#nokia feature phone

[oldphonepreservation]

Remember gtrxAC’s J2ME Discord client release a few months ago? It’s still as active as ever and now supports an even wider range of devices! Colored role nicknames, profile photos, image viewing, attachment uploading, you name it! Be sure to check out the latest release as of today, version 3.0.0.

[diamond-rush-ask-unnofficial]

i have no idea what to post on this blog, so i post this art of Bennett

-🐧

(the owner of this blog will use 🐧 to specify if its out of character)

(🐧: i wonder, what emoji i should use for Bennett? Perhaps 💎? Or 👒?)

[jowzii]

HEY NOKIA

THEREARE CANADIANS WHO WANT YOUR PHONES YOU PRICKS!

GIMME A PHONE!!!

GIMME THAT!

WHY AIN'T THIS FELLA IN CANADA?????

WHY CAN I NOT OBTAIN THE GREEN MAJESTY THAT IS???

[fisk]

[emma-dennehy-presents]

Thinking about switching to a psuedo-dumbphone. Probably a Nokia 2780 to start (really want a Kyocera 902/3kc). Need the navigation still but other than that most of the smart of my phone has been made redundant by a laptop and a jailbroken PSP. Getting off of verizon and away from samsung and being able to use my phone as a hotspot again will be nice too.

[fandom-menace]

What we gave, 2Bi (before iPhone)

Holiday Gifts: Phones/PDAs/Messaging PC Mag - December 2005

[investorocean0007]

From Bankruptcy To Billions - The Ultimate Comeback of Nokia | Is Nokia Will Conquer The Smartphones

Nokia: A Journey of Innovation, Adaptation, and Resilience

Nokia, a name synonymous with telecommunications, has carved its niche in the history of technology as a pioneering company that connected the world. Originating in Finland, Nokia's journey from a paper mill to a global leader in mobile communications is a tale of innovation, resilience, and transformation. This essay explores Nokia's history, contributions to the telecom industry, challenges, and its current role in shaping the future of communication technologies.

The Beginnings

Founded in 1865 by Fredrik Idestam as a paper mill on the banks of the Nokianvirta River, Nokia began its journey as an industrial enterprise. Over the decades, it diversified into various industries, including rubber and cable manufacturing, before transitioning into electronics and telecommunications. By the 1980s, Nokia became a significant player in the telecommunications sector, focusing on mobile and wireless technologies.

The Rise of a Mobile Giant

Nokia’s rise to global prominence began in the 1990s with the advent of mobile phones. The company introduced innovative, user-friendly, and reliable devices that became household names. Iconic models like the Nokia 3310 and Nokia 1100 were renowned for their durability, long battery life, and affordability. By the early 2000s, Nokia was the largest mobile phone manufacturer in the world, with a market share exceeding 40%.

Key milestones during this period include:

Innovation in Mobile Phones: Nokia led the industry with sleek designs, intuitive interfaces, and features like text messaging and the iconic Snake game.

Contribution to Mobile Standards: Nokia played a crucial role in developing GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications), which became the global standard for mobile networks.

Global Reach: Nokia’s phones were accessible in emerging markets, contributing significantly to global connectivity.

Challenges and Decline

Despite its dominance, Nokia faced significant challenges in the late 2000s with the advent of smartphones. The company struggled to adapt to the rapidly changing market landscape dominated by Apple’s iPhone and Android-powered devices.

Technological Stagnation: Nokia’s reluctance to embrace touchscreen technology and focus on its Symbian operating system instead of adopting or developing competitive platforms like Android hindered its growth.

Intense Competition: Competitors like Samsung, Apple, and emerging Chinese brands offered advanced features, pushing Nokia out of the premium segment.

Strategic Missteps: Nokia’s partnership with Microsoft in 2011 to use Windows Phone as its operating system failed to gain traction, further contributing to its decline.

By 2013, Nokia sold its mobile phone business to Microsoft, marking the end of an era.

Reinvention and Resilience

Nokia’s story, however, did not end with the decline of its mobile phone division. The company refocused its efforts on telecommunications infrastructure and technology. Today, Nokia is a global leader in 5G networks, IoT (Internet of Things) solutions, and digital transformation.

Key areas of Nokia’s resurgence include:

5G Leadership: Nokia has been at the forefront of developing and deploying 5G technology, enabling faster and more reliable connectivity worldwide.

Telecom Equipment: The company provides critical infrastructure for mobile operators, including base stations and network solutions.

Software and Cloud Services: Nokia’s innovations in cloud computing, AI, and software-defined networking have positioned it as a key player in modern telecommunications.

Legacy and Impact

Nokia’s legacy goes beyond its technological contributions. It revolutionized global communication, connecting millions of people, especially in developing nations. The durability and reliability of Nokia’s devices made them an enduring symbol of quality. Additionally, Nokia’s commitment to research and development has driven advancements in telecommunications standards and innovation.

Challenges Ahead

Despite its successful reinvention, Nokia faces challenges in maintaining its competitiveness in the fast-paced tech industry. Rivals like Huawei, Ericsson, and Samsung dominate the telecom infrastructure market, while geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions pose additional hurdles. To remain relevant, Nokia must continue innovating and diversifying its portfolio.

Conclusion

Nokia’s journey from a paper mill to a telecommunications powerhouse exemplifies its ability to adapt and thrive despite challenges. Its contributions to mobile technology and telecommunications have left an indelible mark on the industry. Today, as a leader in 5G and digital transformation, Nokia remains a testament to innovation, resilience, and the power of reinvention. Its story serves as an inspiration to businesses worldwide, proving that even in the face of adversity, transformation and success are possible.

4o

[goodguygadgets]

Nokia Phones Removed from Key Markets by HMD Global – What’s Next?

🚨 BREAKING NEWS: HMD Global removes Nokia smartphones from major markets like the UK and Germany! Find out why and what this means for the Nokia brand. #Nokia #HMDGlobal #GoodGuyGadgets #LetsTalkTech

HMD Global, the company that has been the steward of the Nokia brand, has taken a bold step in its rebranding journey by removing Nokia phones from the websites of key markets like the UK, Germany, and Austria. This move signals a significant shift in the company’s strategy as it focuses on promoting its own HMD-branded phones. The 2024 reboot of the classic Nokia 3210 introduced by HMD in the…

[cheeseknives]

Everytime I feel useless, I think about how our neighbors' Skoda has its own WiFi

[ostermeiernet]

Nokia 800 Tough im Selbstversuch

Bereits im Januar 2023 hab ich in einem Artikel auf sogenannte Features-Phones hingewiesen, welche mittlerweile auch mit Apps umgehen können. Damit ich es nun unteranderem möglich Programme wie WhatsApp, Youtube oder ähnliches (in einem begrenzten Umfang) dort zu installieren und zu verwenden. Mich hat diese “Produktkategorie” seither nicht mehr los gelassen und ich wolle so ein “Smartphone” mal…

[geekanoids]

2008 Video !!! #Nokia N95 8GB Mobile Phone Review

[djrobokat]

This is something different than all other art I share here. And the reason I wanted to share this is because it's based off a childhood memory that's been ingrained in my mind for so long.

Basically, there was this feature in old Nokia phones where you can make movies or fancy slideshows set to different themes, and one of the themes was called "Exotic" where it would show a silhouette of a man, images would pan slowly, and the transitions were wipes shaped like waves, and it was set to calming music with sounds of water.

I remembered playing with these slideshows so religiously that I thought it was normal for every Nokia phone to have that. I wanted to relive those experiences in the Internet, but sadly, this feature doesn't seem to be documented at all and it makes me sad that my memories are the only thing I have left. Hopefully it's not a Mandela effect or something.

[monamipencil]

— right here | j.ww

⋆ pairings; wonwoo x fem! reader ⋆ genre; smut, stalker themes, angst, fluff, 90s! au ⋆ w.c; 2.9k+ ⋆ warnings; stalking, a brief non-con talk (doesn't actually happen), masturbating (m.&f.), almost phone sex, stealing of panties, oral (f. receiving), unprotected sex, creampie, he's a bit toxic and an idiot, he's a law student, reader's parents are mentioned as strict and conservative ⋆ a/n; yeah... tried to make it dark and failed miserably. and yes wonwoo reads kafka and you can't change my mind.

stalker! wonwoo who also loves horror movies and hence loves to pull little pranks on you.

“so, gotta boyfriend?” his voice is distorted by the voice changer before it reaches you on the other side. he sighs dreamily, eyes focused on your figure as you cook dinner.

you're not wearing any pants, just an oversized shirt. even though he knows your answer, he waits for you to reply. you blow the soup before tasting it, your landline phone pinched between your shoulder and ear.

“why do you ask?”

wonwoo smiles, leaning against the tree in your backyard. it's almost the same age as you. he knows that. he also knows you live with your parents 'cause they want to protect their little girl from the world. and that you're all alone for tonight, and you share his taste for horror movies.

you move around the kitchen, occupied with the dish. “'could take you out on a date,” he suggests.

you roll your eyes with a scoff, but a small part of you wants to entertain the idea. the idea of going on a date with your digital fling for 3 months does sound enticing. you let the idea sink in as you stir the contents of the pot.

wonwoo groans when you lean your elbows on the counter, giving him a perfect view of your ass. the navy blue underwear, or is it black? he squints his eyes and looks closer. whatever it is, it has him rock-hard beneath his pants.

“did you stub a toe?” you ask with amusement to which he laughs. your visage changes when you realise what he could be doing on the other end. “wait, what are you doing?”

“what do you think i'm doing?” he smirks, watching you move off the counter and closer to the phone body. you twirl the coil cord with your fingers and bite your lip.

“I don't,” you take a deep breath, “know.”

he pulls a cotton underwear from his blazer pocket and presses it to his nose, inhaling your scent. his cock twitches with need, and he suppresses a groan. holding his wireless Nokia 6110 between his shoulder and ear, he undoes his jeans.

it's freezing cold outside, and the risk of mosquitoes is high, but he simply doesn't care. wonwoo pulls his cock out, hissing at the cold air biting his tip. he wraps his fingers around the base, lazily stroking it before wrapping his cock with your underwear that went missing a couple of days ago.

you're at a crossroad in the kitchen. a part of you basks in this debauchery, and the other knows that this very well could be some middle-aged pervert or some 12-year-old messing with you.

“you're so pretty, princess.” he grunts into the phone, hips bucking into his hand.

“you don't even know how I look like..” you trail off, lowkey turned on. wait no! he could be an old man, ew.

he chuckles, eyes darting towards your figure leaning back on the counter with your pouted lips and knitted eyebrows. “maybe..”

wonwoo presses your panties on his tip with his thumb, teasing his slit. his breath quickens and worry looms over your features at his silence.

“you don't know the things I want to do to you.”

you roll your eyes again with a sigh. “really? i wonder what it could be.” the boredom in your tone amuses him.

“I want you to sit on my face,”

a scandalised gasp erupts from your throat before acting nonchalant again. “oh yeah? what else, ghostface?” your breath falters, and your stomach flips. you don't even want to think about what's happening between your legs.

“I'd slowly kiss down your body and make you come undone in all ways.”

well, shit. your legs snap close and bite your lips to stop any embarrassing noises from spilling out. the logical part of you drowns in the wave of horniness that hits you. wonwoo doesn't wait for you to speak and continues.

“I want to strip you bare and make love to you.” his hand movements quicken when he sees you slip a hand down your panties. he sucks in oxygen like he's deprived of it. the cold bites at his skin and his breaths turn foggy, but the thought of you warms him from inside.

your thoughts muddle, and any common sense is thrown out the window when you feel your arousal sticking to your panties. you can't offer him many words, and it brings you embarrassment at how easily you fold. to keep up your facade, you scoff into the speaker but wait for him to speak up.

but the line disconnects, filling you with disappointment and wanting. you place the phone on the cradle and sit down on the floor. the disappointment doesn't deter you from touching yourself to the thoughts of him. you wonder how he sounds in real life and imagine him doing the things he spoke of.

your toes curl as you apply pressure to your clit, rubbing it incessantly. your other hand plays with your nipples, pinching and rolling them over your t-shirt. you try and try but can't climax. you pull out your hands with anger and annoyance.

burying your head in your knees, you think of blocking him but realise he's probably using *67. the hiss of the boiling snaps you back to reality, and you stand up in a hurry to look at the food. you groan, looking at the sad-looking dish staring back at you.

the telephone rings, piling up on your irritated state. “what?” you bark, teeth grinding and knuckles turning white.

“come outside,” a low voice tells you.

“what?” you repeat, softer this time. before the gears in your brain could turn, you find yourself at the front door, turning the knob. it feels like whiplash when your eyes land on the person outside.

“wonwoo? what are you doing here?”

now, why the hell was your ex-boyfriend at your door? and wait.. is he your ghostface?

the possibility—possibility? it's the fucking truth. he's the one who's been calling you anonymously for 3 months and filling the hole in your romantic life. the very hole that he left.

he looks the same—almost the same—but then you notice the faint ring of dark circles, the tiredness in his eyes, and, is that your panties hanging from his blazer pocket?

it doesn't take long for your pent-up emotions to flood your senses and suddenly, you're pulling him in, and locking your hands around his neck. you press your lips to his and let his hands wander your body.

 “wonwoo, fuck!”

you throw your head back on the handrest and tug at his hair roots. his tongue laps at your cunt, and his nose brushes your clit as you lay fully bare on your couch. wonwoo’s grip on your hips holds you down while he slurps and sucks on your hole, tongue prodding inside every now and then.

his soft lips mold with your pussy lips, and his over-grown hair tickles your inner thigh. his hungry eyes meet yours before he pulls away with your fluids glistening on his skin. he ascends on you like a predator sizing up its prey. your legs wrap around his waist, pulling him down.

the soft material of his t-shirt presses against your burning skin, and you feel cold without his warmth. “off,” you huff, tugging at the cloth. he obliges with a smile. soon he joins you on the couch, and feeling his bare skin on yours elicits a variety of emotions from you.

you’re ready to break down and cry but also have the urge to slap him along with the cauterizing need to have him inside you. he stills for a moment, silently looking for reassurance to go ahead. you tilt up your head, kissing him softly and breathing him in. you forgot how intimate it felt to share your breath with another.

wonwoo kisses your forehead and moves back, positioning himself between your legs. “condom?” you croak.

“I don’t have one.”

eyeing the hesitant look on your face, he continues. “I haven’t slept with anyone … after you.”

you crash your lips against his, tongue pushing past his lips. you moan wantonly, and the noises of wet kissing reverberate through your eardrums. you card your fingers through his lush black locks and tilt your head, kissing him deeper and slower.

your core pulsates as his hands rediscover your body. goosebumps rise on your skin when his thumb brushes against your hard nipple, and you shiver, feeling his cock on your thigh. you gasp for air, pulling away. his hands brush down your back to your ass, kneading the flesh beneath his fingers.

wonwoo leans back on the handrest, helping you to position on his cock. you sink down on his cock with his help. you moan in unison when you bottom out. his raw cock kissing your insides sends a flurry of tingles through your body.

you grind down to stimulate your clit. shameless moans escape your lips when he thrusts up, balls slapping against your ass. his hands make a home on your hips as he continues drilling his cock inside you. you throw your hands around his neck, pressing yourself against him. you don’t kiss him but place your lips close to his, and with every moan and whimper, your lips brush against his.

you lose yourself in pleasure, in the way his cock splits you open and in the way he sucks on your nipples. one of his hands moves down to rub your clit as he keeps sucking on your nipple. he moves to the other one, swirling his tongue around the bud.

your body trembles with stimulation, and you bounce on his cock harder, desperately chasing your high. wonwoo detaches from your tits to press a hot kiss against your lips. you moan against his lips, feeling the coil in your stomach tighten with each thrust.

his tip kisses your insides, and your arousal forms a creamy ring around the base of his cock. you're way too gone, lost in the warmth of his hands and the depth of his onyx eyes.

a certain thrust and the rubbing of his hand has you trembling above him. your legs give out, and you rest your head on his shoulder, trying to catch your breath.

“I can't—I,” wonwoo shushes you and repositions his hands on your ass, gripping it as he thrusts upwards into your cunt. the sheer force of his thrusts makes you whimper and dig your fingernails into his broad shoulders.

“wonu,” you draw out his name as your face contorts in pleasure.

“yes, princess?” the nickname never fails to fluster you, and the rich timbre of his voice sends a shiver down your spine. he leaves hot, open-mouthed kisses on your neck and chest.

“please, I want to—want to cum.”

he nibbles on your earlobe, wetting the skin with his tongue. “mhm. but bad girls don't get to cum.”

“bad girl?” you whimper, “but I didn't do anything!”

“y'sure, princess?”

“yes!”

“you started talking to a stranger on the phone. yes, it was me. but you weren't aware.” you whine when he slows his pace to a stop. you clench around his length, chasing for some friction.

“you started locking your windows. I thought you liked it when I used to climb into your room through your window—”

you cut him off, “you broke up with me for your stupid friends!”

“and.. I left it open for the first few days after you left...” your voice reduces to a whisper.

“I'm sorry, princess.” he starts. “but it seemed like you moved on with your little church boy,” he hisses through his teeth, voice lacing with venom.

“joshua is my friend.” you hiss back.

wonwoo clicks his tongue, hating the taste of his name on your tongue. the chances of you kicking him out if this keeps up are high. so he changes the topic.

“y'k how badly I wanted to climb into your room? to take off your blankets, and push aside your panty. you would like that wouldn't you?”

“for me to have my way with you while you're asleep? even if you wake up, you'll let me hit it like a slut, right?”

your pussy flutters around his cock and you whine, hitting his chest. wonwoo smirks and leans into your ear, “dirty, dirty princess.” his voice drops an octave.

“I was peeping on you all this time. you wore my shirts, princess? love me that much? hmm?”

you hide your face in his shoulders but feel his smile radiating through his voice. “fuck you.”

“you are,” he grips your hips, pulling out halfway before slamming his cock back in. your slick arousal drips down your thighs, uncomfortably. his cock stretches your gummy walls and the coil in your stomach tightens.

it's hard to adjust to his animalistic pace and you're overwhelmed. lust and passion clouds your senses and the coil snaps. the orgasm crashes over you and your lewd moans fill the room. your body trembles above his and you grip onto him for dear life.

your first orgasm in three months is mind-numbing. wonwoo continues to thrust, chasing his orgasm. he grunts when you violently clench around his length, forcing him to cum.

warm ropes of cum decorate your walls and the wet sounds of sex halts as he pulls you closer. he rests his forehead on yours, sharing his breath with you.

by the time you calm down, you're flooded with shame and the reality of what just happened. his arms and the sound of his heartbeat is no longer comforting. removing his arms around you, you stand up.

you hiss and clench your thighs at the ache between them. his essence drips out of your hole down your thighs, a reminder of what you just did.

wonwoo sits up, worry filling his system as he watches slip on your t-shirt and move away from the couch. he wants to say something, but what can he say? hey, sorry for leaving you and stalking you. 'think we can get back together?

he cringes at himself and watches helplessly as you move towards the vinyl record holder. you pull out a vinyl he recognises and place it on the player.

‘The Chain’ by Fleetwood Mac fills the room, and you walk back to the couch, sitting with space between you two. the soft strum of guitar and drums calms his nerves.

“why?” you fiddle with your fingers, refusing to look at him as you ask. he sighs and shifts a little closer, t-shirt covering his body and glasses back on. “I,” he sucks in a sharp breath.

“I had doubts about … us.”

“I didn't think we'd work out and my friends seemed to agree. I—I'm sorry.” he holds his gaze down with shame.

“it was stupid, i know. but I thought our differences won't work out.”

“how can you decide it before anything actually happens?” you bark at him, your heart clenches with frustration.

“I—”

‘and if you don't love me now, you will never love me again’

wonwoo cringes inwardly. who would have thought that the song he used to dance with you to would represent his life now? he cannot find words to express what he wants to say. two years of majoring in law and literature down the drain.

he simply moves closer till his thighs press against yours and leans his head on your shoulders. “did you only miss me for my body?”

“no!” his defense comes a bit stronger, and he hugs you closer. “no. it's not like that. I missed you.”

‘I can still hear you saying you would never break the chain’

you take his face in your hands, kissing his lips softly. but you break it as soon as your lips meet and drag him upstairs to your room. your grip on his tighter, harsher, like you're trying to prove a point.

wonwoo doesn't protest that he's naked and lets you drag him away. reaching your room, you pull him inside and show him the stacks of books lining your nightstand.

he adjusts his glasses and squints at the books. he saw you buying books and reading them almost every night. he wondered how your conservative parents suddenly allowed you to read books, let alone ... law books?

“law books. I fought with my parents and bought them, just so that we could talk about it because I don't know shit about law!”

you're sobbing, tears cascading down your cheeks, and he feels his heart skip a beat or two. his eyes dart towards the other books on your shelf, Sherlock Holmes and Kafka, his favorites too.

he pulls you into his arms, hugging you tightly. he smiles at your faux protests and holds you softly.

wonwoo doesn't tell you but he has his own collection of Fleetwood Mac vinyl records lining up in his shelf. he bought Delta of Venus and A Spy in the House of Love, even though he doesn't like the vulgarity of the books you secretly read.

he holds you closer, and for anyone who looks into your windows, they'd only see the silhouette of a single person. your sobs quiet down, and he whispers soft apologies into your skin.

and wonwoo discovers that love is simple after all. love is reading Law and Kafka in your moonlit room filled with '60s rock music.

tags; @seungkwanschicken @aaa-sia @dokyeomkyeom @bangantokchy @jespecially

@asyre @armycarat2612 @bewoyewo @gyuguys @embrace-themagic

@aaniag (send an ask to be added on the taglist!)

[heckyeahponyscans]

An amazing sight . . . An eBay listing for a 2002 Loungefly Nokia phone cover featuring G1 My Little Pony Blossom!

[ryker-writes]

This is not a writing request, I just want to give that brain image to you:

Idia with an S/O that's horrible with tech.

As in, so horrible, they don't get smartphones and manage to break Nokias

I know you said this wasn't a request but I felt inspired so here we are! I am like a grandpa when it comes to technology so I relate to this lmao

Idia with a S/O that's terrible with tech

You are his stress.

In the beginning of your relationship, he saw you had an older phone and of course he needed to change this immediately

like his S/O with an old out of date phone??? It's blasphemous to him

As soon as he sees that even your out of date and old phone is having problems, he's literally throwing away your old phone and getting you a new one like you have no choice in the matter

He'll get you the latest phone with all the newest features and he even upgrades it more with his own tech skills

...

What do you mean you don't get it??? He tried to make it simple...

It's simple to him, but not to you

So of course he tries to explain it to you...again...and again

Poor Idia doesn't realize all the technology terms and information he's trying to to give are a bit overwhelming and hard to understand

When you come back to him telling him that you broke your phone, you've also broken him

Idia.exe has encountered an error. Please restart.

He'll buy you a new one of course, but this time he's giving you the best phone case to prevent cracks and damage

He watches you closely with this new phone and will panic if he sees you putting your phone even close to the edge of a surface

Idia even gives you small tips and creates little tutorials in your phone for you to learn how to do things

Every time you break your phone, he'll replace it of course but it hurts a part of his soul each time

He would rather die than let you just have a Nokia phone

Please just take the smart phone so the last shreds of his pride can remain in tact

[lowrisemiller]

she keeps me up 𐚁₊⊹

no outbreak!joel miller x fem!reader

chapter 1- round up | masterlist |

| main masterlist |

summary- After a long shift, a night out at Round Up takes an unexpected turn when she crosses paths with a rugged stranger. A dance, a spark, and a moment she won’t forget—though she never expects to see him again.

word count- 2.8k

a/n- ahhh hi sweeties very excited for you all to read this first chapter! been wanting to start writing this for quite some time now. also let’s pretend Nickleback’s song “She keeps me up” didn’t come out two years ago bc that is THEIR SONG. hope yall enjoy! sweetgirl out<3

warnings- minors don’t enter!! joel miller (he is his own warning let’s be real), cursing, smooching, make out, light harassment, drinking (we of age people) teeney tiny age gap (21&36) that’s it I think lmk if there’s more ⭐️

April 2001 Austin Texas

My Nokia buzzed in my back pocket. I look around to see if there’s any waiting customers or my fellow cafe employees around. I walked to the back and checked my phone. 

It’s Alex, my roommate and best friend since high school. 

“Hey girl, let’s go to roundup tonight I need a drink and possibly a cowboy to ride ;)” Alex sent 2 minutes ago

I couldn’t hold in the giggle that bubbled up in my throat. I start typing back.

“Hell yeah my shift ends in an hour let’s head out at around 8, be home soon.” You sent just now

I practically ripped off my apron as soon as the clock hit 6 o’ clock and I went to the machine to clock out. 

I jogged to my red honda civic and fished for my keys in my purse. I was clearly in a rush.

I was not letting my Friday night go to waste.

I took my keys out again once I reached Alex and I’s shared apartment.

“Hey babes! Should I wear a skirt or some shorts?”

Alex greeted me in the entryway of our small studio apartment.

“Hmm if you’re referencin the new skirt you bought during our last trip to the mall I’m sayin skirt all the fuckin way.” Alex giggled and jumped up and down. “Ok ok now you start gettin ready!”

I put all my stuff in my room and quickly change out of my work clothes and hop in the shower. Wanting to rinse off my work day at the cafe.

After my shower I wrap a towel around myself and stand in front of my closet, contemplating on what to wear to Round Up. Round Up is pretty much a night club with 2-step and line dancing to live or recorded country music with food and a bar.

Despite living in Texas all my life I’m not all about the country cowgirl aesthetic. Yes I can rock a cowboy hat and a big studded belt with some boots but I don’t make it my personality. I usually go for an edgy grunge look with a country girl twist.

I settled for a black halter-style top with a plunging neckline, revealing a portion of my chest.

The top is form-fitting, accentuating the waist. I was also wearing dark-wash, flared jeans. I paired the jeans with a black studded belt featuring silver grommets and embellishments, adding a rock-inspired touch. I put on a couple rings and bracelets and a cute necklace with a big pendant. Then of course my dark brown cowgirl boots.

I sat on our worn down couch while I waited for Alex. She is the one that usually takes the longest to get ready out of the both of us.

The time was getting closer and closer to 8pm and Alex finally strutted out of her room. She was wearing her new blue denim mini skirt with a simple white top. Her ginger curls in a half up half down hairstyle. She always looked good no matter what.

I whistled.

“Damn hun lookin hot as usual.” I said while standing up. "Oh stop it, you look smokin too girl."

“Ready to go? You drivin?” Alex nodded and with that we were out the door.

By the time we got there the night sky had taken over Austin and it was cool and lit up by the moon and the street lights. Roundup was almost vibrating with bass and drunk cowboys singing on the top of their lungs. 

As Alex and I walked towards the entrance many men whistled and hit on us. They always made me scoff but Alex usually took it in stride, she would never give those idiots the time of day but she likes the ego boost. 

We made it to the bar and ordered drinks. Alex ordered a margarita while I stuck with my rye whiskey. My usual. We both like to get a little tipsy before we get up to dance with the sweaty crowd left of us. 

I was sipping on my second whiskey while Alex was downing her third when a sleazy trucker dude abruptly sat in the stool next to me. I smelt him before I saw him. 

“Howdy darlin’ may I buy you a drink?” He asked me with a lopsided grin. I resisted the urge to roll my eyes. I opted for a scoff instead. “I’m drinkin’ one already, thanks.” I said in a flat tone, hoping it shows him I am very disinterested. I was wrong, most men don’t have social cues and do not know what the word ‘no’ means. Add a few beers to the mix and all their brain cells leave the conversation as well. 

I noticed Alex drunkenly tune in. She was watching me making sure I was alright even if she was visibly buzzed. Her blue eyes glossed over and her pale cheeks tinged with a pink blush. The effort is there and appreciated. 

He scooted his stool closer to me while I was distracted looking at Alex. Before I could stand up and tell this moron off I felt a big warm hand grasp my bare shoulder. I froze, I knew it wasn’t the drunk man because it was from behind and on the left side of me. 

“Hey darlin’ I was wonderin’ where ya went.” Dear mother of God. His voice had the hottest southern drawl I have heard come out of any man from Texas. He sounded like honey. I hesitantly turned around, his hand still firm on my shoulder. Goodness he was beautiful. All tan skin, a dark brown beard with some little gray hairs adorned his face, he was wearing an olive green button up and the sleeves were rolled up to his forearms, and the two top buttons of his shirt were undone showing off more delicious tan skin. 

It took my entire being not to drool. 

My eyes searched in his soft brown ones. He gave me a reassuring smile. 

“Sweetheart, may I have this dance?” I looked between him and Alex who had her jaw to the floor while watching this whole interaction unfold. Then as if I was under some spell I put my hand in the hot mystery man’s and let him lead me to the dance floor. 

He kept his hand on the small of my back. Once we were out of earshot of the drunken man that was talking to me earlier I turned to the man holding me. 

“Hey” Was all I said. All I could say, I was still so entranced with this man’s beauty it was almost otherworldly. 

“Howdy, sorry I kinda took ya away I just saw that guy all over ya and had a bad feeling”

I felt my face flush slightly. I hope the warm lighting covered it up. 

“No, that was fine. I was just surprised but really I am grateful you did that.” I said with a small smile, feeling shy under his gaze. Then he held his hand out.

“I’m Joel, maybe we can properly get to know each other?” He didn’t take his eyes off mine once. I swallowed. I replied with my name and shook his awaiting hand. He didn’t let go of my hand. 

Before I can even think of what to do next I heard the familiar intro of “She Keeps Me Up” By Nickleback— one of my favorite songs. Then without thinking I squeezed his hand and led him to the growing crowd in the middle of the dance floor. 

“I love this song!” I shouted to him over the loudspeakers and everyone’s cheering. “Wanna dance cowboy?” I said with a smirk, feeling my confidence come back. He mirrored my smirk and nodded.

As the bassline thrummed through the speakers, I let the music take control. I started by swaying my hips to the rhythm, my grip on his hand tightening for just a second before I let go and spun away from him, letting the momentum guide me. I shot my hands up in the air— my shirt riding up just enough to where you can see the top parts of my tattoo that lives on the left side of my hip.

He chuckled, stepping forward as I turned back to face him. His movements were smooth, confident—like he knew exactly what he was doing. I bit my lip, eyeing him playfully as I stepped closer, letting the music guide me.

Funky little monkey, she’s a twisted trickster

Everybody wants to be the siser’s mister

Coca-Cola roller coaster

Love her even though I’m not supposed to

I reached for his hands again, and he caught on immediately, pulling me into a twirl before spinning me right back into him. My hands landed on his chest, and I felt the warmth of his body even through his shirt. I tilted my head up to meet his gaze, catching the flicker of amusement and something else—something that sent a thrill down my spine.

"Not bad," I teased breathlessly, my fingers lingering against him a second longer than necessary.

"Not bad?" he echoed, his smirk deepening. "Darlin’, I’m just getting started."

I laughed as he suddenly spun me out again, this time pulling me back with just enough force that I stumbled slightly—right into his arms. His grip tightened around my waist, steadying me, but he didn’t let go right away. Instead, he leaned in, his lips dangerously close to my ear.

"You trust me?" he murmured.

I swallowed, my pulse racing, but I refused to let him have the upper hand so easily. "Depends," I said, tilting my head so our noses nearly brushed. "You planning to sweep me off my feet?"

He chuckled, the sound rich and warm, and without warning, he dipped me low, his arm strong behind my back. I gasped, gripping his shoulders as laughter bubbled out of me.

"Something like that," he said, holding me there for just a second longer before pulling me upright again.

The song pulsed around us, the world fading away until it was just him, the heat between us, and the undeniable electricity in the air.

He held me impossibly closer to him. I stayed looking up at him with my hands flush against his chest. Except he leaned down. Almost kissing me. But he didn't, he just moved his hands down to grip my hips. 

She keeps me up (I keep you up)

She keeps me up (I keep you up) 

All night (All night)

All night (All night)

I was practically grinding up on him the remainder of the song. When the song ended he pulled me aside where it was less crowded. He backed me into a wall and he leaned over me. He was so hot I couldn’t think straight. 

“Honey, how old are ya?” He asked with his gruff southern drawl. “You first” I challenged. He chuckled and shook his head. 

“I’m 36 years old sweetheart, now you c’mon.” I smirked when he revealed his age. I knew he wasn’t my age. He was too respectful and sexy for that. 

“I am 21 Joel.” I said not moving my gaze once. I heard him utter some curse word. I didn’t hear him because I was so focused on our close proximity. “Not too bad right cowboy?” I said with my own sultry southern drawl. 

He looked at me with hooded eyes. He muttered something again except I heard it. “Fuck it.” Is what he said. Then he took my chin in between two of his long thick fingers. 

His grip was firm but gentle, his fingers tilting my chin up until there was nothing but him—his breath, warm and shallow, ghosting over my lips. My pulse pounded in my ears, drowning out everything but the heat in his eyes.

He hesitated for a fraction of a second, as if giving me a chance to pull away. But I didn’t. I couldn’t.

Then he closed the space between us.

His lips crashed against mine, hot and desperate, like he had been holding back for far too long. A low sound rumbled in his throat as his other hand slid around my waist, pulling me flush against him. My body melted into his, the tension between us snapping like a live wire.

I kissed him back just as fiercely, my fingers threading into his hair, tugging just enough to earn a sharp inhale from him. His grip tightened, his hands roaming—one trailing up my spine, the other gripping my hip, anchoring me against him as our lips moved in sync, messy and hungry.

He tilted his head, deepening the kiss, his tongue sweeping against mine in a way that sent heat pooling low in my stomach. I gasped into his mouth, and he took advantage of it, pressing me back against the wall successfully caging me in, surrounding me.

“God, you’re…” he murmured between kisses, his voice rough, like he could barely form words. His teeth grazed my bottom lip, tugging just enough to make me whimper.

I barely had time to respond before he kissed me again—harder, more insistent, like he wanted to devour me whole. My nails scraped against his scalp, and he groaned, his hands sliding lower, gripping my ass like he needed to feel every inch of me.

The world blurred around us. Nothing else existed—just the heat, the hunger, the way his body molded so perfectly against mine.

And I didn’t want it to stop.  After some time he pulled away from my lips. I whined but accepted it. 

“Darlin’ I gotta go but... I wanna see ya again if that’s alright?” My eyes lit up and I nodded. “Of course that’s alright, here give me your phone.” He did just that and I carefully type in my number making sure I don’t fuck it up. And I put my name in his contact list right under my number. 

“Thanks sweetheart, I'll see ya around?” I rubbed the back of his neck. “Mhm you will Joel.” I leaned up on my tip toes and kissed his lips one last time. He smiled. His fucking smile was just as gorgeous as the rest of him. 

“Alright you get home safe darlin’” He said. I wanted to respond but the words were lost on me. 

After I shake away whatever trance Joel put on me I race to find Alex. Normally it’s her ditching me to dance with a guy but it was me tonight and nothing but guilt ate away at me. Until I saw her leaning over the bar, twirling her hair at the bartender. I sighed in relief and nodded my head knowing I’m driving us home tonight. 

A week later

A week has gone by since dancing and making out with Joel. Besides the feeling of his hands on me and his warm lips on mine the only other thing I can think about is how stupid I’d been. I’m stupid because I gave him my number, so I have to wait for him to text me. 

It’s been a week and I got nothing from him. 

I try not to overthink too much as I brew this random lady’s espresso. I mean he’s the one that wants to see me again in the near future so surely he’ll text me… right? 

It didn’t help that I head that damn song on the radio twice this week. Nickleback is haunting me with the memories of that night.

I couldn’t be thinking of him right now, I have to finish work here at the cafe and prepare for an interview for a potential second job. 

Babysitting isn't the hardest job in the world but it isn’t the most reliable. I took it up a lot in high school and my first year of college but it never stuck. But right now I could use the extra cash. 

I changed out of my apron and pulled the flyer that just has the address and reads “I am in need of a babysitter for my 10 year old daughter. I am a divorced parent who got promoted at work and will not be able to be there for my little girl as much as I used to. Looking for a young adult with a basic schedule.” 

Seems simple enough.

I pulled up to the house. It was cute. In a suburban little neighborhood not too far from Round Up actually. This made me ache a bit but I had to get it together.

I put on my best customer service smile and knocked on the door.

When it opened I gasped and nearly fell to my knees.

It was fucking Joel.