#should i be ashamed for spending money i earned? no.

[maranull]

i ordered two more gunpla... i have failed me once again...

between this new obsession and the payment of the motorcycle (hopefully next month), plus the licence for it (hopefully this month), my savings are really not saving

[im2tired4usernames]

My parents should be fuckin ashamed

[furiousgoldfish]

Did my parents use cult techniques of abuse on me?

Or, did I grow up in a cult-like environment?

Control of appearance

my parents would berate me for my choice of clothing and accessories

my parents would insult me, call me names or slurs or make inappropriate comments if I dressed in a way they disapproved of

my parents would refuse to take me places until I dressed the way they required

my parents would shame me for my appearance and say they're ashamed to be seen in public with me

my parents would require me to look similar to what they look, even if it wasn't my style

my parents would take away pieces of my clothing and destroy it if they didn't like it

my parents would blackmail me or force me to wear a certain piece of clothing against my will

my parents would physically force me into clothing they decided I should wear

my parents berated, insulted and shamed me for the length, color and the style of my hair, if it wasn't what they thought I should look  like

only certain styles of clothing, hair, and accessories were acceptable for me to wear

Control of information, isolation and 'them versus us'

my parents would ask me 'where did you learn that?' whenever I would say something they didn't like

my parents would blame the school/my friends and say 'is this what they taught you?' if I didn't comply with their requests

my parents would disprove of reliable sources of information; they would insist they're right even when their information was directly against science, common sense, school or expert opinion

I was restricted or heavily discouraged from absorbing certain sorts of media (tv was forbidden, or certain books were forbidden, or the internet)

my parents were happy to expose me to information on how others live only if they were showing me worse abuse than what was going on at home. my only references were people who hurt their children much worse

my parents didn't like me spending time with my friends and would criticize those friends harshly in front of me

my parents considered anyone who isn't like them stupid, undesirable, less worthy and irrelevant, they wouldn't take in new information about them and instead considered themselves superior

my parents insisted that there isn't a place for me in the 'outside world' and that I'm only ever going to be a burden and a liability to everyone

my parents convinced me that people in the 'real world' were cruel and dangerous, and that I was likely to get killed, kidnapped, robbed, sexually assaulted or taken hostage by them

my parents believed anyone who fell victim to homelessness, addictions, abuse, poverty, illness or misfortune was stupid, worthless, lived their life wrong, and it was all their own fault that this happened to them

Control of location, financial abuse and life decisions

my parents would take any money I receive as a gift away from me

my parents would take any money I earn away from me

my parents would find a way to 'borrow' or 'keep safe' the money that was supposed to be mine, and I would never see it again

my parents would employ me to do work that would otherwise be paid work, but I would never hear about the money, they would just say it would go to 'the cost of keeping me'

my parents required me to work to 'deserve to live', I would have to do extensive physical work in order to deserve food, shelter, and basic resources I needed for school

my parents didn't give me proper working conditions, when working I wasn't allowed to complain of being tired, hungry, needing the toilet or a break, I had to work silently

my parents wanted me to work for them even after coming of age

my parents wanted me to only work somewhere close to the family (in the same town/city/district, or in a relative's home) and would sabotage me getting jobs that required me to move away

my parents threw tantrums or had extreme anxious reactions if I were to try to move somewhere away from them (insisting I'd be hurt, kidnapped, killed, robbed, sold into slavery, etc)

my parents wouldn't allow me to make life decisions on my own even when I was of age, and insisted that they know what is right for me instead

my parents would withdraw their support from me, or do intense shaming, guilt-tripping, acting hurt and betrayed and blaming me for their own bad psychological state, if I tried to make my own life decisions the way I wanted (even when I'm an adult)

if I needed to move for school/work, my parents insisted on being in as close contact as possible, they wanted me to call them daily or would call daily

I felt that my parents did not trust me to know how to take care of myself and they felt it was necessary to control all of my decisions for me, or I would go directly into my own doom

Strict patriarchal standards

my family believed that the father is supposed to be the 'leader' of the family and that other members of the family, specifically children, were to listen to his orders obediently or be punished

my family allowed the father to use extremely cruel punishments if he wasn't obeyed instantly

there was a double standard for what the family was free to do, and what the father was free to do; he could act as he pleased, but for the rest, there were strict rules of behaviour and limited freedom

while the father in the family was allowed to criticize, humiliate, guilt-trip and demand labour and resources from anyone in the family, he himself was above criticism and was not to be questioned

there was a double standard for girls and boys in my family; girls needed to be submissive, pleasing to look at, work endlessly for others and act like helpers and resources for other members of the family. boys were valued for toughness, durability, aggressiveness.

controlling, bullying and assaulting girls would be forgiven and dismissed, but girls would not be allowed to fight back.

boys were encouraged to fight and were not supposed to complain about injuries or fear physical violence at all

girls were valued for chastity, virginity and appeal to men, while boys were valued for physical strength, leadership, agression and decision making

extensive shame was put on any sexual desire, curiosity or even requests for information about sex

it was assumed that the goals for the young girls in the family was to become married and were trained for 'serving their future husband', to the point where they would be criticized and humiliated for anything 'their future husband wouldn't like'

my family did not give us any resources or information that would teach us about sex or protect us against sexual abuse

there was sexual abuse of children in my family (by adults, or by other children) and it was ignored, dismissed, either never brought to light or the perpetrators were protected if it ever was brought to light, and the entire thing covered up

Breaking (tw torture, tw murder attempts)

I was denied food or shelter if I would disobey my parents as a child

I was locked up somewhere if I would disobey my parents

I was hit, chased, threatened with violence, had things thrown at me and had people scream at me in rage if I disobeyed them as a child

I was beaten, to the point where I had marks on my body, as a punishment for disobedience

I was starved as a punishment for disobedience (my food intake was limited, a meal was withdrawn every day or multiple meals were, or my meals were less than what everyone else was allowed to have)

I was sleep-deprived as a punishment (allowed less than 8 hours of sleep at night)

I was overworked as a punishment (forced to do long or unusual cleanings or other menial labour)

I was exposed to life-threatening situations as a punishment (someone would try to drown/choke/injure me, or put me in a situation where I would likely get injured)

Punishments would not be over until I would break down unable to bear it any more and I would apologize and beg for it to stop, sometimes it still wouldn't stop

After punishments, nobody would speak to me, look at me, pay attention to me, or give me any comfort or acknowledgment, everyone acted as if I was poisonous or toxic (this is shunning)

After punishments, I would be isolated, without any human contact, for prolonged periods of time, I wouldn't be allowed back into the family until they decided it was time

I was exposed to extensive shaming and contempt for disobeying (I was told I was the worst, most selfish creature to live, that I was evil, possessed, demonic, I was called slurs, animal names, monstrous names, compared to the devil or worst humans to exist, blamed for everyone's suffering, accused of causing suffering on purpose and enjoying it)

intimate, sexual or extremely uncomfortable punishments were done to me for disobeying or talking back

I believed that the members of the family were all-powerful, and that there was no way of escaping their punishments, or for them not to find out if I've done anything wrong. I became terrified of making any mistakes and couldn't see a world where they wouldn't find out

I was scared that the family members could read my thoughts and was forbidden to think anything ill of them

Religious and Spiritual Abuse (control of thoughts)

I was supposed to accept the same religion my parents believed in, and anything else was unacceptable

I was forced to participate in church going, religious activities and rituals even if I strongly did not want to be involved

I was taught extensive religious or spiritual beliefs from the start of life, and would be judged on those standards/had to prove my faith in various ways

I was forced to 'confess' my thoughts and beliefs to a member of the family or the church, who then judged me and 'corrected' my way of thinking, telling me how I should (must) think

my place in society was dictated by my religion, if religion said my purpose is to have a family, or have children, then the only way for me to exist would be to follow that purpose

I was taught that laziness is a sin and I was to work every moment I possibly could, or I would be shamed as a sinner

I was told I was impure, sinful, that certain parts of human nature like curiosity, desire for knowledge, critical thinking and indulgence in my interests and desires was 'against god', and I had to give it all up in order to be a good person

I was taught to fear god's wrath and that punishment would come for anything that could possibly be perceived as wrong

I was taught that suffering is necessary and good for us, that the more we suffer in this world, more will we be rewarded in the next one, and that being put through extensive and prolonged pain would actually save me and give me good graces with god

alternatively, I was told that any suffering was my fault and only here because 'I didn't believe enough' or 'my faith isn't pure enough' and if I only did everything right, then I would have no suffering, no illnesses, no problems and no bad moods ever

I was told there was something demonic and evil inside of me, and had to bear punishments to 'exorcise the possession'

I was told I was so evil, selfish and demonic that I could not be loved, or could only be loved under certain conditions, and if I'm continually punished

I was introduced to a 'new age religion' or a specific spiritual belief by my family and was then groomed to participate in it long term, not realizing that it was done for a purpose to benefit a certain cause that was ultimately exploitative and deceptive

I was shamed and told I was doing harm to the world for arbitrary things, like having my own stuff, eating certain foods, participating in certain harmless activities or buying certain things

limits and restrictions would be placed on completely harmless things for which I would then be persecuted

Escape prevention

I was told that I was not capable of living in the normal world and that I would die if I ever escape

I was told I would commit suicide if I escape

I was told that the world outside is life-threatening, that people are dangerous, prone to attack, murder, rob, assault or kidnap me

I was told that I was absolutely unwanted, burden and a waste of space if I'm outside of the family

I was told there was no way for me to become a part of any other group or have a place in any social circle outside of the family

I was terrified that there would be revenge if I ever escaped, and that someone would come and attempt to take my life

(in case of escape) extensive measures were taken to try and get me to come back, I was searched for, contacted and harassed by multiple people trying to find me and bring me back home

(in case of escape) my relatives, friends, acquaintances and peers were harassed and manipulated to believe they need to bring me back and that I'm making a mistake

I was extensively shamed, told I was being cruel, in the wrong, that I needed to forgive and forget any wrongdoing, that I was doing damage and hurting people, if I ever tried to escape

I could feel that I would be shunned, everything I had would be taken from me and I would be left without any family, any resources or any safety net if I ever escape

(in case of escaping) I became shunned and unwelcome in my own family

(in case of escaping) the worst rumors and allegations were spread against me, my family told everyone made-up stories or exaggerated lies of how awful, cruel, selfish, crazy, distorted, sick and psychotic I am

(in case of escape) after escaping, I was hit with severe terror and trauma, and was barely able, or completely unable to function for a period of time, I didn't believe I would survive, and I didn't know how to function in the world

(in case of escape) after escaping, I realized I had nothing to my name, no skills for survival outside of the family, and I needed to re-learn everything, from socialization with people to financial skills and self care, I wasn't taught anything that would help me live in the outside world

*if someone other than your parents did this to you, you can substitute 'parents' by 'abuser'. Sometimes cults will cut family bonds and convince you that the cult community is your only family

If you've scored high on this list, it doesn't necessarily mean you were brought up in a cult, because cults often use tactics of domestic abuse, and the reverse is also true, domestic abusers often use cult tactics of abuse. It also doesn't mean that you weren't brought in a cult, if most of this is applicable you could potentially benefit from reading resources about cults and how they function, and how to recover from them and clear your mind of their control.

Most families raise their children in their own religion, and by patriarchal standards, it doesn't mean that it isn't religious and sexist abuse, because children are often not free to choose their beliefs or live freely of those standards. It's a societal type of 'accepted abuse'. However, you had anything from 'Breaking' category true for you, you were severely abused and someone attempted to take your free will completely from you, and take control of you. Everything in there counts as torture, is illegal, and is not in any way acceptable to do to a child, or adult, and none of it could ever be done for your own good. Also, control of your appearance, finances, information and escape prevention are strong signs of exploitation and being held hostage and used against your will. Control of appearance is mostly done so that nobody in the outer world could recognize that you're not there by your free will and as a part of that family/community, it's to make your abuse invisible and undetectable. Control of information is there to make it invisible to you, so that you can't figure out whats happening to you isn't normal.

If you've scored high on this list, it means you've been through extensive and terrifying levels of abuse, and that strong measures were taken to prevent you from escaping. This type of abuse has long-lasting effects and is not something one can easily recover from. Nobody deserved anything on this list to be done to them, every point is abuse.

[koiiiji]

Could you do some windbreaker characters with a fem gyaru s/o? I would specifically like Vinny you can chose any other character if you want :)

author note : OMG!! I searched some photos in pinterest, like inspiration for gyaru, and wooow!! i will definitely take some details into my style bc its sooo beautiful… i genuinely thought (idk why honestly) that gyaru is more like pink barbie in 80-90s style but it looks so cool i can’t!! sorry for such long reply, and we r mutuals so i feel even more ashamed :(( i tried with more characters but give up and done just these two!! hope you will like it💋🎗️

warning : pure fluff, vinny being softie and shelly cutie as always

vinny - he definitely have 0 idea about all fashion trends, styles and different subcultures aside from street racing… so he genuinely don’t give a fuck about your style, he crushing into person, not a pieces of clothes you wear, but once your dialogue went in all different direction, you explain him what your style specifically is and what inspired you to join this subculture, he take note in his head that as soon as he will earn more money he will buy you as many new clothes and other items as you wish.

it was one of your first dates, you were sitting together in some random cafe that you found on the way from the second-hand store to which you dragged Vinny to find new elements for your outfits.

“so… was it really necessary to spend solid 2 hours in that shop to find just few pair of shorts, skirts and belts?…” he began hesitantly, doubting whether it was worth bringing up the subject. do girls get angry if you ask them why spend so much time in the shops? should he change the subject of conversation? or maybe you want to discuss this trip to the store? it seemed that now Vinny’s brains would just explode, before you he had not had to communicate so long and closely with girls. when you looked up at him, it seemed to him that his heart skipped a couple of beats - your eyes literally sparkled with joy and fun.

"of course it was!! if you want to find really unique things, then there is no place better than a second-hand store! of course, you need to try to find something really worthwhile, but when you find that very thing.." you clenched your fists and squeezed your eyes shut, smiling so sweetly and swaying back and forth with impatience

"...oh right, let's go at my place today!!! i'll show you why we spent so much time there, these shorts and skirts will just go perfectly..." Vinny continued to listen as you happily chirped about your ideas of what to wear new things with, and it seems you also mentioned new places where you wanted to take photos together with him, and much more. at that moment, Vinny didn’t cared about anything as much as your smile. you were so sincere with him, you smiled so brightly, just like a little star in his hands, and he suddenly remembered that pleasant, soft and warm sensation in his chest, just like in rare moments from childhood. your touch pulled him out of his own thoughts as you gently shook his hand, looking questioningly into his eyes.

"didn't you listen to what i was saying?" you squinted suspiciously. "wh... what?.. no, i heard everything.."

laughing in response, you pulled him towards the exit of the cafe, in direction to your house. at that moment, it seemed to Vinny that there were no problems around, and he was finally felt like ordinary schoolboy. yes, you were the one who helped him still stay sane. you were his own little star.

shelly - 100% fashion intusiast so she highlighted your style immediately, and liked it!! as i mentioned before, she definitely would post tiktoks/insta stories with you, admiring how cool and beautiful her girlfriend is.

“hey, let’s go shopping together after school? how about finding some new stuff?” shelly said excitedly, coming up from behind and hugging you. it was the last day before weekends starts, so after school you could relax and go shopping in search of new things, maybe you will be lucky enough today and you will find some cool archive things from 2000s.

"oh my god, look at this!!" Shelly squealed in delight as she ran up to you. in her hands was Vivienne Westwood's archive white handbag, with silver chains as handles and with a distinctive badge. it needed a little repair, but for the price that was offered for this handbag, it was worth it!!

"Shelly is so cute, how did you find it?!" you exclaimed joyfully, picking up the bag from her hands and examining it from all sides. today it was a really cool piece, and after picking up a pair of pumpons and key chains for a bag, you headed to Shelly's house, deciding to celebrate this purchase with a sleepover at her house, her grandfather wasn’t at home, and he anyway liked when you two hang out together.

"what do you think about ordering something to eat and putting on makeup together? we can shoot something in tiktok! oh! or let's film unpacking for this baby, what do you say?" you asked her excitedly, as you remembered that Shelly always wanted to try your makeup style and clothes you usually wear. and she was so pleased that you remembered such little things that she mentioned once quite a long time ago, and they were deposited in your head. hugging you tightly around the neck and whispering a quiet thank you, Shelly took you by the arm and headed for her home, excitedly offering you ideas for posing and which sound you should choose for your tiktoks.

[tragicallyuncreative]

Johnny looked at me quickly. "I didn't mean nothing. I meant, well, Soda kinda looks like your mother did, but he acts just exactly like your father. And Darry is the spittin' image of your father, but he ain't wild and laughing all the time like he was. He acts like your mother. And you don't act like either one." -The Outsiders, Chapter 5

~

It’s funny, because Darry emulates his late father in so many ways (not just in looks and a shared name), despite trying his best to create his own path and not live that lifestyle. Don’t get him wrong, his father was his hero and he admired him beyond words, but didn’t want to struggle the same way his father did. He didn’t want to be stuck in a town he hated, break his back in construction all day for 20+ years, only to barely keep his family afloat and above the poverty line, and to have people look down on him despite trying his best. He wanted to be more, to get a degree, a high-paying job, be able to live comfortably, and yet here he is, stuck working for the exact same construction company his father did his whole adult life to keep a roof over the boys’ heads, always worrying that it’ll never be enough, secretly ashamed of his social status.

Soda, on the other hand, mirrors his father not in looks, but in personality and strives to live just as he did. He recognized from a young age that, like his father, his brain didn’t work the way his brothers did. Nothing came easy to him academically, but he doesn’t see why that should hold him back. After all, his father dropped out in 6th grade, and led a life that Soda views as nothing but successful: a steady job he enjoyed, a beautiful family that despite not having the latest car or fanciest home, was full of love, and a carefree attitude that kept him young at heart. What Darrel Jr. saw as a hard, sad, dead-end life, Soda sees as everything he could hope for. So while his brothers mourn what they view as the only way for Soda to lead a successful life (education), Soda embraces the opportunity to do something he truly loves, work he takes pride in, despite others not understanding. Why should he spend time trying to be good at something he’s not? He can earn money and contribute to his community and build up his trade career. He’s happier at the DX than he ever would be in school, just like Darrel Sr. was working in the cornfields of his adopted parent’s farm all those years ago in that little one-road town in Texas that was ravaged by the Great Depression. And when the Vietnam War breaks out, Soda jumps at the opportunity to again mirror his father in what he sees as the bravest and most noble thing a man can do: serve his country. His brothers and friends beg him not to enlist but he does, full of pride as his hair is buzzed and dog tags are placed around his neck, joining his late father’s, the ones he hasn’t taken off since the day of his funeral. On the first day of boot camp, he stands straight-backed and determined, ready to serve, to defeat the enemy, just like Darrel Sr. defeated the Nazis in 1945.

~

Hi! I have so many headcannons for The Outsiders universe rattling around in my brain, and I can't always share them fully in my stories, so I figured it's about time I started to share them here. Stay tuned for the backstory of The Curtis Parents, Darry and Two-Bit's friendship, and The Mathews Family. Enjoy!

[medusapelagia]

The fourth member of the band

written for @corrodedcoffinfest (Prompt 17: Freak) Rating: Teen and Up Relationship: Freak & Eddie TW: none Words: 994

Fame isn't everything, Freak knows it, but still, he can't avoid being pissed every time the Corroded Coffin are interviewed or he reads a new article about them. 

Half of the space is reserved for Eddie: he's the frontman, he plays the lead guitar and he's the singer, it's obvious that everyone's eyes are pointed at him.Furthermore, he's really theatrical, has a lovely relationship with another man and he's not ashamed of who he's, always ready to join the fight for queer rights on every occasion. 

Jeff is the second guitarist, Eddie and he usually challenge themselves during the concerts and they have a sort of music fight, guitar's solo against guitar's solo. 

Gareth is the youngest, they all treat him like their younger brother and now that he got into a relationship with a famous model he's always on the magazines’ cover.

Freak is the middle child none really cares about, the one that's so quiet and good that it looks like he doesn't need any attention, but the truth is that he does.

He's not exactly jealous of the other members of the band, they are his friends after all, but he feels that he will never be part of the band like they are.

Ok, Freak wasn't part of the original band, he joined when Andrew decided that attending MIT was more important than playing in seedy bars, and there's nothing wrong with that, but even after years and he's still "the fourth member of the band".

He's waiting in their manager's office, not knowing what to expect but determined to point out that he's tired of being ignored when he sees a check on Robert's table. The name on the check is Eddie Munson.

Freak shouldn't snoop, he should ignore the check half hidden under some paperwork, but Eddie is always spending his money so freely that Freak wonders if their shares are really equal as they should be.

With a finger, he slowly pulls the check toward himself and looks at the amount. He freezes. It's way higher than his.

Does he earn more because he's the frontman?

And what about Jeff? And Gar? Do they know that Eddie earns more than them?

Wait a moment… Does Eddie earn more than them? They are always wearing designer clothes and Gareth is talking about buying a house in Malibu…

"Hey, Freak, right?" Robert, their manager says, even if they meet each other more than once.

Expandable. Replaceable.

"Here... let me find your check. Here it is. Don't spend it all in one go!" Robert winks at him. 

Freak snatches his check from Robert’s hand and leaves the office, slamming the door behind him. 

At the reception, Eddie is talking with a fan, signing an autograph.

"Hey! Why don't you ask Freak to sign it too? Freak, would you mind signing an autograph for Angela?"

"You're the fucking frontman, right? Sign your stupid autographs!" He snarls, and Eddie's smile dies.

"Everything ok?" Eddie asks, frowning.

"No."

"Why don't we find a quiet place to talk?" Eddie proposes, looking at Angela for help, and the young woman shows them an empty meeting room.

"So, what's the problem?" Eddie asks.

"What's the problem, huh? As if you didn't know it. I just got my check."

"Yeah, I'm here for my check too. Are the royalties too low? I thought our last album was selling well."

"It is. For you. And probably for Jeff and Gar. Not for me."

"What do you mean? We all have the same share."

"Don't lie to me, Eddie! I saw your check!"

"Ok. There must have been a mistake but it can be easily fixed, why don't you come to Robert's office with me and-"

"So you can make up some other excuses? Fuck you, Eddie!" Freak says, his hand already on the handle when Eddie grabs his shoulder.

"I'm not lying. Come with me and we'll fix this in no time. I promise."

Freak nods, begrudgingly, he doesn't want to lose his place in the band but he's tired of being treated like that.

When Eddie opens the door of Robert's office, with Freak at his side, Robert flinches, but he quickly puts back on his plastic smile.

"Freak. Hey. I thought you left already."

Eddie sits on one of the chairs in front of Robert's desk and puts his combat boots on the desk, "You know what, Rob? Freak here just told me that our checks are different."

Robert sneers, "Did he try to contact the bank? Because they are under strict directions-"

"I don't care how he knows it, but I told him that's impossible. Because we have the same share, right? Twenty-five percent of royalties to each one of us. Am I wrong?"

"Maybe there was a mistake. I'll call my secretary."

"No. Show me my last three checks. And Freak's."

"That is sensitive information."

"I have nothing to hide. Do you, Freak?"

"No," he replies plopping on the chair next to Eddie's, who lifts an eyebrow and gestures to Robert to show them the checks.

"I have to search for them."

"Well give me my new one and we'll see if Freak's and mine are the same amount."

The man pushes his glasses on the bridge of his nose and grabs Eddie's check while Freak takes his. The amounts are different.

"How did that happen?"

"My secretary must have made a mistake but I'll fix it…"

"No. Don't touch anything. From now on you're not our manager anymore and wait to hear from our lawyer: Erica Sinclair is not forgiving."

"Wait, Eddie! It was an honest mistake."

But Eddie and Freak are already leaving.

"I'm so sorry. I didn't know he was doing that. I'll talk to Jeff and Gar and I'll make sure that we are all earning the same amount." He tells him, patting his back, "Now, I was thinking. How do you like a bass solo in our next song?"

[pascaloverx]

Sweet Love

Summary: You're an up-and-coming writer, congratulations. To protect your beloved job, you're willing to do anything. Even strike a deal with the devil, better known as your sister's neighbor. You and Dean Winchester don't really see eye to eye, but in a moment of desperation, you agree to collaborate with him for a greater good.

Author's Notes: Many characters do not belong to me but to the Supernatural Universe (2005-2020). I hope you enjoy the fanfic's story. The fanfic will contain strong language and adult content. Dear readers, I'm here to let you know that if you enjoy this fic, please engage with it. Comments and likes are welcome. I appreciate everyone who follows this fanfic. Anyway, enjoy this chapter.

chapter six chapter eight

CHAPTER SEVEN

The following month felt almost like a dream. You and Dean officially together, without having to pretend to casually bump into each other as good neighbors. Sam seems to be adjusting to your relationship. But he seems to enjoy the time he spends alone when Dean is with you at your sister's apartment. The good news is that you'll be moving soon. Your new book is going to be released, and with the money you've already earned, you'll be able to buy your own apartment.

"I'm not ready to say goodbye to the comfort of being able to see you without much effort. Maybe you should come live with me. I can kick Sam out with just one command from you," Dean says while still cuddling with you. You spent the night together yesterday and decided to sleep snuggled up.

"I don't want to start our relationship by making your brother angry with me. Not to mention that I'll still be close by. My sister lives here," you say, turning slightly and giving Winchester a kiss on the cheek. You don't even finish saying this when you hear a noise at the door. It can only mean one thing: your sister is back.

"Is anyone home?" your sister yells, and you immediately get out of bed, running to find your missing clothes and Dean's. It's not that you won't admit you're with him, you just don't want to admit it like this.

"I'm in the bedroom, just give me a moment to greet you," you shout back, finishing getting dressed. As you're about to leave the room and reach for Dean's hand, he pulls back. You look at him, puzzled.

"I'd better hide here and leave later. Trust me, you don't want to tell your sister about us like this," Dean says, stepping away, which you find suspicious. It's one thing that they don't get along, but acting as if he's ashamed to be seen as your boyfriend makes you uncomfortable.

"I thought us dating meant we were going to make it official to everyone. Including my sister. Unless there's something different about telling my sister that we're together," you say a little irritated. Your sister calls your name and you feel you should go. Dean seems like he has something to say to you but you just close the door and go to where your sister is.

"My little sister! I've missed you so much. I'm dying to hear all the news, what happened while I was working away. I want to know everything," your sister says, hugging you tightly after setting down her bags.

"I should have come back earlier. You didn't even tell me you were coming. Such an ungrateful sister," you say as you hug your sister.

"My boss allowed me to come home for a few days, but I have to go back soon. There's an investigative story in Bulgaria that they'll need me for. And how's it been staying here without me? Dealing with Winchester up front been keeping you up at night?" She speaks and you widen your eyes in surprise at the question. Maybe she suspects something, but you don't want to give anything away.

"Actually, he's been much calmer. Almost like a changed man. Sam's even visiting him. Maybe later we can all meet up," you say, deflecting the conversation while hinting at Dean possibly changing. However, by pretending he's not in your room and omitting that you're dating, you're starting to feel like Dean's little dirty secret—which might suggest he hasn't changed after all.

"My sweet sister, always believing in the best of people. From my own experience, believe me, he's unlikely to change. Although when he was dating Castiel, it seemed like he had changed. I think maybe Castiel was the love of his life," your sister says, and you feel the weight of her words almost immediately. Firstly, what does she mean by "from my own experience"? And the fact that she thinks Castiel might have been Dean's great love confirms your worst fear—that you might be Dean's second choice because he can no longer have Castiel.

"By 'from my own experience,' do you mean because you've witnessed several of Dean's relationships?" you ask, trying not to show how a wrong answer could make this one of the weirdest mornings of your life.

"I never mentioned it to you? Dean and I had a brief relationship. That's why I always insisted you stay away from him. Actually, it was a bit before you came to live with me and he got involved with Castiel. It was fun, but he would never have taken me seriously. I always thought it made sense that he dumped me because he'd found the love of his life. But maybe it was never meant to be me and him. Or him and Castiel. Who knows, right? So, want to eat out? I'm starving." Your sister says this, and you look at her, almost crying. But you have to pretend you're not feeling anything. How could she never have told you? And him? What kind of messed-up morning is this?

"I'll grab my bag and a coat. Meet you downstairs?" you say, trying to hold back the tears.

"Alright. I'll wait for you downstairs. I'll be the girl almost dying of hunger," your sister says, giving you a kiss on the cheek before leaving.

"You can come out now," you say loudly so Dean can hear. Fortunately, your sister is a good reporter, but when she's hungry, she can't think straight. Otherwise, she would have noticed that my coat and bag are in the living room.

"I can explain," he says, appearing quickly in front of you. Obviously, he had been listening to your conversation.

"Just like you could have explained before I found out from my sister. Is that why you didn't want her to know about us? Because you slept with my sister before meeting the supposed love of your life?" Your voice rises, a mix of anger and sadness. A blend of disillusionment with the feeling that you shouldn't be reacting this way.

"It's not fair for you to be mad about the comment on Castiel being the love of my life. I didn't make it. But I understand it's fair for you to be angry that I didn't tell you. At first, I thought it was irrelevant, and then we were already into each other; how could I tell you that I'd been with your sister?" Dean says, and you have no reaction. It's like you can't process what he's saying.

"Don't worry, Dean. I don't blame you for any of this. The fault is mine, the illusion is mine. Now, please go." You speak in a low voice. Dean seems to understand that you really don't want to discuss this now.

"Are you breaking up with me?" Dean asks, approaching you. Looking at him seems to make you even sadder.

"I'm asking for some time; please respect that if you can. If not, you can consider it a breakup. Whatever makes you feel better," you say, looking at him with teary eyes. Dean looks sad, maybe even disappointed.

"I may be an idiot, but I'm not giving up on you," he says, looking into your eyes. Then he leaves, leaving a kind of emptiness in you. But now isn't the time to dwell on it, as your sister will soon become suspicious. You compose yourself, grab your bag and coat, and leave.

[wannaeatramyeon]

Lookism and their silly lil hobbies

My headcannons of their less obvious interests!

Daniel: now he's in the fashion department and earning some money, he guesses he should take more of an interest in current trends. He's still wearing Jay's castoffs and he's happy with them but he takes a huge interest in women's fashion for his momma. She's worked hard and she deserves nice things and Daniel wants to spoil her 🥰

Jay: his hobby? Daniel. His thoughts? Daniel. His dreams? Daniel. But guns and motorbike? This boy has a thing for Hollywood action films and he has pretty good taste too. Classics-ish such as Matrix, Terminator, John Wick

Zoe: she loves watching animal rehab videos on social media, and even the videos of newtubers helping out homeless or down on their luck people. Most of it may be scripted but the act of kindness (even for selfish purposes) makes her melt

Vasco: you think this man doesn't have a Pinterest account? He doesn't spend his spare time putting boards together? His boards aren't public? He's not ashamed. He's got at least 1 for parties, 1 for golden retrievers and 1 for Hero Man pics

Jace: kdramas, the more romantic with as many tropes the better. He likes a good story filled with miscommunication, lots of crying, scenes in the rain and open eyed kisses 😳

Zack: sneaky little hobby of reading up on supernatural shit. After running into the ghost of J High, he's been absorbed with ghosts and demons - in particular how to avoid getting cursed...

Mira: meditation. Putting up with Zack all the time and the violent boys, she needs her moment of peace before she gets overwhelmed. She's also had some pretty traumatic experiences, so this helps her to centre and recollect her thoughts

Johan: unironically a sneakerhead. Started off researching expensive shoes so he can recognise them but now he's fully into the hobby. Way too tight to buy any for himself when he could be saving for his momma's operation but it's nice to window shop 🥺

Vin Jin: we all know he would be twerking to Dukes music. But apart from obviously his music (cos music is his life yknow), he would be leaving hate messages and death threats on Dukes social media and fanpages. He hate watches Dukes live streams but cant stop the twerk creeping up on him

Mary Kim: she's in the Vocal and Dance department but this girl can shred like no tomorrow. She has a band she's the lead vocalist and guitarist of that she keeps off Vins radar so he can keep the shitty rap to himself

Crystal: hiking and the outdoors. It's a way to keep her second body fit and get away from her desk and all the business bullshit. During the days that Gun acts as her bodyguard, she tells him to stay at least 50ft away so he doesn't ruin the mood

Jake: memelord. Cos at least humour is free. He collects pics and memes, and has so many shitty dad jokes up his sleeve to send to the Big Deal members and groupchats that he often gets kicked out or blocked. Hearing their exasperation at another one of his messages always brightens up his day

Samuel: lol drinking as a hobby. this man should be spending all his spare time in therapy but can't win them all 🤷‍♀️ Doesn't do much on his own time that doesn't advance his goals but enjoys sipping on some smooth expensive shit. Not the best for his health, but he needs something to block out the demons

Lua: not the queen of info for nothing. Spends a lot of her time on social media, forums and the dark web reading up on info (and gossip). Shes also kicked up a gear with her Muay Thai training so the assholes in Big Deal would stop underestimating her

Sinu: all that time being locked up with that little bit of chalk? You know what he did? HE'S A FIC WRITER. Headcannons of Big Deal, Sinu X Yeonhui. What the guys would be doing now, what sort of girlfriend Yeonhui would be (I wrote this as a joke but it's pretty depressing)

Gun: you thought that was a casual notepad and pen he had on hand for brekdaks autograph? No bitch its his actual autograph book. He lives and breathes fighting and fangirls a little internally meeting his fighting idols

Goo: anime and boardgames. Yes yes he's a nerd ok. He watched 1 too many anime shows and in his head he's the protagonist fighting his way to the top, with his sidekick Gun. But who do you think left all the boardgames in that shitty house? Gun is boring and Goo needs entertaining. It's one way to let them get competitive without beating the shit out of each other... Usually

[lavandulawrites]

In the arms of a longing man

yan!Childe/Ajax x reader (female)

In The Arms If A Longing Man Rewritten

Masterlist

His dead eyes where something she wish she never had to see again. Every day she prayed to whichever archon that might listen, that he would be gone. But the archons failed her as everything else in her life. Had she just realised that something was terribly wrong with him in the beginning, everything would be different. She wouldn’t need to spend her days in the icy cold tundra of Snezhnaya, instead she could return to Mondstad. But of course, fate had other plans for her.  

The ice cold Snezhnayan wind blew through the treetops. She cussed at herself for not wearing a ticker scarf, but she knew very well that Childe would be extremely mad disappointed at her if she didn’t wear the scarf, he so kindly gifted her. She could only hope that she wouldn’t get a frostbite. 

“Hurry up soldiers!” the commander yelled. She and the other Fatui soldiers hurried as fast as they could in the heavy snow. Oh, how she longed for her warm little cottage hidden safely in the big forest by the little village she had grown so fond of. 

She thought that joining the Fatui was a good idea. She hoped that then she could escape the poverty that had hunted her since she was born. She did in fact earn more than she ever had, but she soon regretted her horrible decision. She then realized that she had been blinded by the hope of earning enough money to live a good life, that she did not think of all the cruel acts one had to commit to become a true Fatui soldier. She realized soon after she arrived to Snezhnaya, that she had been incredibly foolish to believe that she could avoid all the evil deeds. 

How could she be so utterly foolish? She truly was ashamed. She had to leave the Fatui as soon as possible. Today she was going to tell her superior that she was going to take a boat back to Mondstad in the following day. 

She was going back and forth Infront of her superior’s office. She didn’t have another choice. She held her breath and raised her hand to knock on the door. “Hi! You’re Y/N right? You’re one of the new recruits am I right?” a voice behind her said gleefully. She jumped and quickly turned to see whom the voice belonged to. It was Tartaglia one of the Harbingers. 

“Hello sir. Yes, you’re indeed correct.” she straightened her back and bowed. “What are you doing here? Shouldn’t you be training with the other recruits?” the Harbinger grinned.

 “Yes, I should, but I’m here regarding my position here in the Fatui. I’m going to quit.” She looked down to the floor. The light blue tiles were wet, and it was a small puddle forming under Childe`s boots. She didn’t know why she was telling him all this. Mabey it was because he was a Harbinger, and she felt the need to tell him. She held her breath and looked up at him. His grin was gone and replaced by an unreading expression. Had she gone too far by telling him? Probably, judging by his expression or rather lack of. 

“Oh… really. May I ask why?” his lips were in a tight line. She really shouldn’t tell him the reason, but she definitelyshouldn’t lie to him. 

She sighed “I am really not fit for being a member of the Fatui”. He hummed. “I see…” he looked disappointed. He turned on his heel and walked away towards the dark hallway. He waved over his shoulder “Bye then, dear Y/N”. His voice was gleeful.

She tumbled backwards to the door. She was relieved that he didn’t scold her or worse… Still, she got a bad feeling. 

The office door opened. The sergeant looked her up and down with disapproval. “What brings you here? And why is your uniform wrinkled?” he mentioned that she should enter. She must have knocked on the door when she leaned against it by accident she thought. “Sit” he said and sat himself on his fancy leather chair. “You see sir, I have thought about it for an awhile and I have concluded that I will resign from the Fatui” she said while she fiddled with her hands. “I am sure you have” he said mockingly. “Why? Do you not feel honoured by being soldier? Are you that ungrateful?” he pushed his small round glasses up his nose bridge. “No! Of course not! I’m very grateful that I got this position. It´s just that I feel that… it´s not for me. The Fatui have use of someone better than me” she tried to explain. 

He scoffed “Well… I guess I can´t deny you since you applied yourself. It’s a shame really. You’re demised”. “Thank you for your understanding, sir” she bowed and hurried out to the hallway. She sighed in relief. I really did it! 

The next day she was finished packing her belongings and was ready to leave. The docks in Snezhnaya were freezing, but she couldn’t care less. Finally, was she going back home. She was ready to bord the boat, when a few Fatui soldiers surrounded her. “We have orders from the eleventh Harbinger to arrest you” the tallest one said. Her eyes widened. What one earth was going on? She hadn’t done anything wrong. “Why?” she asked and hoped she didn’t sound scared, but judging by her voice she was. “You’ve leaked secret information about the Fatui” a broad shouldered, but short soldier answered. He was eyeing her up and down with a mocking smile. “What? I have done no such thing!” she yelled. It didn’t matter how much she tried to explain herself, they didn’t listen and brought her to the Zapolyarny Palace. The footsteps of the soldiers echoed in the seemingly endless hallways. She was shivering. Was this it? Was she going to get exuded form something she didn’t do? After walking for what seemed like an eternity, they stopped in front of two gigantic doors. The doors were the only thing between her and her doom. The doors opened and the soldiers pushed her in. she stumbled, but quickly gained her balance. The inside was dimly lit, and the walls were decorated to an almost exaggerated state.

The Harbingers were seated on extravagant chairs overlooking Y/N and the soldiers. She almost cowered in fear. She kneeled before them; the soldiers followed suit. Pierro cleared his throat. “I am certain you understand why you are here” his gruff voice rung in the spacious hall. She simply nodded. “I am highly disappointed. Such behaviour should be punished with death”. She raised her head wanting to claim her innocence but stopped when she saw that Pierro wasn’t done speaking. “Thanks to Tartaglia you will be spared”. Her eyes widened in surprise. “You will now be serving under Tartaglia”.

Childe was grinning. She bowed her head. “Thank you for giving me a second chance. To that I am extremely grateful” her voice was quiet. She wasn’t grateful at all. Now it would be impossible to leave the Fatui. Serving directly under a Harbinger was worse than death. “I look forward to working with you comrade” his gaze full of an indescribable hunger. She swallowed. “You are dismissed” Pierro’s voice stern. 

She rose to her feet and bowed before exiting. 

The icy wind didn’t get any better as they descended the mountain. The mission had gone smoothly. The snow creaked under her heavy boots. Fear was creeping up her back. They were almost home. She tried to calm her nerves. Mabey he wasn’t in his office? Perhaps his mission was delayed? She could only hope so.

The office door creaked opened. She stepped inside with her back straightened. She was not going to show her fear. The red-haired man was staring out the window. He turned around and grinned upon seeing her. “Well, if it isn’t Y/N” his voice was like soft velvet. His dead eyes boring into her. “Hello Tartaglia” she bowed. He raised an eyebrow playfully “What have I said about treating me so formally when it`s only us?”. “Right…” her voice was flat as she eyed the Harbinger. He walked towards her with a wolfish grin. He stroked her cheek gently. “Oh, how I have missed you…” he sighed. She didn’t answer. He curled his arms around her and held her tightly. She didn’t dare hug him back. He lowered his head and whispered in her ear “You can’t escape me now. Do you seriously think that the commander doesn’t tell me everything?”. Chills ran across her spine. He laughed coldly. “He told me that you were planning on leaving the group and flee across the border”. He sighed and looked her straight in the eye. He griped her chin firmly. His expression was of fake sadness. “Do you know how hurt I was hearing that? I can’t possibly let you go now”. “Oh, how I have longed for you since the first time I saw you” his voice soft and his eyes looking at her so tenderly. His lips pulled back in a horrifying smile. “I will never let you go”.

[silverarmed]

hi! i’m sophie (she/they, 24) and sooo excited to finally be here! on the menu today we have a heavily revamped muse of mine, seo miyun or as she prefers to be called, yun. she’s a 28 yo maintenance worker with cyborg physiology, currently not on her second, third, but fourth chance at a better life. further info and links can be found under the cut. to avoid me ending up in jail, feel free to message me first to plot + i'm also available on d*sc*rd! <3

links stats / story / powers / trivia

summary tws: child abandonment, child abuse, drug abuse

her first chance at a better life was given to her shortly after her birth. her single mother dropped her off at the steps of an orphanage, hoping a caring family would adopt her. instead, she was taken in by one of eden’s most radical anti-metahuman politicians. the moment her ability manifested at the age of nine, her adoptive parents locked her away from the outside world, ashamed of the monster that infiltrated their home.

her second chance was given to her at the age of fifteen. her extended family found out that she was a metahuman and told the press. she became somewhat of a political symbol, especially that she was surrendered again. instead of letting someone else adopt her again or going to the aeternal academy at eighteen, she decided to reconnect with her biological mother instead.

her third chance was given to her at the age of twenty-one. after finding out that her unemployed mother had been spending her hard earned money on alcohol and drugs instead of paying the bills, yun moved out and got affiliated with daemon. she was a fighter with a decent winning streak for about four years before she was caught taking kickers and sent to seongdong correctional facility.

her fourth chance is given to her now, at the age of twenty-eight. thanks to her good behavior, she’s out a few years earlier than she should be, keeping a low profile as one of the maintenance workers in the apartment complex.

because of her primary ability (cyborg physiology), her brain is half biological and half technological. this means she's pretty sharp-witted, but also not as in tune with her emotions as other people are. also has a monotone, borderline robotic voice that can be pretty distressing to deal with at first. infamously hates literature and modern art because she just doesn't understand it.

yes, the blog name did not lie, she does have a silver arm — her right one, in fact! it's her only visible technological part for now. (fun fact: her daemon fighter alias used to be silver for this reason... but she hated it, please don't call her that.)

^ shoutout johnny silverhand

likes fixing things for tenants free of charge (she just wants to feel useful and capable) and playing video games in her spare time. uses her minor ability (electricity manipulation) to cheat when someone is mean to her in vc. 🤷‍♀️

veeery basic connection ideas

event #2 related: someone who dragged her along to the trip! she wouldn't go on her own (doesn't want to get her silver arm rusty + it heats up in the sun and it's just ew) but if someone begged her, she'd probably say yes!

yun has never had romantic feelings for anyone (surprise, surprise) so maybe someone who has a little crush on her and makes her question how anyone could even like her. (she’s questioning so anyone around her age is welcome!)

someone who regularly breaks the electronics in their unit and has her on speed dial. (she came to silver line about four months ago.)

a daemon regular or secret admirer who misses seeing her fight. (she started about seven years ago and retired three years ago.)

i was not here for the first event HOWEVER! it is safe to assume she was just down there working on the generator the whole time. maybe someone who brought her a snack or two as a way of saying thanks?

people who hate her and think she’s a bitch because she’s so cold and blunt all the time. little do they know, it’s just the cogs in her brain.

an angsty “two people trying to heal together but they keep treating each other like shit” connection, anyone? (bonus points if they have similar problems/backgrounds.)

[stormoflina]

There are not that few amount of Curtis Jones hate among the locals and the Liverpool fans you know. I don't know why exactly but based on all I heard that it's because like he often forgets where he comes from and tries to forget his roots, he tries so hard to be relevant in the mainstream​, his style of living, not humble enough as a Scouser, him cheating on his gf, going to the sex parties, his sister beating the teenagers over balloons a few years ago (it's not his fault but still), ... I can't trust on any footballers anymore and it hurts. Footballers truly are the different breeds and not in a good way.

Sorry to respond late, but I wanted to wait a bit with the CuJo defending, unless it comes back and bites me in the ass, lol. Football made me superstitious!

Anyway, I hear what you are saying, I know CuJo, especially in the past, got slandered quite a lot. Mostly for his supposed lack of footballing skills, something he is proving how dead wrong everyone was about.

I will admit, I didn't look into that sex party thing that much they rumored about him and Harvey, so I'm not sure how true it is. Sure, it's one thing what we see on socials, and a complete other what goes on real life, but Curtis seems very much in love with his girlfriend, so I would like to think that those rumors are just simply those: rumors.

About the "not humble enough for a Scouser''... that is so ridiculous! He is a football player, who earns an amount of money just for a week that many do for a whole year. Is it fair? No. But to hate on him for spending his money and having nice, expensive clothes is crazy. He doesn't even seem to be flashy with his money, so I really don't get it. This is serious nitpicking. Every single football player could be slandered for this then. Hungary's poverty rate is at an all-time high of the last 30 years, so Hungarians should hate on Dominik, because there are people struggling to pay the bills, while he has a LV backpack? Or Lucho's daughter has Gucci clothes on, so he should be ashamed, because he dares he, when people in Colombia are struggling and on and on... Like yes, it's unfair, but blame the system that allows this, not the young players who had to sacrifice their whole childhood to achieve this.

(Not saying that they should just spend their money on expensive, unnecessary things, no, hopefully they spend a good amount on charity, but that's none of our business really.)

Sorry for this bit of a rant, I just find it annoying when people go off for stupid things like this on players just because they have an agenda, then call the likes of Ronaldo or Benzema the goats, lol.

[igotsnothing]

Chapter 4: Sentimental Shift

The days blended into each other tediously for Finn. He worked hard every single day and felt frustrated that he had so little to show for it. But he knew he had to be patient: he was learning a lot. He noticed that people had started going up to him rather than the other attendants to ask for guidance at the community maker center.

Part of the reason why he was so stressed had to do with the upcoming prom he'd agreed to go to with Luna. Everything was so terribly expensive. Two weeks before prom, Jacob invited him to hang out at the amusement park with him, Morgan, and Luna; the four had been spending a lot of their free time together.

"Sure: I gotta clean up from work and then I'll bike over."

"What just happened? I didn't get to play for more than two seconds!" Luna cried out.

"Don't worry- I'll avenge you." Morgan's eyes followed the frantic motion on the screen.

"You're going down, Fyres!" Finn joked, firing a shot.

"Dude. That was ME," Jacob complained as they all burst out laughing.

"Hey, Finn, could we talk a little bit about prom? You never replied to my message about the limo rental. And did you get your tux yet? My dress is red- you know, for when you get me my corsage?"

"I'm sorry, Luna. I meant to reply sooner, but it'll all depend on how much work I do with the landscape folks this weekend. I might not be able to go in on it with you guys."

"But we're going together!"

"Ah...I know, I know." He took one look at her disappointed expression and felt ashamed. "I'm in."

He had no idea how he'd come up with the money, but he could always try to earn some money doing the odd errand around town.

"I'm so excited about prom! Are you?" she asked, as they wandered away from the others to steal a little alone time together.

"Yeah! Definitely!"

"So my dress is red with gold accents," she began.

"Sounds nice!"

"Where are you renting your tux from?"

"I haven't really looked around yet."

"Oh, Finn! You can't wait! There won't be anything left if you wait! You are renting a tux, right?"

"I was actually thinking of borrowing a suit from someone I work with--"

"No, no!" Luna insisted. "You can't do that!"

"Is it that important, Luna? All of this sounds really expensive and it's not that I don't want to do it all, I just can't!"

"You seriously did not know how much prom costs before you said 'yes' to me?" Luna wondered.

"I guess not. I thought it would just be fun to be there together, you know? Hanging out, enjoying it all."

"Maybe this wasn't such a good idea...I mean, I've waited a long time for this and I want it to be perfect."

"Seriously? Having all that stuff is more important than going with a...uh... friend?"

"I'm sorry, Finn. Prom is a once-in-a-life-time event. I want it to be perfect. If you can't do it the way it should be done, then it's best we not go together."

"So you are saying that matching with your date is more important than the date himself?"

"Look, I appreciate your trying, but this is not going to work. I like to eat out, shop, go to concerts...travel. It's not fair to expect you to be able to keep up with me and it's not fair to ME to not enjoy my evenings out the way I'd like to. I mean, there are only so many times we can go to the arcade and eat burgers. You're a sweet guy, but we're just too different."

Finn remained stoic.

"Thanks for being honest."

He headed out quickly, leaving Luna and the others behind, the stinging in his eyes betraying his hurt. At that moment he resented all the families strolling together, all the other teens who didn't need to worry about where their next meal was coming from if they splurged a few simoleons to play carnival games.

"Maybe Luna is right. Our worlds are just too different. I'm just bringing everyone down. My life is a mess. I live in a tent. Who knows when things will get better for me," he thought sadly.

He pulled out his phone and peered at the last photo he had taken of Luna ...and deleted it.

Just then, his phone buzzed with a text.

Finn put his phone down. Maybe the problem wasn't him, after all. Maybe it was Luna's attitude.

Morgan stared at her phone, feeling at once nervous and excited. Maybe she had a chance.

"Hey Morgan," Siobhan barged into her sister's room wearing a little grin of satisfaction. "I have a message from mom. She said you came in fifteen minutes after curfew and because of that you are on laundry-folding duty tomorrow."

"Hey Shiv- I have a message for you, too. It's from the Spice Girls. They want their fugly costume back."

"RUDE!" Siobhan snapped, slamming the door behind her as she left.

Nothing was going to ruin Morgan's mood that night.

She had a chance!

Start ˗ˏˋ ★ ˎˊ˗Previous˗ˏ★ ˎˊ˗Next

[meetthetruthblogger]

The Truth About Money

May 28. 2024

Do you worry about money? Does the phone ringing cause your heart to skip a beat? If you receive a piece of mail from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) does your stomach do flip-flops? I emphasize with you; I have been there! Everyone knows you should not worry about money; however, when the phone starts ringing and the dunning letters seem unending it is easy to feel overwhelmed. My experiences led me to write “The Truth About Money: How To Find Joy And Peace,” which is the first of the Truth Trilogy books.

Money is a pretty easy concept to understand! If you want to live in financial peace, you must follow two key concepts: First, you must consistently spend less than you earn over a long period of time, let’s say the rest of your life, and eliminate debt, particularly consumer debt, which is ‘The Kiss of Death’ to your financial well-being.

Benjamin Franklin said it like this: “There are two ways to increase your wealth.  Increase your means (income) or decrease your wants (expenses).  The best is to do both at the same time.”

If you are going to be financially successful, you must: Spend less than you earn and eliminate Debt. Not very sexy nor complicated, but if you accumulate debt making it difficult to keep up with the payments, you will have a very hard time finding peace with your personal finances.

I am going to define ‘financial success’ as having a positive Net Worth; that is, owning more than you owe! This sounds so simple, that you might be tempted to think I am pulling your leg – I assure you I am not!

Just to drive the point home, if you cannot live on less than you earn, you will live paycheck-to-paycheck for the rest of your life and you will be very susceptible to the never-ending barrage of emergencies that, like a tsunami, threaten to overwhelm you.

“Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure nineteen six, result happiness.  Annual income twenty pounds, annual expenditure twenty pound ought and six, result misery.”

Charles Dickens (Author).

The Bible has a lot to say about money – over 2,300 verses; here is one of my favorites:

 “A little that a righteous man has is better than the riches of many wicked. For the arms of the wicked shall be broken, But the Lord upholds the righteous. The Lord knows the days of the upright, and their inheritance shall be forever. They shall not be ashamed in the evil time, and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied. (Psalm 37:16-19)

If you would like a copy of “The Truth About Money” just use this URL (Smashwords:   https://www.smashwords.com/interview/TCMaloney) and enter the Coupon code at checkout to receive a free copy of any or all of The Truth Trilogybooks; please leave a review of the books if you would be so kind. This coupon will expire in two days, May 31, 2024.  Coupon Code: RV79Y.

Next week we will talk a bit about Natural Laws!

Thank you for reading. Tom Maloney

[intolerancecare]

Criminals or Slaves

Would you know if someone really has a tendency to kill or do criminal acts? Criminal would probably be the only person that will warrant a bad treatment.

When I was in rehab, I saw some people who have been quiet and obedient. Not as angry as me for being locked. When they got out, we still see each other in the facility weekly. Answering lies in our worksheet. At least for some. They are provided. Some speaks of wealth, but their family would immediately report disobedience and bad behaviour. I find that trigger happy, lies, power tripping. Same abhorrence that I felt when my family started stating the reason why they brought me in. In one of our sessions online. I can imagine others laughing at my misfortune. The people that I fed and sent to school. I scared them? Wow. I was just too lazy to do anything at home. I just watch IU and other Kshows. Duh! I used to suffer being with my cousins who watch nothing the whole day but MTv. De Vera would say again that they are me? Hear ye... Their just MYX (local Music Channel) Well, sometimes we watch movies. And yes, my ate's only local, VIVA shows. My kuyas yeah MTv only.

Anyways, they are now old and have their own family. I think they were told that I was crazy.

I was crying for help. I want them to stop. I think they profiled me as a mistress. F* you. Read ok. I said I am thankful, and that interaction is only that period where I'm supposedly have put everything to an end, but they are more secured that I am a whore. Their truth is that I should be cheap and desperate like Melojane, Cherry, Leleth, Arjun and Monatus. My fault that I am surrounded by them? Oh please, I am really not artistic.

I forgot, they are expensive for them.

Rehab, a dumpster for people whose family are prodded and triggered to manipulate and enslave.

I will not accept my family's good faith until they continue to thank my mother's family and not my father's. I am my father's. Not those filipina women who searched for a rich foreigner to earn and support their family. What I have given them are not enough because what my father's have done are also not enough. They forgot that they never asked for help, visited only on new year. No thank you after. My father is dead so no one will go to them and ask for help. My mother always fight and badmouth my father's so she can only asks her siblings who also were pressuring me to pay while supporting my family expenses. My siblings never asks anyone but me for help. Ingrates. They give me money now? My savings from my cancelled insurance is already emptying. They give me? I wish I can return them all this month. I wish I won't need to spend them for my needs. I want to be away from them. Yeah, were ok. We're casual but things will never be the same again. No sorries because they feel what? Ashamed? Humiliated? becaue of my posts? wow...

And me? Crazy?

I wish they suffer the same. I wish those who will say the same suffer too. The way I did.

They want me to kill myself? Cause my father wasn't able to kill my molester which made us all cheap?

One talk, Rehab? In rehab, itchy collar?

[thebarefootcajun]

Horse Whisperers, Bertheaud and Chanceuse

We were corralling horses the day we met. Bertheaud, pronounced burth-owed, was a horseman. He’d grown up on a horse farm that had been in his family for quite a number of years. Those boys were put on a horse right out of the womb everyone said. Some even said Bertheaud’s Mom had mounted a horse when Bertheaud refused to be birthed, and he was born right there at that moment on a horse name Venir Vite, come quickly.

I worked for that horse family whose last name was Cheval while in high school and continued after graduation. BTW, my name is Chanceuse, pronounced Shawn-suz, meaning Lucky. Not sure the origin of my name, but I’ve always been lucky in getting jobs. This job is the best I’ve ever had, working with horses is in my blood.

Bertheaud and I have over the years become friends. At times we are inseparable. We come from different worlds. Bertheaud and his family have money. I come from a share cropper family. We barely scrape by. I was so happy to relieve my parents of caring for me even before graduating high school with the money I earned working with Bertheaud’s family.

One afternoon Bertheaud suggested we head to the bayou with a couple of troubled horses. These two guys needed some much needed time with us and each other. We rode them easy for the first ten minutes and then ran them to get the boogers out of them so to speak. Tying them up next to a fresh water lake we allowed them respite with each other, delicious water and lots of yummy edible grasses.

We decided to skip the bayou; it was a hot, humid afternoon; not only were the horses feeling fatigued but so were we. Bertheaud said he’d go for a swim. I watched as he stripped, and was quite shaken with the beauty of his maleness. Stirred in my groin might be a better way to put it. Feeling not quite sure how to handle this newfound feeling I shouted out to Bertheaud, “Je vais me promener autour du lac.” I am going to take a walk around the lake.

Bertheaud hollered back, “D’accord, c’est bon.” Okay, that’s good.

Bertheaud swam laps across the diameter of the lake. I could tell that he was a strong swimmer. Bayous, traditionally, not deep were mostly my experience with water. I’d really never learned to swim. I was a bit ashamed of that. Lac D’eau Douce named so because of its beautiful fresh water, a haven for prairie animals and humans. I finished one lap around the lake and I found Bertheaud sitting on the edge of the lake with his feet in the water. Possibly, sunning himself or drying off. That uncomfortable feeling happened again as I noticed his beautiful

Maleness. I wasn’t sure how to respond. Therefore I looked away mostly as Bertheaud chatted about Lily and Florence the two mares we had ridden to the bayou by way of Lac D’eau Douce.

Bertheaud got up and dressed in a matter of fact way like it was usual for him to parade around naked. We walked back to where the horses were, mounted and rode off to the horse pasture. We led the horses to a smaller corral where they could acclimate to being closed up again. Lily and Florence had become two of my favorite horses ever. I liked spending time with them alone after working them. We seemed to understand that we were all outliers. Different from the mainstream of horses and men. It was good to have them as friends. They listened and understood the trials of life. Understood that we weren’t what people thought we should be; we could relate to each other in being rough around the edges.

Leaving Lily and Florence in the corral I headed back to the main barn that serves as an office for workers as a place for meetings and work assignments. I was still a bit rattled about seeing Bertheaud naked. With no one to share this new experience I was on my own to navigate a new path in my life. I knew my friendship with Bertheaud was special, but now it was making even more sense; I was attracted to him sexually. As I young adult I’d never really explored that part of me before now. And I didn’t have a lot to draw from either being a prairie boy isolated from much of the larger world.

Not suggesting that prairie boys are limited in their understanding of these things; I’m just one who

is; naive and confused. Now I’ve added another dimension to my friendship with Bertheaud that somehow needs to come out to him. But how? I fear it’ll change our friendship. His friendship is one of the most important one in my life.

Readers: any suggestions how to continue?

[roleplaysinner]

Indecent Proposal

"No, Soham. We cannot afford to buy it. It is not proper to spend money like this." - Rohini said, while looking for the TV remote.

"But why Mom? I should pass out in a couple of years and get a job. We can easily repay a loan if we take any now." - Soham insisted.

"It's not that simple baby. You have to get a job first. Also, I would ideally want you to pursue a Masters' degree after your graduation. We need to save money considering all options."

Rohini Chatterjee was a 42 years old woman. She had separated from her husband 10 years back and been bringing up her son Soham, who is now 20 years old, since then. She works as a receptionist in a multinational firm and though she had been able to make ends meet with her salary till now, with her son having grown up and the soaring inflation, she has been finding it a bit difficult to cater to all the financial needs conveniently over the last few months.

Soham has been studying B.Tech. in a reputed college for 2 years now and should pass out of the course in another two years. He had a tall athletic body and had grown up into a handsome young man much to the pride of his mother.

The subject in contention was a bike which Soham wanted to buy but Rohini resisted her son's request on the ground that they needed to save the money for future needs. Obviously Soham was not happy about it and was trying to convince his mother otherwise.

"I do not know why we always have to compromise, mom? My friend Vikram recently got this new bike. I heard his mom gifted the bike to him recently on his birthday. She doesn't even have a job like you. But they live such a lavish life." - Soham said, in a disappointed voice.

"It's better if we don't talk about Vikram's mom and how she gets all the money. I know Poonam and her character very well.". Rohini said, while leaning back on the sofa and browsing the TV channels.

"Whatever she is doing is working for her and her son. She is a widow herself. I know a few years back they were in such bad condition when Vikram's dad died of that accident. She was just a housewife back then. But I think now she earns much more than even Vikram's dad used to." ..Soham said, chuckling

"Huh! don't even get me started on her, baby. I told you I know how Poonam earns that money. There are men paying her for that. And you are grown up enough now to understand what they pay her for when they visit your friend's house at night."....Rohini said, in a mocking tone. She would not generally discuss such a topic with her son, but she felt it was wise for him to know the truth. And besides, Soham was an adult now.

Soham remained silent for a bit of time. And then he walked over and sat by Rohini's side on the 3 seater sofa.

There was a minute of silence. Then Soham broke the silence by saying "Mom, if you tried you could earn three times as much as her. You know that, right?"

It took a bit of time for Rohini to realize what her son had just told her. For a few seconds she could not believe what she had heard.

"What....what do you mean? How can I earn that much?"....The question almost slipped out of her lips inadvertently.

"Mom, when did you last look at yourself in the mirror? Vikram's mom is not even half as hot as you. Those men who visit Vikram's mom, and anyone else would easily pay thrice more for you."....Soham said, in an apprehensive low tone

"Baby, what.......".....Rohini could not complete the sentence as she could not find what to utter. A sense of deep embarrassment paralyzed her mind.

"I know you will be angry with me mom. But what I am saying is the truth. If you just open up your mind a bit you could see it for yourself."....Soham said as he got up and walked away from the living room towards his bedroom.

Rohini sat there shell-shocked. She felt hurt, ashamed and angry. But at the same time she felt a strange tickling sensation between her thighs, as the true meaning of her son's proposal sank into her mind.