#smoke shop pos

[retailzposblog]

In the realm of retail, the Point of Sale (POS) system stands as a cornerstone of transactions. Within the distinct domain of smoke shops, the journey from conventional registers to modern, tech-infused systems has been both fascinating and transformative. This evolution not only reflects technological progress but also addresses the unique challenges and demands of the smoke shop pos industry.

[marketing-13]

The Ultimate Guide to Smoke Shop Software - Features and Benefits

Running a smoke shop requires more than just stocking the shelves with popular products; it’s about managing day-to-day operations smoothly, keeping customers happy, and staying competitive in a rapidly growing industry. Enter Qape, an all-in-one smoke shop management software designed to simplify these tasks and help you grow your business online. In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore the features and benefits of smoke shop software like Qape and how it can streamline your operations, boost sales, and enhance your customer experience.

Why is Smoke Shop Software Essential in 2024?

As the smoke shop industry evolves, staying ahead requires more than just offering quality products. You need a system that can handle inventory management, customer service, sales tracking, marketing, and more—all in one place. That’s where smoke shop software like Qape comes in. It provides the tools you need to manage everything efficiently, saving you time and effort while boosting your bottom line.

Let’s dive into the key features and benefits that make smoke shop software a must-have for your business.

Key Features of Qape’s Smoke Shop Management Software

Inventory Management

Managing stock is crucial for any retail business, but it can be especially challenging in smoke shops where you have to keep track of a wide variety of products. Qape’s inventory management system allows you to monitor stock levels in real-time, set automatic reorder points, and ensure you never run out of popular items. This feature helps you avoid overstocking or understocking, leading to better inventory control and increased profitability.

Point of Sale (POS) System

The POS system is the heart of any smoke shop operation, and Qape offers a seamless, user-friendly system that makes transactions quick and error-free. Whether customers are purchasing in-store or online, Qape’s POS system handles payments efficiently, tracks sales data, and provides detailed reports on your shop’s performance. With everything integrated into one platform, you can keep an eye on trends and make informed business decisions.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM)

Building strong relationships with your customers is key to growing your smoke shop, and Qape’s CRM feature helps you do just that. It stores customer information, purchase history, and preferences, allowing you to personalize the shopping experience. You can also use the CRM to send targeted promotions, discounts, and loyalty rewards, turning one-time shoppers into repeat customers.

Online Ordering and E-Commerce Integration

In today’s digital age, having an online presence is essential. Qape’s software integrates with your e-commerce platform, allowing you to sell products online and manage orders seamlessly. The online ordering system lets customers browse your inventory, place orders, and pay online. This not only increases sales but also expands your reach to customers who prefer to shop from the comfort of their homes.

Marketing Tools

Marketing is crucial for attracting new customers and retaining existing ones. Qape offers built-in marketing tools to help you promote your smoke shop both online and offline. From email campaigns and SMS alerts to social media integration, the software lets you create personalized promotions and track their effectiveness. With data-driven insights, you can fine-tune your marketing strategies for better results.

Compliance Management

Smoke shops often have to deal with strict regulations and compliance requirements, especially when selling tobacco or cannabis-related products. Qape’s software helps you stay compliant by tracking sales data, managing age verification, and ensuring you meet all legal requirements. This reduces the risk of penalties and keeps your business running smoothly.

Benefits of Using Qape Smoke Shop Software

Streamlined Operations

With all your business functions—inventory, sales, customer management, and marketing—in one system, Qape helps streamline your operations. You no longer need to juggle multiple tools or software platforms. Everything you need is at your fingertips, making your day-to-day tasks simpler and more efficient.

Improved Customer Experience

Qape’s CRM and POS systems ensure that customers have a smooth and personalized shopping experience. Whether they’re shopping in-store or online, the seamless transaction process and tailored promotions make them feel valued. Happy customers are more likely to return, boosting your sales and building brand loyalty.

Increased Sales and Revenue

By optimizing your inventory, managing promotions, and offering online ordering, Qape helps you increase sales and grow your revenue. With better control over stock, you can avoid costly mistakes like overordering or running out of popular products. Plus, with online sales, you’re no longer limited to local customers—you can expand your business across regions.

Data-Driven Decision Making

Qape’s reporting features give you access to detailed analytics about your sales, customer behavior, and inventory performance. These insights allow you to make data-driven decisions, whether it’s adjusting your inventory levels, creating targeted marketing campaigns, or identifying top-selling products. This helps you run a smarter, more profitable business.

Enhanced Compliance and Security

By automating compliance tasks and maintaining secure transaction records, Qape ensures that your business stays within legal guidelines. This reduces your risk of fines and keeps sensitive customer and business data secure.

Final Thoughts: Is Smoke Shop Software Right for You?

If you’re looking to take your smoke shop to the next level, investing in smoke shop management software like Qape is a smart choice. From streamlining operations to improving customer experiences, the benefits are clear. With features like real-time inventory management, online ordering, and built-in marketing tools, you’ll have everything you need to grow your business and stay ahead in a competitive market.

Qape is the ultimate solution to help you manage your smoke shop more efficiently and profitably. Embrace the power of modern technology and see how it can transform your business for the better. Ready to streamline your smoke shop operations? Schedule A Demo with Qape today and watch your business grow!

[tanadrin]

selected doctrines of Tanadrinism

working on the sabbath is forbidden. the Sages explain that by "work," the scripture means "anything you're just not feeling at the moment," and that "the sabbath" extends from 3:30 Friday afternoon to 11:00 AM on Monday

the Light of God is not present in Indiana, and the faithful are forbidden from setting foot in that accursed place

the world was created August 12, 1973, at 8:36 PM. all human memory, history, artifacts, and so forth were created in place, producing the illusion of an ancient cosmos. all major world religions were actually developed in the 70s as a way to try to explain the stuff people found lying around. except us. tanadrinism is an authentic tradition from the beginning of time (51 years ago)

smoking weed and jerking off are among the sacraments. you can combine them if you want.

the light of LSR J1835+3259 is bleak and sinful; do not let your gaze linger upon it or images thereof

salvation is achieved by mailing a filled out Standard Salvation Request Form along with a recent utility bill and a photo ID to a PO Box in Panama City. the exact address can be found in the holy scriptures. also, you can substitute a Polaroid with your name scrawled on the back, endorsed by two witnesses

all falling down old buildings, abandoned rail yards, weird blocks of concrete you found in the middle of the forest, and empty subway platforms are the abode of God on earth, or the fane of one of God's nameless saints. it is considered virtuous to leave offerings to God or the saints in such places, viz., cigarettes that are only half-smoked, or not-quite-empty bottles of booze.

there are 15,346 true commandments, but only three and a half have been revealed to the faithful. the prophets say not to worry about it, it's probably fine.

the physical, metaphysical, and ontological center of the universe, the seat of the axis mundi, the place to which all sacred forces in the cosmos converge or from which they radiate, is located in the stockroom of the porn store next to the döner shop near the Beusselstraße train station in Moabit, Berlin. if you are very quiet, you can sometimes hear the choirs of angels singing from the sidewalk outside.

the holy scriptures state that God apologizes for the inconvenience of creating the universe, that They did so by accident, and They are not sure how to fix it. but They weep with our sorrows and laugh with our joys, and swear that one day, howevermuch labor on Their part it might require, we shall be free of all the former, while the latter will increase without limit. in the meantime, They implore you to seek more joy than sorrow, and to do what you can to ease the suffering of others.

blessed are they who are kind to others, even when they're in a really shitty mood, saith the Lord; they shall get a free large soft-serve ice cream at the celestial ice cream bar, next to the eternal laser tag arena.

[allisluv]

drabbles/thoughts part one.

main masterlist.

valentines day

sundresses

leaving lipstick marks on finnick

finnick taking care of you when you're sick

late night swims

finnick with an anxious s/o

finnick x bi!reader

finnick being whipped for you

finnick reminding you to take your meds

self care days

seeing you without makeup for the first time

finnick x reader with a body focused repetitive behavior

finnick comforting you during an autistic meltdown

finnick x singer!reader

finnick x tattooed!reader

finnick x reader with a fear of the ocean

comforting finnick after a nightmare

finnick reassuring reader with abandonment issues

demisexual!finnick x demisexual!reader

johanna x finnick x reader love triangle

finnick going for an early morning swim

spending summer with finnick

telling finnick that you'll love him even when he's turning grey

finnick x reader with germaphobia/OCD

spending winter in district four

finnick x reader post argument

finnick with a partner who likes to (affectionately) bite him

finnick convincing you to go to the doctors

finnick taking care of you post-op

finnick reassuring you when he hears you say something negative about yourself

showing off your new swimsuit to finnick*

golden retriever!finnick x black cat!reader

surfing with finnick

finnick accidentally making you cry during an argument

finnick helping reader quit smoking

finnick and reader mentoring their young tributes

finnick x reader with really bad migraines

finnick accidentally spoiling his proposal

coaxing finnick awake with kisses

finnick comforting fem!reader during their period

finnick x plant obsessed!reader

finnick comforting plus sized!reader when she overhears someone from the capitol talking about her

finnick x rockstar!reader (1) (2)

finnick x single parent!reader

lying with finnick when you're running a fever

finnick annoying his germaphobe s/o

drawing finnick

finnick x dancer!reader

finnick x artsy!girlfriend (1) (2)

calling finnick a "babygirl"

finnick buying you floaties

barbequing with finnick

finnick tempting you back to bed with kisses

reader running into a forcefield to get mouth to mouth from finnick

finnick x little!sister during pride month

finnick's take on shaving

finnick has the man flu

finnick x reader with full body tattoos

taking finnick to a rock concert

finnick having an acne flare up

watching horror movies with finnick

going shopping with finnick

seeing finnick cry for the first time

finnick helping reader babysit their little cousin

finnick when someone gropes you in school

finnick and reader sharing romantic baths together

finnick's reaction to his partner gaining weight (/pos)

cockwarming with finnick*

finnick with a s/o who's insecure about their curly hair

finnick gets his wisdom teeth removed

older brother!finnick when his sister is being harrassed

finnick x reader with seperation anxiety

finnick analysing your song lyrics

finnick x reader who knows what she wants in her relationship

finnick x reader who's first language isn't english

beach days with finnick

finnick praising you for getting your hair done

finnick helping reader with homework

teaching finnick to play an instrument

finnick when reader burns his birthday cake

finnick trying food and trying to learn the language from reader's native country

finnick x reader who gets startled easily

overstimulating sub!finnick*

finnick x oblivious reader

tying a bow around finnick's bicep

finnick with a partner who stress-bakes

finnick with a partner who craves physical touch

finnick x tall!girlfriend

finnick with a reader who stress cries

finnick with a reader who loves winter

thigh riding with finnick*

finnick is a thigh man*

finnick seeing you in a mermaid costume on halloween

finnick who's afraid of letting his walls down

finnick's handwriting

finnick eating reader out on her period*

finnick with a s/o who brings home random animals

[oldhalloweentape]

🪨Venture (OW II) x (gn) reader ⛏️

(Dragon Reader Edition!)

(Picture’s not mine!)

(I’m gonna be honest with y’all, my bones fucking ache. But it’ll be ok, the week will be done soon enough. Happy early birthday @goohts , you weirdo/pos)

- From my knowledge, I know that most dragons have a human form so meeting them like that is the most likely situation, however, the idea of them stumbling upon your cave and witnessing your full dragon form while on a hiking trip sounds fun.

- Makes them question everything— The mere mention of real-life dragons was preposterous, considering mere folklore and fictional but… Here you were, and it had their brain just emitting a droning dial tone and nothing else.

- They’ll get over it— Eventually. When the initial panic and fear of being honey smoked by your large lizard assed self, approaching this part of you with an air of excitement.

- This is revolutionary to them, you are an absolute marvel to them, every little bit of information you tell them whether it be about your species or parts of history you were able to experience is cataloged neatly in various handwritten and recorded journals.

- Studies you (expect to be poked and prodded a little bit if you let them) as much as they can so they can see whether or not historical depictions of your species were accurate or not.

- The prehistoric lizard facts are endless and they will eagerly ask you about your ancestry, you have them captivated.

- This may be a highly coveted secret of yours and with Venture usually it’s natural to think that they might spill the beans inevitably, and are kind of right. Though they are actually able to swerve certain questions about you fairly well, technically not lying but not indulging in telling anyone.

- Just means they can be slick when they want to be, and will divulge in sharing anyone else’s secrets with you.

- Considering how time after time throughout history humanity, or certain groups of humanity are known for being rather gauche and destructive with their kind, and we know how they are with inhuman species that are visibly able to think critically/emotionally and have bodily autonomy (cough cough omnics cough cough).

- Anyways on a less serious note, I feel like they’d be a D&D player, like usually playing bards or artificers, so— I guess you can say that they can finally seduce a real dragon with their D20 roll/j

- Shared lizard brain? Shared lizard brain, the size of your hoard increases tenfold with rocks and crystals just by them coming on by your cave and waving them around excitedly.

- Got a hoard of ancient treasures? Their immediate reaction is to try to analyze them and ask question after question on each piece so they can hear you talk about how you got them and so on and so forth.

- They’re like a kid in a candy shop, aching to touch everything but asking if they can all the while giving you puppy eyes, saying stuff like “You won’t even notice I’m here! Pleaseeee!!”.

- This goes for them wanting to touch you while in your dragon form, like if you have scales, feathers, fur, etc.

- When you’re cuddling they’re going to run their feelings across them, enjoying the texture.

- Kisses your snout a whole lot, you letting out a small puff of smoke from your nose is just too cute.

- Knowing the whole fire breathing and association with the element you probably feel like a hot rock… And they’ll be the lizard in this relationship now.

- Can and will plead for you to let them climb on your back and fly with you, the wind on their face is rather nice and exhilarating.

- Has “jokingly” asked for you to fry Mauga before, drawing some crude picture of it you keep on a pile of gold coins.

- Ya’ll are extremely cute, as any other Reader x Venture usually is.

(Hmm, monster x human, y u m)

[cabeswaterdrowned]

Thank you @sergeantpixie for tagging me! rules: list 5 of your favourite books on a poll, so your followers can vote which book they think captures your vibe the best

But I decided to cheat and have it be 6 so that I can include 3 series and 3 stand alones, because that just felt right to me

Goodreads Summaries of the latter four books bellow (since the first two are a tumblr staple and a classic so I don’t feel the need)

The Diviners:

Evie O’Neill has been exiled from her boring old hometown and shipped off to the bustling streets of New York City—and she is pos-i-tute-ly ecstatic. It’s 1926, and New York is filled with speakeasies, Ziegfeld girls, and rakish pickpockets. The only catch is that she has to live with her uncle Will and his unhealthy obsession with the occult. Evie worries her uncle will discover her darkest secret: a supernatural power that has only brought her trouble so far. But when the police find a murdered girl branded with a cryptic symbol and Will is called to the scene, Evie realizes her gift could help catch a serial killer. As Evie jumps headlong into a dance with a murderer, other stories unfold in the city that never sleeps. A young man named Memphis is caught between two worlds. A chorus girl named Theta is running from her past. A student named Jericho is hiding a shocking secret. And unknown to all, something dark and evil has awakened…

Black Iris:

It only took one moment of weakness for Laney Keating’s world to fall apart. One stupid gesture for a hopeless crush. Then the rumors began. Slut, they called her. Queer. Psycho. Mentally ill, messed up, so messed up even her own mother decided she wasn't worth sticking around for.

If Laney could erase that whole year, she would. College is her chance to start with a clean slate.

She's not looking for new friends, but they find her: charming, handsome Armin, the only guy patient enough to work through her thorny defenses—and fiery, filterless Blythe, the bad girl and partner in crime who has thorns of her own.

But Laney knows nothing good ever lasts. When a ghost from her past resurfaces—the bully who broke her down completely—she decides it's time to live up to her own legend. And Armin and Blythe are going to help.

Which was the plan all along.

Because the rumors are true. Every single one. And Laney is going to show them just how true.

She's going to show them all.

Daughter of Smoke and Bone:

Around the world, black hand prints are appearing on doorways, scorched there by winged strangers who have crept through a slit in the sky.

In a dark and dusty shop, a devil’s supply of human teeth grows dangerously low.

And in the tangled lanes of Prague, a young art student is about to be caught up in a brutal otherworldly war.

Meet Karou. She fills her sketchbooks with monsters that may or may not be real, she’s prone to disappearing on mysterious "errands", she speaks many languages - not all of them human - and her bright blue hair actually grows out of her head that color. Who is she? That is the question that haunts her, and she’s about to find out.

When beautiful, haunted Akiva fixes fiery eyes on her in an alley in Marrakesh, the result is blood and starlight, secrets unveiled, and a star-crossed love whose roots drink deep of a violent past. But will Karou live to regret learning the truth about herself?

Blanca & Roja:

The del Cisne girls have never just been sisters; they're also rivals, Blanca as obedient and graceful as Roja is vicious and manipulative. They know that, because of a generations-old spell, their family is bound to a bevy of swans deep in the woods. They know that, one day, the swans will pull them into a dangerous game that will leave one of them a girl, and trap the other in the body of a swan.   

But when two local boys become drawn into the game, the swans' spell intertwines with the strange and unpredictable magic lacing the woods, and all four of their fates depend on facing truths that could either save or destroy them. Blanca & Roja is the captivating story of sisters, friendship, love, hatred, and the price we pay to protect our hearts.

no pressure tagging: @badthingtwice @snixx @pinkhysteria @telumendils @immaterial-pearl @quantummeep @undergroundash

[whoscallingwhoafraud]

Also I got lunch at this po boy place with fresh New Orleans bread my sandwich is incredible the bread is so soft and the cashier was so nice it almost made me cry (normal ppl reaction) and I'm pretty sure they were trans. Then went to a smoke shop and got 6000mg of edibles and a 3G vape for $60

[retailzposblog]

By investing in the right liquor store POS equipment, you'll not only ensure a successful opening day but also set the foundation for long-term success. As you plan and equip your liquor store, don't forget to research and comply with local and state regulations, obtain the necessary licenses and permits, and train your staff to use the POS system effectively. With the right equipment and adherence to legal requirements, your liquor store can become a thriving and profitable business. Cheers to your success!

[quickvee]

💡 Check out our infographic to see how our POS system can transform your business. 📞 Contact us today for a demo: https://info.quickvee.com/

#SmokeShopPOS #BusinessSolutions #RetailTech #POSSystem #SmokeShopOwners

[mischievouslittlecreature]

Part 10: Red Right Hand

Summary: A trap left by the Lees almost ends with one of the Shelbys losing their life, and Tommy and Lucy make moves to advance their relationship with Grace.

Word Count: 6,088

Warnings: Smut, violence, and references to prostitution.

Previous Chapter • Series • Fic • Next Chapter

Chapter 10: Black Coat

“Lucy,” Tommy rapped his knuckles against the doorframe of the office to get her attention.

“Yes?” she glanced up from her desk, tucking a stray curl behind her ear.

“Family meeting, at the Garrison,” he jerked his head towards the door. Shoving the documents she’d been working on into a drawer and locking it, she followed him swiftly from the shop. Polly was hovering near the door, her hat already on. When she saw Lucy following Tommy her eyes narrowed, but she said nothing.

“What's going on?” she whispered to Tommy. He had his hands in his pockets as they walked. 

“John wants to talk to us about something.”

When they pushed into the snug at the Garrison, John and Arthur were already seated at the table. 

“All right, John, there’s only one man–no,” Tommy waved away Arthur’s offer of drink. “There’s only one man guarding the house. What’s troubling you?” 

John removed the toothpick from his mouth nervously and cleared his throat. He started rambling, mostly about how hard it was taking care of so many children since his wife had died. Lucy’s eyes narrowed, mind beginning to turn with where he might be heading with this. And then he started going on about how the kids needed a mother. 

Oh, Jesus Christ. 

“So that’s why I’m getting married.”

Everyone’s eyes darted to one another’s. Lucy had to fight the urge to roll her eyes. 

“Does this poor girl know you’re going to marry her or are you just going to spring it on her all of a sudden?” Polly asked. Out of the corner of her eye, Lucy could see Tommy looking up, mind working behind his blue eyes. Something clicked behind them, and his head snapped towards John.

“I’ve already proposed and she said yes.”

“I think there’s a shell about to land and go bang,” Tommy punctuated his statement with a snap of the match he was lighting, holding it up to the cigarette wedged between his lips. John took a gulp from his glass.

“It’s, um…it’s Lizzie Stark.”

They all burst out laughing. It started out as stifled snickering and then it grew. Even Tommy was grinning, his head tipped back, smoke bursting from his lips and nose as he chuckled. Lucy pressed her knuckles to her mouth to try to stifle her own laughter, sharing a mirthful look with Tommy.

Polly was quick to try to talk John out of it, but it took next to nothing for him to grow defensive, threatening to kill anyone who so much as called Lizzie a whore. 

Even though it was an accurate description as to what she was. 

Not that Lucy had nothing against Lizzie; she was a sweet girl.

Tommy’s lips twitched, a tiny smirk still quirking at them as he glanced at Lucy. 

Well, this is a fine awkward mess, she raised an eyebrow at her lover.

“Men and their cocks never cease to amaze me,” Polly looked like she was tempted to slam her head down hard against the table in exasperation. “John, Lizzie Stark never did a day’s work vertical–”

Lucy knew for a fact that Lizzie fucked her customers standing up as well as laying down, but now didn’t seem like the best time to point that out.

Polly’s reaction sparked quite the hissy fit from John, slamming his hand down on the table, shouting and arguing with the others about how Lizzie had changed. How she loved him. 

Jesus, the woman must have done an absolute number on him the last time he saw her to have him believing some bullshit like that. It was almost sad.

“Now listen, Tommy,” John leaned towards him. “I won’t do it without your blessing. But of all the people in the world, I want you to see it as brave.”

“Oh, for fucks sake,” she clamped her lips down hard on the words, else she say something more provocative and get herself into trouble.

“Brave is going where no man has gone before,” Polly’s words caught on a laugh. “And with Lizzie Stark, John, that is really not what you’ll be doing.”

Arthur almost choked on his drink. Lucy clapped a hand over her mouth to contain her cackle. 

But John was still pleading with Tommy, who blinked very slowly, lips pressed together. Lucy looked away. She already knew what the answer was going to be, and she was not looking forward to the bitch fit John was going to throw because of it.

But before Tommy could answer the door flew open and Finn’s head stuck in, panting. “Tommy! We’ve been done over!”

They all scrambled at the news, Tommy shoving past John and racing for the door, Lucy and the others all right behind him. 

The shop was a mess. Tables and chairs turned over, papers strewn all over the floor. Poor Skudboat was hunched over, bleeding from the head. Arthur began to debrief with him, while Polly took stock of what had been stolen. Lucy followed Tommy, picking her way carefully through the wreckage. His eyes caught on something over by the mantle, brows furrowing.

“What is it?” Lucy asked, stretching up on her toes to try to see around his shoulders. Tommy didn’t say anything, just turned, with a pair of wire cutters cradled in his hand. 

“They left these.”

“Wire cutters,” Polly observed. “Why would they leave wire cutters?”

“Nobody move,” Arthur’s voice had gone down a pitch. A sudden, seizing dread gripped Lucy as she noticed just how still all of the men had gone.

“I think our friends are playing the game,” Tommy remarked, which did little to ease Lucy’s nerves.

“What game?” Polly moved to go into one of the offices.

“Aunt Pol, don’t touch anything,” John held out a hand and she froze. He was practically shaking with tension. Tommy’s eyes were darting carefully around the shop.

“Erasmus Lee was in France.”

“Shit,” Skudboat rose very slowly from his chair. Lucy was barely breathing, for fear that the movement could set off whatever it was that the men were so afraid of.

“Tommy, what’s going on?” her voice was just above a whisper.

“When we gave up ground to the Germans, we’d leave yarn booby traps, set up with wires. Then we’d leave wire cutters as part of the joke.”

“Somewhere in here, there’s a hand grenade,” John explained more simply.

“Holy Jesus,” for once in their lives, Lucy had a feeling she and Polly were on the same page.

“Attached to a wire,” Arthur supplemented. “Don’t move any chairs or open any doors,” he and John began to move very, very slowly throughout the shop, eyes scanning for any sign of a wire. 

“Wouldn’t it have blown already?” Lucy asked Tommy. They had burst into the shop wildly, moving around freely until he’d found the wire cutters. Surely someone would have triggered the grenade during that time. Tommy didn’t seem to really be listening to her, shaking his head back and forth.

“No. Boys, no. It’s not in here. Lucy’s right. If it was in here, it would have blown by now. It was my name on that bullet Erasmus sent. He’s set up a trap all right. But he set it up just for me.”

Okay. Okay, so that narrowed it down to places that just Tommy would have access to. It couldn’t be their office; she’d already gone in there when they first arrived back at the shop. Tommy’s back suddenly went stiff.

“Stay here,” he ordered the boys. “Start cleaning some of this shit up,” and then he was heading towards the doors. Lucy hurried around an overturned table to follow him. “I want you to stay here,” he said softly, hand on the doorknob.

“Not a chance in hell.”

His jaw ticked, but then he sighed, opening the door and jerking his head to indicate that she could come. He was moving so quickly she almost had to jog to keep up with his long stride. He led her towards the garage, where they kept the car when they weren’t using it.

“Finn,” Tommy spotted him first, and had she not known him better Lucy probably wouldn’t have picked up on the slightest tremor of fear in Tommy’s voice. Finn was sitting in the driver’s seat of the car, hands grasping the wheel and grinning. Tommy held up a hand. “Finn stay exactly where you are.”

Finn giggled. “I was pretending I was you.”

“Lucy, I need you to stay back,” Tommy began to approach the car carefully. She wanted to argue with him, but the tension in his voice told her that any attempt at that would be a good way to get her head ripped off. She wasn’t even entirely sure what she could do to help in this situation anyway. Swallowing her pride, she nodded, and remained where she was. “Which door did you open to come in, Finn?”

“I didn’t. I climbed in,” Finn looked so damn proud of himself.   

“I want you to climb out exactly the same way you climbed in, okay?” Tommy had almost reached one of the doors to the car. Finn grinned, and Lucy realized with sudden horror that the kid thought that Tommy was playing some sort of game with him. Laughing, he leapt from his seat, pushing open the door opposite the one Tommy was standing near, jumping from the car. “No, no! Finn!”

Lucy lunged forward, grabbing the kid and pulling him tight against her, away from the car. He yelped in surprise and momentarily tried to wriggle away, but she held him fast. Tommy reached into the car, grabbing the grenade just as the wire pulled on it. “Clear!” he shouted towards the men working in the factory across the road, and tossed the grenade as far from them as he could. The men all dove for cover, a few fleeing down the street. The grenade went off with a shattering boom at the same time Tommy dove at her and Finn, grabbing them both and shoving them deeper into the garage, his body curled over them protectively. Finn’s once playful giggles had ceased into terrified little gasps. Lucy’s heart was pounding hard in her chest.

For a moment the whole world seemed to go quiet. Lucy had one arm wrapped around Finn’s shoulders, the other fisted in the front of Tommy’s suit jacket. And then, slowly, the men outside began to straighten, checking up on one another before returning to their business. Tommy glanced over his shoulder and let them go, though he clasped one of his hands tightly with Finn’s.

“You okay?” he asked her softly. She nodded.

“Yeah.”

The three of them walked to the opening of the garage, staring at where the grenade had exploded but a few moments ago. Tommy stopped suddenly and knelt down, grabbing Finn by the face urgently. “That’s why you should never pretend to be me. Okay? Okay?”

Finn nodded, still looking a little dazed, his breathing ragged. When Tommy stood back up, Finn wrapped his arms around his middle. Tommy hugged his little brother back carefully, and when they separated, Finn quickly grabbed onto his hand again.

“Let’s get you back home, kiddo,” Lucy ruffled the boy’s hair softly, and when she looked back up at Tommy she was met with a haunted, shaken look that chilled her blood. “You too,” she pulled lightly on his arm. Tommy seemed to rouse from whatever daze the explosion had sent him into, pulling Finn along firmly as they set about walking back to the shop.

∗ ∗ ∗

The rage was so white hot and burning that Tommy was barely even aware of his own actions, mind only catching up once he’d pulled his gun from its holster and cocked the hammer.

He had a clean shot at the back of Campbell’s head; he could take it right then and there and blow every last word he’d just spoken away like it was nothing. His threats of what he would do, should he be dismissed from his position before Tommy returned the stolen guns to him. How he had smiled, like the very idea of torturing Tommy’s family filled him with glee. 

“And as for your little red haired whore, I think I’ll lock her away in one of the cells here, and allow the men in my unit to do with her what they please.” His voice, his threats, not just to Lucy but to all of his family, everyone he held dear, ran through Tommy’s head on a loop.

He should do it. Pull the trigger. To protect them, to protect all of them, he promised that he would keep them safe– 

Campbell began to walk out onto the road. Tommy followed his movements with the gun until he’d rounded the corner and was out of sight. The arm holding the revolver dropped limply as he panted, throat constricting, hands trembling with the anger still pumping through his veins. Fingers flexing around the revolver, he placed it back into its holster, chest still heaving with each breath as he fought to steady himself.

His shoes thudded wetly against the cobblestones as he began the walk home, tugging his black coat tightly around his shoulders against the rain. Digging around in his pocket for his keys, he growled in frustration as the metal slipped through his fingers, opting to pound his fist against the wood of the door instead. From the other side he heard the click of the locks being undone and then the door was swinging open and he was pushing past her to get inside.

“Tommy?” Lucy closed the door and relocked it. Good. He needed her to keep him here. Because if she didn’t he was going to go back out there and find Campbell and slice at his throat with his razors until he cut into bone. She approached him slowly, carefully, hands cradling his cheeks. With a groan, Tommy let her pull his head down until it was nestled in the crook of her neck, his hands settling on her hips. “What happened?” she asked, fingers stroking through his hair. He didn’t answer her right away, instead letting the touch and smell of her sooth him enough that he didn’t feel as though he was going to jump out of his skin from protective, rageful urges.

“I almost killed Campbell.”

If she was surprised, she did a good job not showing it. “When?”

“Just now.”

“Why?”

He forced himself to breathe deeply. “He threatened you. And Ada. And my brothers.”

She leaned back far enough to look into his eyes. “Threatened us how?” her eyes were the darkest shade of green he’d ever seen.

“He said that if he is fired before I give him back the guns, he’ll kill us all.”

Her fingers moved from his hair to massage circles into the nape of his neck. “I’d like to see him try.”

“No, he’s not as easy to take down as the others. He’s slippery,” he looked away.

“It’ll be okay.”

“Mm.”

“It will. We’ll wrap up this business with Kimber quickly, then deal with Campbell.”

“Yeah,” he pulled back from their embrace, tugging back the curtains covering her window and peering outside. Nothing greeted him but the rain. Coughing lightly, he stepped back to sit heavily on the bed. Lucy settled next him, side pressed warmly to his. “Talk to me.”

“About what?”

“About anything.”

“Okay,” her fingers fiddled nervously with the sash of her robe, tied in a bow across her waist, head tilting as she thought of something. “I was thinking of testing the waters a bit more with Grace, soon.”

He cocked his head. “Testing them how?”

She shrugged, resting her head on her hand, hair falling to one side as she cocked it at an angle. “I dunno. I thought that maybe some more obvious flirting and a kiss or two would be a good start.”

“Mm,” the thought made a thrum of excitement pulse in his veins. Cupping one of her soft, freckled cheeks, he stroked her plush bottom lip with his thumb. “I ever tell you that I like the way you think?”

“Hm…maybe once or twice…”

Tilting her face up, he brought his lips to her smiling ones, parting them hastily so he could slide his tongue into her mouth, tangling it with hers. Lucy chuckled.

“Feeling better, now?”

He parted from her, a thin string of saliva briefly connecting their mouths. Tilting his head in mock contemplation, he bit back a smile. 

“I dunno…I think I might need a little more distracting…”

“Oh, is that so?” her shoulders shook with her laugh, rising up and taking a hold of his shoulders. “Well, I better get to work then, hadn’t I?”

His hands smoothed up her thighs as she pushed him down to sprawl onto his back on the bed. Reaching down, she undid the tie on her dressing gown, tossing it away and leaving her in just her short red nightgown. Climbing astride his lap, she stretched out languidly above him, moving slowly like a cat closing in on its prey.   

Bending down to kiss him again, her hands closed over where his rested on her legs, interlacing with his fingers and then raising them to press into the mattress on either side of his head. 

He let her pin him, groaning into her mouth when her hips shifted subtly against his groin.

“You keep these here,” her voice was suddenly low and husky as she squeezed his hands. “And don’t move.”

His eyes widened a fraction, eyebrow raising. Lucy smiled at him innocently. 

“You wanted me to keep you here. You move when I say you can.”

He felt his heartbeat pick up, wetting his lips. She waited until he nodded, then kissed his cheek and let go of his hands, running her palms across his chest, popping open the buttons of his waistcoat, and then his shirt, pulling him up for just a moment to push them fully off of his shoulders, then pressing him back to the bed.

Starting with his lips, she began to kiss her way down his body, mouth trailing warmly across his throat, then to his chest. A shudder went through him when she caressed the tattoo encircling his left pec, tongue darting out to lave at his nipple.

The muscles in his stomach twitched and contracted when she ran her fingers up and down them, feather-light. Lucy giggled, pecking one final time at his pec before peeking up at him through her lashes.

“Mm…I wonder what the rest of Small Heath would say, if they knew how ticklish the leader of their most fearsome gang is.”

He narrowed his eyes at her in mock sternness. “You tell anyone and I’ll have your head, Winters.”

She just laughed at his empty threat, dropping her head to kiss where her fingers had been caressing him but a moment ago. His breathing became harsher as she traveled further south, hands palming his growing hardness through his trousers.

“Nghhh…” a strangled sound emitted from his throat, tensing his muscles to keep himself from unconsciously bucking in her palm. Peeking up at him, hair a halo of messy red curls around her face, Lucy smirked, setting to work loosening his belt.

“Lift, please,” she requested, and he raised his hips up just enough for her to slip both his trousers and underwear off and down his legs. They landed with a clatter somewhere on the floor near the end of the bed. “Good,” her praise when he dropped back down onto the mattress and stayed still as instructed sent a shiver through him.

No wonder she liked it so much when he praised her. 

When she slipped her small hand around his hardening cock, he released a deep sound from within his chest, eyes closing their own accord. She pumped him slowly, spreading the precum oozing from the tip along his shaft, soon adding a little twist to her wrist with each stroke. 

“Luces, please…”

“I know…I know…” she whispered, honey-sweet, kissing his hip. “Shh…”

Eyes opening, he looked down at her just in time to watch her wrap her lips around the tip of his cock, easing him slowly into her mouth. His fingers curled into fists, clenched tight at either side of his head to keep himself from reaching down to caress her soft hair. She gagged a little on him, backing off for a moment before taking him deeper. 

“So good, love,” he whispered, both because it was true and to make sure she knew that she didn’t need to take more than she felt comfortable with. She just hummed around him, the vibrations making him moan, battling to keep his hips from pushing towards her and the warm, heavenly wetness of her mouth. Big green eyes stared up at him, one hand stroking delicately along the sensitive skin of his thigh. She was so fucking beautiful it made him ache; far more wonderful of a person than he could ever deserve. He often wondered how he could ever have gotten so lucky for her to fall in love with him. 

And then she swallowed him down to the back of her throat, and any coherent thoughts fell right out of his head.  

“Lucy,” he gasped, forgetting himself for a moment and almost reaching out to grab at her, but he caught himself at the last moment, instead grabbing handfuls of the bedspread in his fists. 

Wrapping one hand around what of him she couldn’t fit her mouth, she started bobbing on him vigorously, pumping in time with the movements of her mouth, and his eyes rolled into the back of his head, moans leaving throat. They didn’t need to worry so much about being quiet at her flat as they did at his. 

“Fucking, hell, love,” he grunted when she pulled back to focus her sucks on his sensitive tip, tongue dipping into the slit to gather the precum building there. This time, when she pushed him back down her throat, she started to gently cup and caress his balls. Tension started to build in his lower stomach, cock throbbing. 

She gave him one last long suck, retreating slowly, finally letting the head of his cock release from her lips with a small pop. 

Wiping her mouth on the back of her hand, she climbed up to staddle him once more, leaning forward for a kiss. He could taste the saltiness of his precum still on her lips, reaching up without thinking to cup the back of her head and deepen the kiss. 

At the touch of his hand Lucy pulled back, smiling to herself when he tried to chase her, taking his hand and pressing it back to the mattress, eyes narrowed. 

“Behave. Or I’ll tie you up.”

He groaned at the thought, head tipping back. Snorting, Lucy nudged his nose with hers, squeezing firmly around his wrist before letting it go and sitting up to take his cock in her hand. 

The sound she made when she guided him inside of her was divine; a long, drawn out moan emitting from her throat while she tipped her head back, features smoothing out with pleasure. 

“Lucy,” he couldn’t manage much more than her name, head too clouded to conjure up anything else. He ached to touch her; to wrap his arms around her and pull her in close while he kissed soft skin and bounced her on his cock. 

She leaned back, hands bracing behind her on his thighs. Her chest heaved, the low-cut nightgown leaving little to the imagination. Tommy wetted his lips, imagining taking one of her hard, rosy pink nipples into his mouth with she fucked him. 

This ‘no touching’ rule was starting to test his patience.

With a flex of her thighs–so strong, from years of riding horses, fighting, and following him around from one end of Birmingham to the other–Lucy lifted herself off of him until only the tip of his cock remained inside of her, then slammed herself back down onto him. They both groaned, heads tipping back at the punishing pace she set.

Lucy rode him wildly, hair swaying around her chin and sweat beading beautifully across her fair skin. Lip caught between her teeth, he watched as her eyes widened, readjusting the angle he was impaling her at and sighing blissfully.

“Oh, fuck, Tommy,” she choked out, and a whine sounded from his throat. He was clutching fistfulls of the bedspread so tightly in his hands he thought it a miracle he hadn’t yet ripped them. Scrambling, she grabbed the hem of her nightgown and pulled it off in one quick motion, tossing it to the floor somewhere off the side of the bed. Tommy purred at the sight of her bare before him, all soft curves and toned muscle. 

He wanted to touch her so badly that it hurt.  

“Lucy…please…” he cut himself off with another groan when she squeezed purposefully–at least, he was pretty sure it was on purpose–around him. She shot him a smile that would have been cocky had her eyes not been so glazed over with her own pleasure. Smoothing her hands up his chest, all the way up to his arms to tangle their fingers together, she grazed her lips over the shell of his ear, a pulse shooting through his erection in response to the sensation. She gave both his hands a hard squeeze. 

“Not yet,” she said, lifting away, and he growled, tossing his head back onto the bed, but obeyed. 

Her thrusts were getting sloppier, and he could feel pressure starting to mount again at the base of his spine. She felt amazing; taking him so deep every time he slid back into her all the way to the hilt. He would never tire of watching her ride him; the way that her full breasts bounced and her head tipped back when she moaned, or how the muscles in her legs and stomach worked to raise her up and down, over and over again. 

Her already tight walls squeezed even tighter around him as she neared her climax, but her brows were furrowed, a tiny crease of frustration appearing between them as she chased her orgasm but couldn’t quite catch it.

“Lucy, Lucy, please let me touch you…”

He knew exactly what she needed; just how to touch her in order to have her tumbling over the edge in a matter of moments. 

Eyes snapping to his, lips parted and expression truly debauched, she reached out with shaky hands to grab his, pulling them from where they were knotted in the bedsheets to rest on her hips. Tommy exhaled harshly at the feel of her warm skin under his palms, the silky softness of it interrupted periodically by the bumpiness of scars.

“Okay. Okay, you can touch me.”

She’d barely finished speaking and he was surging up to kiss her, cupping her face to bring her mouth crashing down on his. The other hand dove between her legs, finding her clit and rubbing frantic circles over it. Lucy let out a sob of relief, letting him adjust her in his lap so he was stroking up into her at the exact right angle, the hand caressing her head falling downwards to pinch one of her hardened nipples and palm at her breast. 

She came within a matter of moments, crying out into his mouth. Her walls clamped down hard, squeezing his cock with everything they had, and he went tumbling right over the edge with her, emptying with a deep rumble from low in his chest. 

They were both breathing hard, Lucy slumping bonelessly into him, arms draped around his shoulders. Tommy stroked her back, hand running over her delicately as they both came down from their respective highs. Kissing the slope of her shoulder, he shifted to slip his softening cock out of her, gathering her into his arms and laying them both down. Lucy cuddled aggressively up to his chest, head pillowed on the tattoo encircling his left pec while her arms went around him. 

Tommy pressed a kiss to her forehead, closing his eyes and breathing in the scent of her hair. She was warm, and the weight of her still half on top of him was nice. 

“Everything’s going to be okay,” she rubbed his chest with a flattened palm, adjusting her head. 

He brushed his hand down the expanse of her body until it came to rest on the curve of her waist, just feeling her. “Yeah,” he breathed out, but when she made a move to pull away to go clean up, he tightened his arms around her. “Wait. Just…stay? Just for another minute.”

She seemed all too happy to snuggle back down into him. “Okay,” her fingertip traced nonsensical patterns into his skin.

“I don’t know what I’d do without you,” he whispered, cheek resting atop her curls. Lucy shifted to gaze up at him, nose bumping the underside of his chin. 

“I’m not going anywhere. Not now; not ever,” she poked him in the chest with a smile. “You’re stuck with me.”

Chuckling, he drew her up to kiss her, hoping that somehow, since he didn’t have the words, she would understand just how much that meant to him. 

From the way she beamed against his lips and kissed him back, he knew that she did. 

∗ ∗ ∗

She just got back in from running some errands, hat barely pulled off of her head, when she heard Tommy’s voice booming out in announcement over the entire shop. 

“I have in my hand a legal betting license. Issued by the board of control. The Shelby family has its first legal racetrack pitch!”

Lucy poked her head into the shop just in time to see the entire room burst into applause, Polly jumping in the air and whooping, throwing her arms around Tommy’s shoulders, Arthur and John swooping in to hover near them. Tommy was grinning, entire face transforming with the beauty of his smile as he handed the license over for John to read. Lucy watched the entire scene with a combination of pride and melancholy. It was moments like these, where she felt the most like an outsider looking in. A clear reminder that she’d never fully be a part of the family.

Patting her hand against the doorframe once, she turned and slipped silently out the door before anyone could notice her. 

The Garrison was empty when she walked in. Only Grace was there, wiping down the bar with a rag.

“Hey,” Grace smiled when she saw her. 

“Hi,” Lucy let her hands rest against the bar. “Can I get my usual?”

“Sure,” Grace set about pouring the whiskey for her. Her blue eyes darted between Lucy and the glass as she pushed it towards her. “Is something wrong?”

“Huh?” Lucy looked up. “Oh. No; I’m fine.”

Grace’s brows just furrowed. Lucy’s fingernails tapped insistently against the bar. “Tommy’s family doesn’t like me,” she admitted. 

“What do you mean?” Grace asked, leaning forward.

“They’re…um, they’re a close-knit group. They aren’t exactly always the most welcoming when it comes to new people. And his aunt…hates me.”

“Why?”

Lucy shook her head. “I’m sure if you asked her she’d tell you about the time when I first came here and she told me something in confidence that I ended up spilling to Tommy. But…I think that the real reason is that she doesn’t like having another woman around,” she rubbed at her eyes. “Tommy listens to me, even when he doesn’t listen to her. It seems that she and him can barely agree on anything these days, but I can convince him to do things he otherwise wouldn’t. And he tells me stuff that he doesn’t tell any of the others…” she trailed off, shaking her head.

“She probably feels that you’re taking him away from her.”

“Maybe,” Lucy took a sip of her drink. “Most of the time I don’t care. But sometimes, when I see them all together…” she trailed off, biting her lip, fingers clasped around her glass. “It gets lonely.”

Grace reached out, hesitated, and then rested her fingers gently over Lucy’s hands. “Well. Whenever you feel that way, I’m right here.”

Reaching a tentative hand out, she traced her fingers lightly over Grace’s face, thumb stroking along the place in her cheek that often dimpled when she smiled. Grace didn’t pull away, eyelashes fluttering, throat working as she swallowed. Stretching up on her toes over the bar, Lucy leaned closer, watching carefully for an indication that Grace was about to pull away. There wasn’t. 

The kiss that she pressed to Grace’s lips was chaste and quick, just a gentle brush of their mouths against each other. But when she moved to pull back Grace followed her, pressing their lips more firmly together. When they finally parted, Lucy leaned carefully against the bar, and smiled. 

“I like you.”

Grace let out a soft laugh. “I’m glad.”

“Tommy likes you too.”

A hesitancy washed over Grace’s features, eyes examining her carefully. “Can you explain that all to me, Lucy?”

Lucy’s lips pursed, as she tried to think of a way to put it into words. “Tommy and I have…an arrangement,” she cringed and shook her head. That didn’t sound right. “It’s hard to explain…”

“I don’t want to just be like some whore you two have rented out for the night.”

Lucy shook her head. “That’s not what we’re looking for with you,” the steeliness that had entered Grace’s eyes softened. “But it’s both of us or neither of us. That’s how it works.”

Grace shrugged, and smiled. “Well, then it’s a good thing I like you both, then.”

Lucy chuckled, looking down at her drink. “The others don’t know. About me and Tommy. I’d…we’d like to keep it that way.”

“They don’t?” Grace frowned. 

“Well…not officially anyway. I’m pretty sure the ones that do suspect something think we’re just fucking.”

“Why don’t you want them to know?”

“Because it’s none of their business. And it would just complicate everything. I don’t need to give them all another reason to dislike me.”

“Well, your secret’s safe with me,” she began to clean a few glasses. “Why aren’t you and Tommy married?” the question was asked softly, without judgment. Just curiosity. Lucy rested her hands on the bar, settling her chin atop them.

“I’d be a terrible fucking wife,” she admitted with a laugh. “Staying at home, cleaning, cooking,” she shook her head. “And…I’m not sure that’s what I want.”

“To be expected to stay at home and miss out on all the action?”

“Yeah,” she let out a soft chuckle. “Something like that,” straightening, she looked at her more seriously. “Thank you, Grace,” she hoped that she knew that she wasn’t just talking about their current conversation.

And from the look in Grace’s eyes, she knew that she understood.

∗ ∗ ∗

“There’s something else you should know. A very important detail about my reasons for employing you,” Tommy stroked back some of Grace’s golden hair, knuckles resting against her cheek, fighting not to allow himself too much of an internal celebration at her acceptance of the job offer he had just laid out before her. Leaning forward, he kissed her gently on the lips. When he pulled back, his hand stroked lightly over her face, once.

“You disappoint me,” Grace murmured. Tommy pulled his hand back and looked away. Okay, ouch.

“Do you resign?”

But Grace just smiled and leaned closer. “No. My appetite for the work has only increased.”

“Lucy said she talked to you about our arrangement.”

“Yes.”

“And you understand?”

“‘Both or neither,’ I believe is how she phrased it. Yes, I understand.”

He could see the gleam of want in her eyes. Good. 

“I thought she might be here,” she added, glancing around the vacant church that he had brought her into, as if expecting to see a blot of red hair waiting for them in the shadows.

“No. Lucy doesn’t like to go into churches unless she has to.”

“Bad memories?”

He grunted. “And I think she’s afraid that if she steps on holy ground she’ll burst into flames,” he stood. “Tomorrow I’ll show you around,” he called over his shoulder as he headed for the door.

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[eiirisworkshop]

One More Notch

A Glee fanfiction Complete fic available to read on Ao3 here.

~

So here's what you missed on Glee:

Blaine got drunk and made out with Rachel so he thought he might be bi.

In Rachel's basement, she and Blaine kiss sloppily, surrounded by the rest of the glee kids.

Kurt didn't take that too well since he doesn't seem to think bisexuals are real.

Across a coffee shop table, Kurt gives Blaine a scathing look. "Bi is just what people call themselves when they're scared to admit they're gay."

Blaine got really fed up with Kurt so he dumped him.

"You're being so narrow minded and dismissive!" Blaine shouts across the choir room. "I'm sick of it! I'm done."

Then he went out with Rachel, but they had no chemistry so they called it off and Blaine's sure he really is gay. Kurt was really upset over getting dumped so he and Blaine just kinda didn't get back together. They're mostly over it but things are still a little weird.

At the end of a musical number, hugs and high fives are going around. Kurt and Blaine shake hands stiffly.

And that's what you missed on Glee.

~*~

"Again, winning Sectionals has done absolutely nothing for our cred," Mercedes lamented as she set her lunch tray down and dropped into her seat.

Kurt brushed his hair off his forehead with a sigh. "Let's face it, it's going to take a bigger win to earn us the respect we deserve."

"Yeah." Tina stared listlessly at her chicken nuggets. "On a less depressing note," she ate a nugget, "have either of you seen the new transfer kid?"

"Yeah." Mercedes made a face. "What kinda kid changes schools in November ?"

"Bargain store cowboys with no-name jeans and a ridiculously thick accent."

The two girls stared at Kurt. He shrugged. "He's in my math class."

"Oh," both girls said, nodding.

"He's kinda cute, though, in a pickup truck commercial kinda way," Mercedes said casually.

Tina and Kurt considered her, looked to each other, then nodded.

Meanwhile, a knock at his office doorframe startled Mr. Schuester into looking up from the stack of quizzes he was grading. A tall boy in a faded buttonfront, worn jeans, and scuffed boots was standing in the doorway under a thatch of sun-blonded hair, hands crammed in his pockets, shoulders hunched. "Mr. Schuester? I was in your Spanish One class this mornin'."

"Yeah, yeah." Mr. Schuester set the quizzes aside. "It's Joel, right?"

"Yessir. Joel Henry."

"Come in, sit. What can I do for you?"

Joel folded himself into the chair across from Mr. Schuester—quite a feat given the kid was at least as tall as Finn. He shook his head despairingly and met Mr. Schuester's gaze. "I don't know what I'm doin' in your class. I don't speak a word a Spanish. I been takin' German the past two years."

"We don't have a German program here," Mr. Schuester said carefully. "Shouldn't you be eating lunch right now?"

"I wasn't talkin' to nobody, didn't take long to eat." Joel sighed. "I'm gonna fail your class; I can't speak Spanish."

"It's an intro class, Joel."

"That I'm three months behind in! And I'm not good with languages."

"Okay." Mr. Schuester nodded. "Can you stay after school or do you have to catch a bus?"

"No, I drive."

"Great. Then right after school let's you and me go talk to Principal Figgins about moving you out of Spanish."

"Thank you, sir," Joel said. "But why couldn't we go talk to him during afternoon free period in a couple hours?"

Mr. Schuester held up his palms apologetically. "I coach the school's glee club and we meet during afternoon free period."

"Oh. Alright. Well, thank you, sir." Joel got to his feet. "Uh, before I go though, can you tell me how to get to the physics rooms? This school is a lot bigger than my old one."

~*~

After physics and history when afternoon free period came around, Joel found himself at loose ends just like he had at morning free period. So, just like that morning, he wandered the halls, trying to learn his way around. The handful of other kids not occupied with clubs, making out in corners, or smoking pot in the bathroom mercifully ignored him. He turned down another hall—the hall Mr. Schuester's office was on—and he heard music.

Oh yeah, glee club.

He lingered by the half-open door, watching as about a dozen kids danced around singing some pop song he didn't know. He recognized a few of the kids though—one of them, the kid who looked like the creepy Austrian ceramic dolls Joel's grandma collected, was definitely in his math class. The kid was hard to miss. Then there was the Latina cheerleader who'd blatantly offered him sex that morning. She scared him. And she'd noticed him. She'd stopped dancing to stare through the door at him, one eyebrow arched. Another of the girls—the short one in a cat sweater—noticed the scary Latina staring and followed her gaze. Joel gave them a pleading look and put a finger to his lips. The two girls shared a look, then resumed dancing, ignoring him.

The next morning, with his schedule fixed—home ec in place of Spanish, not great, but workable—Joel settled into his seat in the back of his first period math class. Suddenly, an argyle-clad butt perched itself on the edge of the table in front of him. He looked up to find the owner of the butt smiling down at him: creepy Austrian doll kid. "Hi, I'm Kurt Hummel."

Joel blinked. "Your last name is actually Hummel?"

Kurt frowned. "Yes, is that a problem?"

"No." Joel shook his head slowly. "The universe just has one hell of a sense a humor."

"I'm going to assume for your sake that that wasn't offensive. Anyway." Kurt leaned in, smile re-plastering itself across his rosy-cheeked face. "A little bird told me that you were spying on our glee club yesterday."

Joel gave him an unimpressed look. "Was it the sexy bird or the short one?"

"Both of them but that's beside the point." Kurt brushed away the question with a wave of his hand. "The point is, you should join."

Joel slid his math book and notebook between himself and Kurt. "I don't know, I don't really sing."

"Well, if you change your mind, we meet during free period every afternoon and on Monday mornings and after school on Thursdays. Sometimes after school on Fridays, too, but don't count on that one—it's on an as needed basis. Bring a song." Kurt's smile had turned fake. He patted Joel's shoulder and sashayed off to his own seat. Joel watched him go. He had no idea where the hell somebody would get purple argyle skinny jeans in suburban Ohio. He also had no idea why anyone would want to.

After that, class was uneventful. Trigonometry couldn't only be so exciting. Joel's next class, though, was unexpectedly awesome. It was home ec, and they'd been told to pair up to make no-bake cheesecake. A pretty blond girl in a cheerleading uniform walked right up to him, decidedly within Joel's personal space, and looked at him with intense, shiny blue eyes. "Santana told me that if I saw you I should seduce you into joining glee club so I think we should totally make cake out of cheese together." She leaned in to whisper, "What kind of cheese do you want?"

"Uh." Joel took a step back. "I already told your buddy Kurt I don't really sing." He handed her a block of cream cheese. "You really don't need to seduce me, either. Santana is the scary, sexy, Latina one, right?"

"Yeah, she's super hot."

"Well, I already told her I'm not really on the market."

"On the market for what?" The girl cocked her head to the side like a puppy.

Joel stared at her for a second then shook his head. "Nevermind. What's your name?"

"Brittany."

"I'm Joel."

Brittany's eyes widen and she whispered in awe. "You're a famous singer, we were just singing that song of yours about not being an arsonist."

Joel stared at her again. "That's Billy Joel. I'm not related to him."

"Oh...." She looked down at the cream cheese disappointedly.

He chewed his tongue briefly, then leaned toward her to confide, "But I'm a cowboy."

She immediately lit up with excitement. "A real one?"

"Mhm." He grinned.

"That's so cool."

At the end of home ec, Brittany handed Joel their cheesecake, then pulled him out of the room, ignoring his protests. She dragged him to the choir room where, despite the lack of an official club meeting, most of the club was hanging out—well, arguing.

"I think we should go caroling," the short one was saying. Her sweater had an owl today.

An Asian girl who looked like some kind of Victorian heiress who'd sold her soul to a demon butler gave the short one an incredulous look. "Do you remember how badly that went last year? We got a shoe thrown at us. By a teacher ."

"Hey, everyone," Brittany said pleasantly. "So it turns out he's not a famous singer like I thought when he said his name, but I brought the new guy and I didn't even have to seduce him." She grinned at Santana, who looked both impressed and disappointed.

"I was brought here against my will," Joel said. "But I have cheesecake if anyone wants some," he offered feebly.

"I will take some cheesecake," a curvy black girl with big heart-shaped earrings said. Joel handed her the pie pan he was holding.

"I'm glad you decided to join us," the short one said brightly, stepping forward to give him a salesman's smile. "I'm Rachel, I essentially run this—"

"I have not decided to join you," Joel said firmly. "Why are you all hounding me outta nowhere like this? I been at this school less than two days."

"We're pretty much always hoping for new members," Kurt said, lounging across two chairs next to the black girl. "You showed interest. And you're here now, so you might as well show us what you've got."

"I told you, I don't really sing." Joel shook his head and looked around the room. There was Kurt, the hip hop princess eating cheesecake, Rachel the American Girl doll, Asian vampire chick, a super nerdy kid in a wheelchair, a total of three cheerleaders, a guy with a mohawk, a guy in a sweatervest and bowtie, a blond Bieber-type, and three more dudes in letterman jackets. "Do you realize that most of you look more like cartoon characters than real people?"

Rachel huffed haughtily, Kurt and the girl next to him both frowned. The blond cheerleader who wasn't Brittany leaned on her elbows. "He's not wrong, though."

The guy in the sweatervest held his hands out and shrugged. "Yeah, pretty much everyone in this club is crazy."

"But, we're the most fun people in this whole damn school." The black girl stood up. "Look—what's your name?"

"Joel."

"Heya, Joel. I'm Mercedes. You gave me cheesecake, as far as I'm concerned that makes us friends. This is your second day here, so I figure you don't have too many friends yet."

"Not really, no." Joel admitted.

"Uh huh." Mercedes settled her weight into her hip. "And how many people not in this room have actually talked to you?"

"A guy with a jewfro shoved a microphone in my face...."

"Jacob doesn't count," sweatervest guy interjected. "He's a gossip blogger and you're the new kid, he'll harass you for a few weeks. I'm sorry. I transferred in last year, I never did find a way to avoid him entirely. Puck chasing him off is a good temporary measure though." He gestured at the guy with the mohawk.

"And," one of the letterman jacket guys said, "I don't really sing, either." He shrugged. "I used to sway in the background but now I dance."

Joel scrubbed a hand through his hair. "I'll think about it." He looked at sweatervest guy. "But you're right, you're all crazy." He walked out.

At lunch two classes later, Mercedes came up to Joel in the line. "Hey, Joel." She smiled and got a serving of tots. "You wanna sit with us?"

"Who's us?" He grabbed the least bruised apple available.

"Me, Tina, and Kurt."

"Uh," Joel hesitated.

Mercedes glared at him. "Kurt doesn't bite, you know."

"I know." Joel let out a breath and glanced over to the table where Kurt and Asian vampire chick were sitting. She must've been Tina. Joel shrugged. "I've just never met anyone like him before in my life. He's...a little overwhelming."

"I'll admit that he—and Rachel, and sometimes me and Santana—have a flare for the dramatic and it can get a little over the top." She shrugged. "Occupational hazard of showbiz."

Joel sighed.

"Who you gonna sit with if not us?"

"You got a point," Joel admitted. He followed her to the table and carefully sat between her and Tina the vampire. She and Kurt smiled at him. He nodded to them and focused on his food.

Brittany and Santana joined the table a minute later, paying zero attention to anyone else sitting there while they chit-chatted. After that, sweatervest bowtie guy came over carrying a tray. He and Kurt looked directly at each other, Kurt busied himself with his phone, and sweatervest pulled up a chair between Joel and Mercedes. Joel glanced between him and Kurt a couple times. “Well, absolutely no one can tell the two of you used to date.”

Both boys grimaced and glanced at each other.

“Is the awkward that obvious?” sweatervest guy asked.

Joel nodded and gestured between them. “There's laser beams of awkward.”

“Good God, he said what we've all been thinking,” Santana said in astonishment. “At least, I think he did. I'm only sure of every other word. Where the hell are you from, cowboy?”

“Wyoming,” Joel said flatly.

Santana blinked and tilted her head. “See, there's a problem with that: I'm pretty sure Wyoming really doesn't exist.”

Joel rolled his eyes. “I promise you it does.”

Santana shook her head. “I don't believe y—”

“Where in Wyoming?” Kurt interrupted.

Joel poked at his food. “Trust me, you've never heard of it.” He paused and took a moment to study Kurt. “But I'm gonna go way out on a limb and say you've seen Brokeback Mountain.”

Kurt nodded. “Everyone at this table has, even if only because I made them.”

Joel couldn't help but snicker. “Okay, so in Brokeback, Ennis—the blond one, Heath Ledger—and his wife live in Riverton. I'm from Crowheart, 'bout an hour northwest a Riverton.”

Everyone exchanged looks and nodded or shrugged.

“Well, I still don't think we have any idea where that is,” sweatervest guy said, “but that's a pretty good frame of reference.”

“Why did you move here in the middle of the semester?” Tina asked.

“My folks split,” Joel said quickly. “Me an' my mama an' my sister moved in with my mama's sister. Sorry, who're you?” He looked at sweatervest guy. “Never got yer name.”

“Oh, I'm sorry. I'm Blaine.”

“Pleased to meetcha.” Joel went back to eating.

~

End of chapter! Read the rest on Ao3 here.

[guangchuans]

[Image description: 8 digital drawings illustrating the concepts described above. Each shows:

Two women wearing folk Southern Poland clothing (white shirts under grey vests, black skirts with red flower design, and red headscarves) sitting together holding hands, both smiling wide. The poster is framed with yellow designs of grains and flowers, with the title “Babie Lato” on top.

Two men, both bus drivers, during a break. Both are wearing typical work uniforms, a sweater vest on top of a dress shirt with chinos. One of them is sitting inside the bus, resting over the steering wheel. The other is leaning back on the front of the vehicle, smoking a cigarette. Where the bus number and destination would normally be is the title, “Pętla.”

Two women working as cashiers in the Żabka convenience store. They’re both wearing work uniforms, a green polo t-shirt with the shop name on it. One of the women is leaning over the other, with an arm around her shoulders, clicking something on her cashier screen. The other woman is looking up at her. On the table before then is a plastic baggie with Kaiser rolls inside. The title, “Kod na kajzerkę,” is written above them in loopy text.

Two elderly men, one significantly taller than the other, look at each other over a garden fence. Both are wearing checkered shirts tucked in dress pants, as well as leather caps. The taller man is holding a rake and the other is resting his arm on the handle of some sort of garden tool. They’re surrounded by lush greenery. The title is written in loopy white text there, reading “Kwitnąca miłość.”

Two men and a woman are sitting together at a diner, the woman feeding one of the men while the other has his arms around the both of them. The poster is framed by trays of typical Polish food, like krokiety, rolled crepes, pierogi, gołąbki, pork chops, and two kinds of soup. The title, “O dwóch takich co ukradli mi serce,” is written above them, on a short curtain.

Two boys wearing tracksuits stand close, one of them raising a white-red-blue scarf to cover their faces as they possibly kiss. They stand in front of the goal on a neighbourhood soccer field, with balconies behind them decorated with the Legia Warszawa flag. The title is “Po drugiej stronie boiska.”

Two men in Highlands Podhale folk clothing stand close, one putting a golden ring on the other. The clothing consists of white outer jackets with blue and red folk embroidery and a black cap with many tiny shells on it. Both men have large moustaches. The title is written above them in white fancy text and it’s “Złoty pierścień.”

Two girls both wearing white t-shirts with red safety vests on top lean in close to each other, both holding onto ropes of a boat. Title above them reads “Przy pełnym takielunku.”

End image description.]

Zainspirowane tym postem (i komentarzami i tagami pod nim) o koncepcie na Polskie seriale lgbtq w stylu Tajlandzkich produkcji : D

[affordabletobaccoaustralia]

How to Operate a Tobacco Store Online

The ecommerce market for tobacco products can be challenging. Many payment processors restrict sales of tobacco and require age verification solutions. You should consider finding a processor that does not restrict tobacco sales and that is compatible with high-risk payment gateways.

Existing restrictions limiting online access to tobacco products appear to be effective. Among adults, rates for purchasing traditional cigars and e-cigarettes remained relatively low throughout the study period.

Offer a wide range of products

Buy tobacco online are increasingly focusing on a wide range of products that can appeal to a diverse audience. These include cigars, pipe tobacco, and smoking accessories. Providing a wide selection of these products is essential to building trust and brand recognition. Additionally, it helps to ensure that the quality of your products is consistent.

The most popular items purchased online are e-cigarettes and traditional cigars, but other items like smokeless tobacco, ashtrays, and vaping supplies are also available. Selling tobacco products online requires compliance with advertising regulations and strict age verification procedures. For this reason, it is important to partner with a payment processor that supports age verification software. These tools can help prevent underage purchases and avoid regulatory violations. FTx Identity is an excellent choice for this purpose.

Offer doorstep delivery

Tobacco stores online can offer doorstep delivery service, making it convenient for customers to purchase their tobacco products without having to leave home. This can be a huge benefit for people who work long hours or have children to look after. Tobacco stores also provide a safe environment for customers, and some of them allow customers to make purchases using their credit cards.

Tobacco and vape businesses need to ensure that they comply with federal and state laws and regulations when selling their products. This includes using strong age verification methods and ensuring that they ship only to adults. If a retailer violates these rules, they will be subject to FDA surveillance and may even lose their business. The right ecommerce platform will help you build your tobacco store online in compliance with federal and state law.

Establish trust and brand recognition

The internet has revolutionized the way people shop for everything, including tobacco products. However, it’s important to understand and follow local laws regarding online advertising for tobacco stores. It’s also important to use age verification software to ensure that customers are of legal age before completing a transaction.

Many smokers purchase cigars, pipes and vape cartridges online. They may even find unique handmade cigarettes and tobacco that they cannot get anywhere else. In addition, they may be able to access more competitive prices for their favorite brands.

Tobacco shops that sell these items can add custom barcodes to their inventory catalog with POS+. The system can even help them track which items require an ID check based on the regulations that apply to their store.

Maintain high-quality standards

Tobacco ecommerce businesses are growing in popularity, and it’s important for these sites to maintain high-quality standards. This includes providing quality products and services, compliance with regulations, and security measures.

Additionally, tobacco stores should focus on marketing strategies that are compliant with advertising restrictions. This includes using FTx Identity for age verification and avoiding marketing materials that could appeal to minors.

In addition, tobacco stores should also make sure that their warehousing facilities are secure and comply with regulatory requirements. They should also offer customer service that is prompt and professional. This will help build trust and brand recognition. Moreover, it will help keep customers happy and loyal to the brand. It’s important to set clear quality objectives and involve employees in achieving them.

Ensure security

If you want to operate a tobacco store, you should ensure that your website design is user-friendly and secure. You also need to ensure that your products are sourced from reputable wholesalers who follow regulations and maintain high-quality standards.

You must also comply with state and federal tobacco laws, which vary by region. Some states require a tobacco retail license to sell cigars and other tobacco products. In addition, you must be aware of local zoning laws that restrict smoking near schools, churches, and certain residences.

You should also use age verification software to prevent underage purchases. This technology can scan IDs in seconds and confirm a customer’s age. It can help you avoid costly fines and penalties from the FDA and other regulatory bodies.

[scrumptioushottubstrawberry]

Unlocking Business Success: How the Right POS System Can Transform Your Store or Gym

Have you ever wondered how a good POS system can simplify your business, save you time, and even boost your profits? Whether you’re running a Bookstore POS System, a Clothing Store POS System, a Vape Store POS System, or a Gym POS System, you’ve likely felt the need for a robust system that can do more than just process sales. But why stop there? If you’re involved in hospitality, you’ve probably asked yourself What is POS in the Hospitality Industry? and how can it help you improve customer service.

In this guide, we’re going to explore how different types of POS systems can be tailored to your specific business, helping you streamline operations, improve customer experience, and drive business growth.

What Exactly Is a POS System?

A POS (Point of Sale) system is not just a machine that scans barcodes and processes payments. Modern POS systems have evolved into comprehensive tools that can manage inventory, track sales, generate customer reports, and integrate with various online platforms. For example, a Bookstore POS System won’t just let you scan books and take payments; it will manage stock, create sales reports, and even track your customer loyalty programs.

Think of a POS system as the brain of your business. It keeps everything running smoothly in the background while you focus on growth and customer satisfaction.

But how does it work in different sectors? Let’s break it down.

The Magic Behind a Bookstore POS System

Why a Bookstore POS System Is Essential

If you’re running a bookstore, you know how difficult it can be to manage all the different titles, authors, genres, and stock levels. On top of that, customers might place special orders, return books, or participate in loyalty programs. A Bookstore POS System can help you juggle all these tasks.

Here’s why it’s a game-changer:

Real-time Inventory Tracking: Automatically updates stock when books are sold, returned, or ordered.

ISBN Scanning: Makes checkout fast and accurate, no more manually typing long ISBN codes.

Order Management: Keep track of customer orders and fulfil them promptly.

Customer Loyalty Programs: Encourage repeat purchases by offering discounts and rewards to loyal customers.

Why does it matter? With a streamlined POS system, you reduce human errors, save time, and ultimately improve your customer’s shopping experience.

The Power of a Clothing Store POS System

The Benefits of a Clothing Store POS System

Running a clothing store is a fast-paced endeavour. With multiple sizes, colours, and styles, keeping track of your inventory can feel overwhelming. That’s where a Clothing Store POS System steps in to save the day.

Here’s what you get:

Inventory by Size, Colour, and Style: Easily manage stock by category, ensuring you never run out of popular items.

Seamless E-commerce Integration: Sync your in-store and online inventory, ensuring you don't oversell.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Track customer preferences and buying patterns, helping you offer personalised shopping experiences.

Seasonal Promotions: Run effective discounts and manage sales with just a few clicks.

Why is this important? Managing a clothing store is all about speed and efficiency. A good POS system makes sure you never miss a sale due to mismanagement or disorganisation.

Vape Store POS System: Keep Your Business Smoking Hot

Why Choose a Vape Store POS System?

If you manage a vape store, you need a system that keeps track of e-liquids, devices, coils, and other accessories while also complying with age restrictions. A Vape Store POS System does all that—and more!

Here’s how it can benefit your vape business:

Age Verification: Integrated checks to ensure that your customers meet legal age requirements before purchasing.

Product Management: Keep tabs on various e-liquids, vaping devices, and accessories, all in one place.

Customer Profiles: Track customer preferences and suggest new flavours based on their previous purchases.

Loyalty Programs: Reward frequent customers with points and special discounts, encouraging repeat business.

Why does this matter? In a highly competitive market like vaping, personalising customer experiences and ensuring legal compliance is crucial. The right POS system ensures that your business operates smoothly and customers keep coming back.

Gym POS System: Elevate Your Fitness Business

How a Gym POS System Can Transform Your Gym

Managing a gym is not just about selling memberships. You’ve got class schedules, personal trainers, and retail products to think about. A Gym POS System can help you handle all of these aspects seamlessly.

Here’s why you need it:

Membership Management: Easily track membership renewals, cancellations, and upgrades.

Class Scheduling and Reservations: Allow members to book classes and personal training sessions online or through an app.

Retail Sales: Sell gym products like protein shakes, supplements, or branded clothing directly through the POS.

Attendance Tracking: Monitor which members attend most frequently and offer them special perks.

Why is it important? A gym is all about customer engagement. A good POS system ensures that your members have a hassle-free experience, from signing up to checking in for a class.

What is POS in the Hospitality Industry?

Exploring What is POS in the Hospitality Industry

The hospitality industry is all about delivering a great customer experience, and a POS system is at the heart of this process. Whether you run a restaurant, café, or hotel, understanding What is POS in the Hospitality Industry is crucial to running your business efficiently.

Here’s how a POS system can help in hospitality:

Table Management: Assign tables and track orders for quicker service.

Kitchen Integration: Send orders directly to the kitchen, reducing the chance of miscommunication.

Payment Flexibility: Offer your customers a range of payment options, including contactless and mobile payments.

Multi-location Management: If you operate more than one restaurant or café, you can manage them all through a centralised POS system.

Why does this matter? Customer satisfaction is key in hospitality. A well-functioning POS system ensures smooth operations and happier guests.

Choosing the Right POS System for Your Business: Key Considerations

Now that you understand how different POS systems work, how do you choose the right one for your business?

1. Industry-Specific Features

Make sure the POS system you choose is tailored to your industry. A vape shop has different needs than a bookstore or a gym.

2. Ease of Use

The system should be intuitive. Your employees should be able to learn and operate it without extensive training.

3. Integration with Other Tools

Your POS should integrate with other business tools like accounting software, e-commerce platforms, or marketing automation tools.

4. Cost

Look at both the upfront costs and any ongoing fees. Some POS systems charge a flat monthly fee, while others take a percentage of your sales.

5. Customer Support

A POS system is only as good as the support that comes with it. Make sure the company offers 24/7 customer support in case of any issues.

Common Questions About POS Systems

1. Do POS systems help with inventory management?Absolutely! Most POS systems come with built-in inventory management features that track stock levels in real-time.

2. Can I use the same POS system for online and in-store sales?Yes, many modern POS systems offer omnichannel capabilities, allowing you to manage both online and offline sales seamlessly.

3. How secure is a POS system?Most reputable POS systems come with robust security features, including encryption and fraud detection, to keep your business and customers safe.

Conclusion: Make the Smart Choice for Your Business

Whether you’re managing a Bookstore POS System, a Clothing Store POS System, a Vape Store POS System, or a Gym POS System, investing in the right system can truly transform the way you run your business.

[heraldtales]

trying to assemble my thoughts on why dota, as much as i am enjoying it (and enjoyed hon some years ago) is so much learning and that makes it hard to recommend, role by role

pos 1/safelane carry: need to last hit well, need to get real familiar with the items and shopping quickly and using your courier, need to know when to farm and when to fight and who you can go after and exactly when

pos2/mid: 1v1 so basically no help early, clock aware for both runes and ideally supplementing your farm by stacking nearby camps and clearing them, team will expect you to gank and bitch at you for it but they're not always right, matchup awareness blah blah, also real important to be good with shop/courier/know what you want

pos 3/offlane: usually wanna be a hero who either baits or initiates so you have to (again) know who to go on and when, shop stuff (again), blink as a core item for many so that is saving up to 2250 at once

pos 4+5/supports: expected to not take too much farm and somehow still be useful and not feed too much, plus you have to learn the ward/counterward minigame. i played so much support in hon and im still relearning the warding part 😒 plus now there are other consumables i should be buying more like smoke (didnt exist when i played hon, think it was added later) and blood grenade

idk this is so unstructured and i dont think i mentioned all the overlaps lol. and there's something like 120 heroes. and you wanna be somewhat aware of their 4 abilities each including about how long the cooldowns are, plus their attack ranges and which ones are squishy or tanky, and the facets and talents and maybe think about items they usually buy...

it is SO MUCH but i personally kinda love it.