#luckily I was able to to secure a grant for this

[notapokemonprofessor]

Originally I was a biology professor! Quite recently, however, I started to take a keen interest in the multiverse. I had always found it an interesting theory, but I never had a chance to truly study it until now. In fact, I took leave of my professorly duties to study it more in depth!

@not-pretentious-i-swear asked:

Is your title(The Professor) a Puppet History reference?

Ah, no, sorry, it is a song. (A note that this song is definitely .... Not everyone's cup of tea.) Apologies for it being potentially misleading!

[ithebookhoarder]

Could you write an Anthony Bridgerton x wife!reader fic? They are newly weds and the reader wishes to pamper Anthony while he is bathing. He’s a bit cautious about it at first because he is not used to such affection. Thank youu I love your writing a lot especially the truth or dare fic.

In Your Hands (Anthony Bridgerton x Wife!Reader)

A/N: First of all, thank you so much! And I hope you like this. Thanks for sending this ask in, luckily I was already toying with a few Bridgerton ideas thanks to the new trailers so this came surprisingly easy.

Also, if any of you guys enjoy my work, or just feel like it, then consider buying me a cup of coffee here: https://ko-fi.com/ithebookhoarder ☕️

Warnings: Nudity references, the start of sexy-times, alcohol 

Masterlist

Anthony was someone who hated routine. After all, as much as he was devoted to the day to day duties that came with being the head of his family, if he had his way he would escape the city and the ton, choosing instead the peace and tranquility offered by the countryside, at Aubrey Hall. He dreamed of being able to be just a brother, son and - as of recently - a husband. 

Only married a few months, your new husband was keen to seize each and every opportunity to escape his duties when they appeared - whether it was sneaking off for long rides in the countryside, or making an early exit from whatever social gathering you both had been forced to attend as the new Viscount and Viscountess Bridgerton; Whatever allowed you both to be alone and back in one another’s arms (usually sans clothes) as soon as possible, was a good idea to him. 

It was no surprise then, that there was one part of his daily routine that Anthony actually relished: bathing. 

Oh, yes. There was little more in the world that could bring your fully-grown husband such child-like joy as being able to soak in a tub of steaming hot water for an hour or two. The sight always made you smile as you entered your bedroom: Anthony, half asleep, looking as if the stress had physically melted away. 

It was your favourite sight - and not just because of the exquisite view it granted you of his sculpted form - but because of how calm and peaceful he looked. It was as if he had transformed back into the mischievous and carefree boy you’d first fallen in love with all those years ago. Back when your only concerns had been not tripping on your skirt at your presentation, making sure you were actually asked to dance at a ball, and surviving the social season without embarrassing your family or getting yourself roped into some scandal. 

Whilst you knew neither you nor Anthony would ever change a single thing about your life together, you knew it came with a cost. In fact, today it had been enduring hours of talks with local tenants, the family’s book keeper, estate managers, and even several possible suitors looking to secure some kind of marriage contract with one of his younger sisters. (You’d been informed by several members of the household staff that those meetings had been remarkably swift, however, with each unfortunate man looking rather dejected as they were shown from the house). 

If you’d been able to spare him the pain or share his burden you would have, but unfortunately you’d been occupied with matters of your own. Being the lady of such a grand estate came with duties of its own, and you were quite done looking over seating arrangements, replying to correspondence, and paying social calls for one day.  

Still, at least you’d both survived to tell the tale - no wonder Anthony looked half asleep. Then again, maybe it had something to do with the open bottle of whiskey that sat on the table beside the tub. You knew without looking at the label which bottle it was, having smuggled it out of the library yourself to enjoy together. 

“Anthony Bridgerton!” A fake gasp of horror escaped your lips as you appeared in the doorway, a hand pressed to your chest. “You are a sneak and a traitor. That whiskey was for me too, you know.”

“And a good evening to you too, my love. Never fear, there’s plenty to share,” he teased, head relaxed, tipped backward as he took a sip from the glass in his hand. Your eyes were transfixed on the hollow of his throat, watching his Adam’s apple bob as he swallowed. “Besides, I would apologise but I simply couldn’t wait a minute longer. Not when I couldn’t feel my back from sitting at that desk all afternoon.”

The moan that escaped his lips was almost sinful as he sank a little lower in the water.  

“Well, you’re forgiven. You look far too content for me to even dream of being mad,” you sighed, drawing close and perching on the rim of the tub. Anthony handed over the whiskey glass with a soft smile, letting you take a sip of your own before you placed it back onto the table. 

You could feel the warmth seep into your bones immediately, even if that was also likely in part to your proximity to the tub and your naked husband. 

“Do you want me to wash your hair?”

Anthony’s eyebrows rose at the question, the surprise written across his face. “What?”

“You heard me,” you teased, reaching up to run your fingers through the soft strands of hair atop his head. “I can wash your hair, and get your back for you. Unless you’d rather do it yourself, or I can ring for someone?”

“What? No, that’s uh, that’s not necessary,” he chuckled, visibly flustered - which was amusing and perplexing. After all, it wasn’t as if you two hadn’t seen and touched every single inch of the other in the weeks since your wedding. However, he looked almost confused at the idea that you would offer such a thing. “You don’t have to do that.”

“But I want to,” you soothed. “Let me take care of you, for once. Husband.”

It was probably below the belt to purr his title like that, but you knew how that one little word had the power to reduce the great Viscount Bridgerton to a puddle. That, along with the warmth of the water and the buzz of the whiskey, made him almost pliant to your every whim. Still, you knew him well enough to recognise the lingering hesitation in his eyes as he nodded in agreement. 

He very rarely let his guard down or allowed anyone to assist him in any way. You sometimes believed that had the servants not been dependant upon their work to make a living that Anthony would have dismissed them long ago and tried to run the entire estate single handedly just to prove he could. That he was worthy of the title he bore, and that he was every bit as great a man, brother, and husband as his father. 

It appeared he was the same way when it came to letting himself be taken care of and it made your heart ache for the man you loved. 

Pressing a triumphant kiss to his lips, you swiftly manoeuvred yourself, pulling up a stool and grabbing a jug from the dresser.  

“Just relax… trust me,” you murmured, waiting until he did as he was bid. The gesture alone said volumes, more so than any words ever could. 

Waiting until his eyes were shut, you reached for the soap, tilting his head against your chest as you began to massage the mixture into his scalp. Yet again, your husband seemed to transform into a cat, purring with every touch in a way that made it suddenly very difficult to resist the urge to strip off and join your husband in the water instead. 

“Enjoying yourself?” You giggled as Anthony barely managed more than a groan in reply. 

It was taking every ounce of your self control to focus your attentions solely on Anthony, and not on the way his body seemed to be reacting to your ministrations. Thankfully, you were able to last long enough to finish the job, using the jug to rinse the water through his hair, making sure to angle his head upwards so the water ran off him instead of into his eyes. 

But you were only human; the minute you were done washing the last suds from his scalp you made your move. Sliding off the stool, you knelt beside him and reached out to caress his cheek, causing him to open his eyes almost sleepily. Leaning forward you planted a soft, delicate kiss to his lips, causing him to groan in response.

Without saying a word, his hands rose, twisting their way into your hair as he deepened his kiss. It was clear what he wanted next. 

“Now, wife,” he growled, pulling back just long enough to reach down and tug teasingly at the tie of your dress-robe. You could feel the warmth of his touch as his wet body began to dampen the material. “I think it’s your turn to let me take care of you… so you’d better get in here, before I drag you in here.”

[darl-ingfics]

A Likely Distraction

Fandom: ATEEZ

Sickie: Hongjoong (cold, snz)

Caregiver(s): San

Word Count: 1,553

Hongjoong had had a long day. ATEEZ had been on tour for a month, and they’d just arrived in Chicago, Illinois, their first stop kicking off the North American leg of the tour. The day had begun at 3am so that they could arrive at the airport earlier than most paparazzi were willing to wait for them. There had been the usual airport challenges of security and customs lines, and keeping track of all the members. Then there was the layover, the waiting that was simultaneously too long and too short. Finally, the second flight. But the day was far from over: right off the plane, they’d been taken to a round of interviews with a handful of US news sources. The company had tried its best to rearrange those interviews, but their wishes had not been granted. 

Luckily, the boys were the slap happy kind of tired rather than cranky and whiny. Those interviews were perhaps some of the most entertaining they’d given. As the leader, and one of the only members proficient in English, Hongjoong did a lot of the talking. Or the real talking at least; he was the one hyping up their concert, explaining their comeback concept, detailing their goals as performers. Of course the other members chimed in when they felt comfortable, especially Seonghwa and San, which Hongjoong appreciated. Especially because his throat had started hurting midway through their second flight, and it was only becoming increasingly more painful despite all the water he was drinking. 

Immediately after they’d bid goodbye to the final interviewer, the whole group’s energy dipped. An unusual quiet fell over the group as they shuffled to the van, suddenly too tired to even consider horsing around anymore. 

The drive to the hotel was mercifully short. Hongjoong could not wait to shower and fall into bed. A headache had begun to pound behind his eyes. 

The mangers had already divided rooms. Hongjoong had been paired with San. He didn’t mind that too much, although the leader had been hoping to room with Seonghwa. Hongjoong knew, despite his highest hopes, that he was coming down with something, and he wouldn’t have to hide that from Seonghwa; his fellow 98’ liner would be able to read him before Hongjoong even had the chance to pretend. He had no desire to worry San, and would therefore need to be a bit more cautious about his symptoms as they arose. Which wasn’t the end of the world, but was an additional burden nonetheless. 

But Hongjoong couldn’t stay mad after San shot him the brightest smile on their way to the elevators. 

“You wanna shower first?” San asked immediately upon entry to their room, flopping back onto the closer bed. 

“That would be great, if you’re okay with it.”

San nodded, propping himself up on one elbow. “Of course! That’s why I offered.” He grinned again. “I’ll find us some snacks.” Hongjoong wondered where all of this energy was coming from as San shot back to his feet and began rummaging in his luggage. 

“Did you pack snacks?”

“Duh!” San held up two boxes of said snacks. 

Hongjoong shook his head, laughing at his friend’s antics before snapping forward, “ET’Chuh!“ He blinked, his own body catching him completely off guard.

“Bless you!” San chirped as he continued sifting through the contents of his bag. 

Hongjoong flushed with embarrassment. “Thanks,” he mumbled before moving to his own luggage, quickly locating his shower things. “I’ll be back soon.”

“Take your time. I’m suddenly bursting with energy again.”

“Great. Looks like we’re in for some good bedtime stories then.” San turned back to him with a devious grin. Bedtime stories had become a tradition amongst the group whenever they were sharing hotel rooms. They’d collaboratively build stories together, becoming sillier and more ridiculous the closer they got to sleep. Sure, Hongjoong would rather just pass out tonight, but San was notoriously the best storyteller in the group. 

Hongjoong’s smile faded as soon as he’d closed the bathroom door behind him. He rested his back against the door momentarily. He sniffled against a sudden itch in his sinuses. Pitched forward with another “ET’Chuh!“ 

“Bless you!” San called through the door. Hongjoong knocked an acknowledgment, pressing a knuckle against his nose as he rushed to get into the shower. Hopefully the hot water and steam would help kick out whatever bug was attempting to overthrow his body. Especially this new itch in his nose. Sneezing wasn’t exactly an easy symptom to hide. 

The success of the shower was mixed. The hot water did wonders on his sore muscles, easing the ache in his head, and of course removing the sweat and layer of ick that Hongjoong always felt after being on airplanes. On the flip side, though, the steam had loosened things up in his head, and he wasn’t able to stop himself from sneezing a few times, praying the water was loud enough for San not to hear him. Hopefully, this was just his body’s way of removing the yuck now, his immune system doing what it needed to expel the intruder. Hongjoong convinced himself he’d been right as rain tomorrow. 

Still, after exiting the shower, he wrapped himself in the warmest sweatshirt he’d brought and pulled on a pair of fuzzy socks he’d stolen from Wooyoung before they left. 

“How was the shower?” San asked as soon as Hongjoong stepped through the door. The younger man was lounging on his chosen bed, watching something on his phone, a few snack wrapped on the bed next to him. 

“Heavenly.” Hongjoong scrubbed at his nose with his sweatshirt sleeve. The cooler air of the room was a bit of a shock after the steamy post-shower bathroom. 

“Oooo, I can’t wait.” San rubbed his hands together with cartoonish excitement as he collected his wrappers and hopped off the bed. Hongjoong chuckled a bit before he felt his breath catch. With just that little bit of warning, he was able to completely stifle a sneeze in his sleeve, absolutely silent. San had his back turned to him anyway as he dug through his bag. 

“You didn’t have your stuff ready?” Hongjoong asked around another laugh. He could feel the itch creeping back, and he held his sleeve up in warning. 

“Yeah, I got distracted by the snacks.” San was luckily currently still distracted by the quest for his shower things that he missed another stifled sneeze that bent Hongjoong at the waist. He couldn’t help the sniffle that followed, through, thick and stuffy. 

“Aha!” San cheered, holding up his shower bag. “Gotcha!” He turned back to Hongjoong with a brilliant smile that faded almost instantly. “Hyung, are you okay?”

“Ye-yeah,” Hongjoong breathed out before he gasped, once again snapping at the waist. “ET’Chuh! ET’Chuh! Heh… heh… HE-atCHUH!” 

San’s brow furrowed as he vaulted to his feet, abandoning his shower bag in favor of the box of tissues from the bathroom. He found the captain coughing roughly when he returned. “Here, here.” San snatched a handful of tissues from the box and forced them into Hongjoong’s hands. He waited, rubbing his back as his friend blew his nose, scrubbed at his eyes with his knuckles. “Bless you, Joong.”

The captain flushed, squeezing his eyes closed with embarrassment. “I’m sorry.”

San shook his head. “For what?” he asked around a laugh. His hand moved up and down Hongjoong’s back. The older man wasn’t meeting his eyes. “Hyung, what’s going on?”

“What do you mean?”

“You’re acting weird.”

“No, I’m acting tired.”

“You’re sick, aren’t you?”

“No…”

“You want me to snuggle with you?”

“No…”

“You know I’m a really good snuggler.”

“I’m not doubting you, I just don’t want snuggles right now.”

“Why? Is it cause you’re sick and don’t want me to know?”

Hongjoong turned to him with a weak glare. “Why are you so persistent?”

San’s lips quirked up. “Why do you feel like you have to hide it from me?”

“You shouldn’t have to worry about me…”

“Hyung, you not telling me makes me worry more!” Hongjoong shrugged, lacking a clever reply. San frowned. “And, if you hadn’t said anything, then I couldn’t have given you the cold medicine I have packed in my suitcase.” Hongjoong looked up at him with hope in his eyes. “See? It’s not so bad to admit you’re sick. It comes with perks.” 

“Doesn’t feel like it.” Hongjoong sniffled, pressing another tissue to his nose as it had started running again. San tossed the box onto the captain’s bed as he turned back to his suitcase to find the pills he’d packed. “But thank you. For the meds.”

“Of course. That’s why I bring them.” As San continued to rummage (he’d messed things up earlier looking for his snacks, and the hunt for the shower bag hadn’t helped.) As he watched, an adoring smile on his face, Hongjoong’s breath hitched again, and he caught another sneeze in his tissue. 

“Bless you!”

“You don’t have to keep saying that…”

San shrugged as he turned around, pill packet in hand. “I don’t mind.”

“I do.” 

A tiny smile spread on San’s lips as he noticed his captain’s face flushing red again, recognizing his discomfort. “Okay then. That last one will just apply moving forward.”

“Thank you.”

“Anything for you.”

[burning-omen]

Kinktober day 5: Gun Play + Steven Grant

Steven Grant x SHIELD agent!Male!reader

Kinktober 2023 List | Day 1 | Day 6 | Ao3

Summary: After taking a day off, you finally get to go home to your boyfriend, Steven.

(a/n: I MISSED YESTERDAY AND IT SHATTERED MY SOUL INTO A MILLION PIECES IM SORRY I WAS TIRED AND I FORGOT)

Warning: Guns, mention of reader killing and being shot at, reader is close with Nick Fury kinda, oral, hand job, surprisingly gentle sex, obedient Steven Grant, soft top reader, Steven talks to Marc but that's not really a warning I just wanted yall to know that my bbygrl was mention in this fic

Words: 2k

SHIELD has been sending you all over the world as of recently, you didn't complain, you knew your work was important, and the amount of trust you’d gained from Nick Fury came with a lot of off-the-books missions, mostly investigating SHIELD itself. You'd asked from a break, at least a day or so, to get your gear together after you gun, which has been through many, many mission, jammed on you mid encounter. It was embarrassing, luckily the only other people who saw it happen were either dead or in maximum security prison serving life.

Your boyfriend, Steven, wasn't home when you got there, mostly likely at work, or maybe Marc was out on his a mission. Either way, you waited for him.

In the meantime, you decided to finally take care of your gear, you'd brought all of the supplies from SHEILD headquarters before coming home, setting up at Steven’s desk, and moving the book he had lying on the table and a couple of papers into a neat stack. You started with your boots, scrubbing them, changing the insoles, making sure the outsole wasn't damaged beyond a bit of wear from years of use, then setting them aside.

Moving on to your vest, you picked out the metal fragment from the various bullets that had shattered on impact, replacing the aramid padding that- even though it has yet to show signs of any extreme damage- was starting to wear. The bruise on your stomach was proof of that, the vest stopped the bullet from piercing skin, but didn't lessen the impact as it hit you. You sighed, knowing that Steven was going to fuss over it the second he saw the festering bruise.

You moved on to you knives, still pretty sharp, but not as sharp as they should have been. Using the lanksy puck that you definitely were not supposed to take to sharpen a them. Carefully putting them back in their sheaths and reattatching them to your utility belt, which sat in a duffle bag with both your uniform and you newly repaired vest.

Finally, you moved onto the main event, you gun, which was still jammed, turning the safety on before completely disassembling it, staring at the pieces of your revolver on the table. You didn't worry to much about the the bullets, they'd be gone by your next mission anyway.

You took your time with this one, getting into every nook and cranky, blood, dust, and built up metal from the bullets, just a bunch of little things. Reassembly was purely muscle memory, your gun looked and felt brand new. You took the ammo out and dry-fired the gun, it sounded a hell of a lot better- and the hammer dropped without interruption, jam officially gone, you reloaded the gun and sat it on the desk.

It felt like a weight had been lifted off your shoulders, letting the tension slip from your shoulders with a sigh, practically melting into the seat, finnaly able to relax.

And as if he somehow knew that you were officially off duty, you heard Steven fumble with the lock, seemingly dropping the key, a small swear leaving him, before he unlocked the door. He walked around silently for a while, setting down his bag and heading to the kitchen, muttering to himself, or more likely Marc, as he was asking questions about the morning, what they ate for breakfast and where Marc had left the book Steven had been reading before bed.

It took him maybe five minutes to walk back there. He walked straight past you, not paying any attention and b-lining to the bed, to be fair, it was late and Steven wasn't exactly the most observant. You loved him though, so you let him lay there for a moment before calling his name.

He practuscally jumped out of his skin, getting caught in the mess of blankets for moment. Steven was on you faster that you thought was possible. Damn near tackling you, the chair surprisingly holding both of your weight and Steven situated himself in your lap, his legs drapped across yours.

“You're back! When did you fly in?” he asked, a wide smile on his face.

“About three hours ago, where’ve you been?”

He groaned, flopping down against you, his head on your shoulder.

“Job hunting, again.”

“What happened to the uh, what was it, the library, right? I thought you were having fun over there?”

“I was, but they cut the budget and I was new so they dropped me.”

“Aww,” you cooed, running your fingers through his hair, “poor thing.”

He sighed, enjoying the contact after nearly a month apart.

“What about you, I thought you weren't supposed to be back for another two weeks?”

“I wasn't, but..” you grabbed you pistol off the table, you finger on the trigger even though the safety was on and you had no immediate target, “My gun jammed and I asked my boss to give me a day off in order to fix it,”

Stevens's eyes were glued to the gun as you spoke, appreciating every little detail and crevice it held.

You knew about Steven’s affinity for guns, well, you and guns, guns alone did nothing for Steven, but when you held them...

He got quiet, glancing at you only to see you staring back at him with a knowing look on your face.

“Im flying back out tomorrow..”you pointed the gun downward, nudging his legs open with the tip, he complyed without any hesitation. “…i was thinking you and I could-”

“Yes!”

You stared at the man for a moment, almost bewildered before remembering that you've been gone for nearly two months and he's probably been thinking about this since the day you left.

You hummed before saying, “Get on the bed, lay on your back, I want to see you.”

He grinned again, practically running to the bed, shrugging off his jacket and leaving it on the floor, laying down in the bed, hardly able to keep himself still.

You sat at the desk for a short moment, completely removing the ammo from the gun, double checking it to avoid any incidence, then walked over to Steve, who was practically vibrating in excitement.

Kneeling between his legs, you commemorated the image of him, so happy to be fully and utterly yours, to memory.

You pointed the gun on his chest, digging the tip into his shirt, watching his reaction intently, he ceased all movement, staring down at it, taking in the weight on his chest.

“Breathe, Steven.” you said when you noticed he wasn't.

He let out a long, shuttered breath.

“You know I would never hurt you? Right Steven.”

“Oh course..”

“Good, “ you slid the gun down, feeling where his ribs ended and sturdy muscle began. Stopping just below his belly button.

“Strip, slowly, I want to see you.”

He complied easily. Hands shaking as he unbuttoned his shirt, slowly, just like you demanded.

“That's it, good boy..”

Shrugging the shirt off his shoulders, then moving down to his pants. Fumbling with the belt, getting it just before you could offer your help, he kicked his jeans down until they pooled on the floor below.

You stared at him, taking in his smooth skin and every sculpted muscle that you had no one but Marc to thank for.

Running the tip of your pistol lower and lower, running it over the growing tent in his underwear, he shuttered, a light gasp passing his slightly parted lips.

Dragging it across his waist, then down his thigh, Steven watched the gun just as intensely as you watched him. You let your finger hover the trigger, he swallowed hard.

You moved suddenly, lifting the gun to his head, right between his eyes. He squeezed his eyes shut, breathing hard, he never hid how he felt, not with you, he felt like he didn't have to, or more accurately, he couldn't. You were an agent of SHEILD, you were trained to see through lies.

Moving your hand down ever so slightly, pressing the gun against his lips.

“Open.”

For the forth time tonight, he obeyed. Taking the tip in his mouth, then more, sucking and licking like the gun could feel it.

The effects it had on you were innumerable.

You hummed softly, adjusting your grip. You watched him, he seemingly never got bored, the imagined danger and thrill perpetuating him, eager to please cold steel.

You tugged slightly, and he let it go, lips wet with saliva.

The way he looked at you, his eyes low, cheeks flushed, breathing like he'd just run a hundred miles.

“You're being so good, Steven, so obedient. You must have really missed me..”

He nodded rapidly, “I missed you, I missed you so much-”

You shushed him, “I know, I know. I shouldn't have to leave you here, all on your own, I should be here to protect you at all times..”

He nodded along- you both knew that he didn't need the protection, but fuck it kept you here he’d be your damsel in distress forever.

Rubbing the wet tip down his chest, then right above his cock, tapping the trigger, watching him flinch at every move. He watched so intently, his breath shaky and loud, you were unpredictable, yet he couldn't wait to see what you did next.

Nudging the tip of the gun past the elastic waistband of his underwear, pulling them down.

Steven couldn't stay still, his brain and body running a million miles an hour. Slowly, you sunk down between his legs, your gun pressed right up against the center of his chest. You knew the position would get uncomfortable soon, so you decided to make this as quick as you could.

“Don’t move.” he didn't nod, or talk, just immediately playing along.

Taking your free hand, you guided Steven's hard cock, shiny with pre-cum to your mouth.

He was always sensitive, but your tongue had hardly even pressed the tip of his cock before he was a whimpering, whining mess. Hs adrenaline was spiked, of course he was more susceptible that ever right now. Taking him as deep as you could, feeling him press against the back of your throat. His hands balled into the bedsheets bellow, nearly tearing them in his hands.

Running your tongue on the underside of his cock, then swirling it around the tip, never taking your eyes off of him. His little whines growinh louder and more desperate.

You pulled away when you felt him start bucking into your mouth. Taking a short moment to wipe your mouth of both spit and pre cum.

You lifted slightly, wrapping your hand around his now perfectly lubed cock. Stroking him nice and slow, soft moans falling from his lips.

He whined your name over and over, obedience and his composure, the latter of which was had been already hanging on by a thread before you ever put your mouth or hands on him, waining. He loved nights like these when you were gentle but still so very obviously in control.

“Y/n- y/n, I'm so close, please, Love, please-”

You tightened your grip on the gun, pressing it harder into his chest, he moaned at the feeling.

You never sped up, watching him build up the his orgasm nice and slow, and when his mouth fell open in a long moan and his eyes squeezed so tightly shut you're sure he was seeing stars behind them.

Then- you squeezed the trigger. Nothing came out but Steven gasped hard like he’d been hit. His hips twitched up into your hand, cum pouring out all over your fingers. Even when that stopped, his orgasm still seemed to flow through him, his body drawn tight as he came down.

“Y/n..” he panted, “you're good, so good-”

Dragging the gun down, right into the pool of cum at the base of his stomach, then bringing it up to your mouth, licking it off.

“Come on, Steven, we're not done..”

[smut-anarchy]

Own Me - Chapter One

Tags: Gryffandor!Reader, Cursing, Blackmail, Dom!Mattheo, Anxiety

Rewritten as of: 12/26/2024

Word Count: 2,077 Words

Chapter One: Every Pet Needs A Collar

It was no small feat dragging yourself out of bed this morning. After bawling your eyes out sleep overcame you, and when you woke up at 5:55AM you could feel the same dread crawling back up your throat. It didn’t help that you weren’t a morning person by any stretch of the imagination, dawn providing far too much light for your tired eyes, but you’d always felt more comfortable in the unwavering vastness of the dark, it provided a sense of security and safety in its shadows. 

You were lucky enough to be one of the eighth years that was granted your own room, though it was less about luck and more to do with you didn’t have many close friends in your house that would’ve picked to room with you; Your closest friend being the peculiar Ravenclaw, Luna Lovegood. Nonetheless, you could appreciate your room and the privacy it allowed this early in the dawn as you slumped to the attached bathroom. 

The mirror reflected your outward appearance corresponded your inner turmoil. Your hair was disheveled, knots already committed in the strands of your hair, and your face taut and dry from the tears you’d shed, eyes red rimmed and puffy. You soul ached for a warm bath, but having no such time or mood for such a luxury you’d settled for a shower, trying to scrub the worry from your skin.

The term had only started a few weeks ago so the Autumn air was crisp and cool, promising a biting cold as the months dragged on. Upon exiting the shower you’d slipped on your usual uniform of your red skirt, white button down shirt and red tie, and oversized burgundy knit cardigan. The sweater felt like a safety net, preferring to hide in the substantial heft that the sweater provided, its soft fibers swallowing your body. Expecting further cold as the day grew on you’d slipped on some black stockings and fastened your Mary Jane shoes to your feet, the small blocked heel tapping lightly on the wood. 

Fuck, it was 6:40AM, only giving you twenty minutes to get from the third floor all the way to the dungeons, you silently prayed that the staircases would cooperate with you. You hurried out of your room, luckily it was early enough that no one was in the common room to notice your haste, breakfast started in an hour and twenty minutes, giving you plenty of time to glide out unnoticed. 

Every minute seemed to pound your heart with panic, not willing to find out what would happen to you if you were late. Mattheo was known to be mean and at times, cruel, even to innocent on lookers, you’d hoped you could keep your tongue in check and avoid provoking his foul nature. 

Utterly out of breath, you’d checked your watch, making it to the front of the Slytherin Common room with one minute to spare. You made a mental note to give yourself more time, this was cutting it far too close to be comfortable. 

“Cutting it close to the wire, lion?” Somehow in less than a few hours that smug voice was able to reach into the depth of your soul and make every inch of your skin ice. A mix of adrenaline and terror warred with each other in her body, one urging her to flee and never look back and the other begging to stand her ground and make such an enemy eat his words. 

As best you could you steeled yourself, trying to maintain an aura of indifference to the cocky Slytherin, lest he know how much of an effect he had on you and your future. “I sleep at the top of the castle, instead of living down in the dungeons with the rest of the rats.”

It was all too quick for the young snake to show his fangs, his face falling into a seething scowl. He grabbed your arm, pushing your body against the wall and towering over you. “Watch your fucking mouth, brat. I am all that stands between your life at Hogwarts and a pitiful existence in the muggle world.” 

Your head ached as it hit the stone wall, but that hardly mattered as your fingers curled into fists, your entire being alight with the desire to smack a curse right into his enraged face. You glared up at him, his face closer than you’d ever seen before.

“I am here, on time, like you asked Mattheo.” You spat out sarcastically, “What else do you need of me, oh great and powerful Slytherin Lord?” You could tell you were pushing it, his face only extending more fury at your sarcasm, his breathing escalated, and faint puffs of peppermint coming from his mouth. 

“For starters you’re going to drop the fucking attitude,” he growled. The angry, deep timbre of his voice curling right around your chest. “And since you think its so fucking cute, you will call me Lord. Or master. Or sir. Fuck, pick any one you like kitten, because you’ll be saying it for a while.”

You turned your head away from his penetrating gaze, trying to swallow the humiliation and shame rising in your body at having to call him any such title. His hand came up and gripped your chin in a tight hold, making you look back into his smoldering, coal-colored eyes. 

“Say it. Now.”

“Yes, sir.” You’d tried to pick the least mortifying option of title and still you could feel nausea bubbling in the pit of your stomach. Your inner Gryffindor was roaring in protest, demanding you to save your pride, but he was right, the looming threat of expulsion provided enough motivation to throw your dignity at his feet. He seemed to be satisfied with your concession, albeit he never moved away from his looming position over you. 

“Good girl.” He preened at you, a sneering smile adorning his face, “Now, I’ll tell you how this is going to work: You’re not going to tell any of your little friends about this, you’ll follow me to each and every class, you’ll sit down with me and do both of our work and you’ll have a fucking smile on your face while you do it.” Your mouth is filled with the coppery taste of blood with how hard you were biting the inside of your cheek, trying your best to hold back the venom and bile from spewing out.

“If I call you, you’ll come within five minutes. And if you break any of these rules I’ll make sure you suffer for it, or I can easily go to Snape and Dumbledore and tell them what you did.”

“How will I know when you need me… sir?” You croaked out. Hogwarts’ cell service was spotty, especially more so in the dungeons, not that you’d expected a pureblood to use ‘an inferior muggle device’, your own phone only used sparingly whenever your parents remembered to call. 

“I don’t need you, Kitten. Masters don’t need their pets.” He taunted. His hand slipped off of your face and into his pocket. When he pulled it out, dangling from his long, admittedly beautiful fingers was a black choker with an attached silver wrapped tear shaped green gem. “Every pet has to have a collar.”

No. 

No fucking way. 

Hiding quite literally the worst development of your life from Luna was bad. Trailing after him and doing his work for him every fucking day would be worse. Having to be at his beck and call whenever he wished was horrifying. Being forced to degrade yourself and call him a title he certainly had not earned was disgusting. But this? Having to wear a permanent reminder of your imprisonment and unwilling attachment to Mattheo around your neck was deranged. 

“No. I’m not fucking wearing that.” You shook your head, grimacing. 

A wicked grin spilt his face, his eyes portraying he was quite thrilled with your unwavering stubbornness. His ego and gleeful attitude made you understand: this was a fucking game to him. The choker was just a fucked up way to flaunt his ownership over you.

“Oh yes you are.” He insisted, jingling the choker in your face, the offending piece of jewelry taunting you with its meaning. “It’s enchanted, it will tell you when I’m calling you.” 

You shook your head, eyes pleading with him for some kindness, “Mattheo please, I-I don’t want to wear that. Anything else, any other way to call me, but please don’t make me wear that.” Your hushed begging seemed to do nothing, his eyes only darkened further at you. 

“Careful what you beg for, Kitten, remember how you got here in the first place.” Still pressed between the wall and Mattheo you had nowhere to escape to as his warm fingers fastened the choker to your neck. Though the black velvet was soft against your cool skin it felt all too constricting, a glamorous shackle bonding you to your fate with Mattheo Riddle. 

You hadn’t realized you were holding your breath until his hands left their spot on your neck and he stepped back to admire how his leash looked on you. “Green is a good color for you, Kitten. It almost makes me take pity on you.”

The stone seemed to be weighing down your body as a panic attack was settling into your bones, your situation now felt much too real with an emerald reminder secured around your throat. You pushed your back further into the wall, refusing to expose your vulnerability to Mattheo. 

“H-how does it work?” You stuttered, attempting to bury the anxious meltdown brewing inside of you. 

“It will heat up when I’m requesting you while simultaneously sending a message to your brain to let you know where I am. It happens if I hold the gem on my ring,” He held up his hand, and there among other black and silver rings was one silver ring with square cut emerald.

Oh Merlin no, it matches. 

“You can thank Theo for this one, he’s a genius with customizing spells.” 

Theo I am going to choke you with my bear hands as soon as I get the chance. 

“And when I take it off? What happens then?” Surely Mattheo wouldn’t make you wear it to bed and when bathing, right?

“Only I can take it off, Kitten.” He smirked down at you. “The longer you take to come the hotter it heats up, so let’s not burn that pretty neck testing my patience, yeah?” Mattheo chaining you with an item that will hurt you on behalf of his impatience only furthered your scorn for his sadistic cruelty. 

A thought sparked to life within you. If Theo customized the spell then maybe you could convince him to adjust it, if at least so you could take it off during the night and when bathing. Getting to the reserved Italian bad boy would be tough but not impossible, maybe you’d be able to convince him to grant you this small kindness. You made a mental note to find out what Theo’s interests were in the hopes of bribing some compassion out of him. 

You nodded hesitantly, your face set in a worried frown, your teeth chewing your lip.

“Anymore questions, little lion? Has it set in yet that I own you now?”

You didn’t answer, once again nodding, trying to not let your anxiety fester up again and overshadow the small hope that Theo would help you. 

“Good. Do whatever you want for your meals unless I call you, I’ll see you in Transfiguration after breakfast.” Mattheo turned away from her and started walking down the hallway, but slowed to a stop after a few steps and catching her with a calculated glare, “Oh and one more thing Kitten, don’t try anything. You won’t like what will happen if you try to escape from me.”

Mattheo left you in that hallway, your body tingling with alarm. You let out a sigh you’d been holding, the interaction and turn of emotions leaving you exhausted and mentally fried. As you touched the stone on your neck your appetite was lost, the desire for anything other than sleep shriveled up inside of you. You walked towards the Transfiguration classroom, planning on napping in a seat until class started, it was going to be a long week of figuring out your rhythm in this circumstance with the cold hearted Slytherin.

[tf2thoughtdump]

TF2 Thought of the Day

Headcanon? Yes.

Character(s)? All the mercs, team not specified but for simplicity’s sake, the red team

Long or Short? Long. This may take a while.

You're free to use any thoughts of mine in any form of media you make.

Thought

This one is real simple, it’s how I think the mercs would handle being given a baby. Enjoy!

Scout

Literally going crazy

Like, about to explode levels of crazy.

Gushing over every inch of this baby from her big eyes to her tiny nose and down to her chubby little hands and feet

Luckily, the little munchkin doesn’t seem to mind his intense energy so it works out

He does his best, but admittedly he is a bit… rusty

The first time he tried holding her, he wasn’t properly securing her head

The second him, he was just holding her upside down

He’s not the WORST merc to leave a baby with, but you have better options.

Soldier

Not really sure what to do with this….

Recruit.

He held her FAR from his body before opting to just tuck her under his arm like a loaf of bread

This didn’t last long though because he eventually found a way to keep her strapped to him with his belt

Uncomfortable, sure, but the baby could care less

She was more concerned with who gave her to this man in the first place

Soldier is your last resort

Pyro

Is most likely to set the baby’s diaper on fire when it gets full

He’s not BAD with a baby, it’s just…

There are so many better options!

They can hold the baby right, that’s not the problem, the problem is the outfit

The rubber, the material in general

Babies need skin-on-skin contact and Pyro.. doesn’t exactly fit the bill with that one

She’s definitely gonna make the baby uncomfortable but it’s nothing a good tickle won’t fix!

Demoman

Why?

Just….

Why?

Did you run out of options again?

Was Soldier too busy so you had to wake up Tavish?

What on Earth could be running through your mind to think leaving a baby with a drunk is a good thing?

He might rock it to sleep, but that’s about all you’re getting

Heavy

Your number 1 go to if you need a babysitter

He’s got three younger sisters! How hard can taking care of a baby be?

You’ll soon come to find out that with Heavy? Taking care of a baby is a piece of cake.

No complications, no fusses, no unchanged diapers

Just Heavy asleep on a couch too small for him, and a baby resting in his giant hands.

Engineer

Also another good one!

Doesn’t have much experience with REAL babies, just his mechanical babies, but he’s sure he can watch her for ya!

Don’t worry about a thing, buttercup, he’s got everything under control

Turns out, he kinda did?

In the time you were gone, he built her a rocking crib

Plus an automatic diaper changer

He’s just a little to busy with machines to be worrying about diapers

Relax though! If the baby cries, he’s putting down everything to figure out what’s wrong and how to solve the problem

Minus the guns in the equation

Medic

Well, uhm..

He’s not a bad baby-watcher!

He will keep that little rascal in his sights at all times! No doubt about it!

He could stare at that baby all day!

Best babywatcher in the world!

But…

This is Medic we’re talking about…

There’s no way this baby is coming back the same baby..

Sniper

Not.. sure what to do?

He’s a bit of a recluse, so he doesn’t hang around people that much

That also translates to him not really being able to understand what to do when given a baby and told to watch her

You know that TikTok audio?

“Your mom told me to watch you, but.. you don’t do anything.”

That’s him.

He takes “watch her” seriously

Now granted, Mick will let her play with his fingers occasionally but is really just staring at a baby in his lap for 2 hours straight and freaking out every time she cries or soils a diaper

Spy

Spy is a neglectful dad

We see that with Scout, so it’s no big surprise there

However, he’s not horrible with kids

He can take care of a baby just fine, change her diapers, feed her, burp her, lull her to sleep and the like

He just won’t be very enthusiastic about it!

If you want your baby to have a good time, pick Scout or Engineer

But if you want someone who actually has some idea what they’re doing, get Heavy or Spy for the job, okay?

[catsi]

Oh if you're playing a Final Fantasy XIV campaign, have you fought any primals? I've seen statblocks for Garuda, Leviathan and Ifrit online before

ohhhh this is an awesome question *-* YES we absolutely have! we've fought 4, with a confrontation with a 5th one coming up soon... we've been calling them Eidolons on the Tenth :3c i've got little pics and blurbs about each of them below! content warning for body horror for some of these!

the first one we fought was named The Pale Lady! it was originally born when the Church deployed a caustic bioweapon during a battle and hundreds of people who were in excruciating pain all collectively prayed for their own deaths. this Eidolon had been lurking in a swamp collecting corpses since then. our DM called it the Eidolon of Agony iirc!! it was such a cool boss. i love the concept of "whatever you do, don't pray for salvation"

the second one we fought was named Dorado! he was like a giant conquistador-looking guy. he was born from the continent's richest (and greediest) man, Augustus Ul'gustus, harnessing the power from a font of lightning aether and turning himself into an Eidolon. we fought Dorado in Augustus's vault, so it was this really cool theme of fighting this epitome of greed inside of his temple to his own wealth. our DM called him the Eidolon of Avarice!!

[These next 3 images were all drawn in the last day and a half so don't laugh at how messy they are please lol]

the third one was born from the collective fear and terror of an isolated nation being invaded by the Church, which brought to life a giant statue of their god, Asura. the statue then marched into the ocean with the plan to head back to Oaxia and destroy the Church (as well as everyone and everything else there). we had to fire a giant bolt into the statue and run across the chain it was attached to it and then climb inside the statue up to its hollow head, where we fought the manifestation of the Eidolon! because the Eidolon was a fear-induced bastardization of the actual deity Asura, Asura themself granted us aid during the fight (by letting our healer summon 6 arms and pummel the living shit out of the Eidolon)

the fourth one was from the volcanic island nation of Ahmeta, which had a giant bird named Fenghuang who was their peaceful and benevolent guardian despite Fenghuang technically being an Eidolon. then a greater Voidsent called The Great Ink pulled Fenghuang into The Void and corrupted him, and we had to fight him while we were in The Void, trying to close a voidgate! luckily, once we defeated the corrupted Fenghuang we were able to use some aetherial defibrillation and the Power Of Memory/Love to revive him uncorrupted, so he was able to happily return to his job as guardian of the island 🙏 (once we closed up the voidgate ofc)

the fifth Eidolon, which we've learned about but haven't actually confronted yet, is called The Memento, and it's what the Church uses in Montalvo Anti-Mag Security Prison to keep their mage prisoners in check. The Memento is a manmade Eidolon - it was first built as a mechanical framework, and then flesh and guts were summoned into it and it was given life as an Eidolon. all of the mage prisoners in Montalvo (except Miffy's dad who has The Echo??? for some reason???) have been tempered by it. tempered prisoners aren't aware that they can cast spells, and they have no desire to leave the prison or revolt. kind of an ingenious way to imprison mages. creepy as fuck

thanks for the awesome question!!!

ヾ(＠^∇^＠)ノ

the Eidolon fights are always super cool and bombastic, so getting to talk about them is a treat ^^ thanks for giving me an excuse to draw and ramble!!

[the-trickster-exe]

I See The Danger, It's Written There In Your Eyes. || Whumptober: Day 4

Fandom/Characters: Moon Knight. Steven Grant, Jake Lockley.

Summary: Steven is frontstuck and hasn't been able to talk to Marc in nearly two weeks. When he sits down to try and establish contact with the man, he accidentally ends up speaking to someone else he's never met before.

Warnings: Steven does briefly go into a small spiral of doubt about whether the system is real/if he's just made it up and its actually another disorder or something.

Word Count: 2121

A/N: I spent so long trying to figure out whether I needed to use ‘lo sé’ or ‘yo conozco’ when Jake says “I know”, so if you speak spanish please let me know if I need to change the one I used-

AO3:

Maybe before his awareness of the system, Steven would’ve been happy to just be able to live his life on his own. But now that he was comfortable with the familiar presence of Marc coexisting with him in this life, it was honestly incredibly jarring to be alone again. He was frontstuck. Completely isolated from his counterpart, with no way of accessing the innerworld and no idea how to get back in contact. He was totally cut off from the man for who knows what reason, fronting on his own and being in control for now upwards of almost two weeks, and he hated it.

It was even worse when the doubt set in. The anxiety and fear that had started to steadily grow as each isolated day passed, his mind slowly being laced with doubts and worries. Logically, he knew that Marc was there somewhere. He knew that they were plural, that they had dissociative identity disorder. That his mother was abusive and dead, and that he was an alter just like Marc. He’d spoken to Layla about his doubts and she’d been extremely reassuring and understanding of the current circumstances.

But that didn’t mean his anxiety wasn’t there. What if it was just some elaborate story, completely made up and all in his head? Maybe it was something else. That he was still mentally ill, but it was something else. Could just be some kind of episode, maybe a mood disorder. Delusional or maybe even a rational way to stay in denial about it all being a personality disorder. Suffice to say, his mind was spiralling down the rabbit hole the longer he was stuck on his own and he was getting desperate for some kind of sign that it was real. In his last call with Layla, she’d suggested taking a day for himself. To try and just acknowledge what was happening within their system and accept it, even if the acceptance was fake. To simply pretend it was a planned ‘Steven’ day that he and Marc had agreed upon and avoid ruminating on it as best as he could.

So that’s what he was doing today. Self-care, whoop whoop!

He’d stayed in bed a lot later than he usually would, totally because he was laying in and not because he couldn’t find the motivation to get up until he physically rolled off the mattress onto the floor. Then he’d made himself breakfast… Lunch. Bordering closer to tea time rather than lunch if he was being totally honest with himself. Layla had brought over curry the night before when they’d hung out, so he pulled out the leftover remnants of his takeaway and reheated them in the microwave. Nothing better to do than sit on the kitchen top and watch the container spin around in the machine until it was ready. Sluggishly, he’d reached behind him to mess with the CD player that sat behind him, tucked away in a little nook, and luckily for him it had something in it. Pressing play, the music crackled to life, something soft yet with a steady pacing. A tether to secure and protect him from drifting off into his head in the silence.

Eventually, the numbers ticked down into single digits and Steven reached over to pull the door right before it started beeping. Not caring much about the heat stinging into his fingers through the container, he tipped the contents into a bowl and moved to flop down onto the sofa. Remote in hand and fork in the other, he balanced the dish on his blanket covered lap and switched on the TV to some random Blue Planet documentary. With eyes fixated to screens, he shovelled the curry into his mouth. Steven wasn’t hungry, but he cared enough about the body that he forced himself to eat. Just in case Marc showed up.

Marc. The one thing he wasn’t supposed to be thinking about. Couldn’t even go an entire day without thinking about him. About the system. The half of him that was missing. Not missing. No. Marc was still there, he wasn’t gone. He’d be back, he wouldn’t leave Steven. Not without saying something. Anything. He couldn’t be alone. Maybe he could try to reach out again. Just for a minute or two. It wouldn’t hurt just to try.

It was with a slight desperation, one of which he was choosing to ignore, that he put down the now empty bowl and moved to lay down. Meditation, or at least the classical type of it, had never really worked for Steven. Marc was the same, he could never stay still for that long and whenever he did he started spiralling in ways that dug up old wounds instead of fixating on the present. Instead what the Brit did when trying to get into a meditative state, was he’d try to take a nap. For some reason, he found it easiest to enter the headspace when he was laying down on something comfortable with his eyes closed, almost falling asleep but just on the cusp of clinging to his consciousness. He’d try to reach out, to grasp onto something tangible and use it as a beacon to drag him closer towards the innerworld.

Taking a few deep breaths, the man shuffled into a more comfortable position and tried to let himself go. His thoughts continued to flit about, cropping up in random ways and interjecting. It was only when he reached the point of recognition that this was the closest he’d get to achieving a quiet mindscape, he tried to reach out to the American.

“Marc? You in there? I’d really appreciate something, anything really. Just a sign that you’re alive and that this isn’t all just some elaborate mental invention…”

A minute passed. Or at least that’s the amount of time he assumed had passed. It was hard to know when you didn’t want to actively check a phone or a clock. He tried to keep his mind as still as possible, not wanting any disruption to block out a response just in case it was a faint thing. Staring into the dark void of his inner eyelids and sighing in disappointment, a familiar sense of discouragement settling in his chest. Steven wanted to try again, but he didn’t want to just set himself up for more disappointment. He just didn’t want to be alone.

Faintly he thought about just giving up and calling it a day, deciding it would be more productive to continue watching the tele and listen to David Attenborough tell him about fish or something. That was until very distantly a feeling overcame him almost as if telling him he wasn’t on his own. Something that should’ve been extremely reassuring if only for the fact that he knew it wasn’t Marc saying that to him. It was something else. Someone else. And honestly, Steven couldn’t tell if he was more on edge about it, or if he was actually happy that someone new had shown up. At least they were new to him, because Marc sure as hell never made any mention or hint that there could be a third alter in the system.

With a new spark of energy, he blinked his eyes open hastily and sat up with the impulse to find a mirror. Clumsily, his feet carried him towards the bathroom and he stared at his reflection nervously. His pupils flickered over his own face, scanning to see any differences (no matter how small) that might signal a new person. He could feel his pulse rate rising ever so slightly with a certain thrill at the prospect of having another headmate, questions whirring around his mind about what they might be like. He concluded they’d be nice, if they’d had the decency to respond to him just then instead of staying hidden and quiet, then they had to be nice. What was their name? How did they sound? What did they like? Who were they?

Distracted with his spiral of curiosity, he barely managed to notice the ever so familiar grip of someone subtly trying to take over the body, or at least guide it away from looking into the mirror. A whispered thought that wasn’t his saying something about finding it weird, not wanting to be seen like that. Which made sense to the Brit. He’d found it quite jarring to see himself like that. Or his not-self. Expecting to see a reflection of himself only to be able to catch a glimpse of Marc. The uncomfortable awareness of being consciously perceived by someone that wasn’t you. So, he allowed his eyes to drift and took the initiative to turn themself away from the mirror, deciding it might be nicer to just lay back down and try to talk that way.

“Hello? I heard you, I felt you, I know you’re in there somewhere…”

Steven didn’t want to be too forward, and he especially didn’t want to be demanding. If the alter wanted to remain hidden, he would respect that. Albeit very reluctantly. So, he left it open ended. An invitation to initiate conversation on the other alter’s terms. They could respond if they wanted to, he let them know that he was aware of them, meaning he knew he was no longer alone. Whether their goal was to simply reassure Steven it wasn’t all in his head, or if they’d finally gotten comfortable enough to show themself, the man was just glad that he had been given some kind of relief from the denial and doubt.

He lay in comfortable silence, simply waiting for anything that may or may not be said or pushed towards him to feel. It was a strangely relaxing way to pass the time, just floating in his own little bubble just on the edge of sleep. It was only when he felt another nudge of something that he tried to be more forward with his interaction.

“Do you… do you have a name? Something I can call you by?”

A few beats of awkward silence passed before he heard something. A faint bit of pressure settling to the side of his head as a slightly murky voice pushed cautiously through his mind. It felt sturdy, reliable in a distant way, yet comfortably familiar enough that he knew he could trust it despite the alter’s inner conflict as to their own reveal. It was almost as if the alter was actively trying to fight against their own instinct to stay invisible on the sidelines, pushing through the discomfort of being known just to help Steven’s sanity.

“...Call me Jake.”

Instantly, Steven began to grin, his emotions bleeding all through the innerspace as he tried to convey his happiness at the response, as well as to just try and reassure the alter- to try and reassure Jake that he was extremely glad for the company. From somewhere he felt the man sigh internally at the large display of emotions, but he made no move to retreat so Steven took that as a win. He wanted to question the man more, to get to know him and interact with him, almost as if to catch up on the missed time they’d not had together yet. But he got the gist that that probably wouldn’t be the best course of action if he wanted to keep Jake at ease.

“Well, it’s a pleasure to meet you, mate. My name’s Ste-”

“Steven. Sí, yo conozco. I know.”

The Brit paused momentarily, not sure as to how he should respond in a way that didn’t seem like he was pushing for information.

“I take it you’re not a new appearance then?”

“Let's just say it's been a while.”

Then it fell silent. As much as Steven liked to try and talk to people, he’d always been awkward at small talk. Especially when it was obvious that the person on the other end seemed as though they would rather lick an electric cattle prod than continue speaking. He didn’t hold it against Jake, the man seemed closer to Marc in his increasing dislike of nattering. Which is why Steven took it as a cue to simply be glad for the internal companionship after almost two weeks of solitude. If Jake didn’t want to answer, Steven wouldn’t ask; he’d just enjoy the other man’s faint presence. Slowly, he rolled onto his side on the sofa and opened his eyes to look at the TV that was still playing the documentary. Feeling a lot lighter than he had in a while, he spoke aloud to the man with a content tone.

“You alright with watching this, or is there something else you’d prefer?”

[sandeep-trading]

How Much Can You Withdraw, Send, and Receive on Cash App Daily or Weekly?

The daily and weekly limit for Cash App is based on the state of verification of your account. If you are a Cash App verified this limit is reset each week after each withdrawal has helped you reach that limit.

Users that are not verified have a weekly limit of $250 they can send. Anything beyond this amount could cause your transaction to be declined and receiving a notification saying that the transaction was rejected.

Luckily, the app has different ways to increase Cash App limit per day, including confirming identity documents as well as linking a bank account with it, and calling customer support to get assistance. The first step is verifying your identity by giving your complete name, date of birth, and four digits that make up the Social Security number; this could significantly increase your limit. Verified Cash App users are granted higher Cash App sending limit. So, let's begin and learn about the different limits associated with sending and receiving money on Cash App.

What are the Cash App Sending Limits?

If you are a non-verified user, Cash App imposes relatively small limits on sending. If you are not able to verify your identity with the platform, you are allowed to only transfer up to $250 in any seven-day timeframe. This is a good limit for smaller transactions; however, it could be limiting if you are planning to use the Cash App for larger transactions.

After you have verified your identity, each week you are able to send up to $7,500 worth of transactions via Cash App. In addition, verified users can enjoy no limit on their receiving. This makes the app ideal for regular users of the Cash App users who need large amounts of money sent to them.

What are the Cash App Receiving Limits?

Contrary to the limitations on sending, Cash App does not limit the amount of money you can receive on verified customers. Without, you can get up to $1000 in 30 days. If you surpass the Cash App limit then you will be asked to increase your identity before you can be eligible for additional money. Additionally, you may contact customer service to request an increase in Cash App receiving limit. Although this is not always the most convenient but it is often the most efficient and fastest method of getting your limits raised.

What are the Cash App Withdrawal Limits

When you want to withdraw money from the Cash App, either by the transfer of funds into your bank account or by withdrawing cash at any ATMs, there are limitations you should be aware of. Users who have connected to their Cash App to the Cash Card (Cash app's debit card), ATM withdrawals are restricted to certain limitations.

Its Cash App daily limit at the ATM will be $1,000 for each transaction. If you are regularly taking cash out of ATMs, you should be aware of these limits to avoid being denied further withdrawals. Moreover, to increase Cash App withdrawal limit, you must verify identity or contact the customer support team.

How to Increase Cash App Limit per Day?

Here is how to increase Cash App limit per day:

Open the Cash App on your device, and go the profile section.

Find the section that permits you to increase the limits typically found within "Personal Information" or "Account Settings."

You will be asked for your legal name, birth date, birth, as well as the last four numbers from the Social Security number.

Once you have submitted the information, Cash App will review the details if everything is in order out your account will be checked.

FAQ

What is the Cash App limit per day for sending money?

If you are not verified the limit for sending is $250 in a 7-day period. However, the Cash App sending limit after verification is higher which $7500 per week is.

How can I increase my Cash App sending limit?

To increase spending limits on Cash App, you need to verify identity. For this you need to share personal information including birth date as well as well last four numbers from number of social security number.

What are the Cash App withdrawal limits?

Cash App ATM withdrawals limit per day is $1,000. The week-long limit of $1,000 and the monthly limit is $1,250.

What happens if I reach my receiving limit on Cash App?

If you have reached your maximum amount (which is $1,000 over 30 days for unverified users) you’ll be asked to verify your identity.

[lilyvandersteen]

Home Away From Home Chapter 1: The Hotel From Hell

Chapter summary:

This chapter is from Kurt's point of view. He's an inspector in this story, and we get some insight as to how that's become his profession. And of course, he likes Blaine at once, but doesn't want to show it because that wouldn't be professional, now would it? 

Many thanks to my beta @hkvoyage!

You can also read this story on AO3.

~~~~~~

Chapter 1: The Hotel from Hell

Kurt wished the manager of the hotel he’d just inspected a good afternoon and promised he’d send her his report and recommendations as soon as possible.

She smiled and thanked him and his colleague Artie.

Artie smiled back. Kurt didn’t.

This hotel had passed their inspection with flying colours, yes, and the manager had been nothing but courteous and accommodating, true, but Kurt still liked to keep his distance. He felt like his function demanded that.

Kurt helped Artie into the van and secured the wheelchair.

“These guys really did their homework, huh?” Artie said. “Nice for a change, not having to lay down the law, because they’re already doing everything they should even without us having to point out this or that during our inspection. Very nice hotel, too. I liked it. Things are going well today. Let’s keep that going.”

Kurt, who was now checking their schedule for the day, groaned.

“Stomach ache?” Artie inquired. “I got antacids here somewhere, hang on.”

But before Artie could dig up the medicine, Kurt shoved the schedule under his nose. “Look where we’re heading next!”

“Lima, Ohio? Ugh, no… Is that…?”

“Yep, the final inspection at the hotel from hell. With that rude guy who seems to think it’s perfectly okay to take money from guests for beds that break their backs, food that might make them ill…”

“And who treats me like I’m subhuman because I use a wheelchair,” Artie added grimly.

“We’re not granting him any more time to fix stuff,” Kurt said. “Last time, he hadn’t done ANYTHING on the very long list of issues he had to deal with. And he just laughed in our face about it. I can’t fathom why our boss gave him another two months’ time.”

Artie shrugged. “Smythe’s father forced the issue. Told Rick in no uncertain terms that he and everyone who worked for him would be replaced if we made trouble for his son.”

Kurt’s eyes narrowed. “So that’s the way it is, is it? Well, that smirky meerkat isn’t the only one with an influential father. I’m going to close down that hotel today, and you will back me up, and if Smythe Jr. so much as dares to breathe in my direction, I’ll sic my father the senator onto him.”

They drove to Lima in silence, each of them lost in thought.

Kurt spent the drive thinking about his father. At sixteen, he’d almost lost his father to a heart attack. Then, Burt had been diagnosed with cancer and had spent years battling it.

After Kurt had graduated high school, he’d chosen to study at Ohio State so he could stay close by.

Yes, Burt had remarried in the meantime, and yes, Carole looked after him well, but Kurt hadn’t wanted to risk moving so far away he wouldn’t be able to make it to the hospital in time if Burt had another episode.

Luckily, Burt’s health improved, and soon, Kurt was happy to be nearby for another reason: Burt ran for office and ended up becoming a senator for Ohio, a feat he’d only managed because his son had run a very successful social media campaign for him.

Through Burt, Kurt scored a government job for himself and his high school friend Artie. Inspecting hotels was not what he’d ever imagined himself doing, but unlike fashion design or acting, it was a steady job with good benefits, which was rare and valuable in this Rust Belt town.

It wasn’t easy work, though. So many hotel managers shrugged off Kurt’s safety concerns and did anything to cut costs, frustrating Kurt no end. There were those, too, that became aggressive when Kurt took away their hotel license, threatening him and sometimes even assaulting him.

Thank heavens Kurt was fit, young and well-versed in self-defence. That had always saved him so far. He couldn’t imagine doing this job until he was in his sixties, though.

When they arrived in Lima, the first thing Kurt noticed when he drove onto the hotel’s parking lot was a van that had mice and cockroaches and other unsavoury beasts depicted on it, and the promise to get rid of that vermin for you, with a phone number under it in big red numbers.

Was it possible that Smythe had turned over a new leaf?

Ugh. Too little, too late, anyway. This hotel would not stay in business one day longer, if Kurt had anything to say about it. And fortunately, he did.

Kurt helped Artie out of the back of the van, and together, they headed towards the hotel.

“Still no ramp,” Artie remarked.

He’d spoken too soon, though. A guy from the hotel staff spotted them, called for two others, and they quickly brought a few sturdy planks Artie could use to get inside.

“Thanks,” Artie said, “though you guys need a permanent ramp here.”

“Working on it, sir,” said the staff member who’d first spotted him, shooting the both of them a brilliant smile. “This is just a temporary measure. The ramp has been ordered and should arrive tomorrow. Do you have a reservation?”

Hmm, never heard anything like that before when I came here… Smythe finally got serious about this, did he? Well, he’s too late, and I’ll tell him so. Too bad for his new employee, though. Polite, welcoming and with a can-do attitude – yes, it’s a pity, all right. I’ll see if I can find another job for him in a hotel nearby. Put in a good word for him.

He couldn’t help but notice that the employee was classically handsome and totally his type. Plus, he’d caught a glimpse of the guy’s ass while he was arranging the temporary ramp for Artie. Delectable! So if the guy was thankful for Kurt’s help finding him a new job, one thing could come from another…

Kurt smothered that line of thought before it caused problems in his pants, and firmly reminded himself to stay professional at all times.

Out loud, Kurt announced that he wasn’t a guest. “I’m Inspector Hummel, and this is Inspector Abrams. My colleague and I are hotel inspectors, and we are here to see Mr. Smythe.”

The staff member’s eyes widened and his mouth fell open. Clearly, he had not been informed of their scheduled inspection.

He rallied fast, though, plastering a smile on his face again. “My name is Blaine Anderson, pleased to meet you. You were looking for Mr. Smythe? I’m afraid he no longer owns this hotel. It belongs to my brother now.”

“Yes, we’re here for the final inspection that will decide whether or not this hotel keeps its licence…” Kurt started to say, and then it sank in. “What did you say? The hotel has changed owners? When exactly? And why weren’t we informed of this?”

Anderson managed to keep his smile on. “The sale has only just happened, that’s probably why. My brother bought this property last week, and sent me here to oversee the renovations.”

“Our department should have been informed straight away!” Kurt snapped at him. “By filling in a form on our website, it’s easy as pie. Ugh, why am I even bothering to explain… I’ll fill in the form myself. Identification please. And I’m going to need the ownership documents too.”

Anderson rushed off to get the documents, while Kurt took his laptop out of his briefcase, logged in on the website and found the right form to fill in.

“Artie?” said a female voice behind Kurt.

Both Kurt and Artie turned around.

“Tina!”

Artie sounded glad to see the woman. There was something familiar about her. Where did Kurt know her from?

“Good to see you! It’s been ages – I haven’t seen you since high school!” Artie said to Tina. “How have you been?”

Oh, right. Now Kurt remembered. Tina hadn’t been in the AV club with Artie and Kurt, but she’d dated Artie for almost a whole school year. Then she’d hooked up with someone else during a summer camp, and Artie had been history. He’d been quite broken up about it.

“What are you doing here?” was Artie’s follow-up question, and when Tina told him she was here to help with the renovations, Kurt knew straight away what Artie would say.

And yes, Artie proved just as predictable as Kurt had feared.

“Well, seeing as you’ve only just started renovating, it doesn’t seem fair to inspect the hotel right this minute. Let’s give you some more time to fix all the issues of the place. Maybe…”

“Artie!” Kurt interrupted his colleague. “A word, please.”

He gestured for Artie to come and confer with him.

Artie rolled his eyes, but steered his wheelchair in Kurt’s direction.

“What?”

He sounded belligerent. It looked like it wouldn’t be easy to swerve Artie from his position.

Internally, Kurt groaned, cursing Artie’s love for pretty girls and the stupid decisions he made because of it.

“Artie, you know this hotel should have been closed down months ago! There are so many things wrong here. We can’t in good conscience let this establishment continue to have paying guests when that puts them in danger. And it does, you know it. There’s vermin, the electricity is faulty, it’s actually dangerous for people’s health and safety to spend the night here. We simply can’t let that continue. We CAN’T.”

“The vermin is being seen to at the moment,” Anderson told them, panting a bit from running so hard, and handing Kurt his driver’s licence for identification as well as the ownership documents. “We called in a pest control firm, and they’re dealing with the problem right this minute. The electrician has made his rounds earlier this week, and will start fixing things next Monday. We’ve had a plumber come and look at the place too, but his schedule was too full to start on the repairs right away. Those are scheduled for next month.”

While Anderson explained what his team had been doing so far, Kurt quickly filled in the online form to notify his department of the change of ownership and submitted it.

“Well, there you go! It’s not fair to punish the new owners for everything Smythe did wrong,” Artie argued. “They mean to set things right. They’ve already gotten started, this guy says so – sorry, didn’t catch your name…”

Anderson smiled at Artie, and introduced himself again as Blaine Anderson, brother of Cooper Anderson, the new owner. He shook Artie’s hand, and offered his hand for Kurt to shake it as well, but Kurt just glared at him, displeased with how easily Artie let himself be swayed.

Anderson’s smile faltered, and all at once, he looked less cocksure and very, very young.

“Remember everything Smythe promised us?” Kurt reminded Artie. “Nothing ever came of it.”

He turned to Anderson. “Excuse me for being sceptical, but you seem like another Richie Rich with a silver tongue whose only experience with renovating is playing Homescapes on his cell phone. Why would I believe a word you say? I’m not falling for that again. Trust fund babies like you need to learn that hotels are not playthings. That the guests staying here matter, and deserve a decent place to stay. That there are rules and regulations, and that hotel managers have to toe the line or they’ll lose their licence.”

Anderson’s brow knit, but before he could say a word, Tina came to his aid.

“Blaine is NOTHING like that smarmy Smythe,” Tina yelled at Kurt. “When he says he will do something, he will.”

“I’ll believe that when I see it,” Kurt said, his voice barely louder than a whisper, but cold as ice.

He turned back to Artie. “We’ve been here twice, to inspect this hotel, and it’s the worst case we’ve ever had on our hands. Safety and health violations in all categories. If it had been up to just me, this place would have been closed down months ago. But Mr. Smythe got extra time to fix things, twice, and today was to be the final inspection. We were clear on that. We’ve always been clear on that. If things were not A-OK today, the hotel licence would be revoked.”

Artie sighed. “I know that, but you could at least give the new owner the benefit of the doubt. And more time to fix things. They’ve only just arrived.”

“I could show you what issues we’ve fixed already?” Anderson offered readily, the smile back on his face. “And I can tell you what’s on the planning for the weeks to come. Obviously, there might be things mentioned in your inspection report that I haven’t thought of so far, but I’m willing to do everything that’s needed to make this a safe and healthy quality establishment, I assure you. We have the same goal.”

Anderson ran to the reception desk and came back with a clipboard, which he shoved under Kurt’s nose.

Kurt saw a checklist not unlike the ones he drew up himself while inspecting hotels. Next to every item was the name of the firm or specialist who would be dealing with the issue, as well as the projected timeframe in which that would happen.

The issues that had been dealt with already had checkmarks next to them, and there were quite a few.

He nodded. “All right, show me.”

Half an hour later, trailing after Anderson, who was taking them on a tour of the hotel to show what had been done so far, Kurt acknowledged that Anderson and his team had certainly not been twiddling his thumbs in the week they’d been here.

The place looked cleaner and smelled a lot better now that the air conditioning was actually working, and the new furniture looked a lot sturdier and better quality.

“Okay,” Kurt conceded, “I can see you’ve been working hard and that matters have already improved, so we’ll compromise. Artie and I will grant you an extra couple of months, Mr. Anderson.”

Anderson nodded like a bobble-head, a thousand-watt smile back on his face, and Tina looked pleased as well, but Kurt wasn’t done speaking.

“We’ll also give you a copy of our last inspection report, with the full list of all the issues that need to be tackled, and we’ll come to check up on you at least once a week, to make sure you actually do the work you’ve promised to do. Deal?”

Anderson didn’t seem daunted at all, still nodding and smiling. Tina seemed less happy at the prospect of being inspected every week, and Artie was shaking his head.

“Every week? That’s overkill, man!” Artie protested. “Make it every month, and we have a deal.”

“Every two weeks then, and that’s final. It’s not like this place is far away, Artie. It’s Lima. We pass by this hotel every day. It’s no big deal to drop in for five minutes. I’ll do the inspection, and you can shoot the breeze with your friend Tina here.”

“All right, then. Deal.”

Kurt turned to Anderson. “I’m going to need your e-mail address, so that I can send you the inspection report and the list of issues that need to be addressed.”

“Certainly, sir, let me jot that down for you. And as soon as you’ve sent me the list, I’ll tackle all the issues I haven’t thought of so far, planning all the work, ordering materials and contacting professionals and so on, and I’ll send you the definitive schedule as soon as I’ve been able to draw it up. That should make the follow-up easier.”

Kurt had to hand it to the guy – he was polite to a fault and perfectly cooperative. Maybe, just maybe, this wouldn’t remain a disaster zone now that it had been taken over by someone who seemed competent.

Here’s hoping…

Ten minutes later, Artie and Kurt arrived at Artie’s place, and Kurt helped him out of the van.

“Well, that was a nice surprise, for sure,” said Artie.

Kurt hummed non-committally.

“Maybe they’ll actually turn this hotel into a nice place.”

Artie sounded hopeful, and Kurt hated to be a downer, but it had to be said. “Let’s just wait and see if Anderson does what he says, or if it’s just empty talk again, like it was with Smythe.”

“Tina wouldn’t be friends with a rat like that!”

“We’ll see. All right, see you tomorrow, bud.”

While Kurt drove on home, he found himself hoping that Artie was right. He thought of Anderson’s warm smile and expressive eyes, and wished that he had shaken his hand instead of refusing to in a fit of pique. Not the best first impression. Yes, he had a job to do, but he could remain civil all the same.

He wondered how long it would take before he got that promised schedule. No matter how long it took, he’d stop by the hotel two weeks from now to check up on things.

A smile crept onto his face at the prospect of seeing Anderson again.

Who’d have ever thought he’d look forward to another inspection of the hotel from hell?

[havnblog]

Waste Your Money on Things That Last

A Defence of Buying Things

A couple of years ago, I was working full time as a teacher. And even though the pay in that profession is far too low, I was still quite comfortable (economically). However, the last few years, I’ve had way less spending power. I wanted to take a master’s degree, which (sadly, and luckily) led to my mind sort of rupturing, and me getting diagnosed with ADHD.1 Now I’m learning how I really work, while trying to get a freelance lifestyle up and running. I’m lucky in that I know that I can get a teacher job if I like (and need) to.2 And even luckier: I’m in a position where I can survive on less income for a while. So, we’ll see what the future holds – but nonetheless: Currently, I don’t have a lot of money to waste.

Some notes on privilege:

I live in a wealthy country, with plenty of social security, and come from a middle-class background. And the reason I talk about 'not having money to waste' instead of 'being poor' (even though I don't have a lot of income), is that I still have everything I need (and more). So I do know that I'm very privileged! However, I hope the principles I'm trying to get across can be relevant for several levels of affluence.

I’m not saying it’s wrong to spend your money on things like holidays and experiences. And you can absolutely argue that these things last in their own way! But I just wanted to give a little shout-out to something I feel like gets recommended less than those.

Pre-purchased luxury

If my “luxury” habits (you know, from when I worked as a teacher 😅) consisted of things like going to restaurants a lot, which is expensive here in Norway, going to my current lifestyle would be a large downgrade. However, here are some things I’m glad that I bought, as I still get great enjoyment from the money I spent.

“Re-usable” entertainment

Personally, I, in general, don’t love rewatching movies and TV shows. So in terms of “entertaining hours per krone”, other forms give me more bang for the buck. As probably many others, I have a way too large backpack of video games – on both Mac and Switch. I also have plenty of board games. Some of them I haven’t tried, and most of them have tons of plays left in them.

Equipment

Even though it’s not the latest and greatest, I have more technical equipment than I need. I also have what I need to work on music, go outside, build and repair things around the house, etc.

Well-made clothes and items

But this post was originally inspired by how lucky I felt, being able to put on clothes I love (that keep me warm and dry), and use good backpacks etc., that I’ve invested in a long time ago.

I like slow fashion (in opposition to fast fashion). And the two most important principles here, are things that have the quality to last, and a timeless style that works for years.

Style is, of course, subjective – but personally, I like things inspired by workwear and classic fits. However, I have more advice when it comes to:

Spotting quality

Construction (how they’re made) and materials (what they’re made of) are, much, much more significant than where they’re made.

Go for things made of (preferably only) natural materials, like cotton, wool, linen, leather, etc., and constructed in a way that makes them repairable.

When it comes to brands, it can be a good idea to go for small brands with close relations to the factory. I’d also primarily buy a brand’s core competency: Know-how when it comes to making jackets doesn’t necessarily translate to making shoes.

What you want, is to find things where the people who made it were provided great materials and the time to do it properly. Sadly, this happens more often in some countries than others, so where it’s made can be an indication. But it’s absolutely not a given! For instance, there are people running (more or less) sweatshops in Italy and the US, and you have brands like Grant Stone making items of top quality in China. See this thread for more on this!

Here’s what I wore yesterday:

For those who are interested:

You can’t see my T-shirt, but it’s a white loop-wheeled cotton T-shirt, from Warehouse.

You can’t see my baseball cap, from Poten, either.

The jumper is a wool jumper from the Norwegian brand Hunting Lodge.

The vest is a wool vest from Filson.

The watch is a Vostok Amphibia.

The jeans are from Tender, and the only thing I bought on holiday to Stockholm this summer.

I have socks from Decka, in mocs from Rancourt.

I know these things are costly, and not something everyone can afford! But by buying used, and by buying less, most people can push up the quality of the items they own. “Own fewer better things” is always* good advice.

Winter is coming – and in Norway, that matters. So I’m glad I already have both boots, a raincoat (for layering), thick wool shirts, etc.! So even though I don’t have much money to waste these days, I’m glad I wasted the money I had on things that last. I’m still living in abundance.

Which was absolutely a good thing! I want to write more on this later. ↩︎

I also miss students! ↩︎

[sakinahhhhh]

Weekly Journal 1

How I Met Taylor Swift !

Have you ever had a favourite musician that you would kill to meet in person? Well, I do, and it is none other than the iconic pop sensation Taylor Swift. I am forever thankful to be blessed to have personally witnessed my long-time idol through my very own eyes!

It all began when I took a vacation to Europe with my family. We visited numerous iconic cities, including London, Paris, and Turkey. The odds were in my favour when Taylor Swift was kicking off her European set of the Eras Tour on the same date as we were in Paris!

We were travelling to Paris on the 5th until the 11th of May 2024; the concert was on the 9th of May. You have no idea how thrilled I was when I learnt that the dates were aligned. So, I told my mother, and she was as psyched as I was. She is also a fan of Taylor Swift, better known as "Swifties." She granted me permission to attend the concert as long as I was chaperoned by my uncle, who in my favour is also a Swiftie.

Asking for permission was undoubtedly the simple part, as my family was very supportive. Now comes the most difficult part of all: getting tickets! Just the thought of not getting tickets was already crushing my spirit. I constantly felt anxious for weeks! Instead of studying, all the information my brain could comprehend was only in relation to finding ways to get my hands on those precious tickets.

Thank God I was able to secure not only two tickets for my uncle and me, but they were also the elusive VIP tickets. When I told my mom and uncle, they were flabbergasted because they had little faith that I was able to do it. But I surely proved them wrong! That's what they get for underestimating a girl who’s been a hardcore Swiftie for 5 years.

Finally, it was time; we took off to Europe in May and safely landed in the City of Lights on May 5th. As time passed, the calendar marked the long-awaited day, May 9th. It was a typical cold, windy morning in Paris, but the gloomy weather didn't stop my uncle and I from gushing about the concert. We headed off to La Défense by bus and walked to the concert arena. We were in line to collect our VIP merchandise. Fortunately, the line was not long, and we ran into many Swifties there. It is tradition in the fandom to trade friendship bracelets with each other, so without hesitation, the Swifties we met traded bracelets with us.

After collecting the merchandise, we went back to our hotel to change into our concert attire. Swifties typically dress like Taylor; sometimes they even go so far as to style themselves in a way reminiscent of one of her album covers. So, while my uncle dressed in black and dark grey to mirror the cover of the album "Reputation," I dressed in pink and pastels inspired by her "Lover" album. When we were all dressed, we returned to the arena. There were a lot of people who were already queuing; the line for the regular tickets was the longest line I have ever seen. Luckily the VIP line was much shorter; we were fortunate enough to enter the arena as soon as we arrived.

As soon as I entered the arena pit, excitement and anticipation filled the air. Swifties, dressed in everything from casual outfits to Taylor-inspired costumes representing various eras, gathered in a sea of glitter and glam. There was a palpable sense of unity and shared passion as fans from all over the world came together to celebrate one artist, Taylor Swift, and her incredible career. I can't explain to you how I was feeling on the inside. Even though I had butterflies in my stomach, it did not stop how ecstatic I was. I felt like I had finally found my people and that this place was truly home. We got to secure a spot right in front of the B stage. 

After a few minutes, her opener took the stage. The famous band 'Paramore' opened for Taylor's European leg. We got to watch live renditions of their iconic hits. This was the first time I heard a live performance. From now on I could clearly distinguish between authentic live vocals, recorded or if the artist is just using backtrack, autotune, or the worst of them all, lip-syncing! Paramore's main singer, Hayley Williams, is undoubtedly a live performer since you could hear her raw and genuine vocals. The crowd was only starting to get hyped. Her performance ended after about an hour, and it was time for the big act to take the stage—the artist who we crossed 6,430 miles just to see perform live—the artist who I was going to see on my first ever concert, Taylor Swift!

As the lights dimmed and the opening notes of "Miss Americana & The Heartbreak Prince" played, the audience erupted in cheers. Taylor emerged on stage, kicking off her set with an energy that electrified the entire stadium. Throughout the night, Taylor's effortless transitions between eras showcased her evolution as an artist. I have never seen any other artist perform a 3-hour show like she does.

And of course, there were the surprise songs. As Paris Night 1 was a major stop on her European leg of the tour, there was much anticipation surrounding what song she might pull out of her discography. When she surprised the crowd with "Paris", the audience went wild. I could not believe; I was one of the lucky Swifties that got to experience her perform her song “Paris” live from Paris! The performance felt intimate, a shared secret between Taylor and her fans, and the Parisian setting added a layer of magic to the whole experience.

As the concert was coming to a close with "Karma," confetti showered down like cats and dogs. After the lights went back on, I grabbed the opportunity to gather the confetti scattered on the floor to bring a little bit of this event home with me. Every time I look at it, I will reflect on the indelible memories I had at the concert.

Leaving the arena that night, I felt a mixture of exhilaration and nostalgia. Her performance made an indelible impression on me. The concert just ended, and I was already reminiscing about the memories I had at that sentimental concert.

For anyone who has yet to experience the Eras Tour, I can say with certainty that it is more than worth the wait. Taylor Swift has created something truly extraordinary. And for me, who was lucky enough to attend in Paris, Night 1, it will forever be a night full of precious memories that I will never forget.

[casspurrjoybell-18]

Worthless - Chapter 14

*Warning Adult Content*

Asher

The first thing I noticed was an absence. I couldn't say what was gone but it had given me warmth and security. Without it, the cold seeped into my aching limbs. I felt my mind recoil, not wanting to wake up. I knew pain waited but I couldn't avoid it. Luckily, the pain wasn't mind numbing like before. It was a dull ache, seeming to emit from every part of my body. My breaths came in puffs as I tried to remember how to move.

With difficulty, I willed my eyes to open. I squinted past the grit that caked my lashes. I reached up to rub it away and stared at the pink flesh that appeared. It shocked me, to say the least. I couldn't pinpoint the reason why but I knew it was unusual. It felt, not wrong but different to see a hand there, a trembling one at that. Shaking away the thought I tested my body, slowly waking up my limbs. My muscles tingled and began to twitch as blood began to work its way back into my limbs, warming them up along the way.

When I felt like I had a decent control over my body I decided to make an attempt at getting up. Inch by inch I scooted until I felt the edge of the bed. With a grunt I rolled off, landing on the cold, hardwood ground. I ignored the pain and got on my hands and knees, pushing myself up. I lurched as blackness crept at the edge of my mind, falling back down to the floor as I dry heaved. Over and over my body convulsed but my stomach was already empty. Sweat accumulated as I stood, wobbling in place. Fearing another episode of dry heaving, my steps were hesitant.

Once I was confident that I could handle the movements, I made my way to the door that led out of the bedroom, though I didn't know where this information came from. A cover wrapped around my body to keep warm, trailing behind me. I took it slow. There were many different scents and though I couldn't remember who they belonged to, I felt at ease. Casually I walked down the dark hallway, following a heavenly scent that I knew would lead me to the source of my earlier warmth. My first challenge was a staircase. Not trusting myself, I stiffly lowered myself onto the top step, meaning to scoot down on my bottom. Step by painful step my butt thumped down until I was finally at the bottom.

I took my time getting up, listening to each bone as it popped in protest. I'd almost lost my balance, arms flailing as I tried to steady myself. Heart pounding, I looked around when I was finally able to stand straight.  The scent was stronger now. I could almost see the trail as I stumbled my way down the hallway.  There was a light, flowing out of a doorway and lighting the hallway.  I quickened my pace, knowing that what I was looking for, what I needed, was right there. I stood at the doorway, seeing that two people were there, one leaning against a counter while the other sat on a bar stool. 

The conversation died and I watched as the man sitting tensed. It felt like an eternity until he turned his head. My gaze locked with his and I knew. He was what I was looking for. My feet were moving before I could even process it.

Kade

I had sat next to the bed for what seemed like forever but in reality, it was only about four days. I would have waited forever but Rory ordered me to get something to eat. He said that it wasn't right and what would Asher think when he woke up to it and he was right. I couldn't starve myself in some sort of punishment I felt I deserved but when I looked at Asher, noticing all the scars that littered his body and how his ribs could be seen, I felt like I'd been taking life for granted.

'Hell, he probably hates me.'

"He doesn't."

Startled, I looked to Rory, realizing that I had spoken my thoughts out loud,

"Asher would be happy, wouldn't he? That you had a nice life? And now he has a nice life. Or he will."

Slowly, I gave a nod. Rory seemed satisfied and gestured to the sandwich in front of me. Gingerly, I picked it up, sniffing once before taking a bit. Honestly, my stomach wanted nothing more than to throw it all up but the was for Asher... no... it was for me. 

"Jeez, I'm so obsessed with him," I mused. 

"Ha, damn right you are. Moon Goddess, I've never seen anyone be more..." he stopped suddenly, looking at something behind me.

I was about to ask what it was but then it hit me. My body began to tingle, my lower region heating as I felt the presence of the one who mattered most. My head turned, every inch my mind was in chaos but then my eyes landed on him. Asher, my mate and then I was crushed with the weight of him, almost throwing me off the stool. My arms wrapped around him even though my mind couldn't process it. His scent engulfed me and I leaned in, breathing it in as if I was dying. I could barely believe it.

'Asher, my Asher, was awake.'

He was alive and in my arms. I tried to connect with him using the pack link but there was a wall. For a second I did nothing, my own mind going blank and then I tried again and again and then again until I was shaking.

"Asher., I whispered, my voice cracking.

I looked to Rory when he didn't respond. His glowing face dampened as he saw the distraught written across mine.

"He's not responding to his name or through the link."

His eyebrows shot up in surprise and a moment later furrowed, telling me he just tried. Asher squirmed in my arms, lifting his head to look at me. His eyes, a beautiful, deep blue that has been burned into my very soul, were slightly glazed over but he looked happy, tired but happy. His lips twitched in an attempt to smile before he began to nuzzle my neck, a sigh escaped from between his lips as he breathed my own scent in. Soon he was fast asleep, his breaths warm against my skin.

"Should we get Eric?" Rory asked.

I cocked my head at the question.

"I don't know. I don't want to wake him," I said, gesturing to the bundle of warmth clamped around me.

"He seemed exhausted."

Rory nodded.

"I guess we can just let it be."

His gaze swept up then down, a smirk appearing.

"So are you gonna stay like that? It's still, what? Four in the morning?"

I shook my head and chuckled, already deciding that I would carefully move us to the living room. It was when I moved my hands down to get a better grip that I noticed something. Rory quirked an eyebrow at my look.

"He's naked," I whispered, eyes wide and suddenly, very, very hot.

Rory immediately burst out laughing, ignoring my glare but tried to smother it when Asher made a sound in his sleep.

"Of course he is, you idiot," he said, suddenly getting serious.

"Who knows how long he's been a wolf."

The depressing atmosphere was shattered by a loud gasp. My arms tightened around my mate and I bared my teeth at the intruder, letting out a low growl before realizing who it was and relaxing. Fallon stood there, tears running down his face as he gazed upon Asher with a mix of surprise, disbelief and utter happiness. His bottom lip trembled as he fought to hold back sobs. I put a finger to my lips.

He bobbed his head up and down in understanding and I smiled, gesturing for him to come over. Slowly, almost hesitantly, he tip-toed, his eyes going from mine to the form of Asher and back until he reached us.He reached out, eyes wide and touched Asher. He went slack as if all the tension had left his small body.The look of pure joy illuminated his face causing Rory and me to smile as well.

"He's really awake?" Fallon whispered, almost to himself.

I nodded, though he technically was sleeping again, not fully believing it myself.

"Wanna help me move him?"

I knew the answer before he nodded. I returned my grip on Asher and stood. Fallon decided to be the 'lookout' and make sure I didn't trip over anything as he carried the part of the comforter that trailed behind me. He grinned, more than happy to do this. In no time I was sitting on the couch with Asher still wrapped around me. Fallon yawned and I patted the spot next to us, quickly falling asleep. Rory chuckled at the sight and waved goodbye, deciding to try to go back to sleep. It was comfortable, having these two sleeping beside me.

It made me feel needed. I'd come to care deeply about them and Riley. It had been hell for all of us when Asher wouldn't wake up. Though Asher was my mate, I couldn't tell whether it was I or Riley and Fallon who felt the worse pain but it had brought us together.  We had spent the time talking just to keep our minds off the dire situation. They told me all the things that Asher had done for them, saved them from. It was obvious how much they cared for each other. I told them about my life and the life I wanted for Asher and for them.

It was then that Fallon had called me 'Dad'. He hadn't even realized it himself. We all just sat there, stunned. He trembled, about to sprint when I engulfed him in a hug, whispering soothing words and how I would be honored for him to consider me his dad. And then he had cried. Riley, too, as she joined us. We decided then that we were a family. That we needed to be strong for Asher when he woke because he would need us, all of us and we needed him.

[ghostfan3]

Zander had posted another box over full of yet more Galarian goodies and books on the myths and legends of Galar. It was accompanied with another note! The note read as follows:

" hi again Willow! Hope this arrives to you in one piece. This is probably gonna seem like a strange request, then again maybe not since it's us we're talking about here. But do you happen to know what a Darkrai needs? Such as dietary and what have you. Work has granted permission to try and take care of the little Darkrai I wanted to show you but wouldn't show.

Gonna spill the beans here but we're concerned some unpleasant individuals are after it and may have 'dealt with' it's parent. Ceru seems to be able to sense it if you get my drift. Hope all is well and I look forward to hearing from you.

Zander".

Attached to the note was a cheque of fairly generous sum.

Skylertheminish.

Willow sigh after reading messages from Zander again. She looked up and smile seeing her team snack on all goodies the man had sent. The cheque in her hand feels heavy. Personally she didn't mind do anything for her friend for free, so she would probably sent it back. But now she had more important things to worry about. White hair girl wasn't to sure how to respond. How could she know what a mythical Pokémon could need to grow up healthy. Luckily she know someone who will know. Sky slowly darker as sun was slowly disappearing under horizon. May as well start the journey now.

-"Ok everyone, return!"- she pull out her luxury balls and return most of her Pokémon to them. Shade also sink into her shadow, she smile feeling better with familiar presence guarding her.-"Are you ready Corvus?"

Her Corviknight screech in conformation before letting her climb into his back. Willow made sure her bag was secured place in front of her before gently petting her flying companion.

-"Let's go then"

She brace herself as Corvus took into the air. Sinnoh nights were usually cold during this time of year, so she pulled her scarf closer to keep herself warm. As sun set a stars come out. This was only her source of light during this flight, as moon was set in New. At least her friend was having best time with such little light. Soon enough a Newmoon island come into view. She urge her Corviknight to land on the beach of this speciel island. As they land she move to jump of back of her Pokémon before pulling pokeball and return him.

-"Corvus return, you did well"- She took a big breath before walking into forest from small opening of the beach.

The forest become darker as shadow in front of her rise, soon taking appearance of familiar Pokémon. Darkrai look at Willow with his blue eye. Most people would definitely coward in fear meeting this mythical nightmare Pokémon, but white hair girl smile kindly at it.

-"It's good to see you my friend. I have story that you might find hard to believe it"

-------------------------------------------------------

"Hello Zander I manage to learn how much I could about what you need to take care of the little one. Here are the most important ones:

1. Food and diet:

Darkrai can eat normal food without any ploblem. In fact it would be the best that a balance diet for growing Pokémon would be held, you know, berries, moomoo milk, supplements. Basically the same as Ceru.

But they probably will also need to consume others people dreams or emotions during sleep. So it's will need people or Pokémon to sleep around it. They probably already feeds on dreams of Pokémon resting in the ruins. I already sent you my materials about it, but you can ask for more details if someone at organisational trains like Drowzees or Haunters or any other Pokémons that feed of dreams or emotions (Munna and they evolutions don't occur naturally in Galar right?). But nothing to much worry about.

2. Most obvious is light.

It will probably prefer a more darker place, probably that's why it's hide in ruins. So dim rooms, no bright lights e.t.c. There is possibility of them being most active on New Moon and least active on Full Moon ( I think self-explanatory)

Oh and have room full of shadows they can hide into.

3. Shadows.

I don't think is suprises you that shadows and sinking into them will be important part of the Darkrai live. But it's basically comes to 2 point, of having place for him to hide. (You saw how Shade does it and how he uses them to not only travel but also rest).

4. All the toys and e.t.c for small pokémons. Raising Darkrai won't be that much different then raising any other small pokémon, just need to be careful about few extra steps.

Those are the main things, there are a few more small details, but I'll write them for you later or we can talk in person if you like.

Anyway one more thing, but is more something I thought about. Do you know what Delta pokémons are Zander? It's basically Pokémon that have added or completely change type from their normal counterparts. I'm sending you good study on it. I don't have evidence , simply my thoughts. But something about Ceru being only one to sense doesn't sit right with me.

Also my friend from Newmoon island is quite interested in talking with you, give me sign if you want to meet him.

Anyway, best regards

Willow

Ps. I'm sending you the cheque back. You know I would do anything for free if you ask me too.

Attached files:

Notes on Pokémon that eat dreams and emotions from them.pdf

Study on Pokémon living in shadows.pdf

More confusion when it comes to types- Delta Pokémon. Study conducted by professor Oak.pdf

Of dreams and nightmares.Legendary lunar duo.pdf"

-------------------------------------------------------

@skylertheminish I'm sorry for taking so long. But I really work on this answer, hope you like it

[mazelikedays]

2023 Year Ender

Currently Listening to: Ginger Root - Nominated Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates Mood: Waiting listlessly Welcome to the 17th iteration of my Year Ender post. I'll be doing this a bit earlier than usual as I'll be going off to Musandam, Oman tomorrow. As you can see in the pic, I have been trying to go to different places. Anyhow, let’s do the 2023 edition of my year ender report! 

1. Thankfully, COVID pretty much became endemic this 2023. Pretty much things have gone back to normal, travel wise. Sadly, inflation happened everywhere. Luckily, my salary also increased this year which was quite nice given the inflation and expenses I had.

2. This year was quite eventful that I was able to secure a state nomination from Canberra, Australia! All the expenses and effort paid off! I was quite surprised though that it was Australia that gave me a chance, since I thought Australia will be harder to get in compared to Canada. While sadly nothing happened with my Canadian application, now I'm waiting for that Australian visa grant. I sure hope I can get it as early as March. I was also quite lucky that I applied as soon as I could, because when July came, it became much, much harder to apply for an Australian PR.

3. Travel wise, I actually became active in camping for the first quarter of the year. I was able to try solo camping in various locations such as Hatta, Jebel Ali Beach, Al Mirfa in Abu Dhabi and Al Qudra with my colleagues in the office. I also travel twice in the Philippines and twice in Singapore. I didn't travel in the latter part of the year due to the summer heat + lethargy. Hopefully I get to travel more starting tomorrow  in Oman!

4. TCG wise, the first half of the year was quite good, with our team getting Top 3 not once, but twice! I fortunately had really good teammates, and I was able to play well. I unfortunately had a bad run though on the second part of the year, and my dream of going to worlds didn't happen. Hopefully the next year will be much better, and I'm hoping I'll get more chances of going to worlds.

5. Health wise, I can't say that it was that good. Nothing really serious, but work stress kind of got to me, especially when new members of the Cerave team joined. The system became drastically different from last year, and it became so stressful that I became easily irritated. It even went to a point where I became so stressed I got sick. I wasn't even able to stick to my diet, and was living an unhealthy lifestyle. I do hope I can reset this coming year, I feel finally going to Australia will greatly help as I feel I'm currently in a limbo waiting for my visa grant. 6. Some not so good news regarding my sister. Seems she was involved in some drug issues and she got imprisoned. She got out of jail eventually but now she's currently detained in an immigration facility as of writing. She's still waiting for a verdict, and I'm hoping for a positive outcome. Kinda fearing for her ability to travel due to this though, as kinda worried for my niece and her fiancee as well. Kinda bummed with what my sister did to her life, but it is what it is sadly.

7. Anime, Manga and Pop Culture stuff.

Anime and Manga wise, I had been watching and reading less. It's probably due to the stress I experienced for a good part of the year. I was able to attend some conventions though, like the MEFCC in Abu Dhabi and AFA in Singapore. I also have some show lined up to watch. As for sumo, I'm not able to watch livestreams for the latter part of the year, though I still check upon the results whenever there's a tournament. I was hyped when Hakuoho was competing, and got bummed that he had to pull out for a while due to injury. I sure hope he'll bounce back in the coming year. It's also exciting to see whether the two new Ozeki, especially Kirishima (formerly Kiribayama) will step up to become the new Yokozuna. I'm also happy that the coming year will have Ura going to Sanyaku!

Currently Watching:

Frieren: Beyond Journey's End, Aria the Origination Planning to Watch: Kubo-San Won't Let Me Be Invisible, Isekai Nonbiri Nouka

Finished This Year:

Engage Kiss, Gundam: Witch From Mercury, Hataraku Maou Sama S3, Danmachi S4 Part 2, Mushoku Tensei S3 Part 1, Tomo-Chan is a Girl, Bofuri S2, Oshi no Ko, Isekai Ojisan, Tonikawa, In/Spectre, Tondemo Sukiru de Isekai Hōrō Meshi, The Dangers in My Heart, Masterful Cat is Depressed, Chainsaw Man, Arifureta S1, Aria the Animation/Natural

Unfinished Anime: Dumbbell Nan Kilo Moteru?, Kimetsu no Yaiba: Swordsman Village Arc, Rurouni Kenshin Reboot,

Finished OVA/Movies:

Tensura Scarlet Bond, Gundam Hathaway, Jujutsu Kaisen Zero, First Slam Dunk, Suzume, The Boy and the Heron

New Manga Read:

Oshi no Ko, Chainsaw Man

Finished Manga: Ayakashi Triangle, Other Stuff Watched:

Movies: Avatar: Way of the Water, Everything Everywhere All At Once, The Flash

Series: The Mandalorian S2, Ahsoka, Andor, Castlevania Nocturne

New Games Played: Mainly just playing Mahjong Soul, Teamfight Tactics, Weiss Simulator and Pokemon TCG Live. Occasionally playing casual games and Colonist (Catan clone).

8. Fulfilled (or not) Wishes a. Get Healthier - Kinda not, though I'm trying to be mindful. I need to reset this coming year and have less stress. b. Get to emigrate elsewhere - Funny enough, it was Australia that gave me the chance! Hoping to hear soon as early as March. I'm quite anxious to get there that I'm currently in a state of limbo. c. Travel to new places - This year made me do a lot of solo camping. Also was able to set foot in Qatar, albeit as a stopover. I am going to Oman tomorrow though, so that's exciting. And even more exciting if I'm finally able to go to Australia! d. TCG wise -I finally played in a teams format, and did quite well especially in PH. Sadly the worlds invite dream went downhill! Hoping this year I can finally get the worlds invite!

New Wishes: a. Get the Australia Visa Grant - Can't wait for it, hoping for a positive outcome, and soon! b. Improved Health - Hoping to reset this year and be better. c. WS Worlds Invite - Hoping to finally get that Worlds invite, so that I can finally retire in TCGs lol! d. Better situation for my Sis - I hope the issues get settled soon, and in a positive manner. e. Some new goal to look forward to - Because sometimes lately, I feel that nothing happens that much. Let's see what endeavor I can aim for the coming year.

I don’t have much else to wish for, maybe just for good health for me, my family and my friends. Hoping the Musandam trip tomorrow will be awesome, even if it's quite expensive. Anyhow, till next year!

[nerdykitkat123]

Pleasentview - A New New save because my old one got corrupted thanks to OneDrive - Rotation 3

Rotation 3 Rotation 3 Rotation 3. Been building my collage world that is built enough for my sims, but not 100% finished. With some sims going to college this time, it should be fun!

Goth

Cassandra teaches Loki how to walk before she goes to work.

Cassandra is promoted from Science Teacher to Project Leader.

With Cassandra's want for another baby and Dons want for Woohoo, it combines for the two to take things to the bedroom

The toddlers walk in half way though.

Yikes, that's going to be a lot of therapy.

After they woohoo, Cassandra teaches Atlas learns how to talk

On Wednesday Don is promoted from Surgeon to Medical Researcher.

Cassandra finds out that she is pregnant.

On Thursday both Loki and Atlas age into children.

On Friday evening, Cassandra gives birth to another boy, so please welcome to the world Tartarus.

Yes a named a baby after the deepest pit of hell what of it?

Dina and Alexandra

On Tuesday Dina brings home Jenifer from work. They hand out and become friends quickly.

On Wednesday Destiny grew up into a toddler.

Alexandra becomes friends with Sophie Migual.

On Thursday Dina is promoted from Head of Construction Company to Architect's Apprentice.

To celebrate her promotion, Dina invites over Don and they woohoo.

Dina is so Busy with Don Lothario she doesn't realise the state her daughter is in.

Luckily, the babysitter that Dina hires handles her nappy and bottle when she comes round.

Dina just seems genuinely dis interested in her child, neglecting her for her career or for her love.

Nina Callienti

A Genie Lamp is placed on Nina's doorstep, to which she rubs it. The Genie grants her three wishes. For the first, she asks for a long life. Her wish is granted and she de-ages a little bit.

On Wednesday she invites Nery round and makes her move on him. It turns out they have poor chemistry, so they just hang out for a while.

On Thursday Nina invites Don over for early morning Woohoo.

She's just a career driven woman that don't need nobody and I love how simple she is.

Broke

On Tuesday Skip Jr ages up into a child.

He makes friends with Ricky Cormer.

On Wednesday, Beau brings Loki Goth home from school.

Beau ages up into a teenager, he ages up with Platinum aspiration.

Beau has the popularity aspiration, his lifetime wish is to become a Captain Hero.

On Thursday Beau becomes friends with Meadow Thayer.

On Friday Dustin is promoted to Pickpocket, the top of the teenage criminal career.

Dustin ages up into an adult, he was un-able to go to collage as he has his two younger brothers to take care of.

Dustin now works as a Con-artist.

Dustin invites over Tosha, finding out that they have strong chemistry with each other.

He quickly falls in love with her.

Tosha stays the night.

Dreamer

Brandi already wants another damn baby. How many do you NEED?

On Tuesday Brandon ages up into a toddler.

She teaches Brandon how to talk.

Brandi? being there for her children? Never would have thought about it.

Brandi tells Darren that she wants another baby, so they try for one.

A snow day is called on Wednesday, so Dirk works on Mechanical skills.

Darren teaches Brandon how to walk.

Brandi and Darren try again for a baby once she comes home from work.

Dirk is promoted to Security Guard, the top of the teenage career.

On Thursday, Brandi is promoted from Hostess to Waitress.

Brandi discovers she is pregnant with Baby no 5.

On Friday Dirk moves to Collage. Good Luck Dirk!

Pleasent

The twins move to collage on Saturday morning.

Mary-Sue decides to forgive Danial for cheating on her.

Nothing happens lmaooo.

Oldie

On Tuesday Lindsey ages into a teenager, she chooses the Family Aspiration, her lifetime wish is to have three of her children graduate collage.

Coral invites over the Burb Family.

Lucy and Lindsey literally hate each other lmao.

On Thursday Morning, Coral died and, well, her will is intresting lmao.

Mary-Sue got robbed lmao.

Lindsey adopts a cat called Moonshine.

Moonshine learns how to play dead.

Burb

On Tuesday Jenifer gets promoted to Architects apprentice

On Thursday Jenifer gets promoted to Draftsman.

Yeah, the Burbs got nothing lmao.