#pet diabetes awareness

[valuablerecipes]

Q: What is diabetes mellitus in creatures?

Diabetes mellitus is a consistent infection that affects dogs and cats. It causes an extreme glucose charge due to the body’s inability to create or respond to insulin.

Q: How does high blood strain affect pets tormented by diabetes?

High blood stress can worsen the complications of diabetes in pets. It burdens organs, including the kidneys, and might result in more fitness problems if not controlled nicely.

Q: How crucial is a weight loss program in controlling animal diabetes?

Answer: Proper vitamins are critical for controlling diabetes in animals. By feeding a balanced food regimen, proprietors can help keep blood sugar levels within the normal range and maintain the well-being of pets with diabetes.

[hueseok]

it was always you.

for as long as you remember, you’ve always had the fattest crush on your childhood friend, jeon jungkook. it never blossomed into something more though, because that’s what happens when life naturally takes it course—you grow up, you move on, and you pretend that those feelings never existed in order to maintain the good friendship that remained between the two of you over the years.

so when he visits you after work one day, asking you to marry him, you do everything you can to refuse, because the reason he’s asking you isn’t due to the fact that he finally realized that he loved you after all this time, but because he thinks he’s doing you a big favor.

or at least, that’s what you think.

pairing: jungkook x reader

word count: 13.2k

rating: 18+

content: fluff, semi-angst, childhood friends to lovers au, pining au | ft. naval aviator!jungkook + brother’s best friend!jungkook; professor!reader + editor!reader | inspired by purple hearts

warning/s: swearing, potentially wrong medical & military information (i’m sorry but i tried to do as much research i can 😭), mentions of having type 1 diabetes, making out, heavy petting, implied sexual content: oral (f. receiving), fingering, penetrative sex, unprotected sex (this is only fiction!)

MINI PLAYLIST: ♫ die with a smile — lady gaga, bruno mars ♫ juno — sabrina carpenter ♫ selfish — *nsync ♫ nandito na ako — benj pangilinan, angela ken

opening note. omg this is my first full length fic in two damn years i think??? certainly took a long time before i had the motivation to write again but i hope y'all like this! to my og readers who still keep up with my shenanigans, this one's for you 🥹💗

“Any questions?”

A boy wearing half-rimmed glasses raises his hand and you gesture for him to speak. “Can we get an extension on the Save the Cat project due tomorrow?”

You sigh, just as several of your students begin agreeing with him and muttering reasons of their own why the extension should be approved. It’s the week before finals, and you’re aware that the class must be packed with assignments and projects for several of their classes because of it, hence the rather last minute request. They look tired and pleading, a complete reflection of how you were when you were the one in their position nearly a decade ago, begging for an extension from a professor who you thought was kind enough to be swayed with the proposition.

You scan the crowd. “How many of you are at least 70% with it, hm?”

More than half of the class raises their hands.

“Okay, that’s honestly unexpected,” you say, pleased to know that they aren’t slacking on your subject. “Does Monday sound good? That’s three more days, to be fair. I don’t want to extend it further because I have to read everyone’s work and you guys know I don’t like rushing it before turning in your final grade.”

A chorus of relief and thanks echoed in the room, all of your students either dramatically sinking in their chair or erupting in an animated conversation with their seatmate or making crying faces to portray how grateful they are.

“Thank you so much, Ms. ____!”

“I love you, Ms. ____!”

“Ms. ____, I will offer my first child to you,” one theatrically adds and you smile a bit, rolling your eyes at students like this one who is now opting to flatter you way too much for your act of kindness.

“Alright, alright. Just get it done and I’m expecting quality work, okay? Class dismissed.”

The whole class begins to gather their things at the cue and you don’t stay there a minute longer after your announcement, exiting the lecture hall to head to the faculty room where you’re certain half of the teaching staff have gone home already. It’s already 8:47 p.m., and all you want to do is head home to get the rest you deserve after an eventful day.

There was a time that having a schedule from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. wasn’t the norm for you. You used to value work life balance so much—it was even a nonnegotiable you used to say in interviews, saying that if you didn’t get enough rest within the week, then the job most likely wasn’t for you. But things have been very different for the past months; you have definitely grown out of that mindset due to the fact that you’re simply in need of another source of income to pay for your monthly rent, utility bills, and now your medication. You’re in a stage of your life wherein you consider working part time as a professor was a blessing rather than a big nuisance.

Making a right turn to where the hallway to the faculty room is, you’re too busy rearranging the papers inside the folder you’re holding to notice a man sitting on the bench placed just beside the entrance. He notices you the second you appear in his line of vision though; he straightens his posture and proceeds on standing up immediately upon seeing you closer, calling your name softly when you failed to look at his direction, too preoccupied with the thought of finally coming home that you’re oblivious that the man trying to catch your attention is Jeon Jungkook.

“____,” he calls again and this time you notice him, your eyes widening instantly.

“Holy shi—” You stop yourself from finishing that sentence. “Jungkook?”

He grins. “Hey, lamb chop.”

“What the hell are you doing here?”

“Is that how you greet an old friend?”

“Oh, fuck off.”

He laughs, following suit to you who’s already giggling just by his presence alone, outstretching his arms then. “You gonna hug me or what?”

You beam and step forward to embrace him. He returns it without hesitation, muscular arms circling around you and squeezing tightly that it lifts you up from the ground for a quick second. The faint smell of fabric conditioner on his clothes enters your nostrils and you feel like a teenager again, warmth rushing to your face while your heart hammers loudly in your chest. Regardless of how old the both of you are, you think your hopeless crush on the guy will forever live on and constantly transform you into a middle school girl whenever opportunities like these to have him near arise. You’re just happy you’ve trained yourself to be better at hiding it now compared to when you were younger.

“Aren’t you supposed to be in base or wherever it is that you’re designated?” you ask, the first to let go from the hug.

“Actually, I returned from deployment three days ago. I’m on leave for two weeks.”

“Wow. Two weeks, huh?”

“Yep. It’s the longest break I’ve gotten in a while.”

“That’s good. Everybody needs a break from time to time.”

“Says the girl has a day job and a night job.” He points out with a smirk; your heart does a little leap at how handsome he looks doing that. “When the hell did you get into teaching, by the way? I never pegged you to be the kind who can tolerate it. You hate kids.”

“You’ll find yourself tolerating lots of things in this economy.” You snort. “And my students aren’t kids. They’re in college.”

“Yeah, which you graduated from six years ago. Still technically kids.”

“Are you seriously jabbing at my age when you’re two years older than I am?”

He rolls his eyes at that one, an indication that you won the argument. “Anyway,” he starts again and you grin, “I didn’t come here to compare how old we are—”

“You didn’t?”

He sends you a look. Your grin gets even wider.

“I’m here because I was hoping to treat you to dinner.”

“Dinner?” you repeat, not masking the surprise from your voice.

Let’s get the facts straight before we proceed to this conversation.

It isn’t a lie when you say that you and Jungkook are great friends. You have been since you were 7 and your family just moved into the house next to theirs. He was a natural playmate, a companion when you couldn’t tolerate the antics of your older brother, the boy who looked out for you aside from said older brother, and the person you’ve shared significant history with throughout your youth that you can never seem to forget nor disregard.

It’s just that you never deemed that you were great enough friends for him to go out of his way and visit you at your workplace, offering to treat you for dinner. Gestures like that were reserved for your older brother, Seowon, who’s the same age as he is and who you’re sure is considered as his best friend. Compared to them, yours and Jungkook’s dynamic shifted slightly after graduating from college. What once was a really close friendship turned into a casual one, with mostly just teasing, light talks, and the occasional welfare checks at times you hear certain news from the other that’s worth speaking directly about.

At the mention of that, realization dawns on you on why he must be here.

“Jungkook…” You’re trying not to sound mad but you can’t hide the exasperation from your voice. “That’s not the real reason you’re here.”

“Of course, it is. Why else would I be here?”

“He told you, didn’t he?” you ask, not willing to drag this out. “You’re just going to give me another lecture that I definitely don’t need.”

Jungkook frowns, like he’s dismayed that you caught on pretty swiftly.

“I’m right, aren’t I?” You pressed.

“He meant well, ____.”

You scowl. To remark that Seowon is unnecessarily nosy and coddling would be an understatement. That man hasn’t left you alone the second he was aware of your condition. Usually, whenever he gets into his ‘big brother tendencies’, his girlfriend Winnie steps in and helps you lay him off your back. However, it’s different this time; no matter how much you reinstill your independence and insist that you’re fine, it’s like you’re talking to a wall.

“What exactly did you hear from him?” you query.

He seems hesitant in answering that. “That you got diagnosed with type 1 diabetes.”

You wince.

“Look,” he steps forward towards you, “I wasn’t going to bring it up unless you did, okay? I’m just here because I’m genuinely worried about you and I want to know how you’re doing.”

“I’m fine.” You murmur. “You don’t need to worry.”

“Worry doesn’t vanish magically just because someone says so.”

“Well, it should—because I’m fine.”

“You sure? I heard that you’re struggling to buy insulin among other things you’re having a hard time paying.”

“Fuck. Seowon told you that too? That’s private.”

“My parents know. He just filled me in because he wants you to have as much support as you can get.”

“I don’t need that. I’m an adult. I’ve lived by myself for years. I can fend for myself just fine.”

“It doesn’t look like it from what I’ve been hearing.”

“All you’re hearing is a warped and exaggerated version of the story told by Seowon who won’t listen to a word I say.” You huff. “I’m fine and I’ve been doing everything I can, alright? I’m taking care of myself. I’m going to the doctor whenever I need to. I’m making ends meet, buying treatment for this goddamn disease and regulating my sugar levels all the fucking time. Why do you think I’ve been working two jobs for the past year? It’s because I’m doing everything I can to stay alive.”

Jungkook doesn’t reply, he only remains gazing at you.

“If you’re here to offer me money or whatever because of what he said,” you add, already embarrassed that you can’t even look at him anymore, “then I don’t want it.”

“That’s not what I’m here for,” he says.

“Then are you really just here to treat me to dinner?” you question sarcastically.

He laughs and you dare return your eyes at him, catching him peering at you with a fond expression. “Yes. It’s my way of doing a welfare check.”

“Welfare check.” You echo with squinted eyes. “Well, in that case, here I am—alive and healthy.”

“I can see that, and I’m glad.” He smiles. “But I need more than just seeing you. I need a conversation and an apology.”

“An apology?”

“For being the last person to know about your condition.”

“And we’re still talking about that apparently.” You mutter under your breath. “Sorry. I didn’t think that you wanted to know.”

“Of course, I would have wanted to know. It’s you we’re talking about here.”

Something about how he said you causes your lips to twitch as you fight off a smile. This isn’t a good time to dive into your romantic feelings for your childhood crush, but when he’s letting go of lines like that which are sure to have your heart soaring out of your chest, it’s hard to keep on a cool and unfazed facade. You just convince yourself that he sees you as a little sister and that’s why he’s so worried; you should already be past your ‘delulu’ phase at this age to be affected by such statements.

“I didn’t want to add to your worries,” you reason. “You already have your life to think about. Add to the fact that you’re a naval aviator—so you literally have your own life first to think about.”

“I can make space for you.”

Is he flirting? Is this a normal thing to say between friends?

You blink. “Okay, uh, that’s… that’s completely up to you, I guess.”

“I just like knowing those things first hand. It makes me worry less.”

“Got it. Next time I learn I’m dying, I’ll tell you.”

“____,” he says your name in warning, and you know he’s serious.

“Sorry.” You heat up. “I couldn’t resist.”

“Don’t be a pain in the ass.”

“I promise that’ll be the last time I make a dark joke, Lieutenant.”

Jungkook’s nostrils flare. You prevent yourself from grinning like a fool again in success of getting on his nerves.

“Are you done here? Because I’m hungry and would really like to get going now.” He changes the subject and gestures to the faculty.

“Yeah. I’ll just get my things and then I can get out of here.”

“Great. You’re letting me take you to dinner, right?” 

“Do I have a choice?”

“No.”

“Fine.” You deadpan.

This time, he’s the one who’s beaming at you. “I’ll wait for you here and we can go.”

“Okay.”

****

When Jungkook discovered that you had type 1 diabetes through a phone call with Seowon, he spent the rest of the night staring at the ceiling, ignoring the snores of his squadmates and overthinking what’s supposed to happen to you now that you had an autoimmune disease which he was told didn’t have a cure. He was assured that you were okay despite it, that there was medication to treat it, and that you had access to them and have been very careful with your lifestyle due to the diagnosis ever since.

He still couldn’t be put to ease though. As ridiculous as it may sound, he had this overwhelming realization that life truly was short, that you had to make certain decisions all the time because you need to adjust to what the universe is only willing to give you. It was funny coming from a person who risked his life for a living. He thinks that perhaps he never understood the philosophy of the quote ‘time is gold’ until he had a loved one on the same trajectory, always one step closer to possible death.

And so that same night, he decided to file a leave for two weeks, effective immediately after his deployment. 

He wasn’t sure what his game plan was exactly in filing that two-week leave. Was he supposed to barge in your life and force you to let him take care of you? Was he supposed to demand why you ended up having diabetes? Was he supposed to act as a big brother like your actual big brother because he was that worried about you? But if Jungkook was going to be truthful, he already had an idea on what he wanted to do in the back of his head—he just didn’t want to execute it because it was absolutely insane.

Until he heard Seowon suggest it himself when they met up at a bar to share a drink together.

“She would never say yes,” Jungkook said, beyond doubt that you won’t be persuaded that easily with a plan like that.

Seowon made a face. “I know. That girl is so hyper independent—she’d rather die than accept help.” He scoffed. “She needs it though. It’ll help with her medication and she won’t have to pay rent for that shit apartment she’s living in. Plus, she'll actually get the chance to take care of her body if she’s not juggling two jobs to have sufficient income.”

“You’re right.” Jungkook shrugged.

“You’ll do it then?”

He took a sip of his beer. “Yeah. I’d do anything for ____, you know that.”

“Even as crazy as marrying her?”

“Sure.”

Seowon stared at him, narrowing his eyes and morphing his expression into a teasing one. “Are you sure you’re not just considering this because it’s a perfect excuse to marry my sister? I know you like her.”

“I don’t like her.” 

“You’re in love with her.”

“I don’t—” Jungkook began to deny but Seowon was staring him down. “Fuck you, man. Don’t make me some kind of pervert who’s trying to lock her into marriage because he likes her. You’re the one who brought the idea up.”

Seowon laughed out loud. “I know, I just can’t believe you’d agree. It’ll benefit ____, that’s for sure—you, on the other hand? It’s career suicide.”

He shrugged. “I’m okay with the thought that she’ll be okay.”

“Because you love her, man.” Seowon pushed. “Why on earth would you consider this if you weren’t? It’s a fraudulent marriage. You’ll be thrown in the brig and be dishonorably discharged if you get caught.”

“We don’t even know if she’ll agree to this whole thing. You said it yourself, she would never say yes.”

“Yeah, unless maybe you’re the one who tries to persuade her.”

“Me?”

“Yes.”

“Do you want me to buy her a ring and kneel down before her or something?”

“That can work.”

“What?” Jungkook laughed.

Seowon raised an eyebrow. “Don’t tell me you don’t know how she’s been crushing on you since we were kids.”

He barked out a laugh again. That he knew; it was impossible not to when a lot of friends and cousins kept on teasing you before, especially at instances Jungkook was in the very same vicinity. “We’re not kids anymore and I barely see her though.”

“Still, it ought to count to something. It raises the chances of her agreeing.”

“You’re really cool with me marrying your sister, Won?” Jungkook asked.

Seowon placed down the beer bottle he’s consuming on the counter. “Yeah. You’re a good guy. You’re not perfect, but I know you enough to know that you won’t do anything that will purposely hurt her. Besides, if this sham marriage ends up to be a real relationship and then for some reason, you fuck up and decide to break her heart—I’ll easily know what to do, where to find you, and then I’ll do everything I can to fuck you up.”

Jungkook pressed his lips together to stifle a chuckle.

“Noted.”

****

It’s always been a big wonder to you how no matter how long it’s been since you saw each other, it still feels like no time has passed between you and Jungkook. You think that’s why you can never get over him; he always had this comforting and familiar aura that you appreciate—something that you sought for in every other person that you liked. Maybe it was impractical, maybe it was the reason you can never hold a relationship for more than two years, but unless you gain the courage to confront your feelings and tell Jungkook about it, then you constantly dispel any doubts you might have whether this was good for you or not.

You don’t want to lose him. Admitting that you harbored romantic feelings for him would just make it awkward for everyone: your brother, your family, and then his family. You don’t think you can ever trade his smile, the sound of his laughter, and all the good things about him for anything in the world. 

“Are you dating anyone?” he asks.

You choke on your drink, having just poured yourself and Jungkook a glass of water after the server arrived with the pitcher. You’re in a Japanese restaurant near the university, aware that the cuisine was a favorite for the both of you hence why it’s what you recommended when he asked where you wanted to dine. The place is packed with people from the workforce and students; you’re thankful that you don’t see any of your students within the mix.

“We’re getting straight to it, huh?” you say.

Jungkook smirks. “I’m just making sure I’m not upsetting a boyfriend by meeting you tonight.”

“Don’t worry, you’re not upsetting anyone.”

He nods in understanding. You don’t want to add more meaning to his actions for the evening but he seems glad about the information.

“How about you?” you ask back. “Are you dating anyone?”

The ends of his mouth lift a bit upwards. “Nope.”

“Why? You don’t have the time for it?”

“Precisely.”

“It must be really hard dating when you’re in the Navy then.”

“Kinda. We’re away a lot and stationed in different places most of the time. It can get really dangerous for us too and people don’t like the stress that comes with that.”

 You bob. “Does it get lonely?”

“Sometimes, but when you’re on duty, you don’t get to think about those things.” He chuckles. “Besides, I don’t know if this sounds fucked up or not—but it can get exciting. Flying a plane can be fun, you know. Not to mention that it helps when you’re surrounded by good men in your squadron.”

“You’ve always been an adrenaline junkie.”

“And you’ve always been a scaredy-cat.”

You scoff at the declaration. “No, I’m not.”

“Remember when Seowon and I forced you to ride that ship in the amusement park that sways left to right and as it goes on it falls from a higher standpoint?”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

But you do, and Jungkook knows you do, it’s evident by how your expression is trying to feign innocence. That memory is your villain origin story; the whole pretext of why you refuse to ever visit the amusement park or ride an exhilarating ride again. Yet you can’t help but recall that it’s one of the rare instances wherein you got to hold Jungkook’s hand when you two were younger, as his hand was the one you were clinging for dear life when it happened while the other was too busy slapping Seowon in irritation.

He snickers, appearing like he’s replaying the scene in his head. “We should do that again with Seowon during my break.”

“Hell no.”

“I thought you weren’t a scaredy-cat?” He challenges.

“I’m not.” You give him a kittenish glare. “But I am busy. I have to send the final manuscript of this book I’m editing to the chief editor next week and it’s about to be finals week for my students as well.”

He fakes a shiver. “I don’t know how you can do two jobs like that, ____. Truly.”

“You work as a naval aviator so I’d say we’re pretty even.”

The waiter arrives with your orders not long after, and you and Jungkook carry on with your conversation, jumping from topic to topic without difficulty. You’re not certain when was the last time you saw each other like this to have so much to talk about—was it last Christmas? Or was it more recent or longer than that? Nevertheless, it feels good and you find yourself blushing multiple times throughout the night, whether it’s because of how his words can have two meanings or how his eyes are staring at you so intensely whenever you’re the one who’s talking.

You like the undivided attention, the back and forth that’s occurring as you discourse, the subtle touches one of you does when something funny arises, how your knees are touching underneath the table. You wonder what’s so different with this encounter that the energy feels so bizarre in a good way? As far as you’re concerned, you’re positive that you’re acting like you always have in his presence—lively, smiley, sarcastic—and aside from the little touches of flirting here and there, Jungkook’s acting like he always has too.

When dinner was done, Jungkook offered to drive you home. You obliged, no longer in the mood to annoy him for you were tired to make the effort. Before stepping outside the restaurant however, you excused yourself to the restroom first, checking your blood sugar with the glucose meter you brought along wherever you went. It’s a hassle but it’s necessary, largely because you’re still in the middle of saving up for the insulin pump that would help you regulate your sugar levels easier.

After administering yourself with the insulin injection you have, you spend a few more seconds inside the enclosed room. You should be past the point of feeling sorry for yourself, but it’s times like this wherein you’re with a loved one that the dejection hits and you wish that you’re in a better predicament than you are right now. You’re close to being broke, you’re overworked, you’re somehow fatigued all the fucking time—those factors aren’t soothing your worries at all. It’s a miracle how you manage to keep an optimistic mind amidst everything.

“Ready to go?” Jungkook smiles at you once you’re back at the table and you nod, clutching your bag tighter against your body and following him to his car.

He drives you to your place, turning the radio on, and letting it play while the both of you sit in silence. You’re both tired and you almost even sleep during the ride. It’s only when Jungkook gently shakes you awake that you realize that you’ve arrived in front of your apartment building.

“I’ll walk you up,” he insists as you’re unbuckling the seatbelt. 

“That’s no need, Kook.”

“Of course, it is,” he says. “I’ll walk you up. That’s nonnegotiable.”

So, you allow him.

It takes five minutes tops to reach the door leading to your apartment. As you rummage through your bag to grab your keys, Jungkook patiently stands there, occasionally glancing around the hallway and even smiling when the old lady that resided in the same floor got out of her room to throw out the trash. He receives a smile in return which you notice and grin fondly at.

“Well, this is me.” You turn to him, done unlocking your door. “I’d invite you inside but you should probably get going. It’s quite a long drive back home.”

“Yeah.” He breathes out a chuckle. “Hey, tonight was fun. It made me realize how I missed you.”

Your brain temporarily malfunctions; you force yourself to recover quickly. “Me too. I had fun tonight. Maybe we should do this again whenever you’re on a break.”

“Agreed.”

You flash him a smile. “You can go now. Goodnight.”

Jungkook nods, however doesn’t move a muscle. He’s looking at you, like really looking at you, his eyes moving from one feature to another, as if he’s memorizing your face or having a hard time arranging the words he wants to say. You guess it’s the latter, familiar with a tongue-tied Jungkook that it takes you a few good seconds before you’re demanding why he’s impersonating a mannequin.

“There’s something I want to say,” that’s what he utters and you almost snort due to your assumption being right.

“Okay…” The smile is still on your lips. “What is it?”

“Promise me you won’t get mad first.”

“Well, if you’re making me promise that then it’s probably worth being mad about.”

“It’s not as bad as you think.”

“That’s not convincing at all.”

“It’s just…” He begins and trails, biting his lower lip, “it’s… it’s why I went here. Why I went here to see and meet you, I mean.”

You unconsciously recoil at the revelation. It’s certainly a rookie mistake to believe that there was no ulterior motive in Jungkook meeting you today. You just didn’t reckon you’d actually be truly disappointed at that—at the idea that he just didn’t randomly decide to visit and be with you earlier until now.

You draw a long breath. “Well, I knew you weren’t just feeling generous and wanted to treat me to dinner out of nowhere.”

There’s a pause and then he resumes. “Just—before I say it, you have to hear me out, okay? You have to let me explain before you berate me.”

“I can’t promise that either.”

“You have to.”

“Why do I have to?”

“Because what I’m about to say is for your own sake. You know I always have your best interest at heart, don’t you?”

You wrinkle your forehead in further confusion. “Can you just get on with it? The vagueness is making me more annoyed.”

“I just don’t want you to misunderstand.”

“Misunderstand what?”

“What I—and Seowon—genuinely think is the best option.”

“Oh, and Seowon is in on this too?” You bellow. “Have you and Seowon just been conspiring behind my back the whole time?”

“Calm down.” Jungkook puts his hands on your shoulders, a chuckle inevitably escaping him. “I’m sorry for dragging it out. You should know I’m high key afraid of you, that’s why.”

“You should be.” You grumble.

Another chuckle, but he’s back to appearing anxious. You want to shout that this isn’t healthy, that you’re close to giving him a real reason to be afraid of you—yet once he blurts the confession out, you’re speechless, gawking at him and staggering backwards in complete shock. Perhaps you would have bolted as far away from him as possible if not for his solid grasp.

“What?” You hiss.

He swallows hard.

“I want you to marry me, ____.”

You don’t bolt away running. You shake off his hold on you though, and before he gets another word in, you’re hastily rushing inside your apartment and slamming the door to his face.

****

Jungkook was your first kiss.

It happened in a game of truth and dare. You were at a party of a mutual friend and when the bottle miserably pointed in Jungkook’s direction, the person who was tasked to think of his dare when it was his pick said that he dared him to do 7 minutes in heaven with you. 

He profusely refused at first, especially since Seowon was in the same party, but everybody began booing and next thing you know, Jungkook was agreeing as long as it was fine with you. When you nodded to make your consent apparent, your friends were quick to shove you both in the closet, some of them pulling Seowon back who was complaining how it wasn’t right to bully you into doing 7 minutes in heaven with Jungkook. They calmed him down once they bullied him into agreeing too.

“We don’t have to do anything,” Jungkook told you in the darkness, his breath fawning over your face. “You don’t have to feel pressured. It’s just a stupid game.”

You blushed.

Secretly, you were hoping that he’d kiss you or touch you. Who didn’t want to do anything with their crush at the age of 15? A lot can happen in 7 minutes. You were aware that sometimes people made out, went as far as third base, and although you didn’t want to go that far with Jungkook, you wanted something to happen while you were stuck in this small closet with him. There weren’t a lot of instances that put both of you in this kind of situation; you wished that you were brave enough to ask him to kiss you or do the first move yourself.

5 minutes in, Jungkook turned towards you.

“Is it true that Taehyung kissed you last week?”

You whipped your head so fast that you might have given yourself whiplash. “That’s—that’s not true. Where did you hear that?”

“During homeroom. Some girls were talking about it.”

Your cheeks burned. “Oh.”

“So, it’s not true?”

“No.” You shook your head. “I haven’t even had my first kiss yet.” You laughed weakly.

It was his turn to seem stunned. “You haven’t had your first kiss yet?”

You shook your head again, then realized he might not see you doing so. “Not yet.”

“Want me to change that?” he asked, grinning.

He said that with a boyish grin and teasing tone, but you sucked at social cues (plus, you really couldn’t see shit that much) that you started nodding.

“Okay,” you told him.

“Huh?”

“You can kiss me.”

“Oh, oh, shit—I didn’t—” He was blabbering, about to take back what he offered. “I mean, I was just joking but—”

You widen your eyes. “You were? Oh my God, I’m sorry, I thought you were—”

“No, it was my fault. That was a little out of line for me. I’m sorry.” He was laughing and you felt like burying yourself 6 feet under. “It was a stupid thing to say. But if you want me to kiss you, it’s cool.”

“It is?” Hope sparked within you.

“Yeah. It’ll just be a peck anyway.” You can tell he was smiling through his voice. “Just don’t tell Seowon because he might punch me in the face for kissing his sister.”

You cackled. “Deal.”

56 seconds before the 7 minutes were up, Jungkook leaned down to match your level and placed his lips on yours. 

****

You’re seething with rage, the embodiment of Godzilla, channeling the God of War, Ares, in your body; you harshly press Seowon’s number on your phone to call him and he answers after three rings.

“What’s up?”

“I will fucking murder you,” you snarl.

A beat. You hear shuffling. Then he answers, “you already talked with Jungkook?”

The nonchalance and calmness in his voice drives you to be more frustrated than you already are. “Yes, I have! What is wrong with you? Why would you plant that idea on his head?” You yell, not caring that your walls are thin and that your voice can probably be heard by the couple that lived next door. You’re feeling a mixture of anger, embarrassment, and every negative emotion that exists at the moment. You’re comparable to a bull who just saw the color red.

“____, it won’t be a big deal if you don’t make it to be.”

“Are you hearing yourself right now?”

“Did you even let Jungkook explain?”

“I don’t need him to spell everything out. I know why he’s asking me to marry him.”

“Then you know too that it’d be good for you.”

“Marrying him won’t be good for me.”

“Why not?”

“It just won’t!”

“You’ll get health insurance benefits that you don’t get with your current jobs. You can pay less rent once you move in at Jungkook’s place—there’s a huge chance he won’t even let you pay him while you stay there too. He’s away most of the time anyway, so staying there wouldn’t be a problem. Plus, you can start studying for a masters degree like you’ve always wanted.”

You groan. “Not like this. This is crazy.”

“The both of you can divorce once you’ve saved up a little. It really isn’t that complicated.”

“It’s a sham marriage!”

“It’s a sham marriage with Jungkook.”

“That doesn’t make it better.”

“Are you sure? Your grade school diary might disagree.”

“Oh my God, that’s fucking low of you to bring that up. You just gave me another reason to hate you.” You stomp around the living room, acting like a teenager because of your brother’s behavior. This isn’t the first time he revealed that he’s read your diary before; that doesn’t mean it’s less infuriating to be reminded that he has. “I swear, you better fucking sleeping with one eye open tonight. I’m choking you to death.”

Seowon laughs out loud. “Just marry him. He’s surprisingly amicable with the idea.”

“That’s because you’re pressuring him! I bet you and Mom devised this entire thing together.”

“Mom doesn’t know. To be fair, she’d probably have the same reaction as you. It’s all me and Jungkook.”

“Wow. You have two brains and yet none of you thought this was goddamn stupid?”

“It’s not stupid. It’s genius if you come to think of it,” he says. “Jungkook just wants to help you, dude. He wants to make sure you’ll be okay and all that shit. You’re the reason he filed for a two-week leave, did he tell you?”

Your heart does that jumping thing again. “No.”

“Well, he did. He’s on a break for two weeks because he wants to convince you to marry him and actually marry you within that time frame.”

“This is nuts.” You sigh, finally flopping down the sofa and rubbing your face with your free hand. “The both of you are nuts. How are you okay with this?”

“It’s Jungkook. I trust him. Don’t you?”

“Of course, I do, I just—” you cut yourself off and frown, “I just feel like it’s unfair for him. I’m marrying him because of military spouse benefits and what does he get?”

There’s a long pause, and you almost check your phone to see whether Seowon has already hung up on you or not.

“It’s better that Jungkook answers that question,” he tells you finally.

“Why? You can’t answer it on behalf of him?”

“Something like that.” You can imagine him shrugging. “All I know is that he’s genuinely concerned about your health and your financial status right now. So, just think about it, okay?”

“God, fuck it, fine. I’ll think about it.” You grimace.

You hang up and glance at the door.

You don’t think the conversation you just had with Seowon took that much time. The initial rush you had upon having your longtime crush propose to you is wearing off and you’re realizing that it was a dick move to literally slam the door right in Jungkook’s face earlier, leading you to stand up from your seat and look through the peephole to check if he’s still there.

He isn’t, which you sigh in relief at.

As you lean against the door and regulate your breathing, you think how funny it is that Seowon is right about one thing—and that was grade school you would have been delighted at the thought of getting married to Jungkook. He’s your dream guy; your parents loved him, his parents loved you, the both of you got along very well, and his personality and looks are everything that you’re looking for in a partner. It sucks that you live in a world where the only reason he wants to marry you is because he’s afraid you’ll die because of self-neglect. 

Your phone pings and you unlock the screen to look at the message that flashes on it.

Jungkook: hey, seowon just messaged me to say that you two already talked Jungkook: i’m sorry for jumping on you with a topic like that… Jungkook: i’m shit at confrontation lol Jungkook: also it’s the first time i’m proposing so give me some slack

You scoff at his audacity to joke about it this soon.

You: it’s okay You: i’m sorry too for what i did You: the answer is no btw

Jungkook: already??? Jungkook: let’s talk about it first

You: no need You: i don’t want to marry you

Jungkook: oof that’s harsh

You: sorry not sorry?

He doesn’t respond and you think you’re safe. Maybe Jungkook does take no for an answer and you’re confused because you’re a little disappointed that he’s not falling on his knees, begging you to marry him like what your imagination is supplying you.

However, after you took a shower and went to check your phone again, you see that Jungkook messaged you a few minutes ago in response to your last message.

Jungkook: give me 10 days and i’ll change your mind

You have the urge to go take a shower again because of how hot your body is feeling at the statement.

You: hate to break it to you but you’re not matthew mcconaughey

Jungkook: 🤣🤣🤣

****

It’s not part of Jungkook’s branding to chase a woman. Typically, women chase him; they chase him in every city and country that he gets stationed in, flirting with him and hoping that they’ll get the chance to take him home for the night for a mindblowing one-night stand. They never succeed though, for despite their pretty faces and sultry gestures, Jungkook only smiles and declines every offer, saying that he had a girl waiting back home that he loved very much.

He used to think that he only used that as an excuse because he’s not the type to hook up with every attractive girl he meets. There are times when he succumbs, when he gives into the temptation of a little fun, especially after a life threatening or highly stressful mission—but most of the time, he thinks he declines and use that pronouncement of his because his mind reverts him to the idea of you, to what would happen if he just gained the balls to ask you out.

Evidently, although asking you out and asking you to marry him are two completely different things, he’s a bit afraid that your answer will always be a hard no. It’s what you’ve been literally spelling out to him since the day he presented the idea, regardless of how he’s trying his best in swooning you or explaining how this is the perfect plan to help you gain an upper hand with your diagnosis.

“I’ll file a restraining order against you, I’m serious,” you say to him when he appears yet again outside the faculty room, waiting for you to gather your things and head home. You’re wearing a white button up shirt and pinstripe wide leg trousers, an outfit combination that he ogles at before he goes down to business.

“You wouldn’t.” He glares at you. He gestures for you to let him take your backpack, and despite what you said, you let him. “Also, what the fuck is in this thing? You’ll break your back if you keep using this.” He swings your backpack on one shoulder.

You laugh. “My laptop, its charger, a couple of notebooks, books, pens, then the outputs of my students.”

“Aren’t they supposed to submit virtually? What happened to Google Classroom?”

“I still use it, but sometimes I like to have their work printed out so I can write the comments better. How do you know Google Classroom?”

“I have a squadronmate whose kid uses it for class.”

“Ah.” You nod in understanding.

You two continue walking forward.

This has been your program for the past few days. Jungkook goes to the university you work at, he’ll wait outside, you’ll threaten him with something ridiculous, he’ll take your bag, he’ll offer to take you to dinner, you’ll decline, and then he’ll drive you home anyways. Before that routine ends, he’ll lean on your door frame and give you his best puppy eyes, asking you to marry him for the sake of your welfare, and you’ll scowl at him, insisting that you don’t need his help to survive.

“Dinner?” he asks, right on schedule.

You glance at him. “No. I want to go home and sleep for 12 hours.”

“Busy day?”

“Yep.”

“You know, if you marry me, you won’t have to work two jobs and overexert yourself.”

He doesn’t need to turn to you to know that you’re giving him a dirty look. “I won’t marry you, Jungkook.”

“Why not?”

“Because marriage doesn’t work that way.”

“It does. Billionaires do it all the time. The mafia does it too. It’s always been some kind of transaction.”

“Well, if I marry you, what do you get?”

“The assurance you’re taken care of.”

“That’s cheesy.”

You share a laugh and he grins.

“It’s true,” he says. “I’ll be fine as long as you are.”

He waits for you to quip back a reply, flickering his eyes to you when it takes longer than usual. Instead of the sneer he’s expecting, you appear to be flustered, an expression that is very recognizable for him who’s known you since forever—an expression that makes it too obvious for Jungkook that the crush you had on him that he thought has been long gone was still there. He’s been seeing it a lot lately, particularly when he’s uttering lines that sound flirtatious on purpose; he’s positive that you’ll threaten to kill him when you discover that he basks on the fact that he can still make you all flustered and cute, which encourages him to do and say anything that would elicit a reaction from you. Was it unethical to seduce you into marrying him? He might have to rethink that part too.

Reaching the parking lot, he unlocks the doors to his vehicle and places your bag inside the backseat. He watches you walk around the car, about to go to the passenger’s side, but then you wobble a bit and his attempt to get inside is instantly forgotten.

“Hey,” he strides to where you are, gazing at you as you now hold onto the hood, “you alright?”

You raise your chin up. “Kook, can you get my bag?”

Jungkook doesn���t need to be told twice. He’s swinging the door again and getting your bag from the other end of the backseat while you get on the passenger’s seat, keeping the door wide and placing your legs outside, your feet planted on the concrete.

“What do you need?” he asks, crouching in front of you and zipping the bag open.

“Glucometer.”

He halts. “What does that look like?”

“It’s in the yellow bag. There.” You point at it right when he rummages through a certain part.

He brings it out and you take it from his grasp. Your movements are sluggish but he can discern that you’re doing your best not to be too slow; he’d present to help but he knows that he might prolong what you’re doing due to his cluelessness, so he just observes, noting how you’re pricking your finger with a device and then pressing it lightly to the glucometer which shows that your blood sugar is low.

“Apple juice,” you mutter to him and he finds it faster than the last one.

You grab the juice pouch from his grasp, prying the straw attached on the back, pushing its end for it to pop out of its plastic cover—then your hand shakes, preventing you from continuing and punching in the straw properly.

“Let me do it,” he says.

You don’t fight him, you just slump against the seat as Jungkook picks up from where you left, and the moment he does the job and guides the straw to your awaiting lips, a long exhale through your nose escapes you.

“How are you feeling?” he whispers. He didn’t notice that he was holding his breath the entire duration of the scene.

Another sigh. “Better.”

“Does this happen a lot?”

You seem to hesitate. “Not a lot. Just when life gets a bit too hectic.”

“____—”

“Just take me home.” You don’t give him the chance to lecture you. “Please, Jungkook.”

Defeated, he nods. “Alright.”

“Thank you.”

He helps you position yourself properly on the passenger’s seat. “But we’re talking about this at your place.”

Before you can protest, he closes the door.

****

Lee Hyunwoo was the name of the guy that you brought home for Christmas Eve eight years ago. It was the first time that you did, and Jungkook hated how Hyunwoo was considerably handsome, intelligent, and kind—the exact kind of person he always imagined you deserved.

In the short time Hyunwoo spent with theirs and your family that night, everybody loved him and was already inviting him to the next gathering, all the while Jungkook avoided him at every cost, puzzled by this strong dislike he was feeling for your guest. He was annoyed at the manner in which Hyunwoo had an arm around your waist the entire evening, how you grinned up to him, eyes sparkling and all that shit. Hell, you used to look at him like that.

“Honey, can you get the mango float we have in our freezer?” Jungkook heard your mother tell you, and without thinking, he stood up from his chair and made a beeline to where you were, telling you he’d accompany you to your house.

“That’s fine,” you told him. “It’s literally next door.”

“Yeah, but it might be heavy.”

“It’s not.”

“Better safe than sorry.”

You rolled your eyes and agreed then, excusing yourself from Hyunwoo who was in an engaged conversation with Seowon. The pair were geeking out because of their mutual love for the MCU and the next film slated to be released the following year.

Upon arriving at your home, you dashed to the kitchen with Jungkook trudging behind you. He wasn’t sure what his next course of action should be now; all he wanted was some alone time with you, away from the presence of that college boyfriend of yours, but now that he had that, he couldn’t think of anything that he wanted to say or do. He wasn’t even sure why he was feeling a bit jealous—was it because of that saying? Wherein people are bound to want what they can’t have? Or was it that you only appreciate what you had when you’ve already lost it?

“How long have you and Hyunwoo been dating?” he asked, leaning against the counter as you pulled your freezer open.

“Four months, I think.”

“Four months? And you already brought him home?”

You snorted at his tone. “His family is in another country so I thought it’d be nice to invite him.”

“You must really like him then.”

“Yeah, but I’m not in love with him or anything.” You placed the mango float on the space beside Jungkook on the counter. “He’s nice, and he likes me too.”

“Does he treat you well?”

You flashed your eyes at him, amusement dancing in them. “What’s with that question?”

“What’s with it?”

“Nothing, it’s just that…” you trailed, a smirk etched on your face. “Wait a minute, are you… you can’t possibly—” Jungkook was widening his eyes, ready to deny your accusation once you questioned whether he was jealous of Hyunwoo or not— “are you pulling an overprotective brother skit on me, Kook?”

Fuck, thank God, he thought.

“I prefer ‘overprotective friend skit’,” he said.

“That doesn’t have a nice ring to it.”

“But I’m not your brother.”

“You don’t have to be, I’m just saying that you and Seowon have been acting similar since Hyunwoo and I arrived.”

“Nonsense. Seowon likes him.”

“Oh, so you don’t?”

He pressed his lips into a tight line.

“Did you just admit that you don’t like Hyunwoo?” you asked, chuckling. He was grateful that you didn’t seem to be offended by it.

“I didn’t say I didn’t like him.”

“Instead you implied it.”

“No, I didn’t.”

“You kinda did.”

He heard you laugh and he couldn’t help but allow himself to laugh as well.

“I’m sorry,” he apologized. “Maybe I’m just not used to you dating anyone. You are chronically single.”

“Can’t say you’re wrong.” You snorted and picked up from the mango float, marching back to his house and gesturing for him to follow you.

He did, no words spoken between the both of you once more. Though when you were entering their place again, with Jungkook holding the door open for you, he mentioned something he never reckoned he’d have the guts to mention out loud.

“When you open my gift,” he began, “don’t do it in front of Hyunwoo, okay?”

“Why not?” You weren’t paying attention to where you were going, intrigued by his warning.

“He might not like it. You’ll see.”

That night, at the comfort of your bedroom, Hyunwoo nowhere near but instead sleeping at the coach downstairs in your living room, you opened Jungkook’s gift and saw that it was a necklace with your birth flower as its pendant.

You smiled, rolling your eyes to yourself, and slept with that giddy look never leaving your face.

****

“Not so fast,” Jungkook grunts.

Did he think that you were going to be less difficult since he was helpful earlier? Yeah, he did. He likes to think that if it wasn’t for him, you would have taken longer in feeding yourself with apple juice, so he at least wanted a thank you in the form of your willingness to have an adult conversation with him tonight. However, that clearly isn’t the case because when he walked you up to your apartment like he always did, you’re attempting to lock him out, shutting the door as fast as you can once you’re inside, thus trying to prevent him from initiating that talk he wanted the two of you to have.

“Seriously?” He successfully pries the door open and you scowl at him.

“Jungkook—”

“No, you don’t get to reason your way out of this. I’m done hearing you out. It’s your turn to listen to me.” He steps inside your apartment.

You groan, striding to the sofa and throwing your bag there. “You can’t force me to marry you.”

“Is marrying me so fucking bad that you can’t get over it for health insurance benefits that can really help you?” He demands, infuriated. 

“That’s not the issue.”

“Then what is?”

“You can get arrested!” you exclaim. “And so can I! Does that not freak you out?”

“We’ll only get arrested if we get caught.”

“I’m not willing to take the risk.”

“I’m not willing to see you die.”

You scoff out a laugh. “Who the fuck said anything about dying? I’m not dying.”

“You almost passed out on me. You almost—”

“It’s an error on my part, I admit.” You sigh. “When I get busy and preoccupied, sometimes I forget to check my sugar levels regularly throughout the day. I’m sorry.”

“And you expect to be convinced that you have everything handled?”

“God, I’m not a child. Stop treating me like I can’t do shit for myself.”

“Please, ___,” he approaches you with the most pleading expression he can muster, and he watches as your hard expression crumbles, “just accept my help. It’s really not a big deal—you won’t even see me often, so keeping up with the whole marriage ploy wouldn’t be difficult. We’ll divorce in two years, we can pretend we never got married after that.”

“You just don’t get it, don’t you?”

“What do I not get? If you think I don’t understand something, then explain it to me—”

“I can’t marry you,” you say. You do so like it’s final, like there’s no point in arguing with you because he can never change your stand on this. As he’s pleading with his eyes to urge you to agree, you’re communicating with your eyes in a similar way that’s wishing he would just drop this. “It’s wrong.”

His eyebrows furrow. “This isn’t the time to go on your high horse and decide what’s wrong and what’s not. It’s a fraudulent marriage—of course, it’ll be wrong to some degree.”

“No, I mean…” You turn away from him, rubbing your face in exhaustion. “It’d be wrong of me to marry you. I’m taking advantage of you if I do, and I don’t like that.”

Jungkook shakes his head, frustration worsening at the childlike excuse. Surely, you weren’t that naive, were you? “You’re not. I’m not doing this against my own will. Besides, we get extra pay just for being married. If it makes you feel better, I won’t split it with you.”

“That won’t make me feel better.”

“Then what will?”

You flop down on the coach and lean back, closing your eyes. He knows he’s being a pain in the ass but he can’t just stand here and do nothing. He thinks he’s already come too far in convincing you, he isn’t going to back out now. Every single day spent together, he can feel you warming up to the idea of marrying him for health insurance. Your connection and entirety of your relationship has been off the charts recently that it’ll be harder for him not to be assured that before he leaves for his job, you’ll be taken care off.

Jungkook goes to the spot beside you, sitting down. Your knees bump together, he keeps on gazing at you, waiting for you to focus on him; a minute passes and his gaze moves to your hand that’s laying on the small space between you.

Without overthinking, he stretches out and clasps it, allowing his fingers to play with yours that finally captures your attention. The moment he glances up, he sees that you’re staring at him and he doesn’t let go, he even smiles, a quiet promise that he’s always willing to listen to whatever you want to tell him.

You hesitantly smile back. “You know,” your eyes train back to your intertwined fingers, Jungkook reveling in the warmth of your skin, gaining more confidence in acting out his feelings, “there was a time wherein I would have said yes immediately if you asked me to marry you.”

He smirks, can’t deny how hearing that inflates his ego a bit although this route in the conversation isn’t where he expected to go. “What changed?”

“For one, I grew up.”

“Ouch.”

You laugh. Then you stay quiet for a while before speaking. “Can I confess something?”

That piques his interest. “Anything.”

“But you have to promise not to make fun of me.”

“That’s impossible.” He teases. “What is it?”

You stall, readjusting your position so that you can directly face him. Jungkook doesn’t let go of your hand, he keeps it in his grasp, his thumb rubbing along the expanse of your knuckles.

“I like you, Jungkook. I really really do,” you finally say and he blinks, startled.

It shouldn’t surprise him, considering that it’s been long established that he knew of your crush already, though he doesn’t seem to have anticipated for you to boldly admit it when all these years, it’s only been some kind of unspoken understanding that neither of you downright acknowledged.

You continue speaking. “In fact, I like you so much that maybe it developed into love at some point—I’m not sure. I’m at this stage of no longer being afraid of what I feel, I think? Most of the time, I just let it occur like it’s something so natural. Like it’s a feeling that I can never get away from? Like whatever I do, there’s no way to shake you.” You chuckle half-heartedly. “Though never in a million years would I have thought that I’d confess all of this. What for anyway? I don’t want you to be burdened with what my teenage heart couldn’t rub out.”

His mind is racing; hundred thoughts, hundred scenarios, hundred experiences he’s spent with you since the day you met. Jungkook never realized how much he needed you to say that you liked him—that maybe you even loved him—until he heard it from your very mouth that you did, causing every inhibition and doubt he had to vanish. Now, he only wants to engulf you in an embrace and shout Yes, I feel the same way! Sorry for being a fucking corward and not doing this first!

He would have done all of that in a flash if it didn’t appear that you still had something to say. Based on your rather constipated posture and the hand he’s holding that’s becoming clammy, he discerns that you’re just in the first part of what you wanted to admit.

“Actually, that’s also why I can’t let myself marry you,” you say. “I know it sounds ridiculous, but I don’t know… it feels really icky somehow. I feel like I’m holding you hostage, or that I’m tricking you because of an ulterior motive, or that I’m defying the laws of the universe by having the chance to marry you. I’m not sure. I just know that I don’t want to marry you if it means I’ll only get to do so because you think you’re doing me a huge favor. I don’t want to be your charity case, Kook—I deserve to be more than that, you know? I’m not traditional or whatever but if it’s not for love, I’m not keen on getting married.” You abruptly pull away from his clutch, embarrassment washing on your features by what you stated. “Plus, two years might not be that long but what happens when you meet someone and you like her? How can you explain that you’re only married to me because I need it for my medication? It’ll just be unnecessarily messy. I don’t want to hold you back from those kinds of things. I don’t want to be a hindrance.”

That’s his cue. That’s when he knows he’s supposed to kiss you and take your breath away, to admit that he’s certain that he has loved you since that one time when he was in the Naval Academy and although the training was hard as fuck, the thought of you gave him strength and he didn’t want to see anyone as much as he wanted to see you after—that when you and Seowon visited him, that familiar urge to have you alone was all he felt the entire time, solidifying the idea that perhaps he didn’t just see you as a friend.

“You’re unbelievably dense, ___,” he murmurs, smirking at the play of events, and you glance at him, expression showing disbelief that he’s somehow treating this matter lightly.

“What?”

“Do you honestly think I go around and offer marriage to every woman out there who can benefit from being a military spouse? Do you think I’m that generous? I’m not. I wouldn’t ask anyone to marry me for the same reason if they weren’t important to me—or if I didn’t like them. I’m not that much of a saint,” he adds. “I mean, I’m taking a two-week break to convince you to marry me. I’m spending time with you every single day. I’m driving for almost an hour and a half, enduring the traffic to get from my apartment to the university you work in to do that—and you think this is because I want to be charitable?”

Silence. Your forehead wrinkles. He thinks you’re still not getting the point.

“I’m in love with you, ____,” Jungkook says.

Your breath hitches in your throat. You’re opening your mouth, then closing it, then opening it again, then pressing it into a thin line. He thinks you look cute, being taken aback like this, and he’s wishing that he’s done this sooner so that the last five days of him chasing you around like a lost puppy was spent with talking more about what’s possibly waiting for yours and his relationship next.

“Are you serious?” you ask after what seems like forever. “Or are you just saying that because you’re that desperate to have me on board with the whole fraudulent marriage thing?”

“God—” He’s inching closer to you now, laughing, watching your lips twitch at his reaction— “I’m convinced that you were born into this earth to drive me fucking crazy.”

And just like that, he no longer restrains himself from kissing you.

It takes you a few good seconds before you will yourself to move. You can’t seem to process the reality of Jungkook admitting that he was in love with you and then taking the liberty to plant his lips on yours. You’re not complaining, of course, but you are a bit overwhelmed that it literally makes you freeze, unaware of what you’re supposed to do now that your fantasies are coming into life.

However, once you feel him angle his head to the side, doing so to deepen the kiss, your reflexes kick in and you’re kissing him back, encircling your arms around his neck and leaning towards him, Jungkook sighing in what appears to be relief. He grips your hips to support you as you try to straddle him, but your movements are so clumsy that you end up sprawling against his chest instead, perched on a leg of his that provides pleasure on the spot you need him the most. He chuckles at your lack of gracefulness, gliding his lips to your cheek and down to your jaw, nipping.

“This okay?” he whispers with a palm drifting to your bottom.

You nod and Jungkook’s mouth is back on yours in an instant. He squeezes your ass, takes his time in fondling with it, cheekily slapping whenever you get brave yourself and push your tongue past his lips, before he skims his hand lower to your thigh and signals for you to mount him. Upon being properly sat on his lap, you get an immediate feel of his hard length through his jeans, prompting your imagination to run wild and induce the filthiest things he can do to you if neither of you stops.

“Holy shit,” he curses, your kisses roaming to the base of his throat where you lap and suck.

It becomes a dirty pattern for a while. The both of you will take a brief pause from making out to remove a piece of clothing or kiss every other exposed skin there is: the cheek, the jaw, the neck, the collarbones, the shoulders. Then one of you hauls the other back for another passionate kiss, hands skating everywhere on your bodies, sounds of arousal echoing inside the room; you’re starting to get lightheaded but you’re positive it’s not because of your sugar levels running low.

“I hate that it took us so long to get to this point,” he mutters.

You grin. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t apologize. I’m the man—I should have confessed long ago.”

“Why didn’t you?”

“I don’t know. ‘Was afraid to lose you, I guess.” He draws his head back and admires your blissed out expression. “But then when Seowon told me you had diabetes, I panicked and thought that I might lose you either way.”

You go back to making out, Jungkook guiding your hips in grinding on his clothed length. It’s addictive—the intimate feel of him, how he’s not shy in making sure you know how much he’s craving to be as close to you as you are to him. You think you can spend the whole night just doing this and be okay with it.

“Fuck, Kook,” you groan against his mouth, a hand descending to his stomach and to his manhood, “you’re so… so fuckin’ hard.”

You’re palming him now, tracing the erection evident under his boxers.

He lets out a grunt. “Yeah, baby, I know.”

“Do you… do you want me—” You’re breathless, not able to continue whatever it is that you want to say.

He understands you just fine though. “No.” He shakes his head. “Don’t do anything.”

You’re not sure what Jungkook means by that. How are you supposed to do nothing when you want to do everything to him? You soon comprehend what he means when he guides you to lay down on the sofa, when his lips skim lower and lower, passing your breasts, giving them the attention they deserve, until he goes lower than that and discards your underwear, kissing you in between your legs.

It’s like he’s releasing all the pent up emotions he’s been keeping all these years. His tongue and fingers are relentless, his voice is telling you that he’s eager to coax an orgasm out of you, and as he lifts himself up to return to his previous position, face hovering yours, you’re positive that he’ll get everything he wants because without a doubt you’ll give him everything he wants from you too. Hell, if he uses this opportunity to ask you to marry him again, you might answer yes straight away, no longer bearing in mind the worries you expressed to him earlier.

Although did that even matter anymore? Jungkook said he loved you. He said you drove him crazy. You never thought you’d come to see the day he’d utter those words but here you are. The man of your dreams is kissing you, pleasing you, and looking damn enthusiastic as he does all of that.

“Last chance to stop me,” Jungkook teases. His eyes are glassy and you can feel his cock nudging on your thigh.

You giggle, bringing his head closer to press another long kiss on those pink and plump lips of his. “Please never stop.”

“Never?”

“Never.”

“I’m going to take you up on that.”

“Please do.”

After this night, you’re certain that you’ll never allow yourself to be with another man aside from Jungkook. At the back of your head, you always thought that you were his, regardless if that wasn’t true or that there was no real relationship to prove that—however, at this moment, as he thrusts in and out languidly, you unquestionably know that you are. You belong to him now and he belongs to you; he lets you know through his love-filled gaze, his passionate kisses, and the manner wherein he moans your name.

“I love you,” he says, like he’s still in deep longing for your touch and affection.

You hum, tangling your fingers through the strands of his hair. “I love you, Kook.” You stare at his eyes. “I can’t remember a time I didn’t.”

A boyish grin erupts on his features.

Time passes by quickly. In a few more of his kisses, of the intoxicating slam of his hips, of his seductive whimpers, you’re coming beneath him, Jungkook pulling out and jerking his length until he too comes, his seed landing on the base of your tummy. You have the nerve to giggle at that, grinning at him with low-lidded eyes, and Jungkook hastily wipes his cum off your skin, attacking you with another passionate kiss that leaves you breathless.

“There’s no way you’re not marrying me after this,” he murmurs.

You teasingly graze your teeth on his bottom lip. “I’ll think about it.”

He groans. “Don’t think about it. Just say yes.”

“At least let me sleep on it, Kook.”

“Fuck—fine.” He grabs your sides and pulls you flush against his body. “Guess I’ll have to keep on convincing you until you agree.”

****

“God, why is this so difficult?” Jungkook whines, keeping you in his embrace, head tucked between your cheek and shoulder.

The air is very humid and Jungkook’s in his naval aviator uniform, which doesn’t look cool in a sense that air is properly flowing through the material. He doesn’t care though, doesn’t care that it’s sticking to his skin as he refuses to let you go, not even when you complain playfully.

“Kook, I’m fucking sweaty.”

“I don’t care.”

You laugh. 

He’s leaving to return to his duty and you’re here with him outside the base before he enters, being with him until the last possible minute because that’s how much of a good wife you are.

Yes, you and Jungkook did get married. Three days ago in fact, at the city hall’s courtroom. Neither of you invited your parents; they didn’t know about the occasion and you refused to tell them, afraid that they may be critical about yours and his choices when they discover the true reason why you’re rushing to be wed. The only people that remained to be aware of it was Seowon and his girlfriend, Winnie, who served as the witnesses, which was fine by you. In your understanding, this was just for the papers and your health, and not the real deal yet to be celebrated lavishly.

“I’ll propose to you again after a couple of years,” Jungkook promised after the ceremony. “Let’s renew our vows and I’ll give you an amazing wedding.”

You would have told him that there was no need, but who were you kidding? You did want a proper wedding with Jungkook. The previous week didn’t even feel like you were newlyweds. Yes, the both of you compacted all of the dates you could have if one of you weren’t such a chicken in five days, and yes, though the honeymoon stage was experienced and practiced—it was only because you were a new couple who after years of hiding their feelings for one another, was now finally free to express it as much as they desired.

“Call me everyday?” you ask when he finally pulls back, Jungkook pecking your lips one more time.

“Definitely.” He smiles. “Visit me whenever possible?”

“Of course.” You kiss him too.

His smile transforms into a grin. “Take care of yourself, alright? Keep me updated all the time. No sugarcoating allowed.”

“Yes, Lieutenant.”

Rolling his eyes, he gives you another kiss and engulfs you in a tight hug, lifting you off the ground that causes you to giggle.

“Okay, pack it up, love birds!” Seowon shouts.

The two of you turn to your brother who’s leaning on his car, the vehicle that was used to transport the three of you today. You’re still in the middle of moving your belongings at Jungkook’s place and Seowon was kind enough to volunteer helping, always dubious that you could do stuff on your own. Despite your reluctance, you let him assist you, mostly because you’re trying to make a conscious effort in not upsetting him again.

Let’s just say that when the judge hailed you husband and wife at the civil wedding, Seowon wasn’t thrilled to see that the kiss shared between you and Jungkook wasn’t as fake as the supposed sham marriage, leading him to the conclusion that in the middle of Jungkook’s ruse of convincing you to be his wife, something must have happened that led to your approval and that rather 18+ rated kiss. Mostly though, he’s just offended that neither of you thought of telling him that you were an official couple before the wedding.

Jungkook unwillingly places you down.

“I think I need to go,” you say.

He nods with a sigh. “I’ll miss you.”

“I’ll miss you too.”

“Call you tomorrow?”

“Yes.” You affectionately caress his cheek, bringing his face down for the very very very last kiss. 

He leans into it. “Fuck, I don’t want to leave.”

“Seriously—hurry up!” Seowon shouts and you pull back.

“I will kill him,” you tell Jungkook.

“He’s your brother,” he says. “And now, my brother-in-law, so I can’t let you do that.”

“That might be your very first red flag, Jungkook, insinuating that you’re choosing my brother over me.” You cross your arms. “Tell me, if the both of us were drowning, would you save me or Seowon?”

“You,” he answers without missing a beat.

You narrow your eyes. “Is that the truth?”

“Of course. Seowon would probably undrown himself anyway and you’re shit at swimming. It’s an easy choice.”

You punch him hard on the shoulder and he feigns hurt, snickering. “For the record, I don’t think anyone can ‘undrown’ themselves—but fine, you pass the test.”

Jungkook faces Seowon’s direction and does a final salute, your brother returning it swiftly, and just like that, you and him share your last farewells. You watch as he goes through the entrance of the base and sends you a wave of goodbye; you weakly copy the gesture and stand there for a few seconds, just watching him fade from your view the further he trudges inside. You don’t think saying goodbye to him ever felt this heavy, and you blame it on the fact that after all this is the first time you’re saying goodbye to him with the assurance that he loves you too—and that alone weighs millions.

You spin on your heel and go to Seowon who’s already in the driver’s seat. As soon as you get in and wear your seat belt, he’s giving you a dirty look.

“What?” you ask.

“Please never do that in front of me again.”

His statement makes you smirk. “Why? Didn’t you want this?”

“Want what?”

“Me and Jungkook to be together.”

“When on earth did I say that?”

“You previously admitted that you were lowkey playing cupid by suggesting that Jungkook marry me for health insurance.”

A short pause. “Yeah, but that doesn’t mean I have to watch you two reenact a porno every fucking time.”

“We’re not—”

“You are. Don’t deny it.” He grumbles. “God, every time I see you two, it’s like I’m Ross from that one Friends episode where he accidentally sees Monica and Chandler doing it from the window of his apartment.”

“Yeah, I remember that.” You laugh. “In my defense, you haven’t seen me and Jungkook actually do the deed so—”

“Wait, so the two of you have?”

Your expression drops. His tone is approaching older brother protectiveness territory and you’re quick to attempt diffusing the situation. “I will not dive into that. All I’m going to say is that I’m a grown adult and so is Jungkook.”

He grimaces before starting the engine. “Yeah, never dive into that. I don’t need to hear the details.”

You share a laugh and then silence fills the car.

You press your lips together, looking at him while he backs out from the parking spot. “Hey, thanks, by the way. For driving today, and for offering to help me later, and maybe for also never minding your own business.”

You recall how Seowon was the one who couldn’t stop worrying about you and finding a solution when you told your family that you had type 1 diabetes. Your parents were concerned, they pestered you for months to force you to accept financial assistance from them, but they gave up soon after. Seowon though? He never did. He persisted through every outburst you had; he tolerated your bitchiness and your dirty looks all the time. Out of everyone in your life, you always felt like regardless of how stubborn and prideful you could be, Seowon was worse—in the best way possible.

A crooked smile illuminates his face. “You’re my kid sister. It’s my job to never let you experience peace in your whole life.”

You scoff. “Well, you’re damn great at what you do.”

When you reach Jungkook’s apartment, unloading the boxes and arranging your stuff to its designated places, your heart swells in happiness as the reality sinks in that your life is heading in the right direction after months of feeling hopeless. It drives you to be more thankful to the little things, to the people who were always by your side, to your previous circumstance that although wasn’t ideal was still manageable. A lot don’t get to have that kind of privilege and you promise yourself that you’ll make an effort to find more things to be grateful about from this day forward.

“Oh, I forgot to mention,” Seowon approaches in the middle of you arranging your books on Jungkook’s near to empty shelf, “Winnie wanted to give you this. She would have handed it over herself but she’s going to be busy for the next few days.”

You take the frame from his hand and see that it’s the picture Winnie took of you and Jungkook after the ceremony. It’s in the restaurant that you ate at to celebrate the civil wedding. Jungkook was grinning at you with an arm around on the backrest of your chair, you were leaning towards him, smiling at the camera—and the absolute selling point of why this was the best picture ever taken was because of how cake icing was scattered on your faces, places on spots in an artistic manner like it was planted there on purpose for the picture and not because the both of you were being silly that instance.

You think it showcases your relationship with Jungkook marvelously. It’s playful, it’s sweet, and most of all, it demonstrates how you two are clearly great friends.

“This is so beautiful, Seowon,” you say.

You immediately send Winnie a heartfelt thank you message for the gift and continue to take a photo of the frame, sending it to Jungkook as well.

Once you hit send, you type out a message to accompany it.

You: look how cute we look 🥹

You’re certain it’ll take hours before he replies so you keep your phone again, going back to staring at the picture which is now placed on one of the shelves. It’s the sole picture frame you have with Jungkook. In fact, it’s the only picture that Jungkook has in his apartment, and you like to think that this might be the mark of the new beginning you’ll have with him. Even though your relationship wouldn’t be traditionally explored given his occupation and how he’s most likely going to be away a lot, you don’t mind.

If there’s one thing you really believe in, it’s that waiting for Jungkook—whether consciously or unconsciously—always brings out the best outcomes.

gentle reminder: this author loves feedback! let her know your thoughts if you enjoyed reading this fic and you’ll add 100+ points in her writing motivation meter ♡

[kyra45]

Keys guide to scam spotting v3

What kind of scams are on tumblr? Quite a lot, actually! As a result, this post will link to posts I’ve made (or by others) that explain what kind of scams are out there. Please be aware these posts are quite long but give as much detail as possible. I’ll add them here as I write them or add ones I have found.

Pet donation scams - Scams that use stolen pet pictures and impersonate the owner.

Donation scams - Scams that use medical emergencies/etc and steal fundraising posts from Facebook/etc.

Romance scams - Romance isn’t always from someone with good intentions they might just want your money.

Commission scams - The high price offered isn’t true, unfortunately, and you’ll not get paid.

Fake check scams - The check isn’t real when they offer to send you support with it.

Mutual aid scams - No you don’t pay someone to share your campaign.

Gift card scams - Not too common but blogs who promise you can win these from a link aren’t legitimate.

Scams where someone pretends to be Palestinian - Sometimes the blog asking you for funds is stealing their content off a legitimate fundraiser for someone in Palestine. (Not all Palestine accounts with GoFundMe links are scams.)

Diabetes and Insulin themed scams - Written by my friend @12percentspider , this post explains how diabetes works and why the person asking you for $300 (claiming they need insulin and are down to their last pen) is a scammer.

[doberbutts]

Anyway yes, people who can X should be accomodating to people who can't X. People who can walk should accomodate people who can't. People who can hear should accomodate people who can't. People who can see should accomodate people who can't. And on and on. When that doesn't happen, it's a problem that deserves to be talked about.

But the problem is not and has never been "physical disabilities are more important and deserve more accomodations than mental disabilities"- nor the other way around either.

People love to dunk on folks with ADD/ADHD but you know? As someone with ADD raised by diabetic parents I gotta say there's a lot of similarities here. People with ADD, myself included, often forget to eat and when they do eat they often load themselves up with carbs and sugars because those foods make their brains feel good. People with diabetes have to closely monitor their meals and often crave sugars and need a blend of sugary and protein-rich snacks on hand. This is not to say ADD and diabetes are exact one-to-one disabilities.

But having grown up watching my parents manage their diabetes, I too am very aware of meal times and blood sugar and constructing meals that will tide you over and having a blend of sugary and protein-rich snacks on hand Just In Case. I am able to manage my ADD better in this way because I have experience from watching my parents. I also need access to snacks and to be able to say to my boss "I need to go eat something real fast" without being punished.

I had a training client who was the image of "able bodied mentally ill" outside of the usual creaks and squeaks associated with age, her body worked just fine. But after a series of incidents in her youth- a car accident that left her with a serious brain injury, coming home from the hospital afterwards to immediately have her house broken into and herself raped by an intruder, and assorted medical malpractice while she was healing from both- she has a serious and extreme case of agoraphobia and spent the next 40 years completely unable to leave the house. She would hide and wail and scream when deliveries of groceries and other goods would come, because it meant a stranger (and usually a man) would be at her door. She could not go more than a couple steps outside to get her mail and especially not if other people were outside.

At some point her therapist suggested getting a pet, one that *had* to go outside, to help her. So she got a dog and contacted a trainer (me) and we got to work. And she did improve! The dog has been a huge help to managing her symptoms! But you cannot seriously expect me to have worked with this woman for years and then belittle mental illnesses as being lesser when this woman also shares the inability to even leave her house let alone go inside a grocery store. Even today there are times when she simply cannot, she cannot will her body to move out of her door and into transportation let alone into the building.

When she first started coming to me she thanked me for not belittling her or making her feel bad for classes she had to cancel because she couldn't force herself to take the first step over the threshold. That is when she told me what happened to her and that while it sounds terrible she was really happy to have found a trainer who knew something personal about trauma and brain injuries. She is also a case where I feel her ESA should be considered service dog not because of training or tasking but because her need is so high and she is just completely incapable of doing anything without the dog in her arms.

Anyway I think of her any time someone says "but you can walk through the door". There's nothing wrong with her legs so in theory sure she could. But often she *can't*, not because of anything physical, but because she is very severely mentally ill.

[itsa-me-lily]

Hi hello, here’s a list of more Simon & Thimble playlist

And here's the Military Program Spouse AU list

This is based off of the suffering I’ve experienced at my own stupid choices.

Content warning;

Baby noises, idea of the supernatural, medical/disease discussion

Simon Riley, military lieutenant and member of the elite 141, had experienced the horrors of the world enough to fill at least half a dozen lifetimes. He knew what lurked in the shadows, waiting to snatch any form of life it could get its claws into. He knew what to expect from the world.

And yet he never expected to wake up in a fucking horror movie. Because why was he violently yanked from the edge of sleep by the sounds of a crying baby. As far as he was aware, there were no babies in this household, the…rodents not withstanding. But there it was, the sound of an infant crying rang through the house, so either you decided to partake in a late night kidnapping, or his new house was haunted. There was a possibility that the years of buried guilt and PTSD had finally caused Simon to lose his grip on reality, but he would always choose to disregard that possibility until he absolutely couldn’t.

So his brand new house was fucking haunted by an upset baby.

Simon didn’t know how to solve his brand new house being haunted by a god damn baby. Before he could debate his choices of an exorcist or simply ignoring the problem and hoping it chose to bother someone else, the sound was cut off mid cry. It was sudden and the muffled sounds of the pull out bed adjusting to a shift of weight filled the void the crying had left. Whatever was happening must not have been that frightening because a few squeaks followed what sounded like the shuffling of feet. Those not rats either had no sense of self preservation, or were the bravest god damn creatures on the planet.

Gettin up from bed he hovered by the closed bedroom door, slipping on his medical mask while trying to hear what was further going on. He heard you hush your pets, though what you were saying wasn’t discernible. There was more shuffling and grumblings, and he cracked the door open when the sound of a light switch clicked into the night. The living room was empty, the pull out showing all signs that you had been there once.

Sweeping his gaze he found you in the kitchen, hunched over the sink, the single overhead light there bathing you in the only ring of light in the darkness. You were fiddling with something in your hands, the only clues as to what the popping of a cap, a little robotic beep, and a click of something. He watched as you squeezed a finger and then tapped something against it. He was already through the living room and entering the kitchen when you stuck the offending finger into your mouth, staring down at the little device in your hand like it had personally affronted you.

In the daytime hours Simon would deny any satisfaction at seeing you jump upon realizing you weren’t alone in the kitchen. But it wasn’t daytime hours and Simon couldn’t help but feel a little smirk tug at his lips when your head had whipped up to look at him, he shouldn’t have to be the only one dealing with spooks in the night.

After what was, for all intents and purposes, a silent showdown, Simon nodded to your hands, his questions rumbling through his chest.

Diabetes.

You had explained that you were a diabetic, and the system you used to automatically monitor your glucose levels audibly alerted you if your levels decided to take a nose dive. Which would mean checking it manually. Okay that was fine. Another detail he would have known if he had actually chosen to read your file. He wouldn’t judge you for that. He would, however, judge you for choosing a baby crying as your alert noise. Sure it was affective at getting your attention, but he didn’t have to question the possible possession of ghost babies too.

He couldn’t help but glare up at the ceiling as he laid back in bed, pretty confident he wasn’t getting back to sleep anytime soon. Yes he knew staring at a screen was not helpful to falling asleep. Yes he was searching up facts about diabetes management. No he wasn’t worried about you or anything. He just liked being prepared.

He did have the fleeting thought about if he still had your file floating around somewhere on base though. Maybe taking a peek through it wasn’t the worst idea.

Edit

Listen the baby crying is very effective for getting your attention in the middle of the night, doesn’t mean it’s not disorienting as fuck. I hope you enjoy and as always feel free to send in an ask or something

[is-this-mathieu-enriched]

Are Mathieus usually suitable for emotional support task? What are some other species I should consider for this task? Thank you!

Most Mathieus are empathetic, and will understand when their keeper is feeling upset. Your Mathieu will likely nestle up next to you and chirrup softly, perhaps attempting to brush your hand to mimic the way that you pet him. He may bring you one or more of his own favourite comfort items, even if your problems cannot actually be solved by a chewable tyre.

Despite this, the species is not normally recommended for long-term emotional support. Mathieus can be very caring and considerate to specific people they have developed a bond with, but they are not a social species.

However there are many other species which may be just what you are looking for:

A Neilson

Gentle and good-natured, Neilsons bond tightly within their communities, and have a quietly playful personality with a definite sense of humour. This allows them to cope well with fluctuating moods, and the demands of being an emotional support companion. Once he has accepted you as a member of his covey, a Neilson's calm and steadfast companionship will never waver, and nor will his deeply loving nature.

Unlike a Mathieu, Neilsons are largely herbivorous, with a similar diet to a Jai. This can make them a good option for those living in cities, or where there are few or no opportunities to hunt live prey.

2. A Richard

Despite a small size, a Richard has a big heart! Ideal for those who struggle with social anxiety, the Richard's outgoing and warm nature can be the perfect icebreaker. A Richard will gladly make friends with all comers, but will never stray too far from those he has bonded to, and considers part of his nesting circle. Richards are also a popular choice for diabetics, as their keen sense of smell allows them to detect low or high blood sugars long before you become aware yourself.

3. An Adam

Used for centuries to herd livestock, Adams are protectors to their core. Often found bonded to Tadejs, they will be endlessly caring and patient to their companions, whilst vigorously defending them if necessary. Adams are regularly used to provide emotional support for those with memory issues, as once they have learned your routine they will happily herd you from one regular activity to the next!

Do be aware that the Simon is a very similar species, and the two are often accidentally or deliberately misidentified (if in doubt, inspect his feet - Adams have slightly more prominent claw ridges).

4. A Julian

The active and playful Julian is one of the peloton's few marsupials, and ideal for those who need a constant source of joy in their life. With a similar knack for mischief as any Tadej, the Julian's small size may be ideal for those who do not have the space to devote to a large enclosure, but want a companion with a large personality!

Julians are extremely social, and will want to take part in and be involved in every aspect of your life. For those who struggle with finding the motivation and energy to complete daily activities, doing them with the 'assistance' of your Julian may make this easier. Do be aware however that, similarly to Mathieus, Julians are compulsive chewers.

All of that being said, the ideal emotional support companion is the one who you bond best with. It may be that your Matteo is the most constant source of joy in your life, your Lars will gently nibble your hand to bring you out of a panicky moment, or that your Ben has learned to alert you every time ADHD leads to you getting stuck in an unhelpful thought pattern. There is no right answer here - just as every companion is different, so is every person. But hopefully the above will give you some general direction, and you can find the emotional support companion just right for you!

[castielsprostate]

PLEASE READ!!

i usually just ignore these but after seeing the donation scam for families to get out of Gaza again, i just feel like sharing this.

please be aware that these asks are 9/10x SCAMS. they use stolen photos, bios and even usernames. they link to some random paypal address to donate to, which is just the scammers personal paypal/a money mule's paypal.

ways to recognise these sobs are

new accounts. posts only go back a few days to 1 week

extremely intricate bios with way too much information, or a header title with no bio, but everything is personalised

grainy photos, weird headers that seem to be pulled directly from google

public likes and followers with likes often only being the posts they reblogged and a very random follower list (which often also doesn't correlate to the fandoms in their bio)

donation link in weird colours, or a linktree that goes to "donation link" and when you click it, it directs you straight to paypal. (if there's an actual gofundme, it is likely not a scam but you HAVE to click the links to make sure. you can name everything anything on linktree with a different link embedded)

to the piece of shit scammers; you guys are fucking wretched and vile and waste the air on this earth. go fuck yourself, please consider becoming a real member of society instead of some basement-dwelling loser that ain't got nothing better to do but prey on the kindness in others. fuck you

linking some REAL fundraisers and foundations you can donate to here

Foundations:

PCRF (palestine)

United24 (ukraine)

Trevor Project (lgbt+)

FourPaws (animals)

Médicine Sans Frontiers (doctors without borders)

CancerCare (cancer)

JustDigIt (climate)

Carbon180 (climate)

WorldDiabetesFoundation (diabetes)

Fundraisers:

Urgent evacuation (palestine)

Trans Ukrainian refugee (ukraine)

Bail for protesters (palestine)

Refugees (palestine)

@ vvictorman_uel (situation)

@ moodybeth12 (situation)

@ dirtangeldean (situation)

Yasha (pet)

Stray cats (pet)

[dvilsdesire-a]

i have some thoughts. i just. i just waant to know if theres anything hypothetically,, that could,,, just could be.... considered...as catnip for him like, hes just coated in it rolling around on the bed like 'mmm purrrrrrrr' like. some rare leaf or some shit that only grows in cania and its barely a leaf at all, grind that shit up and its like a drug to him??? (its funnier if its just normal catnip lmfao like consider)

Random asks || always accepting

So I know that this is kind of a little joke and I absolutely love it, but SINCE you asked (lol), I will absolutely delve into a headcanon post that has made itself known in my head for quite some time that I've just never fully written out.

Not so much a... catnip of sorts, but scents DO send him into more of a "frenzy", or more of an... aroused state, I guess, depending on the scent. More of heightened awareness, especially if on the prowl.

For one, I do hc that Raphael's scent is something that he's picked up on and sort of... imprinted on. This means once he's gotten the body scent of someone, he can smell them from a long way away. Think how animals can pick up the scent of their own kind and follow it, etc. Every creature has their own unique smell, and that includes Raphael. Raphael is the one person that Haarlep has consistently been around, so he KNOWS that smell intimately and can find Raphael wherever he is around the house just by sniffing for him (it helps that Raphael wears perfumes that he can identify him by, but those perfumes can sometimes be strong to his senses as well and can cause him to iosdjfoisdjf out--those cats that go bug eyed when they sniff bad things lol.

I hc that incubus have exceptional senses of smell, and this comes down to a more pheromones (hunting) aspect. As a predator, and as a creature that survives off the bodies of others, Haarlep would have exceptionally good senses, especially when it comes to smell.

Sweat in itself is going to be something that Haarlep can pick up on. Anything like fear, sexual arousal, even things like diseases that mortals could carry (especially things like diabetes which changes the scent of sweat etc), Haarlep would be able to smell. He just needs to take a good whiff of someone and he pretty much knows what's going on (so long as he understands the certain smell and why it's happening). Obviously, though, he's more in tune with things like sexual arousal, fear, excitement, etc, because that's his way of hunting and finding prey.

This is going to be a little ns//fw now, so skip if you don't wanna read. So, what particularly gets Haarlep in a frenzy, is the scent of sexual organs. Everyone smells... It's just a part of being a person, or devil, or whatever other sentient species there is. Particularly, when a woman is ovulating, that is a scent that Haarlep can pick up from across the room, because it's in his species to have sex at the most optimal time, and he is also a creature of fertility (in some traditions which I also lean into). Yes, Haarlep can also smell if someone is on their period.

For men, this becomes how potent their sperm is. If someone is exceptionally fertile, it becomes attractive to him. The riper a person is, the more alluring they are, and the more Haarlep will be interested in taking them. For men, if they haven't had an orgasm in a while, that seed is beginning to pile up and becomes exceptionally sexually attractive to him, because it means they're ready to burst and that's the nature of the beast for an incubus.

So... this is probably going to sound gross for some people, but remember that Haarlep is an incubus and a fiend, and in some ways, more creature than person, but things that make Haarlep catnip will be... someone's crotch... or underwear. Don't think it's weird or creepy, in fact, scientifically speaking, many of your beloved pets are into the same thing, and that's because of that very PERSONAL scent. For Haarlep, this comes down to the nature of being an incubus, and the very sexual nature that comes with it.

Things like bed sheets as well. You may have been asleep for 8 hours or however long, which means you've sweat into the bed sheets, you've gotten your personal smell all over it. For Haarlep, that is something he will enjoy. He will rub himself on the bed to take in that scent, to smell whoever it is, because it's attractive and makes him go a little silly.

Got a sweaty t shirt? Put it in the hamper or Haarlep might rub his scent on it. You might walk in on Haarlep giving it a little sniff lol.

"What the hell are you doing?" "Imprinting... What?" *sniff sniff*

Raphael is used to it

Anyway, this got long, and I LOVE the idea of Haarlep just isdhfisudhudf over catnip lol, but if you wanna work him up, make sure you've got your stank all over your clothes and if he already likes you or if you're particularly fertile, he's going to frenzy.

[servin-up-surveys]

survey #209

Are you genuinely a fan of Starbucks or do you think it’s all hype? Well when it comes to Starbucks, it's only fair to point out that I don't like coffee, so. I've tried a few of their treats, and I wasn't crazy about anything.

Are you a fan of garlic bread? brother eating garlic bread is SEXUAL to me do you understand

Do you own any personalized clothing? What’s the reason for getting it? No.

Have you bothered to think of the future lately? I do all the time.

Is there something you are always interested in? My longest-lasting and most intense infatuation has been meerkats since the day I first watched Meerkat Manor.

What did you last hear that made your jaw drop? My younger sister got engaged.

Will you be attending any concerts in the next month? No, but I'm thrilled Rammstein's European tour has finally started so I can live vicariously through Tumblr mutuals lmao, gif all that shit guys

What have you been worried about lately? A lot. My A1C ventured back into pre-diabetic territory, so I've been watching that, it's so hot that I've been putting off exercising (past ~week I've done well though), I'm going through major medication changes with a psychiatrist I don't plan on returning to because she is NOT for me, other stuff.

Do you know how to swim? Yeah.

Do you think you could go a week without sugar? God no, not willingly.

Are you a fast or slow reader? I think I read at a moderate pace.

Where, in your current country, would you like to live, other than where you do now? The mountains of NC.

Do you like snow? I fucking love snow. We don't get it often here.

Have you ever seen anyone famous in the street? No.

What was the last thing to upset you? I couldn't find a song Girt played in the car that I liked on YouTube, I was typing in the lyrics I could remember but I couldn't find it and I was bummed lol, I need to just ask him.

What was the first tattoo you got or what would be the first tattoo you’ll get? It's a semicolon butterfly.

What is your favourite kind of fruit cobbler? I suppose peach. I haven't tried too many kinds. I think just peach and blueberry.

Is there a basement in your house? If so, what is it used for? No.

Have you driven a car today? No. I don't drive.

Have you eaten soup this week? No, I don't like soup.

When was the last time you were at a pet store? It's been many months. Mom's just been having Venus' rats delivered here as of late.

What mode of transport did you take to high school? My mom drove me.

Name a personality trait of yours that you like. I'm extremely passionate. What I feel, I feel deep. This isn't always a good thing, but overall, I feel it is.

Name something about your physical attraction that you dislike. I qualify as morbidly obese. I'm excruciatingly self-conscious of my weight and really struggle to lose it. My weight tends to just fluctuate back and forth in like a five-ish-pound range. Following my initial extreme weight gain from a med (Abilify) that slaughtered my metabolism, I managed to lose nearly 100 pounds starting in 2017, but then I gained it all back, and now it just clings to me for dear life and I fucking hate it.

Do you use a planner to keep track of your life? Yes, and even if I don't do a lot (and almost everything I DO do involves doctors of some sort), getting a planner last year had a major benefit to me; appointments stopped creeping up on me, and I just in general felt more aware of what was coming and to prepare for it.

Are your parents good cooks? They're fine, yeah.

Have you ever made an item of clothing? No.

What was the most expensive bill you paid within the last month? I don't have an income so am extremely lucky to live with my mother, who financially takes care of me. It's extremely embarrassing but of course I'm thankful beyond words for her.

What do you get complimented on the most? My hair or tattoos.

Do you believe in soul mates? I don't.

Who are the three most important people in your life? Girt, Mom, and... I'm not sure about #3.

Are you scared of the future? Yup.

What do you think of your best friend’s ex? I don't know his exes. He doesn't really talk about past relationships, because 1.) they're not relevant and 2.) he's extremely private romantically/sexually. I know what I need to know, though.

Why did you go to the doctor the last time you went? I'd irritated the shit out of my right ear trying to get wax out to the point it was in throbbing pain for days, so I had to go to urgent care. As it turned out there was a shitload of wax applying pressure to the eardrum that had to be forced out with water. My ear feels so much better now, I was in agony. Ear pain is no joke. I'm not touching q-tips anymore.

Do you think you could handle a job in the medical field? Why or why not? No, it would depress the shit out of me and also I don't need to know a shitload of health issues 'cuz then I'll worry I have them all lol

Do you prefer to play chess or checkers? Checkers, I don't know chess.

If you had to go an entire week without using any technology, what do you think you would spend most of your time doing instead? Reading is the realistic answer, but I'm sure I would pick up drawing, too. If I was born in a world without technology, I'm convinced I would actually be a talented artist, lol. I'm sure I'd sleep more than I already do, which I hate to admit 'cuz I already sleep a lot in my current mental state.

Do you prefer dark, brown or white chocolate? Milk.

How often do you wear necklaces? Never, basically; I actually like wearing necklaces, but I only have cheap ones that make my skin itchy and green because I'm allergic to silver.

Would you rather wear a bracelet or a necklace? Necklaces, I actually don't like bracelets very much, they always seem in the way if I'm doing stuff with my hands.

What’s your favorite song by Miley Cyrus? "The Climb."

Have you ever had a crush on a kinda-country boy? No, I'm generally very turned off by country folk because they tend to be Trump hat-wearing conservative pricks that think the world revolves around them and their Confederate flag. I live in the south, I have experience here.

Do you care about any of your exes at all? I mean yeah, I care, in the sense that I care they're okay and all. Like any decent person who wasn't abused by an ex or something, then I'd say it's quite reasonable to not give a shit how they are.

Who last slapped your butt? I honestly don't know, I don't think my boyfriend's ever done this, I feel like he'd probably think I'd feel degraded or something.

What kind of cake did you have for your last birthday? Double chocolate.

Have you ever had a panic attack? Yeah, that shit sucks.

Anyone’s birthday coming up soon? Well I learned the other day that Girt's grandma's bday is this month, it's fresh on my mind because we went to see her for Mother's Day + her birthday.

Are your biceps at all noticeable? uh no

When are you moving next? I'm going to assume it's whenever Girt and I are ready to move in together.

Have you ever carried a concealed weapon? No.

Would you rather go to Greece or France? Greece.

What’s your biggest priority right now? My health.

Have you ever rubbed anyone’s feet? NO NO NO NO NO

What would you rather: lethal injection, electric chair, or hanging? I'll take the injection.

Have you taken someone’s virginity? No.

Why did you kiss the last person you kissed? I was telling him bye.

Who was the first person to ever ask you out? I'm going to assume one of two boys who harassed me in pre-k. They would chase me around the playground and grab me, forcing me into hugs and would kiss me. Maybe back then we didn't even know "asking out" was a thing, that's the only reason I'm unsure, but I can tell you I woulda said no, I was very "ew boys!!!!" as a little girl.

What’s one thing your partner must be able to accept about you? I'm mentally ill and you're going to see me deeply depressed and/or anxious as fuck many times throughout our relationship.

If you had a daughter, would you allow sleepovers? ... Yes? I wouldn't allow BOY sleepovers 'til a certain maturity/age for her own sexual safety, but she's allowed to have sleepovers with her girlfriends.

Is there anyone that you text on a regular basis that you do not have saved in your phone? If so, why don’t you have their number saved? No.

What is something you hope you never have to do again? A traumatic breakup.

Have you ever seen a leech in person? Yes, ugh they disgust me

Have you ever joined a mosh pit? No, they scare me.

Does your town’s hospital have a good reputation? No.

Did you ever want a pony for a gift as a kid? I don't think so? At least not seriously.

Do you know who your mom’s favourite singer is? Oh her celebrity crush of all time is James Hetfield of Metallica.

Have you ever tried to surf? No.

Which one of your family members do you wish you could see more often? My dad.

Do you have dimples when you smile? On my left cheek there's a very noticeable one.

Have you ever carved anything into a tree? No.

What was the last physical pain you experienced? Wicked headache.

Do you know anyone who is terminally ill? Going back to Girt's grandmother, her. She has cancer.

What was on the last sandwich you had? Honey ham, American cheese, mustard.

The last person you spoke to, do you know their eye color? Mom's eyes are brown.

Is there anyone you know by the name of Frank? I know a Franky, he's my half-sister's husband. Great guy.

Can you remember the title of the song you last sang aloud? No, I don't really sing.

Are you currently listening to music through earphones? No, I'm watching a let's play.

Have you ever owned a tire swing? No, but as a kid I always wanted one. Even though realistically, I would've been afraid of bugs or spiders being inside of it.

Do you know anyone who can fluently speak more than two languages? No, not to my knowledge.

Have you ever gone in a sauna? No, saunas sound like hell on earth to me.

Out of these colors, which appeals most to you: orange, blue, or green? Orange.

Have you ever been someplace tropical? Florida. If you count that.

You see an ant on the ground, do you squish it? Outside? Absolutely not. If it's in my house, I'm not gonna lie, yes, or I ignore it.

[sniffanimal]

as eating disorder awareness week comes to an end, I want to talk about disordered eating habits that ARENT eating disorders (probably), but you should still pay attention to them.

obligatory I'm not an expert or anything I just have been in ED recovery for ARFID off and in since 2017

I would consider myself "recovered" right now, I don't struggle with new foods and can generally eat whatever I try to eat. But I do fall into bad habits that don't support my recovery, and I know a lot of them are really common. I talked about it with my psychiatrist today.

If you find that you're often brain foggy, out of it, can't focus despite being medicated, or doing everything in your Coping Toolbox: it might be your diet. And I'm not here to ascribe morality to any food: merely point out that your brain needs energy to function. If you, like me, tend to be a "coffee for breakfast and then maybe a snack and then a reasonable dinner" eater, you might not really realize that you're restricting your food intake.

Your brain uses 20% of the body's energy intake. Recent studies suggest 2/3 of that is for the basic functions of the nervous system. Low blood sugar, even if you're not diabetic, can cause significant cognitive functioning issues.

I am definitely including myself when I say I see a lot of us complaining of fatigue and fog when we aren't giving our bodies enough energy to work properly.

So even if you are subclinical for an eating disorder, or are in recovery, or whatever, pay attention to your eating habits and maybe try a protein bar or candy or a banana or something solid with your coffee like toast. Try to eat multiple times a day, at least 3.

I'm not a nutritionist, I think a lot of nutritional studies can be misleading, and I think food is morality neutral. Eat what you can, when you can, just be sure to take care of your brain.

if it helps I think of myself like a pet I got to take care of

[fitnessthought]

Is Sourdough Bread Good for Weight Loss? - A Healthier Choice

Sourdough bread, a staple in many cultures for centuries, has recently seen a resurgence in popularity. But beyond its unique taste and texture, there’s growing interest in its potential health benefits, particularly regarding weight loss. This report delves into the making of sourdough, its health and fermentation benefits, nutritional profile, and expert opinions to answer the question: Is sourdough bread good for weight loss?

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Making of Sourdough

Sourdough’s simplicity is one of its key attractions. Traditionally, it’s made from just three ingredients: flour, water, and salt. This simplicity is a stark contrast to many commercially produced breads that contain a plethora of additives. The slow fermentation process of sourdough, where natural yeasts and bacteria interact with the dough, is what sets it apart. This process not only imparts a distinct tangy flavor but also influences the bread’s health properties.

Odd Water Secret Melts Stubborn Fat

Sourdough Health Benefits

Sourdough’s health benefits are closely tied to its fermentation process. Priya Tew, an award-winning dietitian, explains, “Genuine sourdough bread can be more easily digested and can be lower in glycemic index than some shop-bought bread.” This lower glycemic index means sourdough doesn’t spike blood sugar levels as sharply as other breads, which is a crucial factor in weight management.

Gut Health: The fermentation process increases prebiotic and probiotic-like properties, which can improve gut health. Sourdough made with whole grains offers additional fiber, enhancing these gut-friendly benefits.

Digestion: Sourdough might improve the digestion of gluten due to changes in wheat enzymes during fermentation. While not suitable for people with celiac disease, those sensitive to gluten might find sourdough easier to digest.

Healthy Aging: Sourdough, a staple in the Mediterranean diet, is linked to healthy aging. It has antioxidant, anti-hypertensive, anti-diabetic, and FODMAP-reducing qualities.

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Sourdough Fermentation Benefits:

The fermentation process in sourdough bread leads to an increase in prebiotic and probiotic-like properties, which are beneficial for gut health. A 2021 review in the journal Microorganisms highlights this, noting that these properties help improve gut health. Additionally, the fermentation process enhances the bioavailability of nutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and iron, making them more accessible to the body.

Nutritional Profile:

A slice of sourdough bread typically contains about 84 calories, 16 grams of carbohydrates, 1 gram of fiber, 3 grams of protein, and 1 gram of total fat. Laura Tilt, a registered dietitian, points out, “White sourdough is a source of carbohydrates, calcium, iron, vitamin B1, and B3, forming part of a healthy diet.” However, she advises opting for wholewheat varieties for higher fiber content.

Facts about Sourdough Bread

Historical Popularity Surge: Sourdough’s recent popularity isn’t just a modern trend. Its global market value skyrocketed from $298.7 million to a staggering $2.4 billion in 2018. This surge reflects a growing awareness and appreciation of sourdough’s unique qualities and health benefits.

Enhanced Taste with Health Benefits: The fermentation process in sourdough not only contributes to its health benefits but also enhances its taste. Priya Tew notes that fermentation produces amino acids that add extra flavor, despite a decreased salt content in the bread. This means you get a tasty bread that’s also good for you.

B12 Enrichment: The fermentation of plant-based foods like sourdough can lead to the enrichment of vitamin B12. This is particularly noteworthy since B12 is typically associated with animal-based foods, making sourdough a valuable addition to vegetarian diets.

Impact on Blood Sugar Levels: Sourdough bread’s fermentation process results in a lower glycemic index compared to regular bread. This means it has a less dramatic impact on blood sugar levels, making it a smarter choice for those managing diabetes or looking to maintain stable energy levels throughout the day.

Variety in Sourdough Types: The diversity of sourdough bread is vast. From traditional white sourdough to wholewheat and rye varieties, each type offers different nutritional benefits. For instance, rye sourdough is known for its higher fiber content, while traditional white sourdough is fortified with essential vitamins and minerals.

Expert Opinion of Sourdough Bread on Weight Loss:

Experts agree that sourdough can be part of a weight loss diet. Tilt reminds us, “All foods can be part of a weight loss diet; it’s about balance and portion size.” She suggests pairing sourdough with nutrient-dense foods like eggs or nut butter for a balanced meal. The high fiber content in sourdough, especially in wholegrain varieties, is linked to feeling full for longer, which is beneficial for weight management.

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FAQs around Is Sourdough Bread Good for Weight Loss?

Can sourdough bread help in weight loss?

Yes, sourdough bread can be part of a weight-loss diet. Its high fiber content, especially in wholegrain varieties, helps you feel full longer, which can aid in managing calorie intake.

Is sourdough bread lower in calories than regular bread?

Sourdough bread’s calorie content is comparable to many other types of bread. However, its nutritional composition, particularly its lower glycemic index, makes it a healthier choice that can fit into a weight loss diet.

Does sourdough bread cause blood sugar spikes?

Sourdough bread has a lower glycemic index compared to many other breads, meaning it causes a slower and less dramatic rise in blood sugar levels. This makes it a suitable option for those managing blood sugar levels.

Can I eat sourdough bread every day if I’m trying to lose weight?

Yes, you can include sourdough bread in your daily diet while trying to lose weight. Remember, balance and portion control are key. Pairing it with nutrient-dense foods can make your meals more satisfying and nutritionally balanced.

Is sourdough bread better than whole wheat bread for weight loss?

Sourdough and whole wheat breads each have their benefits. Sourdough’s fermentation process can make it easier to digest and lower in glycemic index, while whole wheat bread is typically higher in fiber. Your choice may depend on personal dietary needs and preferences.

Does the type of flour used in sourdough affect weight loss?

Yes, the type of flour affects the nutritional content of sourdough bread. Wholegrain flours are higher in fiber and nutrients compared to refined flours, making them a better choice for weight loss.

Is sourdough bread gluten-free?

No, traditional sourdough bread is not gluten-free as it is made from wheat flour. However, the fermentation process can break down some of the gluten, making it easier to digest for those with mild gluten sensitivities, but it is not suitable for individuals with celiac disease.

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Sourdough bread, with its unique fermentation process and nutritional profile, offers several health benefits that can support weight loss goals. Its lower glycemic index, coupled with a higher fiber content, especially in wholegrain varieties, makes it a healthier choice compared to many other breads. While sourdough alone isn’t a magic bullet for weight loss, it can be a valuable part of a balanced and nutrient-rich diet. Variety and moderation are key to a healthy diet and effective weight management.

[chowtrolls]

Ooooh I’m genuinely enjoying hearing about this, thank you Chow. How do you pick the pup for the job? Do you have any specific examples? Like you mentioned picking a bigger older dog to teach for someone with physical disabilities but beyond that

"Good thing I like talking about my business.

It depends on the job! I find that psychiatric dogs have more success when they're picked by the handlers. Some tasks require certain things or personalities from dogs.

A dog needed for alerting of things- be it allergens, cardiac problems, seizures- have to be incredibly confident, because they will often go against their handler's commands. It isn't uncommon for a cardiac alert to go ignored the first few times. So the dog must be confident, persistent, and obnoxious about it. If the handler is small enough, and the handler allows, then I can train the dog to knock their handler over or assist in getting down. Sorta like 'hey fucker, I said sit down. i meant sit down now.'

A seeing-eye dog should be alert and aware of all surroundings, whereas a seizure alert dog should only be aware of their handler. An autism psychiatric dog should be both, at all times, aware of their surrounding and their handler. A mobility assistance dog should be strong and listen well to commands. They should all know their commands like they know how to breathe. I'm pretty good at picking out what dog might work for what at a young age.

Not every pup I get works out. And that's okay! They all have unique personalities and abilities, some of them work much better as pets. A lot of them still end up with people who have needs. A good example is one I had trained as a diabetic dog. She flunked out, but her owner later told me that she still knew most her tasks. She just....didn't always want to do them. Instead of bringing juice when sugar is low, she brings her owner the remote, or his wallet, or his keys, so on so forth. He didn't need it, but he's older so it helps."

[ice-and-fires-blog]

Love this, is super cute!

For those that think having a pet, especially a bunny, is easy, let me tell you

Is not easy, i did hve one for 7 years, she was my bff and i never thought taking care of a bunny would it be tht difficult bt its, she wasnt like a cat or dog, she need it alot of different stuff, like food (what should she could eat) It is not always good to give them carrots all the time. This is actually really bad for them. They have too much sugar and they can get diabetes (it's true). Space she can be at and dont brake anything as well they can be free it is a lot, but if you really want to get one, be aware that this pets can live up to 10-18 years. It also depends on what type of bunny you are getting. So, long story short...

Please do the research before getting one!

Billy please adopt Señor Scratchy

[justfordogs1]

World Water Day: Focus on Dogs and Water’s Importance

March 22 marks World Water Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the importance of water and consent to the sustainable treatment of water resources. The day is primarily highlighting water issues around the world, but it is also a great opportunity for four foot friends to discuss the important things. The importance of water for dogs and animals in general.

The importance of dog water

The water is important for the health and sources of all living things, and dogs are not foreign. Like a person, the dogs are correctly protected to maintain a strong strength, body temperature and support all kinds of aquaculture. Remember your dog to access new water and cleaning. This is one of the greatest things you can do as the leader of a real animal. The body of the dog is about 80% of water, water is part of all physical activity. This will help the combination of food, carrying food, cleaning toxic, strengthening physical relationships. Without proper water, your dog can recover quickly, and hit big health problems, a fate and hottest disease.

For pet owners, especially those who care for others, it’s about ensuring that proper fluids are retained for boarding and daycare centers, such as entering my nearest Noida or daycare centre. All reliable pet boarding or daycare center services prioritize liquid intake as part of daily care. Dogs should always use fresh water to ensure they stay healthy and happy during their stay.

Dog liquid intake in a variety of environments

Just as water is essential at home, if your dog is in a different environment, that’s just as important. Whether you’re looking for the cheapest dog near me or for high quality dog ​​care services, make sure water absorption is an important element of your chosen service.

With dogs near my or daycare centre, the dog may not be in a normal environment and it is important to have clean water access throughout the day. Your dog’s physical activity level may vary depending on the type of care you get and the movements. Active dogs, especially dogs in daycare centers, need more water to stay hydrated.

Water requirements for facilities increase in dogs in warm months, or especially active. Make sure that where you stand up to your dog knows the specific moisture requirements of your dog.

Signs of dog dehydration

Quickly grow fast, especially the active dogs and dogs in hot environments, such as travel and increase.Dogs cannot communicate thirst like people, so it is important to be careful and be aware of signs of dehydration. Signs of the dangers of dogs most of the time:

- Lethargy or fatigue

- Dry or sticky gums

- I’m panting more than usual

- Loss of elasticity of the skin (skin remains in the tent when clamped)

- Sinking eyes

- Vomiting or diarrhea

If you see one of these characters, it is important to keep your dog still. In case of negative cases, death can be a loss, so it should be careful to check animal care if necessary.

Water and dogs and special needs

Some dogs have a great desire for dogs, such as dogs, or dogs and medical problems such as diabetes or diabetes. The old dogs can find it difficult to manage their warmth, so water should be a bit of a weakness. On the other hand, dogs still develop, so keeping the protection for plant growth and level. If your dog is sick, you may want to monitor the right of the combination. For example, dogs and the grave disease is a lot of thirst, but in the same chance of death. If your dog is special and recommended to discuss your seller with the best hydration strategy.

Make sure your dog gets enough water

Here are some tips to help your dog stay hydrated:

1. Always make fresh and clean water: Make sure your dog has access to the water at any time while walking, during a walk, in nursery or dog furniture. 2. Using a Water Dispenser: If you are going to “dog daycare near me” facility, you will need to bring a water dispenser to make sure your dog is sufficient.

3. Encourage water absorption after walking: Encourage your dog to drink water after physical activity and exchange any liquids lost through movement.

4. Monitor water absorption. Pay attention to your dog’s water consumption, especially if you are increasing activity, in hot weather, or staying at boarding facilities.

Conclusion

Dogs rely on water for their health, energy and general wells, and it’s up to us as animal owners. Whether you’re looking for you in Noida, you near me, or the cheapest dog boarding near me, always make sure your furniture prioritizes your dog’s moisture and health needs.

On this global water day, we set out to hydrate our furry companions and keep them happy and healthy!

[towards03]

Stroke Diagnostics and Therapeutics Market: Leveraging AI, Wearable Technology & Point-of-Care Testing

The stroke diagnostics and therapeutics market is expected to grow from USD 40.77 billion in 2025 to USD 76.23 billion by 2034, with a CAGR of 7.2% throughout the forecast period. The increasing incidence of stroke, advancements in research and development, and technological innovations are key drivers of market growth.

Market Size and Key Insights (2023 - 2034)

North America dominated the global market in 2024.

Asia-Pacific is projected to experience significant market growth in the coming years.

The diagnostics segment held a dominant presence in 2024.

The therapeutics segment is expected to witness lucrative growth.

The ischemic stroke segment led the market in 2024.

The hemorrhagic stroke segment is anticipated to grow rapidly.

Market Overview

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 795,000 people in the U.S. experience strokes annually, with 87% of cases being ischemic strokes. Strokes occur due to either blocked blood vessels or bleeding in the brain, leading to severe health consequences, including disability or fatality. Diagnostic tools such as CT and MRI scans are essential for determining stroke type and location.

Imaging Techniques in Stroke Diagnostics

Computed Tomography (CT): Uses X-rays to detect bleeding or brain cell damage.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Employs magnets and radio waves for detailed brain images.

Other Imaging Tests: Digital Subtraction Angiography (DSA) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) assist in identifying vascular abnormalities.

Market Trends

March 2025: WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute (RNI) successfully completed its first aspiration thrombectomy procedures.

October 2024: Royal Philips and Medtronic Neurovascular collaborated to enhance stroke awareness and access to timely diagnosis and treatment.

February 2024: Royal Philips launched the Azurion neuro biplane system, an image-guided therapy system designed for faster clinical decisions and better patient outcomes.

Impact of AI on the Market

AI and machine learning (ML) have revolutionized stroke diagnostics and therapeutics by automating processes, enhancing efficiency, and reducing diagnostic errors. AI-driven imaging tools enable rapid interpretation of brain scans, leading to faster clinical decision-making and better treatment outcomes.

For instance, in February 2024, researchers at Capital Medical University found that AI-based systems significantly reduced recurrent strokes, heart attacks, and vascular deaths within three months among ischemic stroke survivors in China.

Increasing Prevalence of Stroke Driving Market Growth

Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. experiences a stroke.

Stroke-related deaths occur approximately every 3 minutes and 14 seconds.

Around 185,000 strokes annually are recurrent cases.

The rising prevalence of stroke is linked to aging populations, sedentary lifestyles, and risk factors such as hypertension, diabetes, and obesity. These factors are increasing the demand for effective diagnostic and therapeutic solutions. Additionally, advancements in pharmaceuticals, rehabilitation therapies, and surgical techniques are driving market expansion.

Challenges: Cost Barriers to Market Growth

The high costs associated with stroke diagnostics and treatment present significant barriers to market growth. Key challenges include:

High Initial Investments: Advanced diagnostic tools like MRI and CT scanners require substantial investments, limiting accessibility.

Operational Costs: Regular maintenance and software updates add to the financial burden.

Affordability Issues: High out-of-pocket expenses impact patient access to stroke care, particularly in underserved regions.

Healthcare Infrastructure Disparities: Developing nations struggle to provide advanced diagnostic and treatment options due to resource constraints.

Opportunities: Technological Innovations in Diagnosis and Treatment

Advancements in imaging technologies have significantly improved stroke diagnosis and treatment. Emerging trends include:

Perfusion and Diffusion-Weighted Imaging: These imaging modalities provide detailed insights into brain damage, aiding in precise diagnosis.

Telemedicine and Telestroke Programs: Remote consultations enable faster diagnosis and treatment, especially in areas with limited healthcare facilities.

Wearable Technology and Point-of-Care Testing: These innovations allow real-time monitoring of stroke risk factors, improving early detection and intervention.

Source: https://www.towardshealthcare.com/insights/stroke-diagnostics-and-therapeutics-market-size

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Sharps Disposal and Public Health in Florida: Why It Matters

The right disposal of sharps is an extremely critical public health issue in the state of Florida as if it affects just one person, it also adversely affects entire communities. In fact, Sharp disposal in Florida has an enormous population of people whose lifestyles necessitate constant management of diabetes, chronic illnesses, and various other medical conditions that warrant the administration of injections. Proper handling of used needles, syringes, and other sharps is indeed in this case. Improper disposal of these can result in grave health problems and environmental hazards; hence, awareness and compliance are vital.

The Public Health Risks of Improper Sharps Disposal

Indeed, wrong disposal of needles and all other sharps can cause a potential hazard to the general public in different parts of the world. They are found in trash bins, parks, beaches, and even sidewalks, creating more chances for someone to accidentally sting himself/herself. Such unfortunate events expose people to several blood-borne diseases like the hepatitis B and hepatitis C, not to mention HIV. Accidental needlestick injuries put healthcare workers, sanitation workers, and accompanying community persons, that certainly are the worst affected among children and pets, in a very compromised position. The more may be transmitted without proper handling, which can serve as a very serious problem further putting pressure on the already burdened healthcare system of the state of Florida.

Environmental Impact of Sharps Waste

Having impropely disposed-off sharps creates a health hazard; it can also soon become an environmental threat. Needles thrown away with regular trash or flushed down the toilet can wreak havoc in landfills and pollute the water systems. Pollution is particularly something to be worried about when it comes to the pure nature of Florida, with its beaches, lakes, and rivers. These contaminated sharps can introduce pathogens into surface water, thereby posing a considerable threat to marine life and the integrity of the ecosystem. From a broader perspective, clean public spaces across Florida are of utmost importance, considering how tourism and outdoor activities greatly contribute to the state's economy. Thus, prudent disposal of sharps not only tends to the health of the people, but also protects the environmental integrity of Florida.

Florida’s Regulations on Sharps Disposal

Florida has legislation regarding safe disposal of sharps. However, the Florida Department of Health (DOH) still provides guidelines to both individuals and health care facilities for the proper use and disposal of used needles to ensure hygiene practices.

However, for the home sharps users, Florida has FDA-approved sharps containers with puncture-and-leak proof disposal for home use. Once the container is full, it goes to one of the designated drop-off sites: health department, pharmacy, or hazardous waste facility. Other local programs might even have mail-back or exchange services.

The law requires specific procedures post-sharps disposal for hospitals, clinics, and other health care facilities. They could also have a medical waste disposal service that ensures an environmentally safe and regulatory compliance for safety.

Where to Dispose of Sharps in Florida

One of the major issues that many people encounter is not knowing where to deposit their full sharps containers. Luckily, Florida has provided several disposal options that make this very easy and accessible.

Typically, a county health department has designated sharps disposal programs for residents so they can drop off used butty needles safely.

Most pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS service customers with sharps collection or mail-back programs.

Municipal hazardous waste management facilities accept illegally used sharps containers for safe disposal.

In some instances, local governments and NGO's set up specially designed sharps disposal programs to make matters easy in disposal compliance.

Residents should, first of all, check with their local authorities regarding the nearest sharps disposal site to make certain that all procedures being followed are hence appropriate.

How to Handle Sharps Safely at Home

Proper sharps disposal starts with safe handling at home. Here are some essential tips for individuals who use needles regularly:

- All sharps containers must be approved by the FDA - Used needles should never go into soda bottles, plastic bags, or the normal trash.

- Never recap or snap needles - Increased injury and contamination risk.

- Keep sharp containers away from children and dogs - Keep them safe before disposal.

- Proper and timely disposal of sharps - Do not let containers overflow; take to approved disposal sites once the container is full.

Following the above guidelines can reduce the risks associated with improper sharps disposal, thus contributing to public safety.

The Role of Public Awareness and Education

It promotes better practices for the disposal of sharps all over Florida. The majority of people do not recognize the danger or how to throw away their used needles properly. Public health programs, awareness campaigns in the general population, and continued education by healthcare providers will further educate the public on the importance of safe sharps disposal.

Another way local governments can promote the convenience of disposals is through increasing collection points or educating the general public on safe methods through health promotion initiatives. Schools, community centers, and even hospitals can promote safe needle disposal practices.

Sharps Disposal in Fort Lauderdale, Florida: A Community Responsibility for Public Health and Safety

Sharps disposal is a serious public health issue for Florida as individuals, communities, and the environment are negatively affected. Improper disposal of needles and syringes presents risks of infection, injury, and contamination of the environment. Fortunately, Florida has guidelines and disposal programs that help residents and healthcare facilities manage sharps waste safely.If followed by the residents in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to dispose of sharps correctly, use designated drop-off locations, train, and speak in favor of public health and disease prevention. Ultimately, the responsibility of sharps disposal rests with every individual beneficiary. We’ve got more to share! Click through to The Dangers of Improper Medical Waste Disposal in Miami for exclusive tips.