. Irony.

Irony is the cruelest thing of all. It is the monolithic testament to our minds melting away to consumerism. It says "I am so afraid of death, I would rather not live so I wouldn't miss it." Irony is fear. Irony is a bid for acclaim. Irony helps you spiral further into the nothing burger of material possession. And it is too fun. It is too easy. It makes you feel smart, does it not? To be in on the winning side of the joke, holding all the cards in a game of cards where the cards are nothing and nothing can be won and you aren't actually ever playing. You're being played.

It's not like I am not ironic all the time. I am. And I hate it. Throw my phone into the river. Throw everything that fuels this fear of life away and embrace living. I think we will look back in fifteen years and remember this period as everyone being cruel; because, in a sense, we are still primal beings compared to what we could be. Everyone talks about being addicted to dopamine, but no one talks enough about its implications in our social landscape. As primal, consumerist beings (not really our fault...) we eat up and shit out anything that stimulates us. Eat up infamy, shit out regret. Eat up righteousness, shit out regret. Everything is single-use nowadays, and so we treat each other in the same way. The immense cruelty we see as a byproduct will pass when we are no longer exploited. I'll check back in fifteen years.

30/10/24

[thedawningofthehour]

Oh. my. god, seriously, every time a chapter comes out my hands start shaking, I was shocked to wake up to see that the chapter had not been posted, only for it to be posted a couple of hours later, and for the record I woke up at 8 am and there is only like a couple of hours difference between US and where I live! Woman! Do you even sleep?

My mom gets furious if I go to bed at 12 pm and I'm a 22 year old grown woman!

Uhhhhhhhh~ it looks like the 'Galois discovers the truth' arc is already taking it's first steps, I want to see the faces of the Draxum squadron when they see the wanted posters, especially when they realize they used a picture of Donatello for 'Galois'!

The guy's reaction when Annie told him about his family, one of the things I'd like to see in the recovery arc is how the humans will adapt to the Yokai, I love Worldbuilding stories.

So while they won't sentence Donnie to death there's still a chance he'll be lynched? Yikes, I hope Bella and Leo's testimonies help with their public opinion, again, it's all Draxum's fault, the guy had the kid for a year and already has like four 🎯 in his head, Splinter was right to take the kids.

Oh, my mother bothers me too if she thinks I'm up too late. But she's usually asleep by then, and I try to get to bed before she gets up for her middle of the night smoke.

Just part of living with your parents as an adult, I guess. Today she drove me crazy going through every item in the kitchen and playing twenty questions with me about it to make room for Thanksgiving supplies. Is this yours? When did you buy it? Is it still good? What kind of cheese is it? When do you eat this? Are you sure I can throw it out? But are you actually going to eat it? (she does this when she goes through anything, it drives me nuts) I literally did a fridge purge less than a month ago too, all the old stuff was hers.

But our rent's been the same since 2013 and our landlords are actually cool people, so fuck if I'm moving out and paying more for a shittier place to live.

It's pretty unrealistic, the Hidden City as a whole places a lot of value on children (so many of them have trouble having bio-kids) and their life stages all scale upwards, so 15-16 is so very very young for them. So the idea that they'd condemn someone so young goes against much of the overarching culture there.

However, Hueso's seen bullshit before. He knows emotions run much higher than reason in times of strife, and he worries about the dehumanization of mutants and the effects that will have. If Yokai see mutants as scary 'Others' who just exist to destroy their way of life, then they'd have no qualms about killing people like Leo or even the kiddos like Fatimah and Jenny-because they're not really people to them. And they would be furious at one of those 'Others' who played a direct part in their hardship.

To be fair, some of it probably would have happened anyway. People like Big Mama (if she was an actual crime boss and not a cartoon version of what a kid thinks a crime boss is) and other rich weirdos would have taken one look at him and been like "sweet! You work for me now. Say no and I'll cripple your legs so you can't run away. :)" Draxum's reputation and being legally his son does protect him somewhat.

[thefoxtrot008]

Dialogue Prompts

Here is part 5 of the prompts! Again, we have more storyline creations, but apparently, we're jumping ship, when we have another idea. Anyone else do this? Even though, I generally don't categorize my prompts, this one is more of a fantasy prompt. Anyways, let's go!

"I thought your kind didn't exist." "Yea, you and everyone else."

"I did not come here to babysit!" "Then what did you come here for?"

"You worked for them? Yea, well now you work for me."

"I'm here to train you on everything you don't know." "What makes you think I don't know anything, huh?"

"Shut up and pick up the sword."

"He's going to eat you for lunch."

"Because it is your duty." "Well, fuck that!"

"You have a real chance at making things better than they are right now and you're refusing to take it!"

"You're not a child anymore."

"These are my brothers." "You bring someone like him here?"

"Didn't have much of a choice now did I?!"

"It's a very safe location, no one knows where it is. Except for us of course."

"If your'e going to talk the whole way there, I might just have to find a way to shut you up."

"Don't touch my horse."

"I'm glad to see you. Didn't think that you'd make it through the winter!" "Do you really have such little faith in me?"

"Take a drink."

"And what do they call you exactly?"

"You've gone soft."

"They are not ready for that!" "Don't interfere. Let them figure it out."

"What is the matter with you two?! He is not prepared for the trials!" "Whose fault is that?! If you would stop babying him, he'd get further in with his training!" "If we do it your way, he''ll be dead before he is crowned king!" "Do nothing, watch."

"Don't give me that cliche crap."

"Can you hand me my bag?"

"I'd like to re-register within the system, please."

"You can't make a scene. You're too good."

"Alright, alright. You've made your case, she is one the fourth floor."

"That is not a fair observation!" "And neither is your request!"

"Your butler wouldn't let me in."

"I have to do something big." "You don't have to do anything!"

"Oh dear. You don't know about the policy? The new policy?"

"What makes you think I can fit in that?!"

"You're engaged to the man, not me." "God, don't remind me."

"It would never work."

"Mmm... so close."

"That won't go over well."

"So, you're the brains of this operation. What do you suggest I do?"

"Go! I'll buy us sometime!"

"Yes, well, nobody seems to care about what I want!"

"We're... we're even now. Okay?!"

"More evaluating?! You do realize that I have a life right? I can't wait that long-" "A life that you abandoned, let's not forget. A life that you just started to pursue, only due to certain circumstances."

"I was wondering when I might see you again."

"Packing? Packing for what?!"

"I'm leaving first thing in the morning."

"Hide! In the closet!"

"Not by choice, remind you."

"Do you know who this is?"

"No, they can't do that! Not while I'm around."

"What do I need to do to get this cleared?"

"I'd like to make an appointment." "State your business here, sign and date on the bottom right here."

"isn't there a faster way to get this done?"

"Wait outside will you?"

_____________________________________________________________

And... that's it! This one is a bit shorter than the others... but that's okay though! Enjoy! :)

[traumasurvivorshelpingsurvivors]

Advice or I think I just need to vent.

I live with my family (20yrs) and I'll be honest the house can feel cluttered a lot of the time. My room isn't relaxing if anything I just feel like a lazy slob in my own bed. My sister and I have shared rooms our whole lives and I have a cat who stays in my room as well. It's tight, cramped, and every bit of space has to be shared.

I don't eat meat or dairy and often times when I try to be healthy or I guess just, find what's good to eat the fridge and cupboards are filled of chips and snacks and meats and everything else. So sometimes being in the kitchen feels useless. Of course I buy my own groceries but I don't know. I guess I could be being unfair on that bit.

I just feel so lazy and unsure of what to do with myself. I'm twenty years old, not in school, and I still live at home. I still share a bed and a closet and bathrooms and brushes and face washes. I don't feel like an adult or as someone who can create my own space.

Awhile back my father fixed up the back shed to be hung out in but it's hardly liveable as it is despite both my parents thinking otherwise. Spiders constantly get in, rats, dust and cobwebs. The door is made of rotten wood and the walls have dents too.

My parents always talk about moving they have for years about getting out of here and I know it's not their fault but everytime they do I know it's just an empty wish. There's over 9 people in this house, both my parents had some health scares, and the side bedroom roof just collapsed in. There is no 'new house' coming. It didn't 9 years ago and it won't now. My younger siblings don't even have their own rooms they have to share with my parent's. The only one who's ever had his own room is my brother.

I just want to have my own room and my own things and my own goddamn fridge! I want to cook when I want to and watch what I want to and hell even be comfortable in my own clothes when I want to without having to worry about everyone else.

I recently got a job as a barista, the pay is nice and I enjoy making the coffee, but I just genuinely want out of this house. I don't want to live with my parents and brothers and sisters and family dog anymore. I just want to pack up me and my cat and find the first apartment I like. No roommate. No one. Just me and my own space.

I don't have enough to move out and rent is so expensive these days but I just feel like I'm in a constant state of suppression. Only when the sun has gone down and everyone is asleep do I really feel comfortable. But it's also not reasonable for me to feel so huffy either.

I want to be on my own but not alone if that makes sense. I know I sound like a child but I don't know how else to put how I feel.

- Olivia

Hi Olivia,

It sounds like you're feeling overwhelmed and frustrated with your living situation. You've been going through a lot. It's understandable that you want your own space and privacy, and it's okay to feel that way.

If you'd like some advice, there are some suggestions on how you can approach this situation. The first could be to start saving money. If you want to move out, you'll need to start saving up for a deposit and rent. Create a budget and see how much you can realistically save each month. Looking for affordable housing options could also help. Keep an eye out for affordable housing options in your area. You can also look into roommate situations or shared living spaces if you're open to it.

It may also help to communicate with your family, and talk to your family about how you're feeling. Let them know that you want your own space and that you're working towards saving up to move out. They may be more understanding and willing to help you out.

It could also help to create your own space. Even if you can't move out right now, you can create your own space within your room. Try decluttering and organizing your space to make it feel more relaxing. You can also add some decor or plants to make it feel more personalized. Additionally, you could consider finding ways to have privacy. If you can't have your own room, some alternative could be having designated times where you can be in the living room or kitchen to yourself. You can also try going for walks or finding other places outside of the house where you can be alone.

Remember, it's okay to want your own space and independence. Take small steps towards achieving that goal and don't be too hard on yourself. If anyone else has any comments or suggestions, feel free to add on. Otherwise, I hope I could help, and please let us know if you need anything.

-Bun

[ivory-lamps]

A11: The Mouse That Can't Fit In

Characters: Yodaka, Nagi, Toi & Renga Location: Hama Summary: The protagonist has something to say to Nagi and visits Nagi and Yodaka’s room. Nagi is not in and they ask Yodaka when Nagi will return, but Yodaka struggles with an answer… Proofreader: Shay

ㅤ

Momiji / Kaede: Hello, sorry for barging in.

Yodaka: Welcome to mine and Nagi’s room, “A Wet Rat, Dries”.

Momiji / Kaede: The names of the rooms always surprise me no matter how many times I hear them. Like Toi-kun and Netaro-kun’s “Boar Priest”. Wouldn’t you have preferred a different room?

Yodaka: It’s fine. Nagi was insistent on wanting this room…

ㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤㅤ📍 Flashback

Nagi: I want “A Wet Rat, Dries”.

Yodaka: There are others like “Sheep of the Same Flock” an–

Nagi: I want “A Wet Rat, Dries”.

Yodaka: I asked him about it afterwards, but it’s apparently similar to the radio alias he uses.

Momiji / Kaede: Oh, Nagi-kun suits that sort of radio thing. He looks like the sort of person to listen to late-night radio shows…! Like Every Night JPN! I think that’s where his unique preferences are from!

Does he listen to celebrity radio shows at night?

Yodaka: Hm. Unfortunately, I’ve yet to see him do so. By the way, what are you doing here?

Momiji / Kaede: Oh, right. I have some business with Nagi-kun…

Yodaka: He left for work just now.

Momiji / Kaede: Oh… I see. I wanted to discuss the destination for the Night Group’s research trip.

And… there’s also this.

Yodaka: That’s a box of sweets from a Western dessert store.

Momiji / Kaede: It is. Nagi-kun missed out on the cake during last week’s party. I cut out a piece and left it for him but…

It seems Akuta-kun found it the next day and I just found out today that he accidentally ate it.

Yodaka: Haha. It was inevitable since he’s a growing high school student.

Momiji / Kaede: We went to buy him another one as an apology earlier. 

What time does Nagi-kun usually come back?

Yodaka: Hmm… ……

…I’ll tell him about the research trip and the cake when he’s back.

Momiji / Kaede: Thank you. That would be great.

(Hmm, Yodaka-san took a while to reply.)

(It doesn’t look like he won’t know when Nagi-kun comes back, but it feels like he’s beating around the bush or something.)

(Did something happen…? Like this lifestyle itself doesn’t fit well with Nagi-kun…? Maybe I’m overthinking it.)

Yodaka: ……

Momiji / Kaede: Um, I’ll leave the cake in the fridge downstairs. I'll add a note with Nagi-kun's name on it so others won't eat it! I’ll be going, then…

Yodaka: Wait.

Momiji / Kaede: Y–Yes? What is it?

Yodaka: Why are you asking about Nagi-kun? Is there something on your mind?

Momiji / Kaede: Ahaha… Could you tell by my face? I’m just a bit worried.

I was the one who asked him to come here, so I’m worried if I’m forcing him to do something he’s not used to.

Yodaka: …I see.

…To tell the truth, I’m quite shy as well. It takes a while for me to get used to a new environment.

That’s what happens when you get so used to living alone. The space you allow for others vanishes in a blink of an eye.

You’re prying it open so it’s not easy. I’m sure it’ll be necessary to abandon some things too, but it should be a good thing.

Momiji / Kaede: Right…

Yodaka: I have a feeling we’re similar.

It’s no one’s fault. It’s just because that’s been our lifestyle for a long time. There is nothing you need to worry about, Manager.

Momiji / Kaede: (Yodaka-san is reassuring me. He’s so kind…)

You’re right. Thank you so much! I’ll do my best to help him out until he gets used to the place, so that he can enjoy his time here!

Yodaka: Right. Please do so.

Nagi: Alrighty…

(I’ve left the store to Sonia, so I’ll have a bath, grab a change of clothes, go back to the store and sleep there tonight again…)

Hm?

Toi: ……

Nagi: (Toi is on the balcony. It looks like he’s staring at me but…)

(We’ve already locked eyes. If I pass by him without saying anything, then it’ll look like I’m ignoring him. But he might just be lost in thought, so is it okay for me to bother him?)

(I must make a difficult decision. This is even harder than seeing someone you know on the train. What would be the correct reaction here?)

(In the meantime, no ignoring. I’ll look him in the eyes to show him I’ve noticed him… by blinking.)

Toi: ……

Nagi: (...No response. But I can’t turn back now. Someone might see me and Toi like this – the show must go on.)

Heey…

Toi: ……

(Toi leaves)

Nagi: ……

(He completely ignored me. Oh, well… I guess?)

Nagi: Ah…

Renga: O–Oh… Is my face that much of a shock…?

Nagi: …I didn’t think you would be here. So…

Renga: The bath is communal so you’re bound to see other people here. There are 10 people in here when it’s crowded, you know?

Nagi: I see. Sorry.

Renga: It’s not something you have to apologise for. Anyway, you don’t have to be so reserved.

We’re literally living under the same roof and we’ve been through a lot together… so we’re like friends, right?

Nagi: …Friends.

Renga: Yeah. W–We’re… friends…

Come on! Stop standing there in a daze – hurry up and get changed so we can go in.

Nagi: …Together?

Renga: Huh? Well, yeah, you happen to be here, so… Of course, we’re gonna sit in the bath together.

Nagi: Oh, right. Sorr–

Renga: You’re a weird one…

Nagi: …… Sorr–

Renga: …………

Uh, where is the clothes basket…?

Nagi: Here, use this.

Renga: Huh? …Thanks. But one’s fine. I don’t need five.

Nagi: Right. It’s too many. There’s still one extra if you use one basket for your shirt, pants, underwear and socks, huh.

Renga: ……

Nagi: ……

*Renga and Nagi get changed*

Renga: A–Alright, I’ll have a cup of water before the bath… Huh?

There isn’t a lot of water left in the dispenser.

Nagi: I’ll bring a new container right away. Wait here.

Renga: Huh!? Wait, that’s not something you have to do.

Nagi: Oh.

Renga: ……

Okay, time for a bath…

*Nagi opens the door for Renga*

Nagi: Please, after you.

Renga: …You finished taking your clothes off before me, so you should’ve gone in first. What’re you trying to do by being an automatic door for me?

Besides, aren’t you being way too considerate?

Nagi: ……

Renga: You even brought out a hair dryer and brush for me, too…

Are you planning on being a servant for everyone you see here every day?

Nagi: I’ll apologise if it felt unpleasant.

Renga: N–No… it wasn’t unpleasant at all! I appreciate you doing all this stuff for me… but!

Doing that every time will tire you out, right?

Nagi: Not really.

Renga: Uh, no, that’s not what I’m trying to say… You don’t have to do all this, you know…?

Nagi: Have to?

Renga: Uh, that’s not quite right, huh. How should I put this…

Nagi: ……

Renga: Um… damn it, I can’t find the right words. If only Liguang was here… The things he says tend to be pretty useful at times like these…

Nagi: ……

I think I get it. I’ll be careful in the future.

Nagi: Sigh…

(I don’t have to do that, huh.)

(I know it’s just words but Renga looked really troubled.)

(I troubled him. …I knew it.)

(I knew this would be too much for me. Being a ward mayor and living with other people…)

It’s all too heavy for me. It was impossible from the very beginning…

(But do I say no at this point in time? I even shamelessly participated in the party and had all that food.)

…Hm?

A note from Yodaka-san?

…… A discussion about the research trip and…

……

The cake wasn’t a big deal.

……

“You might have been busy with work so I chose not to send you a message on PeChat. Have a talk with the manager when you’re back” …huh.

……

Momiji / Kaede: Nagi-kun, welcome! Good job working today!

Nagi: You, too.

Toi: Oh… Nagi-san~...

Nagi: (Toi’s here too. Come to think of it, he ignored me on the balcony…)

(No. That was an appropriate response. Toi didn’t do anything wrong. Everyone finds it lazy to react back – it happens all the time.)

(Him ignoring me is nothing weird. So… I’m totally fine.)

Sorry for intruding.

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[hurryupmerlin]

There's a lot going on in my life and today has been hard, cos I spent all day fighting a mental breakdown. I mean, it was just a question of time, really. I've felt it coming for weeks. But I still wish I could feel something else.

So here's a diary entry in hopes of someday reading it and thinking "man, things have be shit but it turned out just fine after all."

In January I posted my to do list for 2024 here. More than half a year has passed since then and unfortunately nothing from this list is checked off and there has been gradually less good news to report with each new month.

All my life I have never had the stamina to learn an instrument. When I stumbled across Handpans, the opportunity arose to change that. I've since been to two beginner workshops and the organizer was gracious enough to lend me a handpan for a month. I was really motivated to follow through with his 17-days-challenge because I knew if I could manage to play every day, even if it was just a few minutes, I had a real chance of forming a habit and finally fulfilling my dream of mastering an instrument. But my days were long. I set up the handpan a few times at ten o'clock at night or even later, completely exhausted. And then came the executive dysfunction. Every day I see her standing there. Every day I want to play it. Every day something in my head blocks me of setting it up. The fear of having to explain to Pierre that I've only played it 5 times this month eats away at me. I want to play. But I can't. And in four days, the month will be over and I'll have to give it back. He'll then ask me if Handpan isn't for me after all. And I'll say: "Yes, it is. It makes me happy. It's fun. It's healing something inside of me. I can let go of the world when I'm just playing for myself. But my broken ADHD brain won't let me and I don't have the money to buy my own and stash it in the closet for the few times a year that I have the strenght to set it up and play." It feels like losing. Like I missed my one chance for something great, that could've changed me for the better.

When I moved into the house, I had these fantasies of sitting at my desk in my tidy, light-filled beautiful room. Drawing digitally, writing, singing. Painting on canvas and composing music. But my aunt interfered in my life and the building site has been frozen ever since. I live between masking film and plaster dust. I've been incapacitated and feel so powerless and helpless. I want progress. And I want my art back.

And then there's the matter of the dog. That goddamn dog Kröte. My colleague told me there's a technical term for when you make a terribly bad financial decision and then cling to it, pouring more and more money and resources into it in the desperate hope of turning it around. She couldn't remember the term, tho. I could be so happy with just my own dog, but instead I've brought this beast into the house. Because of which my own dog has to spend every day alone at home and because of which my neighbors hate me. Because of which my house stinks of piss and because of which my ears are ringing with barking.

My car has been giving me problems since September last year. I've lost track of how many thousands of euros I've spent trying to get the recurring fault fixed. Something between 4500-6000 euros. Most recently it was in the workshop for a month. What's more, after every repair, another new fault occurs. I can't take any more. Emotionally and financially. My aunt's friend is urging me to take it back to his garage. But I thought I'd made myself clear when I said "if it's not fixed this time, I'll keep driving it until the engine fails and I break down." I was supposed to bring my car over today. Which of course I wasn't told directly again, but via the old game of wisper down the lane. Which I said before I will not accept any longer. I put my cell phone on airplane mode afterwards. I can't do it anymore. It's Saturday and I finally needed a day off. I've been borrowing spoons from the future for days - my body told me very clearly that I had overspent.

Things aren't going well at work either. It's not news that we're bankrupt. But the way our bosses and colleagues treat us graphic designers is now unacceptably disrespectful. I am the only employee left who is still interested in contributing her own ideas in order to offer the company advantages and new opportunities. That makes me stand out - in a negative way. Because thinking along might officially be required, but since it also shows where the problems lie, it's actually unwanted. The very real fear of losing my job while being in debt so badly is gnawing on me every day. I am on the hit list. They just need me to finish a few projects first.

Despite all this I cling to hope.

[casspurrjoybell-19]

Does it Matter? - Chapter 54 - Part 3

*Warning: Adult Content*   

Wakefulness came slow and struggling the next morning, memories a confusing haze.

Nothing made sense in Bug's head.

He remembered being captured with Dara.

He remembered running away in the rain and... had they taken shelter in a cave?

And now... now he felt warm and bundled up and not nearly as hungry and thirsty as he should have been and... and he remembered Brayan holding him, helping him eat and drink and... a dog?

None of it made any sense.

He forced his eyes open and he wasn't in a cave, he was in a tent.

A tent he remembered from his hazy memories of the previous night but did that mean...?

Bug turned his head and looked up and there was Brayan, sitting next to him and looking down at him.

"How...?" Bug asked.

"Farah."

"Oh. She went back to you?"

"Hmm. Nearly broke down a door. Are you hungry?"

Bug nodded.

He tried to push himself up but gave up before he got very far.

"Sorry. I'm very tired."

"You almost died, Bug... again. Stay there and I'll bring you food."

Bug shut his eyes.

He'd almost drifted back to sleep again by the time Brayan returned.

"Sorry," Bug said again as Brayan carefully lifted him up.

"I'm so useless."

"Shh. You have limited energy right now. Don't waste it on talk like that."

Bug settled back against Brayan's chest.

"Thank you."

"That's better than sorry."

"Lord Nolen liked 'sorry.'"

"I'm many things, not all of them admirable but I'm not him."

"I know."

Bug accepted a mouthful of porridge sweetened with copious amounts of honey.

"Where's Dara? Is he okay?"

"Of course he's okay, he's unkillable. He's outside with Maric."

"Okay."

Another mouthful of porridge.

"I think he saved my life... and you.. you saved my life as well, didn't you? Again..."

"Eat your porridge and get strong. Once you can no longer be killed by a strong breeze, there will be less need for you to be saved."

"Why are you looking after me?"

"Because I care about you."

"Oh."

"Is that okay?"

Bug found a handful of Brayan's shirt and clutched onto it.

"Hmm."

"I don't know..." Brayan let out a quiet breath.

"I don't know much of anything, really but I know that much, that I care. When I thought you were dead, it just... it hurt, Buagh."

"Sorry. I should have known it was going to rain and if I had we wouldn't even have been there to get caught. It was my fault."

"No, it was the fault of those men who took you."

"Well... I don't know. I won't let us get caught out by the weather again, anyway."

"Good. Maric has put forward thoughts of us perhaps going with you."

"Going with us? You mean... across the border? Into Ticia?"

"Hmm."

Brayan brushed Bug's hair away from his face.

"He thinks that's what those visions of yours want us to do. Where they've been leading us."

"What do you think?"

"Hmm."

Brayan was silent for a long moment.

"In these circumstances, it's difficult to judge what's wise. The prospect seems extremely dangerous but it really depends on what's guiding us and why but... safety and wisdom and even mystical guidance aside, I think I'd like to go with you. I'd like to see you safely delivered back to your family, see where you grew up. I don't know what happens after that but how could I just send you off again after this, never knowing if you reached your destination safely?"

"Thank you," Bug whispered.

"Sure. If we do end up doing this, you will be absolutely vital. Every single one of us, including Dara, speaks with a dangerous accent. You're the only one who can pass as a native of Ticia. Do you think you can shoulder the responsibility of speaking for us?"

"Yes. I... I think so. If nobody knows Maric is a prince, I suppose it wouldn't be... well, it would just be things like buying supplies and asking for directions or information, wouldn't it?"

"That's right."

"I can do that. I did do that all the time before I was taken. That's just... being a person."

"Good. No need to worry about any of that right now, though. Your task for this morning is to eat this porridge."

Brayan offered Bug another spoonful.

"And you're almost done."

By the time Bug had finished his porridge he was tired again but he didn't want to go back to sleep so soon.

"Brayan?"

"Hmm?"

"Do you think it would be okay if I went and sat outside in the sun for a little while?"

"You're not a slave, Bug... not anymore. You don't have to ask my permission to go outside."

"Well, I'm not sure I can walk, so..."

"Okay. I'll carry you."

[cagenewman]

That's the real reason you want to move into the house, is because of all the hardwood floors and how much noise you can make while you're walking around. Listen, it's not like my shoes are cheap, but I also tend to buy a pair and wear them until they can't be worn anymore, so I don't spend as much. The kids go through theirs so fast, with how much they grow, and you… well, you have good taste, I can't fault you for that. Speaking of your parents, I know this probably isn't the best time to bring up this conversation, but since you mentioned them. Do you think … I mean, it's one hundred percent up to you, and I will support you no matter what, but when the time comes, do you want to let them know you're getting married? Yes. But it's less the air going frigid and more a case of me feeling every hair at the back of my neck standing up. And then I start down the path of wondering what I did wrong, or if I left dishes in the sink or boxers on the floor. I think so. Spring, summer, hopefully? We might have to share bathroom space and I can't guarantee everyone's bedrooms will be done, but I feel like if we can cook, eat at a table, watch TV as a family, shower and sleep, that's the base line of what we need, right? And to be honest, why pay double for everything -- triple if you include the fact that I'm still paying for my house, which I do really need to clean out and see if going the rental route is the best option. God, being an adult is so much. That's what I hope, I just want them to be comfortable and happy, both kids. But Colton does really love the room you built for him, too, so you don't have to worry about that. I have an Amazon order coming tomorrow with party supplies, by the way. Maybe if we focus on planning a party, we won't focus on the fact that she's going to be three and we're basically ancient…? She'll be great, she'll be perfect, she'll be the best three year-old ever, you watch. … okay, alright, I'll try to stay awake, just remember that I was working very hard on your dream kitchen today, okay? Don't get ideas. Yeah? We can look through them, if you want. I know we haven't really talked a lot about the whens and whereas and all the details yet, but I don't want you to think the wedding has to take a backseat to the house, it's still the most important thing on my mind. Always.

Well, I do know that, but sometimes I like to make it extra fancy with my heels, the clicking on the floor makes me feel powerful, what can I say. Pretty much that would be a good idea, just let people know those are the things to keep your family in good shoes. Either way it'll be going to good use, between Rosalyn, Colton, or myself! Weird huh finally not being the one with all the expensive things. Not that I need a bunch of expensive things but a splurge item such as a nice pair of heels or bag... definitely a treat in my books since those were always the items I think I miss the most from my parents. They did like to keep up with the trends as far as that. Oh you can sense a change in the air when I'm mad? Does it go all frigid and you realize hell is slowly freezing over and are starting to work on your reason for a thing you may or may not have even done? Oh? You're planning end of spring? That's good to know because I'm going to have to at least tell Rafael so that they can make sure the family that owns this house can start lining up people to rent the home. I don't want them put out too much because we're going to be making the switch over to the new home by end of spring too rough on them either since they've all been wonderful. It's crazy that we are planning to be in the house in a few short months... doesn't really seem possible. Which makes sense but if a good portion of the home is done I don't see why we couldn't be living in it and I'm sure Colton will love having his little living area since it's more space than he has now. Not that he's suffering by any means but he definitely will have the prime real estate at the new house. Five short days and there's a three year old in the house, and I'm absolutely not ready. For the party, yeah sure, but to have a three year old? Absolutely not. It's the Prison Confessions of Gypsy Rose Blanchard... Absolutely will jab you in the ribs because I watched The Act but now I want to hear what was and wasn't true or exaggerated and see more of her story. See how I feel hearing it from that kind of perspective. So that means you're stuck. While the idea of a runaway Willie and sled seems amusing, a terrified Rosalyn afterwards not so much so good thing we didn't try that one. The girls at work absolutely want the details, already asked if I've gone ahead and gotten an appointment to look at dresses yet. May have picked up a good few wedding magazine after work today though.