#mobile home park landlord rights

[lawofficeofryansshipp]

A Florida Eviction Attorney's Guide to Mobile Home Evictions: Breaking Down Florida Statute 723.061

Florida Mobile Home Eviction Attorneys When it comes to mobile home park evictions in Florida, the rules are a bit different from standard residential evictions. Florida Statute 723.061 outlines specific reasons and procedures for mobile home park owners to follow when evicting a mobile home owner, tenant, or occupant. Law Office of Ryan S. Shipp, PLLC knows how important it is to guide park…

[gatheringbones]

[“Poverty is embarrassing, shame inducing. Misery (misère), the French sociologist Eugène Buret once remarked, “is poverty felt morally.”

You feel it in the degradation rituals of the welfare office, where you are made to wait half a day for a ten-minute appointment with a caseworker who seems annoyed you showed up. You feel it when you go home to an apartment with cracked windows and cupboards full of cockroaches, an infestation the landlord blames on you. You feel it in how effortlessly poor people are omitted from movies and television shows and popular music and children’s books, erasures reminding you of your own irrelevance to wider society. You may begin to believe, in the quieter moments, the lies told about you. You avoid public places—parks, beaches, shopping districts, sporting arenas—knowing they weren’t built for you.

Poverty might consume your life, but it’s rarely embraced as an identity. It’s more socially acceptable today to disclose a mental illness than to tell someone you’re broke. When politicians propose antipoverty legislation, they say it will help “the middle class.” When social movement organizers mobilize for higher wages or housing justice, they announce that they are fighting on behalf of “working people” or “families” or “tenants” or “the many.” When the poor take to the streets, it’s usually not under the banner of poverty. There is no flag for poor rights, after all.

Poverty is diminished life and personhood. It changes how you think and prevents you from realizing your full potential. It shrinks the mental energy you can dedicate to decisions, forcing you to focus on the latest stressor—an overdue gas bill, a lost job—at the expense of everything else. When someone is shot dead, the children who live on that block perform much worse on cognitive tests in the days following the murder. The violence captures their minds. Time passes, and the effect fades until someone else is dropped.

Poverty can cause anyone to make decisions that look ill-advised and even downright stupid to those of us unbothered by scarcity. Have you ever sat in a hospital waiting room, watching the clock and praying for good news? You are there, locked on the present emergency, next to which all other concerns and responsibilities feel (and are) trivial. That experience is something like living in poverty. Behavioral scientists Sendhil Mullainathan and Eldar Shafir call this “the bandwidth tax.” “Being poor,” they write, “reduces a person’s cognitive capacity more than going a full night without sleep.” When we are preoccupied by poverty, “we have less mind to give to the rest of life.” Poverty does not just deprive people of security and comfort; it siphons off their brainpower, too.”]

matthew desmond, from poverty: by america, 2023

[meret118]

A new report from Popular Democracy and the Institute for Policy Studies reveals how billionaire investors have become a major driver of the nationwide housing crisis. They summarize in their own words:

Billionaire-backed private equity firms worm their way into different segments of the housing market to extract ever-increasing rents and value from multi-family rental, single-family homes, and mobile home park communities.— Global billionaires purchase billions in U.S. real estate to diversify their asset holdings, driving the creation of luxury housing that functions as “safety deposit boxes in the sky.” Estimates of hidden wealth are as high as $36 trillion globally, with billions parked in U.S. land and housing markets. — Wealthy investors are acquiring property and holding units vacant, so that in many communities the number of vacant units greatly exceeds the number of unhoused people. Nationwide there are 16 million vacant homes: that is, 28 vacant homes for every unhoused person. — Billionaire investors are buying up a large segment of the short-term rental market, preventing local residents from living in these homes, in order to cash in on tourism. These are not small owners with one unit, but corporate owners with multiple properties. — Billionaire investors and corporate landlords are targeting communities of color and low-income residents, in particular, with rent increases, high rates of eviction, and unhealthy living conditions. What’s more, billionaire-owned private equity firms are investing in subsidized housing, enjoying tax breaks and public benefits, while raising rents and evicting low-income tenants from housing they are only required to keep affordable, temporarily.

. . .

Thirty-two percent is the magic threshold, according to research funded by the real estate listing company Zillow. When neighborhoods hit rent rates in excess of 32 percent of neighborhood income, homelessness explodes. And we’re seeing it play out right in front of us in cities across America because a handful of Wall Street billionaires are making a killing.

As the Zillow study notes:

“Across the country, the rent burden already exceeds the 32 percent [of median income] threshold in 100 of the 386 markets included in this analysis….”And wherever housing prices become more than three times annual income, homelessness stalks like the grim reaper.

That Zillow-funded study laid it out:

“This research demonstrates that the homeless population climbs faster when rent affordability — the share of income people spend on rent — crosses certain thresholds. In many areas beyond those thresholds, even modest rent increases can push thousands more Americans into homelessness.”This trend is massive.

. . .

As noted in a Wall Street Journal article titled “Meet Your New Landlord: Wall Street,” in just one suburb (Spring Hill) of Nashville:

“In all of Spring Hill, four firms … own nearly 700 houses … [which] amounts to about 5% of all the houses in town.”

This is the tiniest tip of the iceberg.

“On the first Tuesday of each month,” notes the Journal article about a similar phenomenon in Atlanta, investors “toted duffels stuffed with millions of dollars in cashier’s checks made out in various denominations so they wouldn’t have to interrupt their buying spree with trips to the bank…”

The same thing is happening in cities and suburbs all across America; agents for the billionaire investor goliaths use fine-tuned computer algorithms to sniff out houses they can turn into rental properties, making over-market and unbeatable cash bids often within minutes of a house hitting the market.

. . .

As the Bank of International Settlements summarized in a 2014 retrospective study of the years since the Reagan/Gingrich changes in banking and finance:

“We describe a Pareto frontier along which different levels of risk-taking map into different levels of welfare for the two parties, pitting Main Street against Wall Street. … We also show that financial innovation, asymmetric compensation schemes, concentration in the banking system, and bailout expectations enable or encourage greater risk-taking and allocate greater surplus to Wall Street at the expense of Main Street

.”It’s a fancy way of saying that billionaire-owned big banks and hedge funds have made trillions on housing while you and your community are becoming destitute.

. . .

Turns out it was Blackstone Group, now the world’s largest real estate investor run by a major Trump supporter. At the time they were buying $150 million worth of American houses every week, trying to spend over $10 billion. And that’s just a drop in the overall bucket.

As that new study from Popular Democracy and the Institute for Policy Studies found:

“[Billionaire Stephen Schwarzman’s] Blackstone is the largest corporate landlord in the world, with a vast and diversified real estate portfolio. It owns more than 300,000 residential units across the U.S., has $1 trillion in global assets, and nearly doubled its profits in 2021. “Blackstone owns 149,000 multi-family apartment units; 63,000 single-family homes; 70 mobile home parks with 13,000 lots through their subsidiary Treehouse Communities; and student housing, through American Campus Communities (144,300 beds in 205 properties as of 2022). Blackstone recently acquired 95,000 units of subsidized housing.”

In 2018, corporations and the billionaires that own or run them bought 1 out of every 10 homes sold in America, according to Dezember, noting that:

“Between 2006 and 2016, when the homeownership rate fell to its lowest level in fifty years, the number of renters grew by about a quarter.”

And it’s gotten worse every year since then.

. . .

Warren Buffett, KKR, and The Carlyle Group have all jumped into residential real estate, along with hundreds of smaller investment groups, and the National Home Rental Council has emerged as the industry’s premiere lobbying group, working to block rent control legislation and other efforts to control the industry.

As John Husing, the owner of Economics and Politics Inc., told The Tennessean newspaper:

“What you have are neighborhoods that are essentially unregulated apartment houses. It could be disastrous for the city.”

As Zillow found:

“The areas that are most vulnerable to rising rents, unaffordability, and poverty hold 15 percent of the U.S. population — and 47 percent of people experiencing homelessness.”

. . .

The loss of affordable homes also locks otherwise middle class families out of the traditional way wealth is accumulated — through home ownership: over 61% of all American middle-income family wealth is their home’s equity.

And as families are priced out of ownership and forced to rent, they become more vulnerable to homelessness.

Housing is one of the primary essentials of life. Nobody in America should be without it, and for society to work, housing costs must track incomes in a way that makes housing both available and affordable.

Singapore, Denmark, New Zealand, and parts of Canada have all put limits on billionaire, corporate, and foreign investment in housing, recognizing families’ residences as essential to life rather than purely a commodity. Multiple other countries are having that debate or moving to take similar actions as you read these words.

To address the housing shortage and bring down prices for renters and homeowners alike, the Harris campaign’s plan calls for a historic expansion of the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) and the first-ever tax incentive for homebuilders who build starter homes sold to first-time homebuyers. Building upon the Biden-Harris administration’s proposed $20 billion innovation fund, the campaign proposes a $40 billion fund that would support local innovations in housing supply solutions, catalyze innovative methods of construction financing, and empower developers and homebuilders to design and build affordable homes.

To cut red tape and bring down housing costs, the plan calls for streamlining permitting processes and reviews, including for transit-oriented development and conversions. The agenda also proposes making certain federal lands eligible to be repurposed for affordable housing development. Collectively, these policy proposals seek to create 3 million homes in the next four years.

The campaign plan cites the Biden-Harris administration’s ongoing actions to support the lowest-income renters, including its actions to expand rental assistance for veterans and other low-income renters, increase housing supply for people experiencing homelessness, enforce fair housing laws, and hold corporate landlords accountable.

Building upon these commitments, the Harris agenda calls upon Congress to pass the “Stop Predatory Investing Act,” which would remove key tax benefits for major investors who acquire large numbers of single-family rental homes (see Memo, 7/17/23), and the “Preventing the Algorithmic Facilitation of Rental Housing Cartels Act,” which would crack down on algorithmic rent-setting software that enables price-fixing among corporate landlords.

To make homeownership attainable, Vice President Harris’s proposal would provide up to $25,000 in downpayment assistance for first-time homebuyers who have paid their rent on time for two years. First-generation homeowners – those whose parents did not own homes – would receive more generous assistance.

Vice President Harris’s economic agenda also includes proposals to lower grocery costs, lower the costs of prescription drugs and relieve medical debt, and cut taxes for workers and families with children. The plan would restore the American Rescue Plan’s expanded Child Tax Credit, which provided up to $3,600 per child for low- and middle-income families for one year before it expired in 2022, and would enact a new $6,000 tax credit for families in the first year after their child is born. These measures to reduce expenses and boost household income would also improve housing security for low-income families, who often face impossible tradeoffs between paying rent and affording food, medical care, and other basic needs.

-----

Sorry for the length, but I thought this was really important.

[mallikarjuns]

Get Right Property

Navigating Get Right Property: Your Ultimate Resource for Rental Properties

Get Right Property has become a leading platform in the rental market, providing an extensive array of listings for those seeking apartments, condos, and homes for rent. With its user-friendly design and comprehensive features, the site caters to a wide audience, from students looking for their first apartment to families seeking a new home. Here’s an in-depth look at what Get Right Property offers and how it can simplify your rental search.

Streamlined Search Experience

One of the defining features of Get Right Property is its intuitive search functionality. Users can quickly filter listings based on various criteria, such as location, price range, number of bedrooms, and amenities. This streamlined approach allows renters to focus on properties that meet their specific needs, saving valuable time in the process.

Extensive Property Listings

Get Right Property hosts a vast database of rental properties across the United States. Users can explore detailed listings that include high-quality photos, floor plans, and comprehensive descriptions. Many listings also feature virtual tours, allowing potential renters to get a realistic view of the space before scheduling an in-person visit.

Neighborhood Insights

Understanding the surrounding community is crucial when choosing a rental property. Get Right Property provides valuable neighborhood information, including data on local schools, crime rates, public transport options, and nearby amenities such as grocery stores and parks. This insight helps renters assess whether a neighborhood fits their lifestyle and preferences.

Advanced Filtering Options

To enhance the search experience, Get Right Property offers advanced filtering options. Renters can specify preferences such as pet policies, parking availability, and in-unit laundry, making it easier to find apartments that align with their lifestyle. This level of customization is particularly beneficial for those with specific requirements.

Tools for Renters

Get Right Property is equipped with various tools to assist renters throughout their search. The platform includes a rent calculator to help users determine what they can afford based on their income and expenses. Additionally, users can save favorite listings and set up alerts for new properties that match their criteria, ensuring they stay updated in a competitive market.

Resources and Guides

Recognizing that renting can be a complex process, Get Right Property offers a wealth of resources and guides. Topics range from tips for first-time renters to advice on lease agreements and moving logistics. This educational content empowers users with the knowledge they need to navigate the rental market confidently.

Mobile Accessibility

With the increasing reliance on mobile technology, Get Right Property offers a robust mobile app. The app provides all the functionalities of the website, allowing users to search for properties, view listings, and communicate with landlords or property managers from their smartphones. This convenience is essential for renters who are often on the go.

Conclusion

Get Right Property stands out as a comprehensive resource for anyone looking to rent a property. Its user-friendly interface, extensive listings, and valuable neighborhood insights make the rental process more accessible and efficient. Whether you’re a first-time renter or seeking a new place to call home, Get Right Property equips you with the tools and information needed to make informed decisions and find the perfect rental.

[the-firebird69]

We actually have had enough of you people waiting for all sorts of people to fall and each one the other until there's none of you left we don't want to see our son getting abused by you I was sick of you I'm going to pull your freaking cards all of you that was disgusting in your evil piece of s*** and your pieces of s*** I do see what he's saying say this is embarrassing this is humiliating it's obscene I need them all to go to freaking hell and I want it now I do of course understand what you're saying now this guy's home from work at 3:00 isn't doing anything except sit here and mudder and threaten our son we have to get in mind for your permanently

-several issues are coming up the construction projects are being stymied by them each other no they're proceeding but they are finding out that it is Billy z in the way and he's trying to block them all and these people have to fight them off in unison and we have to mobilize and the foreigners saw it earlier as we did and it is going to be hell on Earth for a couple days as the clothes get destroyed and it's true too they are going to take a severe beating. There's monkey Business going on here while our son was away and they drove through the parking lot after getting stuck across the street and we know who it was and they are not welcome here and it was Jason and he is trying to tear up the grass but he did it across the street now he's trying to hit the car I say you lost control of the vehicle and people saw him doing it and he missed and he left and he's trying to get into the house so I put an APB on him and we want him out and see what our son is saying you can't have them do anything they liability and their threat and you have to go and this guy wants to sit here being a porter 24 hours a day and it gets nothing from it and his armies are depleting rapidly soon he won't have anything not even a momento and it's such a turd and idiot about it he has no clue there's a lot of them here like that and really this only 45 households left that were here that's very low extremely low the population of Florida is much higher no they're losing tons of people their leadership is in disarray and they can't get a straight answer and the generals are divided because the regions are out and the regents that are here are for only their area so they don't know what to do and they're going around and around saying your leader some of them have packs with each other and it doesn't work so we found out today they have our son trying to help them and it doesn't work then they blame him trying to force us to do the job so that's very angry it's angering and we told them not to and they're continuously trying so we are hitting them here and a lot of them will be gone one of them are going to court today as the quasi empire. And we're going into it's five lawsuits again and a group lawsuits okay it's not the same lawsuit but it is against similar groups and it is practically all these morons and it is the pseudo empire suing them for a lot of stuff. And we are monitoring John remillard today we will if you orders against him shortly and they'll be upheld and we want him out right now if anyone is up for it and we need jim to go away.

-when receipt of several criminal complaints against John remillard that were filed today let me see them at the sheriff's office. Failure to leave an apartment once evicted that's why I said to adhere to the laws and rules of land with regarding being a tenant at least five things he did and then it said assault and battery upon the landlord which is the more strict crime than on an elderly and he wants to press charges because he sees these out of jail and he said he's going to try it no matter what the damn losses and what the law says is if you're the landlord and you assault you and he's saying is a tenant he has to go to jail then there's another one that says if you strike someone down for just being there they will receive attempted murder charge because it's premeditated and he keeps saying that. Those charges are filed today. Who found that Jason and he brought into the courthouse and the lady said received and she stamped it I said good and he left and they didn't ask him anything and he's finally charges as a state employee and that's we drove up as. Now these are real charges and this guy's going to hear about it we think sometime today and bja is having it done and thinks he can just launch it and take over. He's got another thing coming. We're getting armed up we're getting ready we're going to come in here and rip you see itself and he is not going to be prepared and we mean all of them idiots but bja in particular and we've been preparing for quite a while the max will be surprised. Forg. is a little. We're suspecting that when you file the papers there's a process and it has to go to review and but not for long because it's coming from the state itself and he is going to check on Dan see if he's been evicted it's true you're not watching like they say they are that's kind of loser stuff. Turns out did Dan was issued a letter to what a while ago. You are not on my property legally you are to vacate the premises. You've been given several notices and many more days than 30 to vacate and he said no I don't think that's right I don't receive any notices here I did not and then he started saying I don't understand what you're saying I have assigned to return receipt it has your name on it and he says oh that's not my signature then he said this I thought it was from the neighbor so I threw it away. It says so you admit getting it and he said yeah so he walks outside didn't say anything he's playing it back in the window and it says we'll see you in court and he left the recording on a voicemail and they picked that up too and found the letter and they're going to evict both of them and it's because they're having a war and they're killing each other that's how extreme and had to get here other places is not that extreme it's because the soldiers just don't come back but this stuff is huge and it effects so large armies and it was done slowly to do it safely and her son is very young to go through something like this it is hanging in there pretty good she is too and they like what they're doing and then doing a good job and we are going to make sure that this idiot next door at leaves. Shortly. There's only tonight tomorrow night at the night after for Friday the 13th and that would be Friday night and then it's cesario and after that they go after money and they're not here most of the time and they can't get in there and people beat him up and it's the quasi empire taking over and they are beating people up all over we're going to print now

Thor Freya

Olympus

Zues Hera

[mostlysignssomeportents]

The zombie economy and digital arm-breakers

It's a zombie economy. For 40 years, we've eroded the wages of workers and transfered their share of profit and productivity to owners of capital. This is a problem, because people need money to buy things, and if they run out of money, they stop buying and profits vanish.

Time and again, capitalism has kicked any reckoning over this down the road. First came the great liquidation: pension cashouts, raided savings, reverse mortgages. Then came consumer borrowing, a tidal wave of unrepayable debt.

That's the zombie part: all the unpayable debt, which has been turned into bonds that enrich debt-holders. As Michael Hudson has told us again and again, debt that can't be paid, won't be paid. Our debt-based economy is the walking dead, a zombie.

We can either stabilize the economy (by forgiving debts, so that producers can pay for necessities and go on producing); or we can stabilize finance (by coercing debtors into destroying their lives in order to keep up on payments):

https://pluralistic.net/2020/03/24/grandparents-optional-party/#jubilee

Think of the loan-shark's arm-breaker: he wants to collect on debt, so he threatens to break your arm. You steal your kid's college fund. You secretly mortgage the house. You sell your wedding-ring. You end up divorced and homeless. You still owe. So he breaks your arm.

Now you're divorced, homeless, and you've lost your ability to earn, and you've got medical bills. He threatens to break your other arm. You start breaking into cars to steal the toll money in the ashtrays. You go to jail. Finally the arm-breaker and his boss are out of luck.

Debts that can't be paid, won't be paid. But as loan-sharks know, fortunes can be collected by applying the right incentives.

Give debtors the choice of immediate ruin from nonpayment, and making a payment today and ruining their lives tomorrow, and they're pay.

They'll pay...until they can't. Because debts that can't be paid, won't be paid.

The zombie economy is the subprime economy. "Subprime" came into collective consciousness thanks to the great financial crisis, where banks tricked poor homebuyers into predatory loans.

The banks knew that the loans couldn't be repaid - they had "balloon" clauses that jacked up payments beyond the borrowers' ability to repay a few years into the mortgage - but they also knew that threats of homelessness are powerful motivators.

The inscrutable equations used to "guarantee" subprime bonds all shared an unspoken assumption: people who face homelessness will go to extraordinary lengths to pay their mortgages. Behind every subprime loan is an arm-breaker.

The zombie economy shambles on. Obama's loan-shark bailout and the eviction crisis let the architects of subprime buy up whole towns' worth of homes and turn them into hugely profitable slums: high-rent, low-quality deathtraps.

https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/usa-housing-invitation/

Wall St landlords package rents from subprime rentals into bonds, backed by the loan-shark's guarantee: arm-breakers will evict the shit out of anyone who stops paying.

America-a land where eviction was once a rarity-now faces an eviction epidemic.

https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2016/02/08/forced-out

The foreclosure crisis was only possible because Wall St and the courts collaborated to streamline the historically complicated and time-consuming process of taking away someone's home. Same goes for the eviction epidemic.

It's a simple equation: the more loan-sharks spend on arm-breakers, the lower the expected profits.

Improvements to arm-breaking processes - cost-savings on traditional coercion or innovative new forms of terror - are powerful engines for unlocking new debt markets.

When innovation calls, tech answers. Our devices are increasingly "smart," and inside every smart device is a potential arm-breaker. Digital arm-breakers have been around since the first DRM systems, but they really took off in 2008.

That's when subprime car loans boomed. People who lost everything in the GFC still needed to get to work, and thanks to chronic US underinvestment in transit, that means owning a car. So loan-sharks and tech teamed up to deliver a new lost-cost, high-efficiency arm-breaker.

They leveraged the nation's mature wireless network to install cellular killswitches in cars. You could extend an unrepayable loan to a desperate person, and use an unmutable second stereo system to bombard them with earsplitting overdue notices.

https://edition.cnn.com/2009/LIVING/wayoflife/04/17/aa.bills.shut.engine.down/index.html

If they didn't pay, you could remotely cut off the ignition and send a precise location to your repo man.

Smart killswitches let you impose fine-grained control over debtors - say, enforcing a rule against driving over the county line.

https://dealbook.nytimes.com/2014/09/24/miss-a-payment-good-luck-moving-that-car/

Within a decade, the bond-market for payments from subprime car drivers was edging up on $1T; not because borrowers didn't default, but because they defaulted later, and the car could be easily re-leased to another desperate person.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4U2eDJnwz_s

The zombie economy shambled on. Tech built undeletable, always-on kill-switches, lo-jacks, and spyware into an ever-expanding constellation of devices, like laptops.

https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2016/04/rental-company-control/478365/

Rent-to-own subprime laptops were tepicenter of innovation in digital arm-breaking. Laptops shipped with spyware for covert operation of cameras and mic and access ot files.

That went beyond repoing a laptop! Lenders could make and share covert sex-tapes of their customers!

They spied on children, plundered MP3 collections, stole passwords, read email. It was beyond the wildest dreams of analog loan-sharks.

https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2012/09/ftc-halts-computer-spying

To make a good digital arm-breaker, you need always-on network connectivity, a device that people really depend on, and a strong presumption that the device has core software that its owner is never allowed to remove.

Basically, a smartphone.

Mobile carriers were early to this party. They collaborated with device manufacturers to create a "subsidized phone" market. They would "give" you a phone in exchange for a long-term, abusive contract, and then repo it by terminating service if you missed payments.

This was only possible because the manufacturers helped, creating phones that could be locked to a single network, so you couldn't un-repo your phone by sliding in someone else's phone.

They relied on the "anti-circumvention" laws that the music industry lobbied for in the late 90s (like Section 1201 of the DMCA) to make it a felony to unlock these phones. Arm-breaking is a lot easier if it's a felony to evade the arm-breaker.

The smarter the phones got, the more subprime opportunities there were. Remember, there's a new market in every arm-breaking innovation and in every arm-breaking efficiency.

Which brings me to India.

India has a huge subprime market. As one of the world's inequality capitals, whose national government runs on performative culture war bullshit and giveaways to the super-rich, it's a land ripe for subprime innovation.

Phone manufacturers like Samsung are key to India's vast collateralized subprime smartphone market: first-time buyers get their phones on the installment plans at predatory interest rates so high that most will default

https://restofworld.org/2021/loans-that-hijack-your-phone-are-coming-to-india/

Remember: subprime isn't about debts being repaid in full. It's about making borrowers so desperate that they ruin their lives to make payments before they default.

Samsung's uninstallable arm-breaker app allows lenders to brick a smartphone without help from a carrier.

Writing for Rest of World, Nilesh Christopher describes an "escalating series of annoyances" culminating with a full lockout for failure to repay:

*  audiovisual prompts in regional languages as reminders

* changing the wallpaper on their cellphones

That escalates to coercion based on analysis of the users' device activity:

* For "a prolific selfie-taker," notifications every time the camera is invoked

* frequently used messaging and social apps like Facebook or Instagram are progressively blocked

One step at a time, the phone is made progressively less usable, until it is fully bricked.

It's a fully automated, self-configuring arm-breaker, one that substitutes a thug's unscientific ladder of mounting terror with bloodless, statistical science.

This is probably a good point to mention the Shitty Technology Adoption Curve: any disciplinary technology is tried out on powerless people first, and gradually works its way up the privilege gradient to encompass the whole world.

https://pluralistic.net/2021/02/24/gwb-rumsfeld-monsters/#bossware

Debt, after all, is consuming all of us except for the lucky few at the very top of the wealth distribution who have not faced wage stagnation and forced liquidations.

The covid crisis pushed whole countries into subprime status. Pfizer has told poor countries that they can only get access to vaccines if they stake their sovereign assets as collateral to settle claims related to its products:

https://www.thebureauinvestigates.com/stories/2021-02-23/held-to-ransom-pfizer-demands-governments-gamble-with-state-assets-to-secure-vaccine-deal

And the shitty-tech adoption curve is putting arm-breaking tech into every kind of device, spreading with alarming speed from the bottom of the social order to its apex.

Miss your Tesla payments and your car will lock itself, summon a repo man, back itself out of the parking lot, honk its horn, and unlock its doors for the repo man.

https://tiremeetsroad.com/2021/03/18/tesla-allegedly-remotely-unlocks-model-3-owners-car-uses-smart-summon-to-help-repo-agent/

As subprime climbs the shitty tech adoption curve, it gets a new name: "software as a service." In a SaaS world, you cannot own the tools of your profession. Adobe Photoshop becomes Adobe Creative Cloud, and any designer who stops monthly payments becomes economic roadkill.

What's more, software is the ghost in the shell, the animating spirit within physical devices. Remove software from a smart device and you don't have a dumb device, you have a brick.

This lets the arm-breakers exert pressure over larger, more powerful entities...like Hoboken, NJ. Hoboken had a payment dispute with the software vendor for its robotic parking garage, so the vendor bricked the garage and took all the cars hostage.

https://www.wired.com/news/technology/0,71554-0.html

The strange mutations of arm-breaker tech bodes ill, especially in light of Chekhov's Law: "A phaser on the bulkhead in Act One will go off by Act Three."

The universal spread of devices *designed* to be remotely repoed - bricked, downgraded, turned into surveillance tools - means that oppressive governments that coerce manufacturers will have the power to reach into our homes, cars and pockets to attack us.

Same goes for unscrupulous insiders - like the subprime laptop jokers making nonconsensual sex-tapes with their customers' webcams - and criminals who can pressure insiders into acting on their behalf.

Nevertheless, subprime arm-breaking is bound to spread, and spread, and spread. Covid forced millions to liquidate everything, left them in precarious, sub-minimum-wage gig work, and there's the millions of evictions waiting for the moratorium to end.

Debts that can't be paid, won't be paid. And yet, people must participate in the zombie economy: they're not going to dig a hole, climb in, and pull the dirt in on top of themselves. There is strong demand for credit on any terms. Any.

Arm-breaker tech unlocks new markets by delaying defaults on unpayable debts. The zombie economy shambles on.

Image: Cryteria (modified) https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:HAL9000.svg

Sachab (modified): https://www.flickr.com/photos/sachab/1422847855/

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[idkanymoreaboutlife]

Soo I’ve never written for anything but anime and some tv shows, but I wanted to try my hand at writing some Dewey Finn fanfiction. He’s definitely out of character and I think I’ve definitely could’ve done better but I think with writing him more it’ll get better. Sorry for the ranting, anyways here’s what I wrote. Also, I’m on mobile so I can’t do the whole ‘read more’, I apologize for that.

Goth girl next door

Dewey couldn’t stand his neighbor. Every Friday-Sunday night at 10 o’clock loud, heavy metal music come from the thin walls next door. He absolutely hated them, granted he never met the person before, but, from the lack of sleep every weekend for the past 2 months and the constant bass thumping into his head at 12 am, he has a right to hold hatred to his neighbor. Don’t get him wrong, at first he enjoyed the music coming from the apartment. But it became apparent that this neighbor only listened to same genre; heavy metal. Dewey didn’t mind at first, he recognized a few artists like Alice In Chains ana Godsmack, but then the screaming came. God, he couldn’t nt stand hearing those deep, growling songs piercing his ears at midnight. Yes, he’s a lover of music and a self proclaimed rock god, but..it became annoying to hear the same music every weekend.

Monday morning came and Dewey sat at his desk, nursing his 3rd cup of coffee in the past 2 hours. As the kids filed into the room they passed concerned glances at Dewey. Sure, they’re used to seeing him tired and out of it on some mornings but today he looked more haggard than ever. His usually messy hair was in more of disarray, heavy bags weighed underneath his eyes and yawns kept escaping his mouth every few minutes. The kids sat in their seats and talked amongst themselves about the shell of their normally upbeat teacher. Summer took charge of the discussion, asking the others what could possibly have their teacher become like this.

“Maybe he got kicked out of his apartment?” Katie mused.

“No, he would be stressed but he still would’ve been active.” Summer commented back

“Girl troubles?” Zack spouted out, almost everyone gave a soft giggle.

“Oh definitely not that.” Summer replied.

“The last girl trouble he had was with Ms. Mullins and we all know how that went.” Alicia said, rolling her eyes.

“Well I don’t know what it could be, he never acted like this.” Summer huffed out, falling back into her seat, crossing her arms.

“Why don’t we ask him?” Tomika spoke up, her soft voice filling the silence that fell upon the students. They agreed and the students piled up to Dewey’s desk. Summer taking the lead at the front. He looked up from his notes for the day, giving a small tired smile at them.

“What’s up guys? You just gotta give me like 5 minutes and then we’ll start.” Summer put her hands on the desk, leaning forward.

“You’re acting strange, what’s wrong?” She asked, a stern lay over her voice. He gave her an odd look.

“What? Nothings wrong” ,he gave a weak chuckle, “ I had a long night with papers.”

“You’re terrible at lying Mr. Finn.” Summer said, rolling her eyes. He gave a sigh and rubbed his eyes, giving a yawn before speaking.

“My neighbor plays heavy metal every weekend all night long and I can’t sleep because of it.”

“Why don’t you just talk with them? Communication is key!” Katie said.

“Yeah! Whenever my parents get into an argument, they talk it out.” Billy chimes in. Dewey chuckled and leaned back in his chair.

“I never spoke with them before, ever since they moved in they’ve been doing this. No one else has compliments so.”

“You still have to talk with them or else it’s never going to be resolved.” Summer interjected. Dewey nodded and gave them a tired smile.

“Well I guess after class I’ll have a chat with them.” The students being satisfied with his answer, went back to their seats.

When school ended Dewey headed back to his van, getting into the drivers side and putting his messenger bag on the cluttered passenger seat. Sighing he started the van, turning on the radio to the classic rock channel and pulling out of he parking lot, back to his apartment. He drove slower than he normally would, not excited about heading home and confronting his neighbor about their music habits. He went over in his head how he’ll talk to them.

“Hey I’m your next door neighbor, your music is shit..no that sounds harsh. Hey I’m Dewey Finn, your neighbor, could you like..not play metal at ungodly hours?..no, no that’s too forward.” He sighed to himself, drumming his fingers on the steering wheel as he drove, trying to come up with a good starter.

“Maybe just start a conversation? And lead into it? Yeah that sounds good Dewey, wing it man.” He gave himself a quick affirmation nod and pulled into his parking space at the front of the building. Turning the ignition off he grabbed his bag and left the car, heading up to his apartment.

He stood at the door to his neighbors, amping himself up to knock at the dark wood door. Shaking the nervous jitters out in his hand he raises his fist, rapping on the door a few soft times. He hears footsteps drawing near the door, the chain unhooking from the lock and the door opening some. He went to speak but his words got caught in his throat. There stood a girl, mid 20s with knotted hair tied up in a bun on the top of her head, black smudged eyeshadow and eyeliner, smeared from not being taken off the night before. She wore an off the shoulder long sleeved shirt, some metal band plastered on the front, the hint of pajama shorts peeking out from underneath it. She stared blankly at Dewey.

“Can I help you?” She asked, her voice carrying into the hallway. He snapped himself out of his daze and closed his mouth, offering a quick smile.

“Hey um, im your neighbor uh Dewey, Dewey Finn..” he said, giving a small wave. She gave him a once over of his long sleeved yellow dress shirt and way too snug vest. She sighed.

“Okay, I’m y/n. What do you want.”

“Um oh you play your music uh really loud on the weekends and uh I’m a teacher, and I would really appreciate it if you didn’t play it..so loud..or as much.” She blinked at him.

“I don’t think so.” She went to close the door but he caught it with his foot, she gave him a glare of annoyance.

“We-well why not? I think it’s pretty reasonable thing to ask somebody.”

“Listen, I have work in a few hours, you’re more than welcome to go to the landlord and file your complaint. But I don’t have time for this.” She huffed and moved to kick his foot away, he stopped her by talking again.

“I get it, I do but I need my sleep but I can’t get any if you’re playing your music, horrible taste by the way, at 3 am!” His voice rose uncharacteristically, becoming annoyed by this woman being immature.

“I’m so sorry for that, let me just throw out my guitar and speaker. God forbid I have a hobby.” Her eyes rolled and she let out a dry chuckle. He stared at her, guitar?

“You play the guitar?” He spoke near a whisper.

“Yeah? That’s what I just said. Listen, can you leave now?”

“Oh um yeah, but uh can I see your setup?” She raised an eyebrow at him.

“Seems like a second date question.” Chuckling to herself she opened her door up more. Before he could walk in, she stopped him.

“Five minutes, that’s it.” He nodded and followed her into the small space, closing the door behind him. Walking more into the apartment, he saw a black guitar with stickers covering it, on a stand near the window. An amp next to it with as many stickers at the guitar. Her apartment was relatively clean, save for the coffee table being littered with takeout boxes and beer bottles. He walked over to the guitar and brushed his hand over the neck.

“Is this a Fender Stratocaster?” He looked at her in amazement. She nodded and leaned herself on the couch arm.

“Yep, my dad got it for me a couple years back.”

“Wow, I’m amazed.” He looked back at the guitar, looking at all the stickers that covered the once mahogany body.

“Do you play?” She asked him, coming over to stand on the other side of him. He nodded.

“I was in a band before, now I teach kids about rock theory and how to play classic.”

“Do you wanna try it out?” He looked at her like a kid in a candy store.

“Really?”

“Yeah, knock yourself out.” She pulled the amp in and connected the cord to the body of the guitar, messing with the dials on the amp.

“Go ahead.” He picked up he guitar and out the strap over his shoulders, strumming out a few cords to test, smiling at the sound that resounded from it. He plucked out a few more strings before strumming into the opening cords to Stairway to Heaven by Led Zeppelin. She watched him with a smile, arms crossed as she watched him getting into the zone. His body started swaying to the music, heading the vocals in his head as he played on. As he finished the first 3 minutes of it, he stopped, putting the guitar back on the stand.

“You’re good, I’ll give you that.” She smiled at him. He gave a small blush and scratched the back of his head.

“Oh you know, I dabble here and there.” They gave a soft laugh together. “Sooo, you think you can tone down the music on the weekends?” He asked, puppy dog eyes in play. She gave a roll of her eyes and sighed.

“I can definitely try and tone it down, no promises.” She walked him back to the front door, opening it for him as he stepped back out of the apartment.

“Great! Um..I mean thanks, I appreciate that.” He smiled and turned to walk away but paused, turning to look at her.

“What time do you finish your shift tonight?” She gave him an odd look.

“We close at 12, I’ll be home at 1.”

“Cool, you wanna grab a drink afterwards? I know a great place.” He smiled at her as she stared at him. Giving a nod.

“Sounds good, it’s a date.” She said her goodbyes and closed the door. He broke out into a grin, giving a small fist bump to the air as he went down the hall back to his apartment. Definitely worth the sleepless nights he thought.

[onlyblogiwillneed]

The Community

Living in Mobile Manor MHP is like living in Auschwitz concentration camp for seniors with a day pass. Of course you're free to go anytime you please. It's the mentality of the ownership that creates the fear for the people who live in this community. You don't know what kind of notice you're going to get on your door. Or in your mailbox. Or sometimes you have to be really cautious and have to watch out for the manager. Otherwise it's not a really bad park to live in.

Angel Fournier (Manager)

I used to have a great deal of respect for Angel. I lost that in a really bad way. Two things I found out this man is. First is a liar. He told everybody that he was leaving Mobile Manor. He had purchased a mobile home to parks over. That he was planning to get back into the old job he had or something similar to it. Well at least one part was right. Apparently feeling sorry for Sid and staying on the job until he found a manager. Well apparently Sid never advertised he was looking for a new manager and played Angel.

Second is a thief. He took something off my neighbor's back porch. In my honest opinion even if it is something given. You don't take back. So I think within the statue of limitations. He is probably going to be facing trespassing, invasion of privacy, and theft. There is at least one felony and all that. My neighbor has now set up a camera to keep an eye on any other belongings on their porch.

Angel had an opportunity to start a new life and possibly a new job in a new home. Why he didn't take it is beyond me. A deep down inside I can wish him the best of luck if the rumors are true that he is planning to leave finally for good. But again I only take that with a grain of salt with one of the many lies or at least to say rumors that I hear.

Sudhir K. "Sid" Shah AKA Lil' Hitler

One of my neighbors have dubbed him that with nickname over his mustache which I thought was funny. There is no opinion that I can state right now that doesn't have a four letter expletive to it. Sid is one of them worse white collar thief and liars of all. Most of the things he believes he is doing is legal which most of it isn't. Needless to say majority of it isn't legal at all. He has absolutely no soul and heartbeat at all. He does not care about you. All he cares about is money $$$$$$$$. He is either trying to do one of two things to you. Evict you to steal your home out from under you or make you sign some kind of contract with some ridiculous demands like vinyl side your home or put down some ridiculous deposit.

Ladies and gentlemen. I've said this before and I will say it again. Sid is a piece of shit landlord. And I have made quite a few things clear before that is law and he cannot break.

1. He cannot force you to vinyl side your home. Vinyl siding installation requires a permit and can go anywhere from $4,000 to $6,000. Not everyone has the money to do so. He either forces you as a new tenant to sign an agreement to polish an old turd or if you are a current resident. He will just evict you if you don't.

2. Sid cannot evict you for not having flowers in your flower bed. He cannot evict you if you have one single weed growing in your flower bed. Once again this is illegal.

3. If you are renting this property from Sid. That means you are leasing it. A majority of Sid's legal rights gets cut down. One thing you must be aware of is Sid's illegal inspections. He walks around your whole entire property which is illegal. The scope of that inspection can only be done from the street and only what he can see. And when he does such an inspection he does have to notify all residents. Sid and Angel by law cannot legally come on to your property to do such a walk-through inspection. This is called invasion of privacy and trespassing. They both can be arrested on this.

4. I don't make this any clear enough. If you are planning to buy into Mobile Manor MHP. Before you plan to make a purchase. Talk to the people of the park before you do. Some people just jump in and buy. I do not highly recommend that. First thing I would want you to ask is how is the management of the park and this includes the owner. You will be shocked by some of the answers you will hear.

And once you initially plan to make that purchase and go through the background check. I would highly advise you have a lawyer present when talking to Sid. You need to make sure your legal rights are not being infringed upon. Sid ignores state and local laws we have.

One final thing that I have to say about the buying into Mobile Manor thing. When you are given the title to the mobile home. You have to take that title to the tax office to have swapped over to the new owner. Please pay awful attention to the name on that title. Before Sid steals someone's home. He forces them to sign that title. If Sudhir Shah is not the name you see on that title. Then I would not give one lick of money to that Indian bastard. What Sid is doing is breaking two different felonious tax laws. I will say no further.

Conclusion

Do I recommend anyone to buy into Mobile Manor MHP?

My answer is ABSOLUTELY FUCKING NOT!!! Sometimes you cannot go on reviews you see on Google. The owner Sudhir Shah with his fucking ugly face made a four-star review about his own park. Most of them are dumbasses that are trying to score points on Google for something. One of those reviews said we had a nice lake. And we don't have a lake. There are maybe one or two honest reviews. You'll see them.

To really break down this last comment. The homes in Mobile Manor are really old. There is not one new mobile home sitting on any of these lots. If you got a nice looking home that has been remodeled. Look at the year on your title and you'll see. The pipes are old. Most of these electric lines are old. You will see the maintenance shed and recreation hall falling apart due to termite damage. You will see the kind of money Sid puts into this park. But yet this asshole wants to jack up your rent every year. He is driving out a lot of people and making this an expensive park to live in. And what it really boils down to is the owner and the manager are crooks and liars. And not for once I can ever say do not believe the manager is a man of God. Again with the lying part. He is far a believer of God if he continues keep collecting a paycheck from the devil himself. The only way I feel angel can redeem himself is leaving and letting the owner hang himself in front of everybody.

So I repeat the question one final time. Would I recommend anyone to Mobile Manor MHP? No. And it is based on three factors. Old remodeled homes. Park is not updated. And the management which includes the owner.

[thatwritingho]

👀👀👀 (3 pls-)

End of year wip meme

You'll be unsurprised to see that they're all about Pickles

R.I.P. yalls dashes but I'm on mobile so I can't do a read more

One:

"Yanno… I've tried a lot of instruments."

"Wha-"

"Shhh, jest hear me out, it'll make sense, prahmise. I tried a lot of em when I was younger. Piano, saxophone, fuckin' violin. Guitar was the easiest. I was a natural. It was easy, but it wasn't... right. It wasn't what I wanted. I didn't know what was missing, not fer a long time. I couldn't place it. And then… then I joined Snakes, and Sammy let me fuck around on his drum kit one night when we were trashed and it just fuckin clicked, yanno? Like, fuck, this is it, this is what I've been missin'. But I wasn't a natural at it, naht like with guitar. It didn't come easy. But, man, I put so much fuckin' time into it. Begged Sammy to teach me. I was on that set every fuckin' day for months. It finally felt right, yanno? Like I found myself, found what I was supposed ta be doin.' It felt like home. And then, then we broke up, and I was broke, and I couldn't play fer so fuckin' long. So fuckin' long...." his voice cracked with the memory, and Pickles cleared his throat, forcing back the water in his eyes. 

"And, like, I was homeless, fer a bit. But, shit, without bein' able to play, it didn't fuckin' matter if I had a roof over my head or naht. Didn't matter if I was sleepin' on a park bench or someone's couch or in my own damn bed. I couldn't play, so I didn't have a home. But finally, I joined up with Dethklok, and, gahd, nothin' has ever felt so fuckin' right. We lived in a shithole of an apartment, everyone shared rooms, had to sleep on the couch more often than naht. But it didn't matter. The shitty landlord, the neighbors gettin' domestic every night, the bugs, naht having AC or heat or any money or food. None of it fuckin' mattered. Because I could play. I was finally home again."

Two:

God how he hated losing his cool like this. Pickles couldn't think, couldn't control his breathing, all he could do was see red and break- break walls, break furniture, break relationships, break himself. This all consuming fissure, starting deep down in his chest, cracking it's way up his throat and eyes and mouth, bursting forth with a force so great he couldn't contain it, had to let it out and make everything and everyone else experience the same agonizing fracturing as his soul. 

And the aftermath. Before the cleaning team came, as the dust was settling, looking around and seeing all the destruction he had caused, most of it he doesn't even remember in the fog of his rage… it was almost frightening to think his insurmountable anger left a mark on the world in such a physical way.

Taking a few deep breaths, Pickles raised his head from his hands, shoulders slumping as he took in the pile of busted ceramic. 

Why were there even this many empty flower pots out here to begin with?

They were just asking to be broken.

Three:

Two weeks. That's how long it took Pickles to decide he wanted to be with this girl for the rest of his fucking life. Two weeks of bliss, of mindblowing sex, of staring into each others eyes and pillow talk until the sun rose, of his mind filled with nothing but thoughts of her and her beautiful eyes and perfect smile and contagious laughter, of his hands writing nothing but sappy, sickeningly sweet love songs, playing them for her on his acoustic naked and in bed. Two weeks, and he was convinced he knew her, and that she knew him, better than anyone else ever had; that she understood him. He was convinced, and no one could tell him otherwise; not Tony, not his manager, not his lawyer who tried so very hard to talk Pickles into a prenuptial, because even though Snakes was just taking off, everyone could sense it, could feel it in their bones, that they were gonna be big, were gonna make it. 

Two weeks. Two short, short weeks.

[linyi-is-dreaming]

The Drop Of A Tear - 07

BTS V x Y/N (Reader)

Summary:  Tae meets a woman who is very manipulative. Before he even notices anything, she got him around his finger. He decides to leave his wife Y/N and his four kids to start a new life with the new woman. This perfect house of cards that he had just started to build, starts to unfold as she starts to show her true face. Piece by piece it makes him feel sick. Tae notices his wrong doing as his house of cards start to fall apart.  Regret and hate towards himself makes him wish to turn things around. Will he be able to safe his house of cards and to get back what he once threw away? Is Y/N able to forgive?

CHAPTER 07

Y/N feels as all there would be a string around her neck which is starting to get tighter with each breath. It is hard enough to not have a job anymore but to not have a home, a save place for her kids, makes her wonder what a bad mother she must have had become for her kids. It hurts her to confess to herself that she seems to be failing in life. What could be the next bad thing that could happen, she wonders. Y/N truly thought she went through the worst, when she heard the words about a divorce coming straight from Tae’s mouth. How shall she explain to her kids that they will move again and how shall she explain that it is not theirs nor her own fault? To whom shall she turn to when she already feels as she is overusing her friends? As the questions go repeatedly through her mind, she notices that she has troubles to breath normally. Y/N tries to focus on her breathing to calm herself down. She might never have had a panic attack, but this right here, feels as she is going through a light stage of a panic attack. Her arm sleeves are already wet from the tears which she tries to wipe off her face continuously. When her eyes wander back to the letter in her hand, she still cannot believe what her landlord wrote. It had become hard enough to read the letter again since her hands started to shake so strongly. As the fear of being homeless starts to consume her as well, she starts to sob even harder.

Nervously, she walks back into the kitchen to get her mobile phone. She hoped that she will be able to have a calm conversation with her landlord. Maybe, if her landlord will be as kind as usual and accepts her explanation, she could stay a little longer. If she is lucky, her landlord might be open for any plan which could give her a few days to find a new place. Even if she still has got to go, maybe her landlord could show some humanity and give her at least more time even if it is just a day or two. To calm herself even more, she takes a glass from the shelf and fills it with cold milk. “Damn it!”, Y/N yells as she spills the milk onto the kitchen counter. Without even thinking, her hand moves automatically to the kitchen towel to clean up the mess. Once everything has been cleaned, she takes a big sip from her glass before she grabs her phone. Three deep breaths are all she needs to strengthen up to call her landlord. While she is searching for the landlord’s number in her phone, her eyes are still moving along the kitchen counter towards the letter. Apparently, a few tears dropped onto the letter, but thankfully the letter is still readable.  

At her first attempt, it rings for a long time, but her landlord does not pick up the phone. At her second attempt, it rings again, and no one is picking up again. Y/N decides to wait for five minutes before she will try to call again. As she tries again, her call goes straight to the voicemail. As she tries it one more time, her phone call goes straight to the voicemail again. Even though the voice in her head is telling her that she will not get through to her landlord, she tries it again a few times. But no matter how many times she tries to get her landlord on the phone, it ends up unsuccessfully. “How depressed must I look like?”, she asks herself as she thinks about another solution. If her landlord directs her phone calls straight to voicemail, she doubts that she has any chance to stay a few days longer. Her eyes wander to the clock as she places the letter on the coffee table in the living room. Namjoon said that he would bring Y/N’s kids back to her house during the afternoon and as it is already afternoon, he will be here soon. She is grateful that Namjoon and his wife offered to take care of her kids today. His wife said she would understand, if she needs a little silence in the house when she tries to write job applications. To have them as her friends, turned out to be very helpful. Since she met them, she knew that she could rely on their words. Not once, did they say ‘no’ if she needed help. Especially, the last few months, in which she doubted that her friends will stay around. Her friends have proven to her times and times again that she can rely on them. As she has nothing to give in return, she keeps wondering for how long this friendship will remain if it goes on like it does now. Y/N tries it one last time before her kids could be coming home at any minute. It rings and rings, but her landlord does not pick up. “What am I supposed to do?”, Y/N asks herself as the fear of ending up without a roof above her kids' head becomes stronger. “I cannot do that... I should not...”, she repeats multiple times as her finger moves above Tae’s phone number. Her finger keeps moving above his number whilst she makes a list in her mind about the good and the bad things that could happen, if she would call him. “But, maybe he can...” Y/N sighs deeply as she is doubting herself again. “Argh!”, she screams as she locks her phone screen. Her arm moves up quickly but she stops her movement in the midair. The scream was a loud one and that is all it takes to let go of a little bit of her frustration. Preferably, she would like to throw the phone far away from her, but thankfully she is able to find the strength to avoid herself from doing so. If somebody would tell her that a year can change so much, she would have not believed it. She is getting lost in her thoughts as she goes through all the bad things that had happened. The longer she thinks about those moments, the longer she keeps walking around in the living room. Y/N stops to walk as she sees a car pulling up on her driveway. It does not take two looks from Y/N for her to know, the kids are home. Quickly, she runs upstairs to check her face in the mirror before she practices a nice fake smile. She splashes the cold water onto her face every time the fake smile does not look good enough. As she does not hear the motor of the car no longer, she decides to dry her face and to put some makeup on to cover up the redness.

“Hello Y/N! I brought you your kids back. Sorry for walking in without ringing the doorbell but your kids opened the door quicker than I can speak.”, Namjoon says loudly. “I guess you missed them as well.”, he says as he places the youngest one on the floor who immediately walks towards the couch. As Namjoon follows him, he sees a letter on the coffee table. Curiously if it might be from Tae, he picks it up. Before he starts to read the letter, he looks quickly towards the kitchen and towards the stairs. He knows he should not be this nosy but something inside of him just made him grab the letter. “I should not be doing this...”, he scolds himself quietly. Namjoon might be a quick reader, but he is not fast enough this time. Just before he could read the full letter, he hears how Y/N’s older son is talking to Y/N on the top of the staircase. Namjoon moves quickly to put the letter back before he turns his attention back to the little boy who seems to fall asleep right there on the couch. “Are you falling asleep, little one?”

“Not just him, my older boy just told me that he is going straight to bed. You must have spent the whole day in the park.”, Y/N comments as she walks up to him. “Hey first of all.”, she greets Namjoon as she hugs him. “And hello to my kids who do not even come running up into my arms?”, she wonders as she looks at her kids.

“Well, they ran a lot. They played a lot too until they asked to go home.”

“Thank you for taking care of them. I was able to write fifteen job applications at least whilst you were taking care of them. I hope one of them will finally be my new job.” Namjoon pets her shoulder before she removes herself from him.

“No one called back yet?”

“No one did. Not a single phone call... I just checked my mails once more, but I also got no answers yet. I guess four kids are a no go for the most companies...”

“There is still the option to get an office job at Big Hit, you know... Not like I want to pressure you to take that job, but it would be something... It could be a start.”

“I know, Namjoon. I will take it as my last possibility though.”, she answers before she turns to her kids. “You all look so tired. Did you play that much today?”

“I ran all day. Not just with my siblings, but Auntie hunted us through the park.”, her oldest daughter explains to her.

“Auntie hunted you through the park?”

“Yes! We played hide and seek, and she was so fast... I just want to sleep.”, her younger daughter explains as she rubs her eyes.  

“But you should shower first. As it is already late, do you want dinner or some beverage?”

“Y/N, I hope it is okay that we took them to a small family restaurant of my wife’s brother.”, Namjoon wonders as the kids start to run upstairs.

“Oh, yes. Yes, of course.”, she says slightly bewildered. “Did my little bear eat something as well?”, she asks as she starts to cuddle her youngest. Her son only nods as he points at the staircase.  

“Oh, yes he did! I almost thought he would not stop eating at all.”, Namjoon jokes.

“Yeah, my son has a good appetite.” Her son keeps pointing at the staircase as he looks at something that seem to have caught his eye. “You want to go to your sister?”, Y/N wonders as she looks into the direction in which he keeps pointing at.

“Yes.”, her son answers as he gets off the couch and towards the stairs. Before Y/N can say anything, she watches her oldest child walking downstairs to take her son by the hand to help him to go upstairs.

“He can sleep in my bed.”, she states as she looks at her mom.

“I think it would be better, if he would sleep in his own.”, Y/N adds.

“Do you want to sleep in my bed?”, she asks her brother who nods as soon as she asked him. “It is okay, mom. I prefer to keep him close. I know he should sleep alone but he just looks like a doll when he is asleep.” Y/N tries to tell her once again, that it would be better if he would sleep on his own, but her daughter picked him up quickly to run upstairs with him. The reaction of her daughter makes her and Namjoon laugh.  

“I know I should not laugh, but that was cute, wasn’t it?”, she asks Namjoon as her eyes land on the letter. Casually, she walks towards the letter to pick it up before Namjoon could see it. Namjoon realizes fast that she tries to hide the letter from him. Somehow, he will bring it up. He just does not know how yet.

“She does not seem so tired. Does she look tired to you? She is still able to run.”, Y/N jokes as she rests her hands on her hips.

“What is that?”, Namjoon asks as she puts the letter on the bookshelf.

“The letter? Nothing spectacular.”, she answers as she walks towards the kitchen. Namjoon knows it is wrong, but he walks to the bookshelf to read it. This time to read it fully. Y/N does not notice what Namjoon is doing as she puts the cooled down cookies into the cookie jar.

“Y/N, I know it is none of my business but”, Namjoon shows the letter to Y/N. Without looking at her longer than a few seconds, he already knows that she feels uncomfortable right away. Her eyes show, he should have not seen it. “When did you receive this letter?” The worries in his voice are clearly to hear. His eyes are scanning her face as he steps in front of her. When he hands her the letter, she fakes a smile.

“Nothing to think about. I will find a solution.”, Y/N says as she takes the letter from his hand.

“Y/N, I know it is not my place to say anything. I have absolutely nothing to say in your life but what are you going to do about it? Do you have a backup plan?”

“I do not know what you are talking about…”, Y/N lies as she places the mug with a milk stain on it in the kitchen sink.  

“I am asking you as a friend. And as a friend I am asking you again, when did you get the letter?” Her fake smile drops as she notices that he will not let go this easily. Namjoon sees how she struggles to talk about it. Her chest shows the deep breaths that she is taking as she licks her lips nervously.

“Today.”, she sighs. “I will find a solution though!” Namjoon sighs deeply as he looks to the ground for a moment.

“I should have not encouraged you, to leave Jimin’s holiday house...”

“No, I did not leave because you encouraged me. I left because Jimin wanted to sell it.”, Y/N lies. She tries her best to make him feel less guilty even though he is right. Y/N thought about leaving that said house but Jimin meant she could stay until she finds the right house but instead, she rented the next good place she found on the internet from which she is about to move out from next week. For a moment, Y/N and Namjoon stand there in silence until Y/N fills two glasses of water. She hands one to Namjoon who takes it from her as she takes a seat at her dining table. “Honestly, I do not know what to do... I do not know how to explain it to the kids...”

“You can move into my house. My wife will be okay with it and we can help you finding something for you.”

“Thank you but I will find something else. You and your wife, your members and their wives... You are already helping me so much. I cannot thank you enough for what you did for me. There is no way to say such a big ‘thank you’ to every single one of you.”

“I know, you think you are a burden but that is not a case. We are a family. Even after your divorce from Tae, we are still a family who do help each other.”

“You said that since I got engaged to Tae.”

“And I mean it. Look, I will talk to my wife-”  

“Namjoon, do not take it personal, but I do not want anybody else to know about this. Please.” Namjoon nods as he places the glass on his lips to take a sip. Just as he is about to drink the water, he puts back down as he sits down in front of her.  

“How will you find a place to stay this quickly?”  

“Maybe I will check out a motel or something like that...”  

“Not to step on your toes, but with which money?”  

“I know I do not have a lot but-”    

“In a week? Y/N. Please, put the stubbornness to the side and think about it.”  

“There is always something… I just got to keep my eyes open.”, she says as she ignores his words. When Namjoon's phone unexpectedly rings, he picks up immediately.  

“Hey! I just brought kids back to Y/N." Y/N notices a change in Namjoon's face as he gets up to take a few steps away from the table. "What’s going on? No, you are speaking like you are about to have a heart attack. Is everything alright? Who fell off the tree? Is he alright? Thank god! How badly does his arm hurt? Well, I do not know either. I never had a child that broke his arm. Okay, I am coming home to drive you into the hospital. I will hurry. Love you too.”, Namjoon says as he hangs up. He takes a big sip from the glass as he turns to back to her. “Y/N, I have to go.”

“Is he alright? Did he hurt himself?”

“We will see. At least he is not feeling dizzy.” Y/N does not need long until she knows about which child of his he must be talking about.

“Instead of damaging things like you, he destroys himself, huh?”, Y/N says to lift up the mood.

“Yes, that is true. I will need a special insurance for him. Especially now, when everybody starts to call him Namjoon junior...”, Namjoon laughs. “If you find anything, call me up. Okay?”

“Namjoon, thank you but-”

“Hell no, I will not accept it. I respect your pride and your stubbornness but as a friend, I think it is my place to remind you that we are more than willing to help you. I know you think about your kids, but they do not need to know that you must move.”

“What do you have on your mind?”

“You could tell them that it is only for now whilst you take care of-”

“You mean I should lie to them?”

“Not lie but stretch the truth.”, Namjoon explains as he walks towards the front door.

“Your wife does the explaining at your home, doesn’t she?”, she questions as she follows him to the door.

“Is it so obvious?”

“Yes, it is.”, Y/N answers as a laugh leaves her lips. As they arrive at the front door, she hugs him. “You are a great friend but maybe I should look up the possibilities and maybe make a Bangtan-Wives-Hangout…”

“Sounds good. I will let her know about your idea.”

“Greet her from me!”

“I will.”, he tells her as she opens the door. “Call me if you have to look at other houses or if you have any idea.”

“Do not think so much about it, Namjoon! I will find a solution.”

“Yeah. You always do.”, Namjoon says as he assures her with a smile. “But you know...”

“Go home and get your kid checked.”, she tells him as she waves her goodbye. Namjoon nods with a smile as he walks towards his car. Her mind circles between calling Tae or to call anybody else. If Tae would take the kids, she would be alright to sleep in a car, but her daughter would not play along. The costs to stay in a motel is not very low and it might be too expensive in the end. Depressed about the situation, she walks upstairs to see if her kids are already asleep. In the first room, she finds her older son sleeping by himself. In the next room she finds the other kids. Her daughters lie on the side of the bed as their little brother lies between them. Y/N wishes to have her phone with her, but as she does not have the phone with her, she takes a picture with her eyes for her heart. To see her kids like that is just too adorable to just walk away right away. For a moment she feels lucky to call those kids hers, but she also wonders for how long it will be this peaceful.

💧💧💧

It is already pass ten pm as Hoseok and Jimin decide to take a break from practice to check their phones. Sweaty and out of breath both start to check their phones. “Aww. My child texted me that my wife is baking. I hope it will be a chocolate cake...”, Hoseok tells Jimin as a smile crosses his face. “I even had a dream about eating chocolate cake the other night.” Jimin might be smiling back but the worries grow on his face when he notices that Namjoon texted and called him without him recognizing it.

“Missed call by Namjoon?”, Jimin wonders as he looks at Hoseok. “Did he call you too?”

“No, he did not call me. Call him back.” Jimin nods as he dials Namjoon’s number. “Put him on loudspeaker.”

“Hey Jimin.”, Namjoon says. “I need to talk to you. Do you have a moment?”

“Yeah, what’s up?”, Jimin wonders as he exchanges looks with Hoseok.

“It is about Y/N... I will make it short. She is losing her home.”

“What are you talking about? Tae paid the bills for her.”

“Tae paid? Wait, Tae paid her rent?”

“He took the bills from the kitchen counter with him when he drove her to the hospital. He paid for all the bills which she did not pay for... Did I not tell you?”

“I would not be able to recall if you did.”

“Sorry. So, why does she lose her house? The bills are paid.”

“Her landlord is selling the house. Y/N has one week to move out.”

“One week? That is way too short to find a place.”, Hoseok comments.

“Hoseok? You are there too?”

“Yes, I am here too.”

“Please tell me, that Tae did not hear what I just said. Just say that he is not with you guys...”

“Do not worry, he is not here.”, Jimin explains. “Yoongi took Tae to his house.”

“Good, good. Uhm, listen. Does any of you know any house in which she could stay? Do you know any apartment or anybody who has an empty space that we could give to her?”

“I sold that one apartment a few weeks ago... I do not have any other place left. Hoseok? Do you?”

“I can only offer to let her stay in my house, but we know how she will react.”, Hoseok says.

“I offered her to stay at my house, but she denied it... I do not believe that she will accept yours.”

“What about Jungkook though?”, Jimin wonders. “Jungkook lives alone and I think that is something she might consider.”

“Huh? Jimin, what are you suggesting?”

“I said what about Jungkook? She would feel less guilty as we all know that she barely denies him anything...”

“I am still stuck in the hospital. Can somebody drive to Jungkook and talk with him?”

“Yes, I could drive to his place.”, Jimin answers. “But why are you in the hospital?”

“Well, I guess, my son broke his arm.”

“I do not need to ask which kid of yours as there is only one candidate to who something like that could be happening to, but I will ask one question. How?”

“He fell off a tree.”

“Is he alright though? I mean, except of his arm.”, Hoseok asks.

“Yeah, he obviously is. I mean, I just figured out that I will scold him at home for cursing in a public institution.”

“Such a good boy.”, Hoseok jokes as he throws a look at Jimin. “Alright, take care and call me if you cannot come tomorrow.”

“I will. Bye!”

“Bye!”, Hoseok and Jimin say in unison. Jimin tries to call Jungkook but his phone seems to be turned off as he lands directly on the voicemail.  

“Weird. I went directly to his voice mail.”, Jimin tells Hoseok as he writes a message to Jungkook.

“Did he say that he is on a date or something? Maybe he just turned it off to be left alone.”, Hoseok comments as he collects his stuff that is spread around the room.

“Oh please. As he wouldn’t want anybody else than Y/N...”, Jimin sighs.

“Wait, Jungkook likes Y/N? When did that happen?”

“Did you not notice anything? Did you not notice any little change between them?”

“I did but I thought that he behaves like that because of her and Tae’s divorce. I also believed that he would come to me and tell me about it.”

“Keep sleeping.”, Jimin adds as he takes his bag. “I am going to drive to Jungkook. Do you want to come along?”

“If you do not mind, I will rather drive home.” Jimin nods as he grabs his backpack.

“See you tomorrow then.”, Jimin says as he waves his arm as he walks out of the room. Hoseok waves back even though he wonders if Jimin was trying to mess with him or if he meant what he said about Jungkook liking Y/N. And even if it would be true, what about Tae then, Hoseok wonders. What if Tae would figure that out, Hoseok asks himself.

💧💧💧

Jungkook replays a track on his computer repeatedly as he listens to the lyrics that he had just written. No matter how many times he reads them, somehow, they are not good enough. Annoyed by the slow process, he takes his headphones off before he picks up his phone. “Damn! I forgot to charge it.” Just in the moment as he takes the charger out of his bag, he hears his doorbell. He places the charger and his phone on the table before he opens the door. “Jimin! Are you missing me already?”, Jungkook questions as he opens the door.

“Me? No. I never miss you.”

“Why are you here then? I thought you have some extra practice with Hoseok?”

“That is cut short. Uhm, can I come in...?” It takes a second, until Jungkook realizes that they are still talking through an open door. He nods quickly as he makes some space for Jimin to walk inside.

“Sure. Come in.”

“Thank you.” Jimin takes off his shoes as he collects his thoughts to why he is here again. “I think we should talk in the living room. There is something I need to talk with you about...”

“Such important news?”, Jungkook jokes as he walks ahead to the living room. “Do you want some water to drink? I put some in the fridge an hour ago.”

“Yes, please.” Jimin watches Jungkook as he rubs his palms on his laps. “I think it is time for you to clean up your apartment a little...”

“Here you are.”, Jungkook states as he hands him the water bottle. “it looks a little messy, but I will clean up later.”

“Of course...”

“So, what’s up? What made you drive to my place?”

“Namjoon dropped Y/N’s kids off at her place and he informed me about something. Which brings me to you.”

“They were at his house today?”

“You sound confused. Is something weird about it?”

“No, I just thought they will be at Hoseok’s house today…”

“No, Namjoon must have thought it would be a good idea to let the boys come together and to enjoy having some girls in their house.”

“His wife is still thinking about having a daughter, huh?”

“I do not know. I was told that she just likes to cheer them up and to dress them up…” Jimin claps in his hands loudly. “I am not here to talk about his wife nor him.” Jimin shakes his head as he looks at his hands while he takes a deep breath.

“Okay.”, Jungkook says suspiciously. “You sound worried. Did the agency call you?”

“Did you do something as stupid or as close as stupid as Tae did?”, Jimin wonders. “Oh, please tell me that it is not case!”

“I did nothing, but I am concerned about the nervousness in your voice.”

“Okay. Listen closely. Y/N is about to lose her home in a week.” As soon as Jimin spoke, Jungkook looks at him immediately. “Want to help me to make a plan?”

“She will have to leave the house in a week?”, Jungkook questions as he sits up.

“In exact a week.” Jungkook brushes his fingers through his hair as he takes a deep breath.

“Shit.”, Jungkook curses as he looks worriedly towards the door. “What does she want to do? Does she even know what she wants to do?”, he wonders as he looks back at him.

“She does not know anything yet. She is trying to figure things out. Namjoon suggested to her to move into his home. I guess you know the answer...”

“She said no?”

“She said no to him...” Jimin presses his lips together while he points at Jungkook. “But I bet she would move in with you.”

“Huh?” Jimin’s thoughts irritate Jungkook even though he already thought about asking her to move in. It would be a lie if he would say he never thought about how it must be to have Y/N living with him. How the mornings might look like or what it would be like to have her with the kids with him. Jimin waits for a few more seconds as Jungkook does not answer him. He notices that Jungkook is drifting off with his thoughts. Therefore, he clears his throat as loud as he can.

“That is all you got to say?”

“What makes you think she will not say no to me?”

“You two have a good chemistry since you two became friends. She trusts you and you have no one else living here. She would not think to be such a big disturbance.”, Jimin explains as he leans back. “Maybe you can figure out your feelings for her.”

“Is that why you are coming up with me?”

“It was Namjoon’s idea and I think he is right.”, Jimin lies. “You even said it yourself that you like to have the kids around. You said that you want to help her whenever she would need help. Well, she needs help now.” Jungkook seems to be torn between helping her and hiding his feelings for her. “Do you still want to help her?”

“Yes. I mean yes, I do like to have them around, but what am I supposed to do with my feelings for her? I cannot hide my feelings for twenty-four-seven and longer.”

“You hid them so far and she will be way to concerned about finding a new place... I do not think that she will notice a thing.”

“Even if she notices nothing, what if I do not want her to leave anymore?” Jimin leans forward to make eye contact with Jungkook. When Jungkook looks back at him, Jimin leans even further to Jungkook.

“Well, then you will finally know that you really care more about her or if she is truly just a friend to you.” Jungkook took a moment to let Jimin’s word sink in. Maybe he would be right and it would help him understand what he truly feels but it also could be one huge mistake.

“I am not sure what I am supposed to do. I want to help her, but I do not know if I can handle it. I’d take the kids anytime, but”, Jungkook stops himself as he looks away from Jimin for a second. “what if she does not feel the same way and she notices that I do. Will it not destroy the friendship I had built with her?”

“That is something you must figure out for yourself. You need to know if you should rather close this chapter with love or continue it whilst you wonder if she is truly the one for you.” Jungkook sighs as he crosses his arms. “Look, she is looking for a job, but it does not seem like she is very successful with it. It won’t be for long just until she can support herself again.”

“I do not know if it would be a good idea…”

“I do not mean to pressure you. Just think about it. Maybe you will even find another solution who knows.”

“I know it is just-” Jungkook stops to speak as his phone lights up. "Huh?”

“Is Y/N calling?”, Jimin wonders.

“Uhm, no.”

“Tae?”

“Uh uh.”

“Who else would it be?”

“Y/N’s princess.”, Jungkook answers before he picks up. “Hey.”  

“Put it on loudspeaker!”, Jimin commands but all he gets back as a response is Jungkook’s head shake from side to side.  “Loudspeaker!”, Jimin repeats.

“Shall I come over tomorrow with a strawberry cake? Yes, the one from the shop near your school. So, it is settled, I will bring you some tomorrow. No, I think you should go to bed and we will talk tomorrow. Does your mother know that you are calling me? Just what I thought, sleep well. Bye!” Jungkook looks at his phone for a little while with a little smile on his face while Jimin keeps watching him. Patiently, Jimin crosses his arms as he waits for Jungkook to look up at him.

“Could it be that you have just decided for something?” Jimin wonders as he tries to understand the look on Jungkook’s face.

“You mean besides bringing some cake to her house?”

“Okay, spill the tea. What is on your mind?”

“I told you about a change, right?”

“Which change? You are afraid to tell her why you are truly helping her, and you will change that and finally tell her why your heart is this heavy?”

“No. Stop being so dramatic.”

“Dramatic? I only wonder who the dramatic one of us is...”, Jimin states as he drinks his water. “Was just a thought of mine.”

“I think I will be able to hold myself back. I have a solution.”, Jungkook tells him as he plays with his water bottle.

[lawofficeofryansshipp]

Eviction Attorneys In Florida | 561.699.0399

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[finsterhund]

now that I’m no longer crying and enraged enough to bite through metal I will try to explain what is going on.

I hope this posts. I am on the wifi thing.

The parasitic slumlord cunts who run the housing complex I am forced to live in are well aware of how BC passed an unethical restriction that forces service dog teams to pay for a government-performed public access test in order to have legal rights without taking the accessibility discrimination issue to court.

People who weren’t heartless bastards would accept a doctors appointment with the expectation that the dog was needed and the test would be performed once the dog was able to take the test.

But landlords are nothing more than heartless bastards who don’t deserve to live.

Unlike in the US, where the ADA (Americans With Disabilities act) was literally passed through the bloodshed of disabled people throwing themselves onto the steps of parliamentary buildings and staying there until change was made, Canada has no such badass protections and is mostly run by feel good “what if we do this” policies.

I fucking WISH we had something like the ADA.

British Columbia has a severe housing problem. In particular people owning properly being abusive slumlords and charging an arm and a leg for a little rotting shack. The laws are bent around these slumlords and this is also the case for things like wheelchair access. If they can get away with not doing it, they will. And in BC while it’s technically discrimination you can only fight it by taking them to court. As disability income is less than minimum wage this is pretty much impossible.

The fact that disabled people have to be put on a waiting list that’s longer than five years for the government to train their dog for them, or pay tens of thousands of dollars for a company in the US to train the dog because landlords can prevent them from self-training a service dog is discrimination of the disabled justified by classism.

And the fact that we can’t fight that without hiring lawyers is discrimination of the disabled perpetuated by classism.

The point being is no matter that it’s illegal, morally wrong, and they’re filthy bastards who kept trying to hike up the rent despite it being against covid rules and their refusal to clean the laundry facilities or properly salt the parking lot, can get away with their discrimination simply because I can’t afford to sue them. I’ve ever had people tell me I’d have a case to SUE THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENT over this. But once again, you need money. Not only that, but you can probably imagine that taking someone to court is really hard if you’re mentally retarded. I don’t even know how court works.

The little puppet. The friendly pawn they use for public relationships, who was the landlord way back when before these demonic corporations bought everything out, actually wanted to help. They’re the only one of these bastards who associates with us common folk at the townhouses themselves. But she can do fuck all because she’s just the placebo these cunts use to make us feel like they are human and not parasitic suits.

Still, she did somehow manage to swing that I can kinda technically still get a dog. TECHNICALLY. Because there are MASSIBE caveats to this.

They can’t be large enough for mobility tasks, or deep pressure therapy.

You know,

The specific things I NEED my service dog to do.

Yes. These cunts are like “oh just get a dog that’s a pet that is incapable of doing what you NEED your DISABILITY AID to do”

And my roommate says that this will be better than nothing. But without my dog being able to do the tasks I need them to do I still won’t be independent. And worse, I’ll have to rely on his inconsistent flaky support for not just my care, doctor appointments, and food, but MY DOG’S TOO. I don’t want to force a pet into this shitty home situation I’m stuck in.

I was thinking “once I finally have my service dog and go through the certification maybe I’ll be able to find a better living situation and leave this fucking slum.

Absolutely the fuck not.

My roommate sent me a photo of a puppy. Says they’ll be small enough

looks like Spot but a heeler mix

beautiful

perfect

I don’t want mu heart broken

don’t know if the photo is real

please

please don’t hurt me again

I can’t take much more of this

please send me more spot power

[prorevenge]

Bad landlord scams his tenants, goes to jail.

Many years ago, when I worked for a rent-to-own company in a small town, there was a little apartment complex which we made frequent deliveries to, and just as frequently had to repo from. It had been a motel when it was built, and the owner turned it into apartments by just making doorways in the walls between rooms, putting a kitchen and living room in one and a bedroom in the other. The place was very run-down and apparently pretty inexpensive, and based on a few things customers said, it seemed that the majority of the tenants moved in there for short times. I figured it was because they were waiting for prefab houses to be financed and delivered, since the vast majority of housing in that town was mobile homes. Turns out I was wrong, but more on that later.

Between deliveries and pickups, we were visiting this place multiple times per month, but the landlord wouldn't let us park the truck in the parking lot to do it. It was a motel parking lot, so there was way more space than the tenants needed, and plenty of room for our truck, but the minute we pulled into the lot, the landlord would come running out of the office and yell at us to get the truck off his property. We were still allowed to deliver and such, we just had to carry the couches and old-style rear-projection big-screen TVs across the gravel lot from a truck parked on the street. It was more than a little annoying.

Then the day came that I was visiting some customers, a young couple, to have them sign an extension because they couldn't make their payment, and I saw an eviction notice on their door. I knocked, they answered, and then they, too, saw the notice. They explained that they needed the extension because they were behind on rent, but the eviction was unexpected because they were only two days late. The notice gave them one week to move out. They signed the extension and I left, a little suspicious because that didn't seem right to me.

A few days later, I got a call from the couple saying they needed to return the stuff they'd rented because they were being evicted and had to move to a motel. I told them to wait there, I'd be over in an hour.

My wife had worked in the rental office of our previous apartment complex, so I knew some tenant laws. When I'd checked after getting the extension signed, I found that evictions couldn't be served with only a week notice, they had to give 30 days for the tenants to pay or move out. If they moved out, the landlord could take any unpaid rent out of their security deposit. This was a small town with lots of mobile homes, so I'm guessing the law was to prevent people being evicted from rented land on which they had a mobile home they owned, but it applied to apartments, too.

Normally, I'd have considered this none of my business, but everyone in our store hated that landlord and wanted to get back at him, so I printed out the applicable rental law pages from the town's website and drove over to the apartment complex. There, I knocked on the door of every one of our customers living there, which was about half of the 20 or so apartments, and gave them a copy of the law. While doing this, I learned that the landlord had been evicting people like that for being even a day late, then keeping their deposits, citing the very law I was giving to my customers, just not the part about 30 days leeway. He charged rent in advance (you paid for the next month at the end of each month), so people were losing their deposits over being one day late. On top of that, the landlord wouldn't accept late payments, even if they were before his scheduled eviction time, because he made more money by evicting people and moving someone new in, since he kept all their deposits.

I told the couple that had started all this that if I were them, I wouldn't move out, and I'd contact a lawyer or at least the city housing department and file a complaint. They were worried because the landlord had said he'd have the sheriff's department evict them if they didn't move out in time (there were no local police--small town), but I said that even if the landlord called them, I doubted they'd actually evict them if they cited the law. That was about all I could do, and I hoped it'd be enough.

It was. The couple came in a few weeks later to pay for their rental furniture and to thank me for all my help, telling me the landlord had just been arrested. They'd filed a complaint, and when the landlord called the sheriff to evict them, it had kicked off an investigation. I never learned what exactly the charges were, or what happened to the landlord, but the complex ended up under new ownership, and the new manager had no problem with us parking on their property for deliveries. Also, the number of our repos and deliveries there suddenly dropped, because people were no longer being evicted constantly.

Between that experience and other stories I've read online, I never cease to be baffled and annoyed that people don't know their rights as tenants. Check your laws, don't take a landlord's word for anything, and stand up for yourself!

(source) story by (/u/DeadlyGerbil)

[veganfruitiontinyhouse]

Realty, Real Property and Leased Land; Definitions, Discussion in addition to Explanations

Delaware, and the rest of the original British Colonies, features some land that is leased rather than owned by the owners of that land. Much of it is not evident to the casual observer. The land on Lewes Beach is leased, definitely not owned by the home owners. The land of Lewes Beachfront is owned by the Town of Lewes. The lands of Rehoboth by the Sea and Dewey Beach can include leased land too. Most of the leases on that acreage will NOT be renewed but will return to the owners and then the homes on top of that land will be removed by the home owners within their expense. Much of the land in Riverdale, for Indian River Bay, adjacent to Oak Orchard is leased as well. In Riverdale the leased land is had by Chief Clark of the Nanticoke Indians. We have about 50 % of the inhabitants of Sussex County living on rented land; most of that leased land is found in what people label mobile home parks or communities. However , in the communities there are seldom any homes that are truly wireless and there are even two story stick built properties on some of the leased lands in those communities. Condos and town houses are sometimes found on leased land at the same time. Some folks find all this rather difficult to understand. We Real estate agents and Attorneys use the term fee simple to describe secure that is being sold as real property; that is real estate. We all used the term leased land or leasehold interest to go into detail land that is not transferring as real estate. This rather time consuming text is regarding Leased Land, Real Estate, Private Place, Chattels, Mobile Homes, Homes on Leased Land along with a legal dissertation to define, describe and determine any differences. Terminology is important when discussing Real Estate, i. elizabeth. real property. Black’s Law Dictionary is the recognized, ideal source for legal definitions under our American Regularions; which is derived from English Law PROPERTY: In the strict legalised sense, an aggregate of rights which are guaranteed along with protected by government. BL6, p. 1216. PERSONALTY: Particular property; movable property; chattels; property that is not attached to housing. BL6, p. 1144 PROPERTY: (personal property) - Through broad and general sense, everything that is the subject connected with ownership, not coming under the denomination of real estate. The right or interest less than a freehold in realty, or possibly any right or interest which one has in matters movable. BL6, p. 1217 Therefore personal property, is certainly that which can be easily removed from the real estate, and is not likely real estate. Personal property includes crops, trees, shrubs, trailers, sheds, cars, mobile homes, manufactured homes that have an important Department of Motor Vehicle title instead of a deed, as well as contents of a home or building. In a home and / or business the personal property includes drapes, lighting fixtures, rugs (not installed carpeting) free-standing cabinets and cupboards, furniture, and even all the contents of closets, drawers and buildings. Properties without a foundation, that is sheds that are just supported through blocks are chattel property, that is personal property, without having to part of the real estate. Such chattel includes dog houses not to mention particularly the little storage buildings that are so common beyond homes today. LANDS: In the most general sense, comprehends any ground, soil or earth whatsoever... Black's Legal requirement dictionary 6th Ed. (BL6), p. 877 PRIVATE PLACE: As protected from being taken for public purposes, is such property as belongs absolutely to an man or women, and of which he has the exclusive right of biological mechanism. Property of a specific, fixed and tangible nature, very effective at being in possession and transmitted to another, such as properties, lands, and chattels. BL6, p. 1217. Private home is land, houses, and chattels. Private property is without a doubt protected from being taken for public uses. Secret property is owned absolutely. REAL ESTATE synonymous with proper property" and p. 1218 REAL PROPERTY... A general duration for lands, tenements, hereditaments (those things which are hereditary); which on the death of the owner intestate, passes for you to his heir. " BL6, p1263 ESTATE: The degree, amount of money, nature and extent of interest which a person has through REAL and PERSONAL property. An ESTATE in countries, tenements, and hereditaments signifies such interest as the renter has therein. BL6, p. 547 The definitions listed here all refer to: real estate = real property = residence = lands, tenements, and hereditaments. At first, one will probably think that ‘real property' is the proper term for 'all lands'. But it doesn't state the manner of ownership while clearly as the definition of estate. We just received a huge instance of this when the thousands of leased land quite a lot under the homes of several thousand people, in Angola, Cooking pots Nets, and Long Neck areas owned by the Robert Tunnel family was inherited by the children. IN OUR PLACE THERE ARE NUMEROUS LEASED LAND PROPERTIES AND THOSE PROPERTIES ARE THE REALTY OF THE OWNER OF THE LAND – NOT THE OWNER OF THE PLACE WHICH IS UPON THAT LAND. If you examine the definition just for ESTATE it refers to an interest in the same articles recognized in real property and real estate. What is this AREA and WHO owns it and HOW is it owned? Area can be private property OR estate, i. e. real estate property. Estate is an interest in “real property" by a person or perhaps tenant. Private property is owned absolutely by individuals. INTEREST: More particularly it means a right to have the advantage of accruing from anything; any right in the nature of residence, but less than title. - BL6, p. 812. Through this definition it's clear that INTEREST cannot be LABEL, since it is less than title. Interest may be a property to land, but it's not a right to absolute ownership for land. Those who live on leased land, thus, have primarily an interest in the land; and that interest is a lease-hold fascination. Is there a definition of property that says it will be land held in absolute ownership, as does secret property's definition? We can delve into this more. ABSOLUTE HEADING - As applied to title to land, an exclusive label, or at least a title which excludes all others not even compatible with it. An absolute title to land cannot are available at the same time in different persons or in different governments. BL6, w. 1485 PRIVATE PROPERTY -... is such property because belongs absolutely to an individual, and of which he has the particular exclusive right of disposition. BL6, p. 1217 PERSONALLY OWN - To have a good legal title; to hold as real estate; to have a legal or rightful title to; to have; to produce. BL6, p. 1105. To "own" is to have heading. An interest is LESS THAN TITLE. ESTATE: The degree, quantity, makeup and extent of interest which a person has in legitimate and personal property. An estate in lands, tenements, and hereditaments signifies such interest as the tenant seems to have therein. - - BL6, p. 547 From all these definitions, it's plain that we can't absolutely "own" properties. We can only have a qualified ownership of qualified and also described ownership of Real Estate. Thus, we need that Action Description to describe it and qualify it. That title is also qualified by various government rights, decrees plus laws, from antiquity, such as rights against trespass. Who ownership is qualified by taxation, zoning, rights in way, and a myriad of other entailments. We need, therefore , the title search to determine those entailments, some of which are invisible. Therefore there is NOT as much difference in the rights and liberties of ownership and interest as one is led to feel. I have no problem with those who live on leased land as an alternative for owning the land. Usually they are paying far less compared with it would cost them to own the same property. However , individuals don’t often get any appreciation of the land; typically the landlord gets the appreciation in real value, while the citizen can appreciate the lifestyle for less cost per month or perhaps year. However , since an interest in leased land seriously isn't automatically transferable and is NOT Real Estate and since the chattel property upon it, the mobile home is particular property, without a deed but instead has a title – Agents are not by law supposed to be involved in the sale of such – but we are. We are supposed to only be selling genuine property. It gets all cloudy and foggy doesn’t it. That is why there are people and companies who market mobile homes on leased land who are not realty and don’t need to be. In fact , although no one will talk about it, Realtors are not supposed to sell mobile homes in leased land. We don’t need to engage in that combat any more than I just did by describing it. POSSESSION: The complete dominion, title, or proprietary, including right from a thing or claim... Ownership of property is sometimes absolute or qualified. The ownership of property will be absolute when a single person has dominion over the software, and may use it or dispose of it according to his joy, subject only to general laws. The ownership is capable when it is shared with one or more persons, when the time of fun is deferred or limited, or when the use is fixed. - BL6, p. 1106 Such sharing is normal with husband and wife, partners, families and corporations, etc . DOMINION - Generally accepted definition of "dominion" is perfect control on right of ownership. The word implies both title as well as possession and appears to require a complete retention of deal with over disposition. - - -BL6, p. 486 It is my opinion you'd agree that zoning, building codes, home owners connections covenants, condominium documents of use and business licensing is actually a restriction on the use of land (if it's Real Estate). And there is obviously the fact that failure to pay property taxation's on real estate will result in loss of said property. That's rarely absolute ownership. But private property is defined as ABSOLUTE TITLE, not qualified (interest). PROPERTY (tangible) - All building that is touchable and has real existence (physical) whether it is authentic or personal. - - BL6, p. 1218 On summation, it takes a good attorney, and one well versed and veteran in real estate to understand the complex definitions, rights, liabilities, and privileges of real estate ownership. I have been buying and selling realty for myself and assisting others in the buying and selling regarding real estate for thirty years. I have taught courses regarding real estate and real estate law. And, I would NOT take into account purchasing a property, or purchasing property on leased area without the professional and paid assistance of an attorney who's going to be a real estate specialist in the exact county in which the place is located. Other attorneys from other areas are not valid selections at all.

[pinkiepie-replies]

Realty, Real Property and Leased Land; Definitions, Discussion in addition to Explanations

Delaware, and the rest of the original British Colonies, features some land that is leased rather than owned by the owners of that land. Much of it is not evident to the casual observer. The land on Lewes Beach is leased, definitely not owned by the home owners. The land of Lewes Beachfront is owned by the Town of Lewes. The lands of Rehoboth by the Sea and Dewey Beach can include leased land too. Most of the leases on that acreage will NOT be renewed but will return to the owners and then the homes on top of that land will be removed by the home owners within their expense. Much of the land in Riverdale, for Indian River Bay, adjacent to Oak Orchard is leased as well. In Riverdale the leased land is had by Chief Clark of the Nanticoke Indians. We have about 50 % of the inhabitants of Sussex County living on rented land; most of that leased land is found in what people label mobile home parks or communities. However , in the communities there are seldom any homes that are truly wireless and there are even two story stick built properties on some of the leased lands in those communities. Condos and town houses are sometimes found on leased land at the same time. Some folks find all this rather difficult to understand. We Real estate agents and Attorneys use the term fee simple to describe secure that is being sold as real property; that is real estate. We all used the term leased land or leasehold interest to go into detail land that is not transferring as real estate. This rather time consuming text is regarding Leased Land, Real Estate, Private Place, Chattels, Mobile Homes, Homes on Leased Land along with a legal dissertation to define, describe and determine any differences. Terminology is important when discussing Real Estate, i. elizabeth. real property. Black’s Law Dictionary is the recognized, ideal source for legal definitions under our American Regularions; which is derived from English Law PROPERTY: In the strict legalised sense, an aggregate of rights which are guaranteed along with protected by government. BL6, p. 1216. PERSONALTY: Particular property; movable property; chattels; property that is not attached to housing. BL6, p. 1144 PROPERTY: (personal property) - Through broad and general sense, everything that is the subject connected with ownership, not coming under the denomination of real estate. The right or interest less than a freehold in realty, or possibly any right or interest which one has in matters movable. BL6, p. 1217 Therefore personal property, is certainly that which can be easily removed from the real estate, and is not likely real estate. Personal property includes crops, trees, shrubs, trailers, sheds, cars, mobile homes, manufactured homes that have an important Department of Motor Vehicle title instead of a deed, as well as contents of a home or building. In a home and / or business the personal property includes drapes, lighting fixtures, rugs (not installed carpeting) free-standing cabinets and cupboards, furniture, and even all the contents of closets, drawers and buildings. Properties without a foundation, that is sheds that are just supported through blocks are chattel property, that is personal property, without having to part of the real estate. Such chattel includes dog houses not to mention particularly the little storage buildings that are so common beyond homes today. LANDS: In the most general sense, comprehends any ground, soil or earth whatsoever... Black's Legal requirement dictionary 6th Ed. (BL6), p. 877 PRIVATE PLACE: As protected from being taken for public purposes, is such property as belongs absolutely to an man or women, and of which he has the exclusive right of biological mechanism. Property of a specific, fixed and tangible nature, very effective at being in possession and transmitted to another, such as properties, lands, and chattels. BL6, p. 1217. Private home is land, houses, and chattels. Private property is without a doubt protected from being taken for public uses. Secret property is owned absolutely. REAL ESTATE synonymous with proper property" and p. 1218 REAL PROPERTY... A general duration for lands, tenements, hereditaments (those things which are hereditary); which on the death of the owner intestate, passes for you to his heir. " BL6, p1263 ESTATE: The degree, amount of money, nature and extent of interest which a person has through REAL and PERSONAL property. An ESTATE in countries, tenements, and hereditaments signifies such interest as the renter has therein. BL6, p. 547 The definitions listed here all refer to: real estate = real property = residence = lands, tenements, and hereditaments. At first, one will probably think that ‘real property' is the proper term for 'all lands'. But it doesn't state the manner of ownership while clearly as the definition of estate. We just received a huge instance of this when the thousands of leased land quite a lot under the homes of several thousand people, in Angola, Cooking pots Nets, and Long Neck areas owned by the Robert Tunnel family was inherited by the children. IN OUR PLACE THERE ARE NUMEROUS LEASED LAND PROPERTIES AND THOSE PROPERTIES ARE THE REALTY OF THE OWNER OF THE LAND – NOT THE OWNER OF THE PLACE WHICH IS UPON THAT LAND. If you examine the definition just for ESTATE it refers to an interest in the same articles recognized in real property and real estate. What is this AREA and WHO owns it and HOW is it owned? Area can be private property OR estate, i. e. real estate property. Estate is an interest in “real property" by a person or perhaps tenant. Private property is owned absolutely by individuals. INTEREST: More particularly it means a right to have the advantage of accruing from anything; any right in the nature of residence, but less than title. - BL6, p. 812. Through this definition it's clear that INTEREST cannot be LABEL, since it is less than title. Interest may be a property to land, but it's not a right to absolute ownership for land. Those who live on leased land, thus, have primarily an interest in the land; and that interest is a lease-hold fascination. Is there a definition of property that says it will be land held in absolute ownership, as does secret property's definition? We can delve into this more. ABSOLUTE HEADING - As applied to title to land, an exclusive label, or at least a title which excludes all others not even compatible with it. An absolute title to land cannot are available at the same time in different persons or in different governments. BL6, w. 1485 PRIVATE PROPERTY -... is such property because belongs absolutely to an individual, and of which he has the particular exclusive right of disposition. BL6, p. 1217 PERSONALLY OWN - To have a good legal title; to hold as real estate; to have a legal or rightful title to; to have; to produce. BL6, p. 1105. To "own" is to have heading. An interest is LESS THAN TITLE. ESTATE: The degree, quantity, makeup and extent of interest which a person has in legitimate and personal property. An estate in lands, tenements, and hereditaments signifies such interest as the tenant seems to have therein. - - BL6, p. 547 From all these definitions, it's plain that we can't absolutely "own" properties. We can only have a qualified ownership of qualified and also described ownership of Real Estate. Thus, we need that Action Description to describe it and qualify it. That title is also qualified by various government rights, decrees plus laws, from antiquity, such as rights against trespass. Who ownership is qualified by taxation, zoning, rights in way, and a myriad of other entailments. We need, therefore , the title search to determine those entailments, some of which are invisible. Therefore there is NOT as much difference in the rights and liberties of ownership and interest as one is led to feel. I have no problem with those who live on leased land as an alternative for owning the land. Usually they are paying far less compared with it would cost them to own the same property. However , individuals don’t often get any appreciation of the land; typically the landlord gets the appreciation in real value, while the citizen can appreciate the lifestyle for less cost per month or perhaps year. However , since an interest in leased land seriously isn't automatically transferable and is NOT Real Estate and since the chattel property upon it, the mobile home is particular property, without a deed but instead has a title – Agents are not by law supposed to be involved in the sale of such – but we are. We are supposed to only be selling genuine property. It gets all cloudy and foggy doesn’t it. That is why there are people and companies who market mobile homes on leased land who are not realty and don’t need to be. In fact , although no one will talk about it, Realtors are not supposed to sell mobile homes in leased land. We don’t need to engage in that combat any more than I just did by describing it. POSSESSION: The complete dominion, title, or proprietary, including right from a thing or claim... Ownership of property is sometimes absolute or qualified. The ownership of property will be absolute when a single person has dominion over the software, and may use it or dispose of it according to his joy, subject only to general laws. The ownership is capable when it is shared with one or more persons, when the time of fun is deferred or limited, or when the use is fixed. - BL6, p. 1106 Such sharing is normal with husband and wife, partners, families and corporations, etc . DOMINION - Generally accepted definition of "dominion" is perfect control on right of ownership. The word implies both title as well as possession and appears to require a complete retention of deal with over disposition. - - -BL6, p. 486 It is my opinion you'd agree that zoning, building codes, home owners connections covenants, condominium documents of use and business licensing is actually a restriction on the use of land (if it's Real Estate). And there is obviously the fact that failure to pay property taxation's on real estate will result in loss of said property. That's rarely absolute ownership. But private property is defined as ABSOLUTE TITLE, not qualified (interest). PROPERTY (tangible) - All building that is touchable and has real existence (physical) whether it is authentic or personal. - - BL6, p. 1218 On summation, it takes a good attorney, and one well versed and veteran in real estate to understand the complex definitions, rights, liabilities, and privileges of real estate ownership. I have been buying and selling realty for myself and assisting others in the buying and selling regarding real estate for thirty years. I have taught courses regarding real estate and real estate law. And, I would NOT take into account purchasing a property, or purchasing property on leased area without the professional and paid assistance of an attorney who's going to be a real estate specialist in the exact county in which the place is located. Other attorneys from other areas are not valid selections at all.

[lukes-writing]

Chapter 3: The Lord of Flies

Project introduction | Previous chapter | Next chapter

Word count: 2300 Warnings: None

September 22nd, 1:17 PM, Confederation district, Trinity Gate

With Parker and Whisper enlisted, Wiccan already has half of the recruits on his side. Now he drives his old Chevrolet to the Confederation district.

After the relaxing walk with Whisper through the Great Moors district, it can’t be said entering the area attached to the Central Confederation is a pleasant change. Instead of picturesque greenhouses and fields, the district offers mainly factories, refineries and ugly, rectangular blocks of flats. Even though the sun is still shining, the smoke coming from numerous smokestacks contributes to the gloomy atmosphere.

No, the Confederation district is neither a slum or a ghetto. It’s just the least welcoming of the three districts.

When Wiccan studied the third recruit’s files for the first time, he expected him to be from the Great Moors district - however, the file proved him wrong. However, it’s understandable why did he settle in the Confederation district. The rent here isn’t as expensive as it is in the Great Moors or the Northeast.

Wiccan already knows this guy lost his family at a young age and spent his childhood in a foster home with people who already had seven other kids in their foster care. He reached adulthood just recently and now he’s living a humble life in a small flat - the only one he can afford from the salary of a pet shop clerk.

In fact, Wiccan has doubts if this guy will be suitable for the job. But he can’t know unless he meets the guy in person. And that’s his plan for now.

The man has an old-fashioned car radio in his car and, as always, he has his favorite 80s radio station turned on. He’s singing along to Van Halen as he drives through the Core to the border separating it from the Confederation district.

First, he sees a decent-looking neighborhood with family houses and small alleys of trees, several general stores, a supermarket and several other useful facilities. The farther he drives, the more industrial and gray the district gets. The nice neighborhoods disappear to make room for housing estates full of blocks of flats and crowded city squares where the various stores are so crammed together the place has zero aesthetic value.

Fortunately, he doesn’t have to drive much further since the navigation in his Chevy tells him he’s just a few hundred meters away from his goal. After several long minutes of maneuvering on the parking lot in search for an empty parking place, he leaves the car and walks towards the block nearby while still humming the Bon Jovi song that played on the radio before he got off.

The people here also seem… somewhat less happy than in the remaining districts. They usually stare at the screens of their mobile phones, paying no attention to each other. Contrary to that, the Great Moors district Whisper comes from is always vibrant and resonates with cheerful talking of its inhabitants.

Wiccan hopes that the guy he came for isn’t as uptight.

He enters the block whose address he noted and takes the stairs to get to the fourth floor even though there’s an elevator there. Then he finally knocks at the door with the name tag saying Underwood on it.

A few seconds later, the door opens a crack and Wiccan hears a timid, quiet voice: “Yes…? Who is this?”

“My name is Wiccan Salisbury and I’ve come to talk,” the man announces. “No need to be afraid.”

“Are you some kind of peddler? Because I… I don’t want anything.”

Wiccan rolls his eyes. This guy would really need to man up if he decided to accept his offer. “No, I’m not a peddler. I came here to discuss your hobby.”

The door finally opens fully.

The ELIPSA files of Gary Underwood, the young man in front of Wiccan, already had his photos included. But the reality is even… less impressive than the pictures.

First of all, Wiccan has to look slightly down to make eye contact with this guy even though Wiccan himself isn’t a tall man at all.

“Hey,” Gary says with the same timid voice.

Gary Underwood isn’t only short, but also rather chubby. A perfect contrast to the tall, lanky Parker Skellinger. He tries to gain some centimeters by growing a large, curly afro (or more like a Jew-fro, even though Wiccan doesn’t remember if Gary has any Semitic roots) on his head. He also apparently tries to grow a beard and a mustache, but the results are rather sorry so far.

His nose which is a bit flat resides on his round face alongside surprisingly intelligent brown eyes. Gary’s smile is just as timid as his voice, as if he needed permission to give a full smile. He’s wearing a gray hoodie and black sweatpants - which may be a futile attempt to mask his chunky frame.

Wiccan finds Gary… somehow interesting. But he has some doubts about his competence.

“Can I come in?” Wiccan asks.

“Yeah, sure,” Gary gestures him in.

First of all, Wiccan notices a strange smell accompanied by constant buzzing coming from an unknown source. Even though Gary lives alone, his flat is surprisingly neat, although it’s hopelessly small. There is a small living room which apparently also serves as a bedroom, a kitchen, a bathroom and one more room which has its door closed. The living space is especially tiny compared to shamelessly huge Archer-Gutenberg mansion.

“Do you want some tea?” Gary offers and Wiccan accepts.

When the younger man disappears into the kitchen, Wiccan takes another look around the place. Most of the furniture is made of wood and the walls are painted with a pleasant light brown paint. There is also a large bookshelf similar to Whisper’s. While it also contains fiction books, most of them are encyclopedias, all dealing with similar topics: biology, zoology and especially… insects.

Wiccan would never guess so much can be written just about bugs.

He also realizes the buzzing sound is coming from the room with the closed door.

Soon after, Gary brings the tea and seats Wiccan on a cheap, yet still comfortable couch in the middle of the room. They engage in small talk - Wiccan knows it’s probably necessary to break this man’s apparent shyness. Some minutes later, Gary seems to be more comfortable with the visit.

“You said you came because of my… hobby, right?” Gary plays into Wiccan’s cards by this question, and Wiccan seizes the opportunity.

“Yes, I indeed did. So, care if you showed me?”

Gary finally seems to show some enthusiasm. He takes Wiccan to the closed door and opens them. The buzzing sound grows significantly louder, and the odor Wiccan caught upon entering the flat also becomes more intense. Gary steps inside and Wiccan follows him.

The room apparently used to be a bedroom. However, Gary has rearranged the inside to fit his needs more. The room is filled with glass terrariums with living beings inside. Insects. Dozens of species, thousands of units. Each of the terrariums is designed and decorated with almost motherly love to mimic the species’ natural habitat as much as possible.

“Holy shit,” Wiccan gasps. A slight smile on Gary’s face gives away he’s proud of his collection. Flies, roaches, beetles, crickets and locusts, dragonflies - all shapes and sizes. There is also a small, neat beehive in the corner of the room and several anthills.

Wiccan was never squeamish about bugs and other creepy-crawlies, but the sight of this colony makes his skin crawl. There are gaps between the rows of terrariums wide just enough to allow Gary’s pudgy body walk between them. Wiccan wonders how would Gary’s landlord feel if they knew about this.

Even though Gary’s collection is somehow creepy, Wiccan realizes he’s also fascinated. Each terrarium is labeled with a tag containing the species name and several other notes the man doesn’t understand. Some of the bugs are rather common, but there are also far more exotic ones.

One especially big terrarium contains several giant beetles with black and white patterns on their shards. They measure about ten centimeters and Wiccan would swear their looks are full of hostility. The tag reads Goliathus regius. Another cubicle appears empty, until the twigs scattered inside start to move. Medauroidea extradentata.

Wiccan would need hours to take a look at all these beings, but right now, he has no time to spare.

“Why insects?” Wiccan asks, back in Gary’s living room.

The short man shrugs. “I guess they are small and insignificant. Just like me,” he replies.

When Wiccan read some of Gary’s files gathered by The Society, he found out that this man was a frequent target of harsh bullying at school. Looking at Gary, Wiccan realizes he indeed is a type often targeted by bullies. The question remains - is Gary this quiet and timid because of the bullying, or did the other kids bully him because of his personality? Wiccan doesn’t know and doesn’t intend to ask.

However, Gary starts speaking by himself.

“As you probably deduced already, my childhood wasn’t anything extra,” the man speaks and his tone of voice gives away it’s been a while he spoke to a being with fewer than six legs outside his workplace. “The foster family I lived in seemed to take care of children just to get the benefits and it was actually my oldest foster brother who took care of me better than these two people who were supposed to be my new parents.

At school, it was even worse. You probably have no idea what it is to be a chubby, short nerd in a whole class of bullies and jocks.” A slight sting of reproach can be heard in his voice. “So I started to spend as much time as possible outside. One benefit of my foster family was that they lived in the Great Moors district, so we had some beautiful surroundings.

Long story short, I started to be fascinated by insects. They are… so small, yet they can thrive when they use their special abilities. Most insects are like superheroes! Did you know that, for example…”

“Not now,” Wiccan urges him gently. He doesn’t want to let Gary know that his whole life is in the files he has in his car. “What I need to know is… there are rumors that your relationship with insects isn’t just within the scope of a hobby.” When he notices Gary’s horrified look, he quickly corrects himself. “I mean… you have some kind of special ability, do you? It can be described as an insect whisperer.”

Gary scowls. “How… how do you know?”

“That’s not important. I just need to know if it’s true.”

“I guess it is,” Gary reluctantly nods. “But I wouldn’t call it a whisperer since it seems to work a bit differently. You know, I guess I’m able to tap into their hive mind and control it. It sounds strange, but… yeah. I discovered this ability when I was about ten, after I sent a group of red ants to attack my foster sister after she was making fun of me. I didn’t want to, but…”

Wiccan has a feeling that even though initially timid, Gary is more than eager to rant about his personal life and problems endlessly. “Care to demonstrate it?” he interrupts once again.

Gary sighs and nods. He walks into his insect room and comes back with a terrarium containing an anthill. He lays it on the floor and opens the glass lid. Then, his face shows intense focus.

Soon after, an army of ants emerges from the anthill. They climb the glass wall, line up on the floor and then regroup to form letters. Wiccan watches in awe as he sees GARY RULES! spelled with hundreds of ant bodies. Then, the army disperses again and obediently crawls back into the anthill.

“It’s… kinda impressive, right?” Gary looks at Wiccan, once again with the insecure smile on his lips.

“It’s awesome!” Wiccan says. “Now, when I know what you are capable of, I can proceed to the offer I have for you. First of all, I’m going to tell you it involves a house in the Great Moors district, free of rent - just for you and your bugs. Does it sound tempting?”

Gary opens his eyes wide. “Like… really? With a house… I could raise countless more species! And I can build an aviary for butterflies and moths I always wanted! But… where’s the catch?”

“It involves accepting a job offer for a job others can only dream about,” Wiccan replies. “A job for a team that can take advantage of your bug-taming abilities. I won’t lie to you - it can get risky and dangerous. But if you accepted, your life would improve immediately and you would have more space for your hobby… and also more money. What do you say?”

“Dangerous…?” Gary scowls.

“I see you’re the type who prefers playing it safe,” Wiccan looks Gary in the eyes. “However, there is a time when you realize you have to take some action, some risk. I know your childhood taught you to stay aside and don’t drag attention to yourself. But the question is: do you want to live your whole life like that?”

“I… I guess I don’t,” Gary whispers.

“Can’t hear ya,” Wiccan smiles.

Gary takes a deep breath. “No, I don’t!” he says a little more loudly and Wiccan nods in satisfaction.

 Author’s Note

I wholeheartedly thank you for reading! I hope you enjoyed the chapter, and if you did, please leave a comment, send me a message or share and let more people know about this story! You can also consider a small donation at www.paypal.me/lukassladky. Have a great day and stay tuned for the next chapter!