#suits usa review

[tereatv]

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

Introduction: TereaTV is one of the top IPTV services available in the USA, UK, and Canada for 2024 and 2025. It offers an outstanding viewing experience for live TV channels and online content, combining high quality with affordable pricing.

User Interface and Ease of Use: The website features a clean and user-friendly interface. Navigation is straightforward, allowing users to easily access channels and content. The design is appealing and works well across various devices.

Content Variety: TereaTV boasts an extensive selection of channels, including sports, movies, series, and a wide range of programs. The content is diverse and caters to the interests of all family members. The library is regularly updated to ensure the latest content is available.

Quality and Performance: The service delivers excellent picture and sound quality. Channels stream smoothly, with minimal buffering or delays. The platform offers multiple resolution options, allowing users to choose what best suits their internet connection speed.

Customer Support: The customer support team is responsive and helpful, providing assistance for any issues users may encounter. Whether it's troubleshooting or answering questions, they are committed to ensuring a positive experience.

Conclusion: Overall, TereaTV stands out as a leading IPTV service with its extensive content offerings, excellent quality, and user-friendly experience. It's an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy a wide range of entertainment options in the USA, UK, and Canada.

[winnistravels]

Homewood Suites Chattanooga TN - Hotel Review

[thereviewswriting]

The Reviews Writing for Stay USA Hotel & Suites

Discover what guests love about Stay USA Hotel & Suites through The Reviews Writing. Guests rave about the warm hospitality, comfortable rooms, and convenient location. From friendly staff to top-notch amenities, experience exceptional stays. Read The Reviews Writing and plan your perfect stay in the heart of the USA.

[evidence-based-activism]

My mother keeps saying men are better suited for mathematics, numbers and coding because of their brains and supposed inclinations to be logical. She took a coding class and claimed that the men just understood it better, and were better at it.

I told her, women were the first ones to dominate coding in general, but she still believes the male brain is just better for practical use. She's a nurse by the way... I'd thought she'd know better than the believe the myth sex based brains.

How can I prove to her that she's false?

Hi Anon! I'm sorry your mother believes this! Maybe you can show her this post to help her understand the evidence!

---

Mathematics Performance

First, some studies that show women and men/girls and boys have similar math performance/aptitude:

This international study [1] examined boys and girls performance on standardized math exams around the world. They found that "gender equity and other sociocultural factors ... are the primary determinants of mathematics performance," which indicates that there is no inherent/biological difference in math performance just artifacts of an unequal culture.

This 2008 analysis of representative USA data [2], found "effect sizes for gender differences, representing the testing of over 7 million students in state assessments, are uniformly <0.10, representing trivial differences." Further over half of the individual effect sizes actually indicated better performance for girls. That being said, the weighted mean was consistent with no gender differences. In addition they completed a sub-analysis of items that targeted "cognitive complexity or depth of knowledge", as some suggest that boy's higher performance on these types of problems would explain their over-representation in STEM. However, this study found that "even for difficult items requiring substantial depth of knowledge, gender differences were still quite small."

This meta-analysis [3] of "242 studies published between 1990 and 2007, representing the testing of 1,286,350 people" found "no gender difference" in mathematics performance. They also performed a second analysis of data from large data sets based on probability sampling of U.S. adolescents over the past 20 years" and found that no gender differences on average; in addition the effect sizes again indicated girls performed better on some assessments.

This international meta-analysis [4] "representing 493,495 students ...across 69 nations" found "all of the mean effect sizes in mathematics achievement were very small" indicating that boys and girls performed similarly on the mathematics exams. Interestingly, despite the similarity, "boys reported more positive math attitudes and affect."

This review [5] found "research on cognitive development in human infants, preschool children, and students ... provides evidence that mathematical and scientific reasoning develop from a set of biologically based cognitive capacities that males and females share. These capacities lead men and women to develop equal talent for mathematics and science."

All of this indicates that there are no inherent gender differences in mathematics performance between the sexes. There may appear to be a difference, but this is a result of sociocultural factors and/or slight natural sample variation.

---

Stereotype Threat

In addition to the above, I want link to a past post where I address stereotype threat. I've copied the relevant portion below, but please see the link for sources:

As suggested by @mycodyke, an important factor here is the stereotype threat. This refers to how "behavior can be a consequence of priming effects, ... when a stereotype becomes activated, stereotype-consistent behavior may follow automatically from that activation" [21]. The study she linked [22] goes into this, finding that men performed the same in a cognitive task regardless of priming condition, whereas women performed worse only when primed with female condition. This replicated an earlier study [23] that found "no sex differences were observed" when the task instructions didn't emphasize sex-stereotypes. Other similar studies: -- This study [24] found "sex difference was reliably elicited and eliminated by controlling or manipulating participants’ confidence" -- This meta-analysis [25] suggested that "male superiority on spatial ability tasks ... is related to the implementation of time limits". -- This study [26] also suggested this, finding that "the magnitude of gender differences was linearly related to the amount of time available for test completion". All of this indicates that sex differences on this task (and likely in other similar situations) are the result of individual expectations about their performance. This is also commonly brought up for self-fulfilling prophecies; that is, if someone believes they will succeed/fail they are more likely to succeed/fail. And this has real-world consequences. For example, in this study [27], "in a simulated job interview, [participants] … were confronted with either sexist … or non-sexist … behavior … [and] results indicated that female participants in the sexist condition performed significantly worse on the mathematical test than female participants in the control condition … suggest[ing] an influence of psychological and interpersonal processes on seemingly objective test outcomes."

These studies were on a different "male typical" cognitive task, but the same principles underlying these results apply to tests of mathematical performance.

In short, the belief that men are naturally better/women naturally worse on a particular task can actually lower women's performance on the task. Eliminating or reducing this perception results in higher female performance.

For specific studies on this with reference to mathematical performance, see:

This study [6] found that "[math] test performance of women in a stereotype-nullifying presentation ... was raised significantly to surpass that of the men in the course" specifically for "the most highly qualified and persistent women [and men] in [upper level] college mathematics." (And as a note, they also find that when "test-takers were given the test under normal test instructions, women and men performed equally.")

This experimental study [7] that found women's performance on a math test, but not men's performance, was reduced by the stereotype threat condition (where they were told their sex is expected to perform worse) both within and between sexes.

Taken together, these results suggest that the current cultural expectation that men are naturally better – and women naturally worse – at math is actually harming women's performance.

---

Coding Skills

In addition to all of that, I've also discussed how there little to no evidence of sex differences in the human brain.

There's a lot less research on sex differences in computer coding proficiency, but a few include:

This study [8] that found that while "males have significantly more previous exposure to computer programming ... females do equally as well or better in programming comprehension."

This study [9] on programming lessons for primary school children found "no gender differences in coding ability".

This experimental study [10] also found no gender differences in "accuracy and efficiency of codes".

This interesting code review [11] found that "while there is gendered variation in programming style, there is no evidence of gender difference in code quality" [emphasis mine].

The above studies on gender similarities in math/spatial reasoning all also support gender similarities in coding considering they are often considered to underlie programming skill.

You are also correct about women being the original programmers! You can see these sources [12, 13] for an introduction to the history here.

---

Conclusion

In addition to all of that, I've also discussed how there little to no evidence of sex differences in the human brain.

All in all, there's no evidence that men are better suited for STEM fields than women. Instead, there's substantial evidence that there is no innate gender differences in mathematical ability, complex reasoning skills, spatial reasoning ability, and computer programming proficiency.

I hope this helps you convince your mom, Anon! If either of you have any questions, feel free to send them!

References under the cut:

Kane, J. M., & Mertz, J. E. (2012). Debunking myths about gender and mathematics performance. Notices of the AMS, 59(1), 10-21.

Hyde, J. S., Lindberg, S. M., Linn, M. C., Ellis, A. B., & Williams, C. C. (2008). Gender similarities characterize math performance. Science, 321(5888), 494-495.

Lindberg, S. M., Hyde, J. S., Petersen, J. L., & Linn, M. C. (2010). New trends in gender and mathematics performance: a meta-analysis. Psychological bulletin, 136(6), 1123.

Else-Quest, N. M., Hyde, J. S., & Linn, M. C. (2010). Cross-national patterns of gender differences in mathematics: a meta-analysis. Psychological bulletin, 136(1), 103.

Spelke, E. S. (2005). Sex differences in intrinsic aptitude for mathematics and science?: a critical review. American psychologist, 60(9), 950.

Good, C., Aronson, J., & Harder, J. A. (2008). Problems in the pipeline: Stereotype threat and women's achievement in high-level math courses. Journal of applied developmental psychology, 29(1), 17-28.

Johnson, H. J., Barnard-Brak, L., Saxon, T. F., & Johnson, M. K. (2012). An experimental study of the effects of stereotype threat and stereotype lift on men and women's performance in mathematics. The Journal of Experimental Education, 80(2), 137-149.

Du, J., & Wimmer, H. (2019). Hour of Code: A study of gender differences in computing. Information Systems Education Journal, 17(4), 91.

Price, C. B., & Price-Mohr, R. (2023). Exploring gender differences in primary school computer programming classes: A study in an English state-funded urban school. Education 3-13, 51(2), 306-319.

Akinola, S. O. (2015). Computer programming skill and gender difference: An empirical study. American journal of scientific and industrial research, 7(1), 1-9.

Brooke, S. (2024). Programmed differently? Testing for gender differences in Python programming style and quality on GitHub. Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, 29(1), zmad049.

Little, B. (2021, February 9). When computer coding was a “woman’s” job. HISTORY. https://www.history.com/news/coding-used-to-be-a-womans-job-so-it-was-paid-less-and-undervalued

Thompson, Clive. “The Secret History of Women in Coding.” The New York Times, 13 Feb. 2019. NYTimes.com, https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/13/magazine/women-coding-computer-programming.html.

[artyandink]

𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐪𝐮𝐞 𝐱𝐲𝐳 3

SUMMARY: You’re the first female president of the USA, having won the 2014 elections against Amara Shurley by a landslide. Now that you were a symbol of feminism, reform and a better country, it meant that there were a lot more assassination attempts bound to be on your head. For that, you needed a personal bodyguard, so you had to pick right. And you picked right in convicted ex-hitman Dean Winchester. Right?

TW: assassination attempts, ex-hitman!Dean, POTUS!reader, politics!au, politics, murder, gunfire, boss reader, major sexual tension between reader and Dean but also romantic tension cause we love that, post shower!dean, reader thirsting over Dean, very not professional stuff, Dean being a thirst trap, besties being besties, attempted murder by proxy, slow/quick burn, y’all will have to figure that out

A/N: In honour of our queen Kamala Harris, who didn’t win the 2024 elections, so I give you what could’ve been

NOW PLAYING: Play With Fire by Sam Tinnesz (ft. Yacht Money)

reformed symbol

It was late. The type of late where the world outside was swallowed by silence, the soft hum of the White House barely a murmur against the quiet of the night. The only sound that accompanied you as you worked in your bedroom was the faint clicking of your pen as you reviewed the never-ending stack of paperwork. You’d taken on more than you had anticipated since you’d assumed the presidency, and though your mind begged for rest, the tasks never seemed to slow down.

Tonight, you’d chosen to forgo the usual formal attire in favor of something more comfortable—sleep shorts and a loose pajama shirt, your hair loosely pulled back from your face. The outfit was an indulgence in practicality, something that allowed you to focus on the task at hand without feeling confined. Yet, even in these less-than-presidential clothes, you still felt the weight of the power you held. You had to.

You sighed, rubbing your eyes as you closed the last of the files in front of you. It was time to call it a night. As you gathered up your papers, you noticed something out of place—the jacket of Dean’s suit hanging over the back of one of the chairs. Dean.

You hadn’t seen much of him lately, but you were well aware of how easy it was to get lost in the day-to-day of your duties. His presence had become as much a part of your routine as anything else, though, unlike the paperwork, his presence made you… distracted.

You picked up the jacket, noting how perfectly it had been tailored to his broad shoulders. Dean looked good in that suit. Too good. But you weren’t going to let yourself dwell on that now. He was probably fast asleep by now, after all.

With a soft exhale, you turned to leave your bedroom. You could return the jacket to his room—he was likely asleep by now, probably in his bed, far enough from the office to miss your small intrusion. As you walked down the hallway toward his quarters, you couldn’t shake the lingering sense of curiosity about what was behind that closed door.

You reached his office, noticing that the door was slightly ajar. Of course, Dean never really seemed to care about privacy—either that, or he simply had no awareness of his own effect on people. You peered into the room, making sure he wasn’t awake, and decided to step in.

You wanted to be the considerate one—this wasn’t about your attraction to him, not entirely. You were the President; you had a job to do. So, with that in mind, you walked into the room and began to place the jacket at the foot of his bed. As you did so, you froze.

The bathroom door opened.

And there he was.

Dean.

The man was standing in the doorway, only a towel wrapped around his waist, his damp hair falling in wet curls around his face. His sharp jawline glistened with droplets of water, and his bare chest—oh, his bare chest—was the epitome of muscle and power. He was a goddamn vision in the soft light that filtered through the curtains. Your heart skipped a beat, and it was as though your brain had temporarily short-circuited, unable to process the sight before you.

He hadn’t noticed you yet.

You froze. He froze. The two of you stood there in the doorway for a moment, each unsure how to move, unsure how to act. Your breath caught in your throat.

You couldn’t believe this was happening.

Dean’s brow furrowed in surprise as he stepped back from the doorway, eyes widening slightly. His expression quickly morphed into a mixture of confusion and, dare you think it, amusement. “Well, this is awkward.”

You cleared your throat, suddenly aware of how completely unprepared you were for this moment. Your fingers fidgeted with the collar of his jacket as you offered an awkward, half-hearted smile. “I—uh—I came to bring your jacket back,” you said, your voice sounding far too casual for the circumstances. “I didn’t think you’d still be… up.”

Dean chuckled softly, running a hand through his damp hair as he took a step toward you. His muscles rippled under the dim light, and you couldn’t help but sneak a glance at the defined lines of his chest and abdomen. You forced yourself to look away, but it was hard.

“I wasn’t exactly planning on having company,” he said, voice low and rich, like velvet. You couldn’t help but notice how his gaze lingered on you, and for a split second, you felt his eyes trace over your form, not lingering on the obvious—your face—but rather… everything else. You couldn’t help the warmth that spread through you at that.

“Well, I didn’t mean to interrupt,” you stammered, trying to gather your thoughts, trying to focus. “I’ll just—um—I’ll just leave this here.”

Dean stepped closer, his proximity making the air thick with tension. “You’re not interrupting,” he said, his voice barely a whisper now. “It’s just…” He paused, his eyes flicking over you once again. “Well, this is… unexpected.”

It was impossible not to feel self-conscious now. The way his gaze moved over you—it wasn’t just lingering. It was studying, savoring. A shiver ran down your spine, and for a moment, you wondered if he could hear the frantic beating of your heart.

Your hands shook as you gently placed his jacket on the edge of the bed. You couldn’t even look him in the eye anymore. Why did you feel so… flustered? This wasn’t a presidential matter. It wasn’t official business. It was a man in a towel and a woman in sleepwear, both with an undeniable tension hanging in the air. You swallowed, trying to control your racing pulse.

“Dean,” you said, your voice trembling slightly. “You should… probably put some clothes on.”

Dean didn’t seem bothered by your comment. If anything, the grin that crept onto his face only deepened the tension. He looked you over again, eyes softening as his lips curled into something dangerously close to flirtation. “I’m not bothering you, am I?” he asked, his voice dripping with a teasing undertone.

“No,” you said quickly, far too quickly, and you mentally cursed yourself. “No, of course not. I was just… returning your jacket.”

“Mm-hmm.” Dean’s eyes darkened, and you could tell that he was amused. “You’re sure you didn’t come in here for something else?”

You stiffened, suddenly hyper-aware of how close he was now. The heat from his body seemed to radiate through the space between you, and it was enough to send your heart racing again. You cursed yourself internally—this was Dean. He was your bodyguard, and you were his charge. There was no room for these kinds of distractions.

“No,” you said, more firmly this time, even though your voice still betrayed you. “Just your jacket.”

Dean tilted his head slightly, still holding that maddeningly confident smirk. “Alright then.”

The moment stretched out, the awkwardness thick in the air as neither of you seemed to know how to proceed. The words didn’t come easy now, and all you could focus on was the man in front of you, his damp skin gleaming faintly in the low light, the way his eyes seemed to burn into yours.

“Well,” you finally said, your voice sounding smaller than you’d intended. “I should get going. I have a lot of work to do.”

Dean nodded slowly, his smirk never faltering. “Of course. I’ll let you get back to it.”

And yet, as you turned to leave, there was something in his eyes—something that made you second-guess your exit. Something that made your pulse quicken once again.

“Goodnight,” you said, your voice soft as you gave him a brief glance over your shoulder.

“Goodnight,” he echoed, his tone far warmer than before, his gaze lingering a moment too long.

And as you closed the door behind you, you couldn’t stop the rush of heat that spread across your cheeks. You had no idea why you were so flustered, but you couldn’t deny the undeniable pull that had just passed between you.

You silently cursed your attraction to him, but deep down, you couldn’t bring yourself to regret it.

Dean Winchester was proving to be one hell of a distraction.

The morning light filtered through the heavy curtains of the Oval Office, casting a soft golden glow over the room. The White House, as ever, was buzzing with activity, but inside the small dining area where you sat with Bella and Steph, it was just the three of you. Or, rather, it was supposed to be just the three of you.

You sat at the table, your breakfast half-finished but completely ignored. Your fork hovered in the air, the scrambled eggs barely touched. You’d barely registered that you were supposed to be eating. Your mind was elsewhere—on him.

Dean.

Your bodyguard.

Last night had been… distracting. A complete and utter disaster in the form of a ridiculously handsome man stepping out of the shower in nothing but a towel. And those eyes. Those dark, penetrating eyes that seemed to strip away any composure you had left. Your cheeks were still flushed thinking about it. You had tried to push the memory out of your head, but it clung to you like the scent of a perfume that wouldn’t wash away.

The way his damp hair fell over his forehead, the droplets of water glistening on his skin, the way his towel clung to his hips—God, your body had gone completely still in his presence, and not in the way you were used to. It wasn’t professional, it wasn’t rational, it was just hot.

You hadn’t even managed to get a proper word out, your mouth practically dry as you stood frozen in place. He’d looked at you, looked at you as though you were the only person in the room—and maybe you were.

You tore your gaze away from your plate for the hundredth time to look at Bella and Steph, both of whom were now watching you with amused expressions, one of them leaning forward, her elbows resting on the table.

Bella smirked, raising an eyebrow. “What’s up with you, huh? You seem like you’ve forgotten we exist.”

Steph, always more perceptive than Bella, grinned like a Cheshire cat. “Girl, you’re miles away. We could’ve talked about anything, but you’ve been staring at your eggs for, like, the last ten minutes. What’s going on?”

You swallowed thickly, trying to maintain your composure, but the truth was, you couldn’t focus on anything other than Dean. You hadn’t had a moment like that in… well, ever. You’d been attracted to men before, but this? This felt different.

Your hand unconsciously reached for your glass of water, but it wasn’t until you noticed Bella and Steph looking at you with knowing smiles that you snapped out of it. “What?” You almost jumped out of your skin, hoping they hadn’t noticed how lost you’d been.

Steph raised her cup of coffee and sipped it lazily. “Oh, nothing. Just wondering if your brain checked out of this conversation completely, or if it’s just playing hooky.”

You felt the heat rise to your cheeks, your skin suddenly feeling like it was on fire. You couldn’t lie to them—not really. Not when they had that look in their eyes. They weren’t stupid. They knew something was up.

Bella leaned in with a sly grin, her eyes practically sparkling with mischief. “We’ve been friends for how long now, huh? You’re telling us nothing happened last night? Nothing?”

You swallowed again, resisting the urge to shift uncomfortably in your seat. “What are you talking about?” you asked, trying to play it cool.

Steph didn’t let you off the hook. She put her coffee down and stared at you seriously, her eyes narrowing. “Come on, you were talking about him last night, and now you can’t even focus? You’ve been staring at that plate like it’s your first meal in months.”

Your heart pounded as the realization hit you—they knew. They were onto you.

You let out a shaky breath. You could feel your pulse racing, the thought of admitting what had happened last night making your stomach flip uncomfortably. “It’s just…” You trailed off, trying to find the words, your fingers nervously tapping the edge of your glass.

Bella’s smirk only widened. “Come on, tell us. What’s the deal with you and your very handsome bodyguard?”

Your breath caught. You hadn’t expected them to be so direct, and yet it was exactly what you needed. You let out a long breath, looking down at the table to avoid their eyes.

“I—uh—saw him,” you said, your voice barely a whisper. “I saw him after he got out of the shower last night.”

Steph’s eyebrows shot up. “Wait… what? You saw him? How much did you see?”

You quickly pressed your hands to your face, feeling the heat of embarrassment. “I didn’t mean to. I just went in to drop his jacket off, and the door was open and—he was right there.” You cringed, realizing you had practically sounded like an untrained schoolgirl.

Bella raised her hands in mock surrender, her grin widening. “Okay, okay, so you accidentally walked in on him after he showered and he was… what? Naked?”

“Well, not completely,” you muttered, the embarrassment quickly turning to something else—something much more distracting. You closed your eyes and took a deep breath. “But he was wearing just a towel. And—God, it was—” You could feel yourself getting flustered, your thoughts stumbling over each other. “It was like being hit by a freight train. He’s—he’s so damn hot.” You could feel the heat pooling in your chest.

Bella and Steph exchanged looks before both of them leaned forward, their eyes wide with excitement.

“Wait,” Bella said, her voice dropping dramatically. “So, let me get this straight. You saw him like that… and you’re just sitting here, pretending it didn’t melt your brain?”

You swallowed, leaning back in your chair, trying to gather yourself. The truth was, you couldn’t stop thinking about the way his towel had clung to his waist, the faint droplets of water still clinging to his skin, the way his eyes had locked onto yours, making your heart race in your chest. “I—I don’t know what to say. I just—I didn’t expect it, okay? He’s Dean. My bodyguard. He’s… well, he’s Dean. And I just—” You cut yourself off, embarrassed that you were so clearly fumbling.

Steph was practically glowing, her face alight with a mixture of amusement and admiration. “Okay, okay. So tell me this, though. How did he look? Like… was it as good as the pictures?”

You bit your lip, glancing down at the table again, trying to hide your smile. “Better,” you admitted, unable to help yourself. “He’s even better-looking than his photos.”

Bella burst out laughing, shaking her head. “Girl, you’re down bad. And I’m here for it.”

Steph joined in, her eyes sparkling with mischief. “This is so much better than I imagined. I’m living for this moment.”

You sighed dramatically, trying to hide the way your stomach flipped at the thought of Dean in nothing but a towel. “I just—why does he have to be so distracting?” You didn’t even realize you’d spoken the last part out loud until it was too late.

Steph and Bella both looked at each other with knowing smirks.

“You like him, don’t you?” Bella teased. “You’ve got it bad. I see it.”

You groaned, slumping into your chair in frustration. “I don’t know what’s happening,” you admitted, rubbing your forehead as if trying to erase the images of Dean from your mind. “I shouldn’t be thinking about him like this. I’m the President, for God’s sake.”

Steph reached across the table, patting your hand sympathetically. “Hey, you can’t help who you’re attracted to. But you are the President, so maybe take it slow, huh?”

You sighed again, your mind too clouded with thoughts of Dean, his strong arms, the way his voice had sent shivers down your spine. “Yeah, yeah, I’ll try.”

But deep down, you knew you were already too far gone to try and play it cool.

You were definitely down bad for Dean Winchester.

The small, sterile room Dean called his quarters in the White House was quiet except for the faint hum of the air conditioning. The night outside was dark and still, the corridors beyond his door silent as most of the staff retired for the evening. Dean sat on the edge of his bed, his boots kicked off and his tie loosened, staring at his phone as it buzzed against the nightstand.

The name on the screen gave him pause.

Benny Lafitte.

He hadn’t heard from Benny in a long time, but he wasn’t surprised to see the name now. If anyone could track him down, even inside the fortified walls of the White House, it was Benny. They had history—decades of shared jobs, secrets, and scars. Though Dean had walked away from that life, Benny had stayed behind, carving out his own path in the underworld.

Dean picked up the phone and answered with a quiet, “Benny. Long time, brother.”

The familiar Cajun drawl on the other end was as smooth as whiskey, tinged with a low, almost conspiratorial urgency. “Dean-o. You’re harder to reach these days. Guess it’s what happens when you’re babysitting royalty, huh?”

Dean let out a short laugh, though there was no humor behind it. “Yeah, something like that. What’s up? Didn’t think you’d call just to catch up.”

There was a brief pause, static crackling faintly in the background. Then Benny’s voice dropped, serious now. “I wouldn’t be callin’ if it wasn’t important. Figured I owed you a heads-up.”

Dean straightened, his instincts kicking in at the sudden change in tone. “What kind of heads-up?”

Benny sighed, the sound heavy with the weight of what he was about to say. “Got approached by some of Frank’s men. They wanted me to take out a contract. A big one.”

Dean’s blood ran cold. His jaw tightened, his grip on the phone hard enough to turn his knuckles white. He didn’t need to ask who the target was. He already knew. “You’re telling me they put out a hit on the President?”

“Yup,” Benny said, almost casually. But there was a current of tension beneath the calm. “Offered me a fat stack of cash to do it, too. Told me you’d gone soft, that you were playin’ house with the lady in charge and had betrayed the whole damn network.”

Dean swore under his breath, running a hand over his face. “And? What did you say?”

“I took their money, of course.” Benny chuckled lightly, but there was no mirth in it. “But relax, brother. I ain’t gonna do it. You know me better than that. Hell, I’d never hear the end of it if I put a bullet in your boss. Not that I’d wanna.”

Relief flooded Dean for a moment, but it was short-lived. The implications of what Benny was saying hit him hard. “Why the hell did you take the money, then?”

“Because it buys me time. If I’d said no, they’d just go to the next guy in line, and that guy might not be as nice as me. This way, I can stall ‘em. Play along for a bit, give you a chance to get your house in order.”

Dean gritted his teeth. “Benny—”

“Listen,” Benny interrupted, his tone sharper now. “You know how these things work. Frank’s boys are pissed, Dean. They think you flipped, and that ain’t something they’re gonna let slide. I don’t think I’m the only one they reached out to. They’re throwin’ money around like it’s candy, and you know what that means.”

Dean did. It meant a dozen guns aimed at the same target, and not all of them would hesitate.

“They’re gonna come for her,” Benny continued, his voice lower now. “And when they do, they ain’t gonna stop until someone cashes the check. You gotta be ready, man. Watch your six. Watch hers.”

Dean’s stomach tightened at the thought of you—working late into the night as you always did, pouring over documents, your brow furrowed in concentration. You were tough, no doubt about that, but this was a whole new level of danger. He didn’t like the thought of you being a target, vulnerable to the same ruthless world he’d worked so hard to leave behind.

“Yeah,” Dean said finally, his voice rough. “I’ll handle it.”

“You’d better,” Benny replied. “You’ve got somethin’ good here, Dean. Don’t let those bastards take it away from you.”

There was a pause, and for a moment, the line was quiet except for the faint hum of static. Then Benny added, softer now, “Take care of yourself, man. And her.”

“You too,” Dean muttered, then ended the call.

He sat there for a moment, the phone still in his hand, his thoughts racing. This wasn’t just about him anymore. It wasn’t just his life on the line. It was yours. You—the woman who had somehow managed to earn his respect and loyalty in such a short amount of time, the woman who had stood up for him when no one else would, who had looked him in the eye and trusted him despite everything she knew about his past.

Dean exhaled sharply and stood, shoving his phone into his pocket. He needed to focus, to plan. There were too many variables, too many unknowns. But one thing was certain: he wasn’t going to let anyone lay a finger on you. Not while he was around.

The small, sterile room Dean called his quarters in the White House was quiet except for the faint hum of the air conditioning. The night outside was dark and still, the corridors beyond his door silent as most of the staff retired for the evening. Dean sat on the edge of his bed, his boots kicked off and his tie loosened, staring at his phone as it buzzed against the nightstand.

The name on the screen gave him pause.

Benny Lafitte.

He hadn’t heard from Benny in a long time, but he wasn’t surprised to see the name now. If anyone could track him down, even inside the fortified walls of the White House, it was Benny. They had history—decades of shared jobs, secrets, and scars. Though Dean had walked away from that life, Benny had stayed behind, carving out his own path in the underworld.

Dean picked up the phone and answered with a quiet, “Benny. Long time, brother.”

The familiar Cajun drawl on the other end was as smooth as whiskey, tinged with a low, almost conspiratorial urgency. “Dean-o. You’re harder to reach these days. Guess it’s what happens when you’re babysitting royalty, huh?”

Dean let out a short laugh, though there was no humor behind it. “Yeah, something like that. What’s up? Didn’t think you’d call just to catch up.”

There was a brief pause, static crackling faintly in the background. Then Benny’s voice dropped, serious now. “I wouldn’t be callin’ if it wasn’t important. Figured I owed you a heads-up.”

Dean straightened, his instincts kicking in at the sudden change in tone. “What kind of heads-up?”

Benny sighed, the sound heavy with the weight of what he was about to say. “Got approached by some of Frank’s men. They wanted me to take out a contract. A big one.”

Dean’s blood ran cold. His jaw tightened, his grip on the phone hard enough to turn his knuckles white. He didn’t need to ask who the target was. He already knew. “You’re telling me they put out a hit on the President?”

“Yup,” Benny said, almost casually. But there was a current of tension beneath the calm. “Offered me a fat stack of cash to do it, too. Told me you’d gone soft, that you were playin’ house with the lady in charge and had betrayed the whole damn network.”

Dean swore under his breath, running a hand over his face. “And? What did you say?”

“I took their money, of course.” Benny chuckled lightly, but there was no mirth in it. “But relax, brother. I ain’t gonna do it. You know me better than that. Hell, I’d never hear the end of it if I put a bullet in your boss. Not that I’d wanna.”

Relief flooded Dean for a moment, but it was short-lived. The implications of what Benny was saying hit him hard. “Why the hell did you take the money, then?”

“Because it buys me time. If I’d said no, they’d just go to the next guy in line, and that guy might not be as nice as me. This way, I can stall ‘em. Play along for a bit, give you a chance to get your house in order.”

Dean gritted his teeth. “Benny—”

“Listen,” Benny interrupted, his tone sharper now. “You know how these things work. Frank’s boys are pissed, Dean. They think you flipped, and that ain’t something they’re gonna let slide. I don’t think I’m the only one they reached out to. They’re throwin’ money around like it’s candy, and you know what that means.”

Dean did. It meant a dozen guns aimed at the same target, and not all of them would hesitate.

“They’re gonna come for her,” Benny continued, his voice lower now. “And when they do, they ain’t gonna stop until someone cashes the check. You gotta be ready, man. Watch your six. Watch hers.”

Dean’s stomach tightened at the thought of you—working late into the night as you always did, pouring over documents, your brow furrowed in concentration. You were tough, no doubt about that, but this was a whole new level of danger. He didn’t like the thought of you being a target, vulnerable to the same ruthless world he’d worked so hard to leave behind.

“Yeah,” Dean said finally, his voice rough. “I’ll handle it.”

“You’d better,” Benny replied. “You’ve got somethin’ good here, Dean. Don’t let those bastards take it away from you.”

There was a pause, and for a moment, the line was quiet except for the faint hum of static. Then Benny added, softer now, “Take care of yourself, man. And her.”

“You too,” Dean muttered, then ended the call.

He sat there for a moment, the phone still in his hand, his thoughts racing. This wasn’t just about him anymore. It wasn’t just his life on the line. It was yours. You—the woman who had somehow managed to earn his respect and loyalty in such a short amount of time, the woman who had stood up for him when no one else would, who had looked him in the eye and trusted him despite everything she knew about his past.

Dean exhaled sharply and stood, shoving his phone into his pocket. He needed to focus, to plan. There were too many variables, too many unknowns. But one thing was certain: he wasn’t going to let anyone lay a finger on you. Not while he was around.

The next morning, you were in your office as usual, poring over a mountain of paperwork. The soft sound of your pen scratching against the paper filled the quiet room. You were wearing one of your usual tailored outfits, a blazer and skirt that somehow managed to look both professional and effortless. You were the picture of focus and determination, your brow furrowed slightly as you worked through the endless list of tasks that came with running the country.

But Dean couldn’t stop thinking about Benny’s warning. He stood just outside your office door, his arms crossed, his gaze scanning the hallway for any sign of trouble. His mind was a mess of plans and contingencies, all centered around keeping you safe. He knew the risks, knew the lengths to which Frank’s men would go. And he knew that if they made a move, it wouldn’t be subtle.

He couldn’t tell you—not yet, at least. You had enough on your plate without worrying about hitmen and criminal syndicates. But that didn’t mean he wasn’t going to do everything in his power to protect you.

Inside the office, you glanced up from your paperwork and caught sight of Dean through the glass panel in the door. He was standing there, stoic as ever, his sharp green eyes scanning the hallway with the kind of intensity that made your breath catch in your throat.

You couldn’t help but feel a strange sense of security whenever he was around. Despite his past, despite everything you knew about him, there was something about Dean that made you trust him implicitly. He was always there, always watching, always ready to step in if anything went wrong.

But there was something else, too—something you tried to ignore. The way your pulse quickened whenever he was near, the way your thoughts seemed to drift back to him no matter how hard you tried to focus. You’d never admit it, not even to yourself, but the truth was undeniable: Dean Winchester wasn’t just your bodyguard. He was the man who had somehow managed to turn your carefully ordered world upside down.

And now, whether you knew it or not, he was the man standing between you and the shadows creeping ever closer.

Dean’s grip on the hitman’s arm was like iron as he pushed him forward, moving swiftly through the corridors back toward where the Secret Service agents waited. The man squirmed and spat venomous words as they walked, his tone low and seething.

“You think she’s safe with you?” the hitman hissed, his voice cold and deliberate. “You’re just delaying the inevitable. People like her? Too many enemies. Too many people want her gone. She’ll never see it coming.”

Dean didn’t flinch, his jaw tightening as his icy green eyes bored into the back of the man’s head. He didn’t dignify the threat with a response, choosing instead to keep his focus forward, on getting this bastard into custody.

“Face it,” the man continued, his voice laced with malice. “This doesn’t end here. This is just the beginning.”

Dean stopped abruptly, yanking the man to a halt so forcefully that the hitman stumbled. Turning him sharply, Dean grabbed the front of the man’s shirt and pulled him close, his voice dangerously low. “You don’t know a damn thing about me, or her,” he said, his tone a cold growl that sent chills down the man’s spine. “If you so much as breathe another word about her, I’ll make sure you regret it.”

The hitman sneered, but Dean’s grip was unyielding. He shoved the man forward again, his pace brisk as he finally reached the waiting Secret Service detail outside the orphanage. The agents were already on high alert, their faces tense as they took in the scene.

“Take him,” Dean ordered, shoving the hitman into their custody. “Lock him down. Maximum security. I don’t want him talking to anyone but you, and only when I say so.”

The agents nodded, their professionalism evident as they hauled the man away, but the hitman’s threats lingered in the air. “She’s not safe. You’ll see!” he yelled, his voice echoing down the corridor as he was dragged out of sight.

Dean watched him go, his expression hard and unreadable. Only when the man was gone did he allow himself to breathe, his shoulders dropping slightly as the tension began to ease. But when he turned, his eyes immediately found you, standing near the corner of the room, trying your best to appear composed despite the chaos that had just unfolded.

You weren’t fooling him.

Even from a distance, Dean could see the subtle tremble in your hands as you folded them tightly against your chest. Your shoulders were stiff, your breaths shallow, and though you were making an admirable effort to mask the fear coursing through you, Dean knew better. He could see it in your eyes—the panic, the shock, the fear that you couldn’t quite shake.

Without hesitation, Dean walked over to you, his movements purposeful but calm, his footsteps steady against the polished floor. He didn’t say a word as he reached you, his towering presence immediately blocking out the rest of the world.

“C’mon,” he said softly, his voice gentle in a way you weren’t used to hearing. He placed a hand lightly on your back, guiding you toward a quieter, more secluded part of the orphanage where no one else would bother you.

You didn’t protest, your legs moving mechanically as you followed his lead. The shock was starting to set in now, a cold weight pressing against your chest as the events replayed in your mind. The laughter of the children, the sudden crack of the gunshot, the image of Dean stepping in front of you without hesitation—all of it played in a relentless loop, leaving you reeling.

Dean led you to a small, empty lounge at the back of the building, closing the door behind you to shut out the noise. The room was dimly lit, with a worn-out couch and a few scattered chairs, but it was quiet, and that was all that mattered.

As soon as the door clicked shut, you felt your composure begin to crack. Your breathing hitched, and you turned away from Dean, wrapping your arms around yourself in an attempt to hold it together.

But it was no use. The fear that had been building inside you finally spilled over, and before you knew it, you were trembling, tears welling in your eyes as your body betrayed you.

Dean saw it happen—the way your shoulders shook, the way you tried to hide your face as the tears started to fall. He didn’t hesitate. Closing the distance between you, he gently placed his hands on your shoulders, his touch firm but comforting.

“Hey,” he said softly, his voice steady and calm. “It’s okay. You’re okay.”

You shook your head, your voice breaking as you finally let the words spill out. “I— I thought I was fine. I thought I could handle it, but I—”

“You don’t have to handle it alone,” Dean interrupted, his tone leaving no room for argument. He moved closer, his hands sliding down to your arms as he turned you to face him. “I’ve got you, okay? I’m not gonna let anything happen to you.”

The sincerity in his voice was overwhelming, and it broke something inside you. The tears came harder now, and before you could stop yourself, you buried your face against his chest, your hands clutching at his shirt as the sobs wracked your body.

Dean didn’t hesitate. He wrapped his arms around you, holding you tightly as you let everything out. His hand moved to the back of your head, his fingers threading gently through your hair as he murmured softly, “I’ve got you. I’ve got you.”

You stayed like that for what felt like an eternity, the warmth of his embrace grounding you as the fear slowly ebbed away. Dean didn’t let go, his arms a steady presence that made you feel safer than you had in weeks.

Eventually, your sobs subsided, and your breathing evened out. You pulled back slightly, your cheeks flushed and your eyes red from crying, but there was a faint sense of relief in your chest now—a sense that, maybe, you weren’t as alone in this as you had feared.

“Sorry,” you mumbled, wiping at your eyes with the back of your hand. “I didn’t mean to—”

“Don’t,” Dean cut you off gently, his voice firm but kind. “You don’t have to apologize. You’ve been through a hell of a lot, and you’re allowed to feel what you’re feeling.”

You nodded, swallowing hard as you met his eyes. There was something in his gaze—an unwavering determination, a promise that you knew he would keep.

“Thank you,” you said softly, your voice barely above a whisper.

Dean gave you a small, reassuring smile, his hands still resting lightly on your arms. “You don’t have to thank me. It’s my job to keep you safe.”

But it wasn’t just his words that comforted you—it was the way he said them, the way he looked at you like you were more than just a job. Like you were someone worth protecting, someone worth fighting for.

And in that moment, as the world outside continued to spin in chaos, you let yourself believe him.

The night had settled in around the White House, and the silence in the halls was punctuated only by the faint hum of air conditioning and the distant murmur of security. Inside your bedroom, the air felt heavy, a mix of the warmth from the blankets tangled around your body and the cool unease that clung to you after the events of the day.

Dean had insisted on staying close after the shooting incident earlier, much to your initial hesitation. You were used to being independent, to handling things on your own, but after everything that had happened, his presence felt strangely comforting. So, when he asked if he could move a sofa into the hallway outside your room for the night, you hadn’t been able to say no.

You’d spent the evening trying to act like everything was normal—trying to forget the weight of the threat against your life, to put on a brave face for your staff, and for the children at the orphanage. But now, lying in bed, it felt impossible to escape the fear that had crept into your bones.

You turned over in bed, pulling the covers up to your chin as the darkness seemed to press in on you from all sides. Your mind wouldn’t quiet, the images of the gunshot and Dean rushing to protect you replaying over and over. Every sound seemed amplified in the stillness, and each shadow in the corners of the room seemed to take on a life of its own.

Suddenly, the silence was shattered by a loud crack of thunder, and you jolted upright in bed, your heart pounding in your chest. It wasn’t the storm that had startled you—it was the sudden nightmare, the sharp feeling of being hunted, of someone coming for you. You gasped for air as you tried to steady yourself, but the panic only grew, making your chest feel tight and your breathing shallow.

The nightmare had felt so real—the hitman’s words echoing in your mind, the cold barrel of a gun pressing to your temple, the realization that no matter what, you couldn’t escape.

You swallowed hard, blinking against the tears that threatened to spill. You could feel the familiar panic rising in your throat, threatening to choke you.

"Shit," you muttered to yourself, rubbing your hands over your face as if that could erase the fear. You didn’t want to wake up anyone, especially not Dean. He’d already done so much today—risked his life to protect you—and now you were losing it over a nightmare.

But as you lay there, trying to calm your breathing, you heard a faint noise—footsteps, muffled but steady. Your heart skipped a beat as the door to your room creaked open just slightly.

"Madam President?" Dean’s voice, low and rough, was a whisper in the dark.

You froze. How had he known? How had he heard you? You hadn’t even realized that you were still trembling until you heard his voice, and the warmth of it seeped through the panic that had a stranglehold on your chest.

"Dean?" you asked, your voice barely above a whisper. "What are you doing in here?"

"I heard you," he said simply, his tone steady. "I heard you wake up."

You could feel his presence before you saw him—tall, imposing, yet strangely gentle as he moved toward you in the dark. The soft creak of the floorboards beneath his boots was the only sound besides the steady thrum of your heartbeat.

"I’m fine," you said quickly, trying to sound more confident than you felt. "Just a bad dream."

Dean didn’t respond right away. Instead, there was a pause, and then the soft thud of his boots on the floor as he took a step closer. You felt his warmth before he even spoke, his voice rough but kind.

"Can I come in?" he asked, almost hesitant, as if waiting for you to give him permission.

You nodded, even though you didn’t really have to say it. You could feel the tension in the room—the mix of discomfort, vulnerability, and something else, something unspoken. But you couldn’t bring yourself to say no. There was something in the way he said it, in the way he always said everything. It wasn’t just the bodyguard, the protector—it was Dean.

"Yeah," you whispered, shifting slightly on the bed to make room for him.

The door creaked open wider, and a few moments later, you felt his weight settle beside you on the edge of the bed, his posture tense yet somehow relaxed. His presence filled the space, his scent—leather, soap, and something undeniably him—swirling around you as he leaned closer, his gaze searching yours in the dim light.

"Nightmare?" he asked softly, his voice almost too gentle, like he didn’t want to disturb the fragile calm that had settled between you.

You nodded, your eyes flickering to his face, trying to read the expression that was hidden in the darkness. You could feel the vulnerability creeping in again, the fear, but there was something else now—comfort. Safety.

"It wasn’t just the hitman," you said quietly, your voice a little shaky as the nightmare still lingered in your mind. "It was... everything. The fear. The constant feeling that I’m being watched, that I can’t even trust the walls of this place."

Dean nodded slowly, his eyes locking onto yours as if he understood more than you expected. You could see the intensity in his gaze, the way his jaw clenched as he processed your words.

"Hey," he said, his voice steady. "You don’t have to go through this alone."

You shook your head, trying to mask the knot of emotion that was tightening in your chest. "I don’t want to be a burden to you, Dean. You’ve already done so much for me."

Dean’s expression softened, his brow furrowing slightly. "You’re not a burden," he said firmly, his voice unwavering. "I’m here to protect you, but I’m also here for you. Whatever you need, I’ve got you."

His words were simple, but they hit you harder than you expected. It was the first time someone had said that to you in a long time, and you realized—more than you’d care to admit—that you wanted to believe him. That you needed to believe him.

The silence between you stretched, but it wasn’t uncomfortable. You could feel the weight of it, the quiet intimacy in the space between you. You tried to look away, but your eyes couldn’t seem to escape his. He was so close, just inches away, his warmth radiating toward you, his breath faintly brushing your skin.

You didn’t know who moved first—maybe it was him, maybe it was you—but before you could think twice, he was leaning in, his face inches from yours. Your breath caught in your throat as his gaze flickered down to your lips, and for a split second, the world seemed to slow, everything outside of this room fading away.

"Dean..." you whispered, the sound of his name on your lips hanging in the air like a promise.

"Shh," he murmured, his hand gently cupping the side of your face. His thumb brushed over your cheek, his touch surprisingly tender despite the raw intensity between you. "It’s okay. I’m here."

The words settled in your chest, a warmth spreading through you that chased away the lingering chill of the nightmare. For a moment, the world seemed to pause, and all you could do was stare at him, your heart pounding for an entirely different reason now.

Dean held your gaze, his green eyes searching yours as if trying to read every unspoken thought running through your mind. There was a tension in the air now, a charged moment that neither of you dared to break.

But then, as if sensing the shift, Dean cleared his throat and looked away, his hand dropping back to his side. “Do you... want me to stay?” he asked, his voice a little gruffer than before. “Just until you fall asleep?”

The offer was so unexpected, so selfless, that you felt your chest tighten. You nodded before you could second-guess yourself, your voice barely audible as you said, “Yeah. I’d like that.”

Dean stood, moving to grab a chair from the corner of the room and pulling it up beside your bed. He settled into it with a quiet sigh, his presence a comforting anchor as you lay back down.

“Get some rest,” he said softly, his eyes never leaving you. “I’ll be right here.”

And he was. Long after your breathing evened out and you drifted back to sleep, Dean stayed awake, watching over you like a sentinel. For all the nightmares that haunted your sleep, he was determined to be the one who kept them at bay.

The sun crept over the horizon, its golden light filtering through the curtains of your bedroom as you sat at your desk, absentmindedly shuffling through the stack of documents requiring your attention. But your mind wasn’t on the papers in front of you—it was still stuck on the events of the previous day. The gunshot, the chaos, Dean’s unwavering strength as he shielded you and took down the would-be assassin. You couldn’t seem to shake the residual fear that clung to you like a shadow.

You rubbed your eyes, trying to focus, when the sharp chime of the front doorbell startled you. Glancing at the clock, you frowned. It was far too early for visitors, and anyone official would have gone through the Secret Service detail stationed outside. Curious and slightly apprehensive, you pushed back from your desk and headed downstairs.

By the time you reached the grand foyer, Dean was already there, his tall figure filling the space as he opened the door. A rush of voices greeted him, and you paused at the foot of the stairs, narrowing your eyes as Bella and Steph barged inside, each dragging a large suitcase behind them.

“Oh, good morning, Madam President!” Bella chirped, her bright smile completely at odds with the scene unfolding.

“You look like you’ve been up all night,” Steph observed, her brow furrowing as she took you in. She turned to Bella. “She’s probably traumatized.”

“Absolutely,” Bella agreed, spinning back toward you. “That’s why we’re moving in.”

You blinked, staring at the two women as if they’d just announced they were planning to annex a small country. “Wait, what?”

Steph rolled her suitcase to the side, parking it neatly against the wall before crossing her arms. “You almost got killed yesterday. Killed. Bella and I talked it over, and we decided you shouldn’t be alone right now.”

“I’m not alone,” you argued weakly, gesturing to the security detail outside and Dean, who was standing with his arms crossed, his expression unreadable. “I have, you know, professionals to keep me safe.”

Bella shook her head, her blonde curls bouncing with the movement. “Professionals can’t keep you company at two a.m. when you’re spiraling, thinking about what could have happened. We can.”

Steph chimed in, her tone firm. “We’re not taking no for an answer. And besides,” she added with a sly grin, “your guest rooms are bigger than my entire apartment.”

You opened your mouth to protest further, but the sheer determination in their eyes made it clear that you were fighting a losing battle. Instead, you turned to Dean, raising an eyebrow. “Do you know anything about this?”

Dean’s lips twitched, the closest thing to a smile you’d seen from him since the assassination attempt. “Might’ve mentioned it to them,” he said casually, his deep voice carrying a hint of amusement. “Figured you could use some backup.”

For a moment, you just stared at him, caught off guard by the quiet thoughtfulness behind his actions. The corners of your mouth lifted in a small, genuine smile. “Thank you,” you said softly, the words carrying more weight than you intended.

Dean nodded, his gaze steady and reassuring, before stepping aside to let you deal with your unexpected houseguests.

Bella and Steph wasted no time, each grabbing a suitcase and heading for the stairs. “Come on,” Bella called over her shoulder. “Let’s get you set up with some real TLC.”

You followed them up to your bedroom, your protests fading as the reality of their presence began to sink in. While part of you wanted to cling to the independence and stoicism you prided yourself on, another part—the part that had spent the previous night battling fear and doubt—was deeply relieved to have them here.

Once inside your bedroom, Bella and Steph immediately set about making themselves at home. Bella perched on the edge of your bed, her sharp eyes scanning your face for any signs of distress, while Steph began unpacking a small bag filled with snacks, tea, and what appeared to be an entire pharmacy’s worth of calming supplements.

“All right,” Bella said, clapping her hands together. “Talk to us. How are you feeling? And don’t say ‘fine,’ because we know that’s a lie.”

You sighed, sitting down in the armchair near the window. “I’m… managing,” you said carefully. “It was terrifying, yes, but I’m trying to focus on the fact that I’m okay now. And that Dean was there.”

Steph raised an eyebrow. “Dean, huh? You’ve been mentioning him a lot lately.”

Bella leaned forward, a wicked grin spreading across her face. “Oh, is that what this is about? You’re swooning over your hot bodyguard?”

“Bella,” you groaned, rubbing your temples. “That’s not what I meant, and you know it.”

“Uh-huh,” she teased, but the playful tone softened as she added, “Seriously, though, it’s okay to feel shaken up. You don’t have to be the President right now. You can just be you. And we’re here for that.”

The sincerity in her voice made your chest tighten, and you felt a surge of gratitude for these two women who knew you better than almost anyone. For all their teasing and antics, they had an uncanny ability to make you feel grounded when everything else seemed to be spiraling out of control.

Steph handed you a steaming mug of tea, her expression gentler than usual. “Drink this. And then we’re going to binge-watch something ridiculous until you forget all about yesterday.”

You took the mug with a small smile, letting their warmth and care wrap around you like a shield.

As you settled back into the plush armchair, sipping the warm tea that Steph had handed you, the stress of the morning slowly began to melt away. The soothing scent of chamomile and honey helped ease the tightness in your chest, but the constant undercurrent of unease from the near-assassination attempt still lingered, just below the surface. You hadn’t realized how much you missed the presence of your friends—the comfort they brought was like an anchor in the storm of responsibilities and expectations that weighed on you every day.

As you glanced around the room, Bella was already making herself comfortable on the edge of your bed, her legs stretched out as she scrolled through her phone. Steph, meanwhile, was rummaging through the contents of her suitcase, looking particularly determined as she dug around in the neatly packed clothes.

“Where’s my damn nail kit?” Bella muttered under her breath, sounding mildly annoyed.

You couldn’t help but chuckle. Bella was always the one with the meticulous packing. Her suitcase was an organized chaos of products and clothes, but nothing ever seemed to be in the right place when she needed it.

“Why the hell would you put it in my bag?” Steph shot back, not looking up from her task. “I told you to pack your own damn stuff.”

“Oh, please,” Bella retorted, lifting an eyebrow. “I’m not the one who accidentally packed your pajamas in my bag last time.”

Steph let out an exasperated sigh, but she didn’t answer right away. Instead, she continued to search through Bella’s bag, grumbling to herself. You could tell this was a typical exchange for the two of them—bantering back and forth in a way that felt both natural and comforting, like the kind of bickering siblings might engage in.

“I’m pretty sure it’s not in there,” Steph finally said, giving up her search for a moment. “You probably packed it in your other bag.”

“You’re impossible,” Bella replied, crossing her arms in frustration. “But, fine, let’s see.” She leaned over, giving a dramatic sigh. “Why did I even bring you on this trip?”

“Because you love me,” Steph said smugly, her hands now diving into the depths of her other bag.

“Yeah, yeah, whatever,” Bella muttered, her focus now back on her phone as she scrolled through a feed of photos. “But seriously, where did you put it?”

“Got it!” Steph called out triumphantly, pulling a small, glittery pouch from the bottom of her suitcase and waving it in the air like a prize.

Bella’s face lit up as she clapped her hands together. “I knew it. Thank you!”

“Don’t mention it,” Steph said flatly, but the corners of her mouth twitched upward in a small, knowing smile.

“You’re still a pain in my ass,” Bella teased, rolling her eyes as she reached for the nail kit.

Steph responded with a mock grimace. “I’m sure you love it.”

“You’re damn right I do,” Bella shot back with a wink. She turned her attention to you, her eyes glinting with excitement. “Okay, reader, you’ve been through hell today. It’s time for some pampering.”

Before you could even protest, Bella had already pulled out a nail file and was lifting one of your hands, inspecting your nails with a critical eye. “These are a tragedy,” she said dramatically, making you laugh. “We can’t have the President walking around with nails like these. We need to fix that immediately.”

You raised an eyebrow, feigning hesitation. “I don’t know if I’m really in the mood for a full-on nail makeover. I kind of just want to… relax?”

“Exactly,” Bella said, giving your hand a reassuring squeeze. “That’s why we’re doing this. You’ve been running on overdrive since the election. You need a break. So, while I work my magic on these nails,” she said, pulling out a bottle of a glittery polish from her kit, “Steph is going to put on one of our favorite shows, and we’re all going to pretend the world outside doesn’t exist.”

Steph finally settled down next to you on the bed, flicking the TV remote. “You’ll be fine. You can zone out while I put on F.R.I.E.N.D.S. and we have a mini girls’ night.”

You couldn’t help but smile at the sight of your two best friends working together, their playful dynamic soothing you. “You two really do know how to make everything better.”

Bella shot you a grin as she picked out the nail polish color, holding it up for you to see. “It’s what we’re here for, babe.”

As she began painting your nails with surprising precision, you leaned back into the pillows, feeling the tension in your body ease with each gentle stroke. The bright colors Bella chose were a stark contrast to the darker, more somber thoughts that had plagued you earlier that morning.

Steph was already flipping through the episodes of F.R.I.E.N.D.S., humming quietly under her breath as the opening credits played. “This is just what the doctor ordered,” she said happily, glancing over at you. “You’re going to feel so much better by the end of this.”

The familiar theme song filled the room as the opening scene of Monica’s apartment flashed on the screen, and you relaxed further into the bed, feeling safe and comforted by the laughter of your friends, the silly antics of the show, and the soothing, gentle touch of Bella as she worked on your nails.

“So,” Bella asked casually, glancing at you while she carefully worked on your other hand, “how’s everything really going with… him?” She winked, giggling. “Like, I know he’s your dibs, I respect girl code, but men like him are probably why I’m bisexual.”

You blinked in surprise, though the question didn’t come as a total shock. You knew exactly who she was referring to—Dean. Your mind immediately flashed to the way he’d been there for you yesterday, how he’d protected you without a second thought, his presence a steadying force. He was your bodyguard, yes, but the dynamic between you two had shifted in the past few days. You felt a connection, a bond that went beyond duty or professionalism, and it was hard to ignore.

“I’m… not sure,” you admitted, your voice quieter than usual. “It’s complicated.”

Steph raised an eyebrow, glancing up from the show. “Complicated how?”

You thought for a moment, unsure how much you wanted to reveal. After all, things had barely started between you and Dean. Yet there was something undeniably magnetic about him. “He’s… kind of impossible not to notice. And I don’t mean just because he’s hot—though, that definitely doesn’t hurt,” you said with a slight laugh, feeling your cheeks warm. “But it’s more than that. He’s protective, and he’s smart… and he just gets me, you know? It’s like he’s always there when I need him, without hesitation. It’s… kind of overwhelming.”

Bella smiled knowingly, nodding as she worked on perfecting your nails. “I get it. I can see the way you two look at each other. It’s like the rest of the world doesn’t exist when he’s near you.”

Steph chuckled. “You’ve got the hots for him, don’t you?”

You sighed dramatically, but deep down, you knew they were right. “I do,” you admitted, rolling your eyes. “But he’s my bodyguard. It’s complicated.”

Bella finished your nails with a flourish, and she leaned back, admiring her handiwork. “You’re allowed to be complicated,” she said softly, her voice warm. “You don’t have to have everything figured out right now. Just… take it one step at a time. And, in the meantime, let’s watch some episodes of F.R.I.E.N.D.S. and forget about the world for a little while.”

The minutes passed by quickly as the hum of F.R.I.E.N.D.S. continued to fill the room, the soft glow of the television providing a cozy atmosphere as you settled deeper into the plush pillows. Bella had finished your nails with the kind of perfection only she could manage, and you couldn’t help but smile at the cheerful colors now adorning your fingers. They were bright, bold, and utterly distracting—just what you needed to take your mind off everything.

Steph, who had been completely absorbed in the show, suddenly glanced at her watch, then got up with a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Alright, ladies,” she said with a smirk, “time for the next step of the evening’s relaxation plan.”

You raised an eyebrow, intrigued. “What’s next?”

With a dramatic flair, Steph marched over to her suitcase and pulled out a stack of fluffy, soft robes. They were as white as snow and looked incredibly cozy, the kind of fabric that felt like it could wrap you up in a warm hug. “Time to trade those outfits in for something even more comfy,” she said, tossing the robes toward you and Bella. “But first,” she added with a sly grin, “we’ll need to change into these in the bathroom.”

You blinked, unsure of where this was going. “The bathroom?”

“Yep,” she said, already heading toward the door with a mischievous look on her face. “One at a time. You go first.”

Bella laughed and stood up. “Oh, I see what’s going on here,” she said with a wink at you. “Steph’s getting us all into these robes so we can feel like a spa day... and so she can make fun of us when we look ridiculous.”

You sighed, but the offer of comfort and relaxation was too good to resist. Besides, you were in no mood to argue. “Fine, I’ll go,” you muttered, standing up and grabbing the robe from the pile. You could hear Bella snickering as she took her own robe and headed toward the bathroom, clearly enjoying the lightheartedness of the moment.

When you entered the bathroom, you shut the door behind you and slipped the robe over your shoulders. The softness of the fabric immediately made you feel more at ease, and you couldn’t help but smile at the indulgence of it all. For a brief moment, it was like everything else—everything overwhelming and terrifying—was forgotten. You simply allowed yourself to enjoy the comfort of the robe, the soft scent of your body lotion mixing with the fluffy material.

A couple of minutes later, you emerged from the bathroom, still adjusting the robe’s belt around your waist. The others were already sitting on the bed, each of them wearing the same white robe, looking relaxed and... well, a little silly, but in the best way possible.

Steph looked up from her phone, raising an eyebrow. “Okay, not bad. You clean up pretty well, President.”

You rolled your eyes playfully. “Very funny, Steph.”

“Yeah,” Bella chimed in, giving you a teasing smile, “you look like you should be sipping mimosas by the pool somewhere.”

You smirked at her. “I can’t help it if I look good in a robe. Some of us are blessed.”

Steph let out a soft laugh. “Yeah, okay, Miss Universe,” she teased, then immediately grabbed a pint of ice cream from the small cooler beside the bed. “Now that we’re all properly robed, time to enjoy some ice cream. And, of course, time for some serious girl talk.”

You raised an eyebrow. “Girl talk?”

“Oh, you know,” Steph said with a knowing look, taking the first scoop of ice cream. “Like, you and your bodyguard.”

You froze, spoon halfway to your mouth. “What?”

“Don’t pretend like you don’t know what I’m talking about,” Steph added, her voice slightly more serious now, though she couldn’t hide the teasing smile. “I saw the way you were looking at him earlier. I think it’s time we have a veryserious discussion about the attraction that’s clearly there.”

You let out a dramatic groan, sinking back into the pillows with a sigh. “Oh my God, not this again. I’m not trying to hook up with Dean.”

Steph’s eyes sparkled. “You don’t have to hook up with him to admit that he’s got you hot under the collar. You’ve barely had him in your sights for a couple of weeks, but I can already tell. You’re into him.”

You shot her a look. “You guys are impossible.”

Bella laughed, nudging you with her elbow. “I don’t know if she’s that into him yet, but I mean, come on. The guy is seriously attractive. Have you seen him without his shirt?”

You could feel the heat rising in your cheeks. “Can we please not talk about this? Seriously?”

But Bella was relentless. “Oh, I’m sorry, I thought we were adults here,” she teased, scooping up some ice cream. “But fine, if you’re gonna be like that, I’ll drop it... for now. Let’s talk about something more fun.”

You were more than happy to change the subject, even if Bella’s antics were making the entire situation way more awkward. “Fine. What else?”

Bella shrugged, not missing a beat. “Well, you know what? I met this guy the other day. You’d like him, actually. His name’s Benny. He’s a... well, he’s a lot of things, but most importantly, he’s got this aura of danger about him. You know the type, right?”

You blinked, surprised by the shift in conversation. “Benny?”

“Yes,” she replied, her voice lowering slightly as she grinned. “And he’s so hot. I mean, he’s... rugged. Like, maybe a little rough around the edges. He’s got this bad-boy energy, but it’s not obnoxious. It’s... mysterious, you know?”

You could tell by the sparkle in her eye that she was more than a little taken with him. And, judging by the way she was describing him, it seemed like she was intrigued by the idea of the “dangerous type.” You leaned forward slightly, glancing at her curiously. “So, what’s the deal with him? What’s his story?”

Bella didn’t seem at all phased by the sudden interest. “Oh, he’s got history. Some shady business, for sure. But he’s... not exactly the kind of guy who would ever mess with you, if you catch my drift. He’s just got this... commanding presence. Like, I can’t help but feel like he’s the kind of guy who would step in and take care of things if they got out of hand.”

Steph raised an eyebrow, clearly entertained by Bella’s sudden enthusiasm. “Sounds like your type.”

Bella rolled her eyes. “Shut up, Steph. You’re just jealous because I met him first.”

Steph laughed. “I wouldn’t say jealous. But, damn, it sounds like Benny’s got a few layers to him. So, what’s his deal?”

“His deal is that he’s complicated,” Bella said, taking another scoop of ice cream. “But it’s a good kind of complicated. I think he likes me, but it’s hard to tell. He’s not exactly the type to express his feelings with words. More like actions, if you get what I mean.”

You could see where this was going. “Sounds like trouble.”

“Oh, it is,” Bella agreed without missing a beat. “But, hey, I like trouble. Keeps things interesting.”

Steph shook her head, her amusement clear. “Girl, you’re too much. But I get it. Benny sounds like someone who can handle his own, which is exactly what you want. That’s your jam.”

You sat back, still processing the conversation. It seemed like everyone around you had their own form of chaos and attraction in their lives—whether it was the obvious pull between you and Dean, or Bella’s own flirtations with a mysterious guy named Benny. Maybe you were just getting older, but you couldn’t help but feel a little overwhelmed by it all.

But, as the ice cream melted and the show continued on in the background, you allowed yourself a moment of peace. After everything that had happened, the threats, the danger, and the intensity of your life as President, this—this moment of laughter, of comfort, of friendship—was exactly what you needed.

“Alright,” Steph said, breaking the silence. “Enough about us and our interesting love lives. Let’s focus on you, Madam President. You’re due for a serious pampering session. After all, it’s not every day you almost get assassinated.”

The knock on the door was soft, yet distinct, interrupting the moment of calm you had found with Bella and Steph. You sat up from the pillows, glancing over your shoulder at the door, feeling the peaceful moment shift slightly. Bella, who had been intently watching the television, seemed to notice it too, her eyes narrowing with a grin.

“Who’s at the door?” she asked, her voice full of curiosity, as if she already knew the answer.

“I’ll check,” you said, standing up from the bed and wrapping the robe more securely around yourself. It was a loose, white fluffy robe you had put on after your mini pampering session, still feeling its soft comfort as you crossed the room to the door. Your bare feet made no sound on the soft carpet as you walked over.

You opened the door, not expecting much, but what you saw was enough to stop you for a moment.

Dean stood in front of you, leaning against the doorframe, looking… well, as always, impossibly attractive. His broad shoulders were outlined in a black shirt, which clung to his muscles in all the right ways. His stance was casual, but the way his gaze flickered over your body made your breath catch in your throat.

“Uh…” He looked at you, his expression changing from neutral to one of awkwardness, like he wasn’t quite sure how to react. His eyes slowly moved down to take in the sight of you standing there in nothing but your robe, the fluffy material clinging to your frame just enough to remind him of how intimate the situation felt.

You could feel the heat rush to your cheeks, though you tried to mask it with a casual smile. "Hey, Dean," you greeted, hoping you didn’t sound too flustered. “What’s up?”

Dean shifted on his feet slightly, like he was trying to decide whether or not to step inside or stay outside, the tension palpable between you. "Just checking in," he said, his voice low, almost awkward, as if unsure if he was intruding on something. He looked you over again, his eyes lingering for just a bit longer than usual. "Are you… are you okay?"

You couldn’t help but notice the way his gaze seemed to rove over you, the intensity of it making your heart race. You raised an eyebrow, hoping to keep the situation light. "Yeah, I’m fine," you reassured him, stepping back to let him in, though you couldn’t deny the way your body was reacting to the proximity. “I’m just relaxing a little, taking a break.”

Dean nodded, but he didn’t move any closer. Instead, he stood there, a little stiff, clearly torn between doing his job and maybe wanting to stay a little longer, just to talk or check in. His eyes flickered down to the floor for a second before snapping back up to meet yours. "Good. Just wanted to make sure," he mumbled, clearly not comfortable with the situation, but still trying to be considerate.

Behind you, Bella and Steph were watching the interaction with all the intensity of spectators watching a spicy scene in a movie, their eyes flicking between you and Dean like they were waiting for something to happen. Bella was the first to break the silence, her voice laced with a playful teasing.

“So… looks like someone’s got a visitor,” she said, her tone full of amusement.

You turned your head, realizing what she was hinting at. “Can you not?” you muttered under your breath, a bit embarrassed.

But Bella was relentless. “Oh, don’t act like you’re not enjoying it,” she teased further, her eyes shifting between the two of you. “It’s obvious you two have chemistry.”

You could feel your pulse quicken, the sudden realization that Dean was still standing in your doorway, watching everything unfold. You cleared your throat and quickly turned to Dean, smiling awkwardly. “I… I’m sorry about this,” you said, hoping to change the subject before things got even more uncomfortable. “You know how they are.”

Dean’s lips quirked into a tiny smile, though it didn’t reach his eyes. “No problem,” he said, his tone still a little strained. But you couldn’t help but notice how his eyes lingered on you, how they flickered over your bare arms, the way your robe was falling just slightly off one shoulder.

“Right.” You nodded, shifting on your feet, unsure of what to do with this sudden surge of tension in the room. It was like everything had shifted, and neither of you quite knew how to handle it.

Bella leaned back against the bed, looking far too entertained. “Yeah, sure. No big deal,” she said, clearly enjoying watching the two of you dance around each other. “Nothing to see here, just two people who obviously want to kiss each other already.”

“Bella!” you hissed, your face burning with embarrassment.

Steph, who had been watching silently, suddenly perked up with a mischievous glint in her eyes. “Oh, this is getting good. You guys are so obvious.” She leaned forward, clearly enjoying every moment of the interaction. “Come on, what’s the harm in admitting it? We all see it. You two are practically giving off sparks.”

You groaned, turning to Dean for support, but the way he was standing—awkwardly stiff, his gaze not quite meeting yours—told you that he was just as flustered as you were. It was then that you realized you had both been giving off a lot more energy than either of you intended. The sexual tension between you had been growing since he started working for you, but now it felt almost unbearable.

Dean scratched the back of his neck, trying to ease the tension with a laugh that didn’t quite reach his eyes. “Yeah, well…” He looked at the floor for a second, then back at you. “I should probably… get going.”

You couldn’t help but feel a slight pang of disappointment at his words, though you quickly masked it. “Of course,” you said, your voice light but your heart thumping in your chest. “Thanks for checking in, Dean.”

He nodded, still standing in the doorway, looking like he wasn’t sure how to leave. The silence stretched between you, and for a moment, you both just stood there, the distance between you feeling far more significant than it should have.

Before he could leave, however, Bella’s voice broke the moment. “Oh, come on, don’t leave so soon,” she called out to him with a teasing grin. “Stick around. You’re welcome to join us, right?”

Dean looked at her, his expression momentarily lost for words, and then he glanced back at you, his eyes softening slightly. You caught that look—a look that, if you were being honest with yourself, made your heart flutter just a bit.

“You know,” he began slowly, his voice quieter than before, “I probably should get going. But maybe… I’ll stop by later?”

You smiled, trying to keep the situation light. “Yeah, I’d like that,” you replied, your voice betraying a little more warmth than you intended.

He nodded, his eyes lingering on you for a beat longer than necessary before he finally turned and left, closing the door behind him with a soft click.

Bella let out a dramatic sigh, making a show of fanning herself. “Okay, that was definitely hot,” she said, leaning back into the pillows with a grin that practically screamed satisfaction.

You dropped your head into your hands. “I’m going to die of embarrassment.”

Steph just grinned, clearly not feeling any sympathy for your plight. “Oh, come on. You two are like the most obvious couple I’ve ever seen.”

“Not a couple,” you muttered, still trying to recover from the awkwardness. “Just… two people who have a lot of unresolved tension.”

“Well, that’s basically the same thing,” Bella said, tossing a pillow at you. “And trust me, honey, it’s not just you two noticing it. Everyone can see it.”

You groaned and buried your face in the pillow, wishing for a moment of peace. “I don’t know what to do about it. He’s my bodyguard… and he’s, like, way out of my league.”

Steph raised an eyebrow, her tone full of sarcasm. “Out of your league? Please. That man is practically begging for you to make the first move. You think he doesn’t notice how you look at him?”

“I’m not the one checking him out,” you protested weakly.

“Girl, you are so checking him out,” Bella teased, as she reached over and grabbed a fresh pint of ice cream. “But no worries, we’ve got your back. We’ll get you two together. Just wait.”

You sighed deeply, wishing for a distraction. “You guys are impossible.”

“Well, what’s the harm in admitting it?” Bella said with a wicked grin. “You’re both hot as hell, and you’re practically walking around with ‘we want each other’ written all over your faces.”

Steph snorted. “It’s too cute. You guys are so obvious.”

The morning sunlight filtered through the tall windows of the presidential residence, casting golden streaks across the hardwood floor of your office. You sat behind your desk, your trusty planner open in front of you as Becky stood to the side, rattling off the day’s itinerary. Her pen tapped against her clipboard, her sharp, efficient tone filling the room.

“All right,” Becky began, flipping a page with practiced ease. “You’ve got a meeting with the Secretary of Energy at nine, then a quick photo op with the ambassador from Sweden at eleven. Lunch is at noon, though I assume you’ll skip eating again.” She gave you a pointed look.

You smirked faintly but didn’t respond.

“After that,” she continued, tapping her pen against the clipboard, “there’s a meeting with the education reform committee, and then—oh, the gardener called in sick. Something about a sprained wrist.”

You paused mid-note, looking up. “The gardener’s off today?”

Becky nodded, her brows knitting together slightly. “Yeah, which means the lawn won’t get mowed, the flowerbeds won’t get watered, and the press will probably have something to say about how the grounds are being ‘neglected.’” Her tone was sarcastic, but her words were pointed. You could already imagine the headlines.

You sighed, leaning back in your chair and running a hand through your hair. The lawn might not have been at the top of your priority list, but it mattered enough to make you want to do something about it. The pristine appearance of the grounds was one of those unspoken expectations that came with your role. “We’ll figure something out,” you murmured, mostly to yourself.

Becky raised an eyebrow. “Sure. Just add ‘landscaping duties’ to your already-packed schedule, why don’t you?” She flipped another page, moving on. “Anyway, after the education meeting—”

The sound of a light knock interrupted her, and you glanced up to see Dean stepping into the room. He moved with that effortless confidence you’d come to associate with him, though there was always an undercurrent of alertness in his stride. His sharp eyes scanned the room briefly before settling on you.

“Sorry to interrupt,” he said, his voice deep and steady, “but I wanted to check in before the meeting with Energy.”

You smiled faintly, gesturing for him to come in. “You’re not interrupting. Becky was just going over today’s schedule.”

Dean nodded, leaning casually against the doorframe. His presence was as steadying as always, though there was something about the way he watched you—like he was always two steps ahead, ready to act at a moment’s notice. It was reassuring, in a way.

You closed your planner with a soft thud and looked up at him. “Actually, there’s something you might be able to help with.”

He tilted his head slightly, intrigued. “What’s that?”

“The gardener’s off sick,” you explained, leaning forward with your elbows on the desk. “Which means the lawn won’t get mowed, and the flowerbeds won’t get watered.”

Dean raised an eyebrow, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. “You’re worried about the lawn?”

You shrugged, a small laugh escaping you. “Not worried, exactly, but I’d rather avoid giving the press another reason to complain.”

He considered this for a moment, then straightened up. “I can handle it.”

You blinked, taken aback. “You?”

“Yeah.” He shrugged, his casual tone making it sound like no big deal. “I’ve mowed a lawn before, you know. Not exactly rocket science.”

Becky let out a disbelieving laugh. “You’re telling me Dean Winchester, ex-hitman turned presidential bodyguard, is going to play gardener?”

Dean shot her a dry look. “I’ve done worse jobs.” Then he turned back to you, his expression softening slightly. “Seriously, I don’t mind. It’s not like I’ve got much else to do when you’re in meetings all day.”

You hesitated, torn between practicality and the sheer absurdity of the image that had just popped into your head—Dean, mowing the presidential lawn in his usual no-nonsense way. It was almost too surreal to imagine.

“I don’t know,” you said slowly, though a small smile was starting to tug at your lips. “It feels a little... beneath your pay grade.”

Dean smirked. “What, you think I’m too good for yard work?”

“Well, yeah,” you said, laughing lightly. “You’re kind of overqualified.”

He leaned against the desk slightly, his grin widening. “Let me guess—you don’t think I can handle it.”

You rolled your eyes. “I didn’t say that.”

“Good,” he said, straightening up again. “Because I’ll have it done before your lunch meeting. You won’t even notice.”

Becky shook her head, clearly baffled but amused. “This is officially the weirdest thing I’ve seen since I started working here.”

Dean ignored her, his attention still focused on you. “Consider it handled,” he said, his tone leaving no room for argument. Then he turned and left, leaving you sitting there with a mix of amusement and curiosity swirling in your chest.

The hum of the lawnmower floated through the open windows of your office as you glanced up from your desk. Dean had offered to take care of the lawn when you mentioned the gardener was off sick. It was a kind gesture, and you’d laughed softly at the mental image of your ruggedly handsome bodyguard mowing the pristine presidential lawn.

Now, though, curiosity got the better of you. With a quiet sigh, you set your pen down and stepped toward the window. The curtains fluttered in the breeze, and as you pulled them back, your breath caught.

There he was, Dean Winchester, pushing the lawnmower with ease, his strong arms flexing with each step. His dark t-shirt clung to his shoulders and back, soaked with a light sheen of sweat from the sun beating down on him. The way he moved was hypnotic, the grace of his steps belying the fact that he was wielding a piece of heavy machinery.

You told yourself it was simple admiration for his work ethic. That you were just impressed by how effortlessly he took on any task. But when he stopped the mower, pulled the hem of his shirt over his head, and tossed it onto a nearby chair before grabbing the garden hose, your thoughts betrayed you.

Dean stood there in the sunlight, shirtless, droplets of sweat glistening on his chest and abs as he twisted the nozzle of the hose. You couldn’t stop staring. His muscles rippled as he adjusted the water pressure, the casual, unselfconscious way he moved making it impossible to look away. His jeans hung low on his hips, a dusting of grass clippings clinging to his legs, and you swore you could hear your heartbeat in your ears.

“Enjoying the show?”

You nearly jumped out of your skin at Bella’s voice. Turning quickly, you saw her and Steph standing in the doorway, matching mischievous grins on their faces. Bella held up a pair of binoculars and wiggled them teasingly.

“Oh my God,” you groaned, pressing a hand to your forehead. “You two are ridiculous.”

“Ridiculous?” Steph asked, crossing her arms as she sidled up to the window. “Ridiculously right, you mean. That man is straight out of a Wattpad story, and you know it.”

You tried to play it cool, stepping back from the window and giving them both a pointed look. “He’s just mowing the lawn.”

Bella snorted. “And I suppose he’s shirtless for practical reasons?”

“He’s watering the garden now,” Steph added, peeking through the binoculars. “And damn, is it getting steamy out there.”

You tried to hold your ground, but their playful commentary was impossible to ignore. Bella nudged your shoulder with the binoculars. “Come on, admit it. You were checking him out.”

“I was not,” you lied, crossing your arms defensively.

Steph gave you a look. “Uh-huh. Sure. Look, we get it. He’s a literal walking thirst trap. If I had a bodyguard like that, I’d be weak in the knees every time he said ‘good morning.’”

“I don’t—” You started, but Bella cut you off with a knowing smirk.

“Relax,” she said, handing you the binoculars. “We’re just saying what you’re too proud to admit. Now, go on, have a look. We won’t judge.”

Against your better judgment, you took the binoculars. Just for a second, you told yourself. Just long enough to prove them wrong.

When you raised them to your eyes, the detail was… unfair. Dean had switched to watering the flowerbeds, standing with one hand on his hip as the other directed the stream of water over the delicate blooms. His expression was relaxed, almost thoughtful, as if he were contemplating something far deeper than the task at hand. The sunlight caught the droplets of water spraying into the air, and for a brief moment, it looked like he was standing in a golden mist.

“Wow,” Steph murmured from beside you. “Even through binoculars, that man is fine.”

Bella leaned in, her grin widening. “See? Wattpad story.”

You couldn’t help the small laugh that escaped you, lowering the binoculars and shaking your head. “You two are impossible.”

“Oh, we’re impossible?” Bella teased. “You’re the one ogling your bodyguard like it’s a scene from Magic Mike: Presidential Edition.”

Steph clapped her hands together. “Oh, that’s good. I’d buy tickets to that movie.”

You groaned again, but this time it was more amused than exasperated. Bella and Steph had a way of making even the most mortifying situations feel lighthearted, and despite their relentless teasing, you couldn’t deny that they had a point. Dean was… distracting, to say the least.

“Okay, fine,” you admitted, setting the binoculars on your desk. “Maybe I looked. A little.”

Bella and Steph exchanged triumphant high-fives.

“But that doesn’t mean anything,” you added quickly. “He’s my bodyguard, not—”

“Not your soulmate? Your future husband? The leading man in your personal rom-com?” Steph finished for you, raising an eyebrow.

Bella laughed. “You’re just in denial. It’s fine, we’ll be here when you’re ready to admit it.”

Before you could respond, a knock at the door drew your attention. All three of you froze, and for a second, you feared that somehow, impossibly, Dean had heard everything.

“Come in,” you called, trying to sound casual.

The door opened, and there he was, standing in the doorway, still shirtless and holding the coiled garden hose in one hand. His eyes scanned the room, landing on you for a moment before flicking to Bella and Steph.

“Just checking in,” he said, his voice low and slightly rough. “Everything okay?”

You nodded, your throat suddenly dry. “Yeah. All good.”

His gaze lingered on you for a beat longer, and you swore his eyes dipped briefly to the curve of your collarbone, exposed by the loose neckline of your blouse. Your skin felt warm under his scrutiny, and you fought the urge to fidget.

“Cool,” he said after a moment, his lips twitching in a faint smirk. “Let me know if you need anything.”

As he turned to leave, Bella and Steph watched him go with unabashed interest. When the door clicked shut behind him, Bella let out a low whistle.

“That man,” she said, “is going to be the death of you.”

You sighed, leaning back in your chair. “Tell me about it.”

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©️ 𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐲𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐤 / 𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐲’𝐬 𝐬𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐢𝐨

𝐈 𝐝𝐨 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐦𝐲 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐛𝐞𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐢𝐞𝐝/𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐨𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐝

[literary-illuminati]

2024 Book Review #24 – When the Angels Left the Old Country by Sacha Lamb

I tossed this on my TBR entirely sight-unseen at the start of the year, entirely on the basis that I was trying to expand my horizons a bit and it showed up on my public library’s ‘staff recs’ page with zero context whatsoever (also just an absolutely lovely title). This was, as it transpires, not a particularly good way to choose a book I’ll particularly enjoy – which is entirely on me, to be clear. It’s a well-executed and often charming story, and if it was a novella I would probably thoroughly enjoyed it. At 400 pages though, I’m just so incredibly and entirely not the target audience.

The story is a historical fantasy set during the tail end of the 19th century, principally about the angel and demon who call a minuscule shtetl in the Pale of Settlement (so small it doesn’t even have a name) home. Neither is a particularly impressive example of the type, and they have largely spent the previous centuries arguing over scripture with each other. After hearing that one of the girls of the schetl who had left for America might be in danger, they take it upon themselves to travel first to Hamburg and then to New York to rescue her. Along the way they make a friend, discover who they really are, and become trade union activists.

So this is shelved by both my library and Goodreads as YA, but it’s feels very much written for the young side of young adult – just generally very much read like a children’s story. A good one! But still – the narrative voice and the portrayal of the world felt like something more suited to 6th -7th graders than 16-17-year olds, I suppose? Though I might be projecting off my own childhood tastes here. There’s even a ten-page glossary of difficult or unusual vocabulary at the back. So all to say that really getting into a critique here based on my own preferences would just be a waste of time for everyone involved.

That said, this is actually one of the first YA books I’ve read that feels like it meets the whole stereotype of YA being written with Providing Good Representation as a key guiding principle throughout the process. Not in any didactic or lecturing way, but the three main characters are a nonbinary angel with a recurring beat of feeling awkward and uncomfortable whenever its dress/presentation/forged papers cause it to be treated as a man, a demon with obviously inhuman feet that make walking in shoes very painful and are a recurring inconvenience, and a teenage lesbian whose whole arc centres around figuring out why she felt so hurt and betrayed when her childhood BFF fell in love with a guy instead of emigrating to America with her and spending their lives together (also all but like 2 characters of any consequence in the entire book are Jewish, as just follows naturally from the whole premise). It all feels written with an eye towards taking prospective readers by the hand and assuring them that their feelings are normal and not something to agonize over. It’s all well-done and fairly graceful – and, like, such things are a large part of what children’s books are for – but was just amusing to finally see an example of the stereotype.

I actually did quite like the narrative voice and general style, though. It had very sort of storybook or folkloric sensibility to it, seemed exceptionally well written for reading out loud to someone before bed. Which fit very well with the very casual don’t-worry-about-it inclusion of the supernatural and its place in the world.

The book was honestly most interesting to me as a window into this whole rich cultural mythology of Ashkenazi emigrants leaving behind the Pale of Settlement and seeking new lives in New York/the USA. A mythology I am aware of but have only the most surface-level actual familiarity with (to whit ‘There are no cats in America’ and not much else). It’s always, I guess fun?, to read someone referencing and playing around with what are clearly stock characters and tropes but which are entirely new to you. The whole book at least felt very well-researched and absolutely drenched in little touches to ground in the specific place, time, and cultural milieu.

So yeah. Competent, well-executed book I really probably shouldn’t have bothered with.

[ladyvictory22]

Falling into Temptation: IV: Discovery

"In the garden of Eden, where butterflies danced in the springtime of our souls, secrets become thorns, and sin, like an adulterer whispered in the confessional, now faces the inevitable revelation of hidden shadows."

Escaping now was something common in his days, leaving a little earlier, taking a late lunch at work. Christian could say that he spends a lot of time at Toto's apartment and although he would like to spend the nights there, they know that it is something they can't... not yet.

But there was something Christian could do when he couldn't stay, it was take Toto's shirts, he delicately chose the most common ones, Toto has always been bluish tones, so those are the ones that Christian chooses the most.

Toto rarely wears a dark tone, but when he wears them he looks beautiful, he looks like a beautiful sculpted prince and so unattainable, in fact, at this moment he looked like this, Christian looked at him spellbound, blue sneakers the same tone as the shirt, a white pants and a dark blue shirt that made his skin stand out and fit so well. Toto was standing reviewing some reports before giving the go-ahead to his work team, then they would go out, sometimes they liked to take walks in the park that was near Toto's apartment.

He doesn't know if he was looking at him too much, but Toto felt his gaze.

"What's going on?" He said still looking at the documents.

"Nothing, I'm just looking at you" he responded with his chin resting on his hand. "You look so good like this"

Toto made a half smile and looked up, Christian was on the couch with his usual pose of one leg resting on the other, they both smiled at each other, it felt domestic.

"Oh yeah?" Toto said, moving his attention away from the documents and approaching

"Yes, blue looks good on you... I like it" answered the youngest.

"I know, maybe because some of my shirts suddenly disappear" he said while facing the other.

Christian gave a small giggle and Toto smiled.

"I like it a lot," Christian whispered, knowing that he had a slight blush on his cheeks but he didn't care.

Then Toto put a knee next to the other's leg, almost making the gesture of sitting on him, placed a hand on his neck and placed his lips against Christian's.

Now it was so common for them to flirt with so few things, they loved to express their admiration for each other more in minimal things, in compliments.

When they separated they both smiled

"Brown" said Toto.

"what?" Christian asked.

"Brown is your color," continued Toto, "when you usually go riding andin the usa those tones in your clothes usually highlight your skin and your eyes, even when you go to the paddock and wear a brown jacket, due to its tone it can be combined with different palettes..." he left a small kiss again and then added " Although considering how you look with your Red Bull suit, blue and black also suit you well."

Christian felt himself blush and Toto laughed softly and left him another kiss, walking away from him and returning to the documents.

And Toto is like that, he pays attention to every detail, and is always in charge of praising every quality, aspect or whatever, ever since Christian shared stories about him, about his selfesteem, he seems to protect him.

~~~~

There are times when certain decisions that you don't want to make or are afraid to make are often ignored until there is nothing left to do.

It seems that both Christian and Toto were in that line, they knew that there was a decision to make but they ignored it, they focused on each other.

Although sometimes the conversation would arise, suddenly one of the two was impatient for a decision and then the other didn't know what to do. Sometimes Christian, sometimes Toto.

After a moment in silence, they both reconciled with a sweet hug, one of protection, sometimes they felt like the storm was coming at any moment.

~~~~

In fact the storm was only brewing as a natural disaster, like a tropical storm or hurricane. They hadn't noticed anything because the shadows hadn't come to life, they were just in the dark.

Geri remembers the first time she found a shirt that wasn't her husband's size in his closet. Of course it seemed strange to her, but the shirt was delicately kept at the back of everything, almost hidden.

She felt a strange current run through her body, but she shrugged it off, in the end she gave herself an excuse before asking her husband something.

The funny thing is, even on Grand Prix weekends, Christian had one of those shirts there. It seemed to be….usual.

~~~~

He generally wore those shirts to sleep, when his wife was not around or he simply wore them to work and put on a sweater over them.

He used to give Toto his shirts back when they spent the night, sometimes he chose to wear another shirt, sometimes he didn't.

~~~~

She didn't touch the shirts...not at first, she just knew she'd find a different one in the closet. As she well knows, fear screams and intuition whispers, she does not know in what tone her thought was speaking, she only knows that it was saying something, something that she was trying to ignore.

Sometimes the mind can be your biggest enemy and you have to fight with the thoughts it gives you because they are wrong, it's just fear speaking.

However, the setting and the actions staged, he was beginning to feel someone's shadow like the presence of a person and he did not like that.

~~~~

Not that it was common for Toto was in Brackley, because he alternated his days with Monaco. However, they both knew each other's free time.

As always, the meetings were similar to those in the paddock, meeting, talking, sleeping or simply suddenly there was a call with too much heat between them that made them want to eat each other fiercely.

On other occasions, that fire could appear in the middle of an outing.

They felt like teenagers, but it was so hot that they liked to do it from time to time and that was something they didn't expect.

When Christian first got into a Mercedes, a Mercedes driven by Toto Wolff.

And there Christian understood why that man was the personification of the brand whose Formula 1 team he owned, he saw him drive, with such class, elegance, he confirmed something that in a way he already knew, Toto is as Mercedes as Mercedes is Toto. ...and sometimes the gestures spoke so much for him, in the middle of the road a very territorial hand would rest on Christian's leg and look for his hand only to leave a small caress and then return to the helm.

Just that gesture, feeling the hand go down his leg, made Christian bite his lower lip subtly with a half smile... because Toto can sometimes be territorial and he likes it.

Then on one of those occasions, while they were on the road, Christian took Toto's hand and slowly held it on his leg, reaching further.

Toto smiled and kept his hand there willingly only moving it away when necessary, then the hand would return and sometimes go deeper. Christian closed his eyes and took a deep breath.

The caresses became more insistent on the youngest's thighs, touching points that Toto already knew quite well... that he generally liked to bite and leave his mark there.

"Should I stop or do you want to get somewhere more private?" He said and his tone of voice sounded deeper.

Christian smiled, he already knew, Toto was impatient now.

"What does Mr. Mercedes decide?" He said looking at him hungrily.

He doesn't even know where they stopped the car, but they did. Toto turned off the road onto a path that led to some pretty earthly views.

That's the little he remembers, since from one moment to the next he was on Toto, with a hungry kiss, a war of tongues and a bite.

Soon after, Christian was rising and falling, moaning softly, while Toto's hands remained on his hips, squeezing hard.

If you had been told years ago that you would be in this situation, having sex in a Mercedes and even more so with whom, you would have laughed thinking that it was a silly and absurd idea.

But here he is, melting in Toto Wolff's arms, moaning his name on her trembling legs and wishing it would never end.

Arrive a point at which, Christian bit Toto's shoulder so hard that he left one of his marks.

After that first time, they did it a few more times, even on Grand Prix weekends... lending a car just for that.

~~~~~

She hadn't realized that her husband's shirts were disappearing until he sometimes looked for a specific shirt but didn't get upset if he couldn't find it.

Susie wasn't a controlling woman, it's not like she doesn't care what Toto does, it's more the trust placed in him.

However, in all the years dedicated to Formula One, at least once a piece of clothing could be forgotten, a sweater, a towel... but how often? That was... something peculiar.

At first she put it down to the mere stress of the season, the need to do his job well had prompted her husband to be more dedicated to the team, more so if that meant spending more time in Brackley.

The first few times she didn't feel anything, she is a woman who uses reasoning and logic to find an explanation for things easily.

Although I probably wouldn't find any explanation over time.

~~~~~

Christian liked that Toto marked him even if it was controlling his strength.

He did it, yes, he had the self-control not to bite and leave marks all over Christian's body because he knew it couldn't be done. However, there was one place where he couldn't help himself.

Toto loved to bite on his thighs, a path of kisses, hickeys and then bites that burn more when he is eating Christian and he simply wraps his legs around Toto's head.

Christian's way of marking used to be different, when Toto was already on him, everything was based on the scratches on the other's back and his usual bite on the shoulder.

~~~~

She noticed something unusual when she realized that the shirtsthey disappeared maybe on specific days... and also in specific colors.

Although there was one more curiosity, as well as the shirtsthey disappeared  appeared again and at least that gave Susie a rational explanation for Toto not looking for her clothes properly, although at the same time a strange explanation considering that her husband is quite tidy with his clothes.

Even when he is in Brackley she knows that all his clothes are meticulously chosen and organized, although sometimes it seems that he takes extra clothes on his trips.

Then perhaps in the distance of his thoughts the shadow of a person was forming in his mind, a thought that in any case becomes inevitable when strange actions begin to appear.

~~~~

The first time Toto saw Christian wearing one of his shirts was when he was entering the paddock, it was very early the fans weren't arriving yet so they could still move freely until there was an avalanche of people.

Toto, with his usual sunglasses, looked at him in the distance, lowered his glasses a little to check the color of the shirt, he had noticed that it was a little too big for him.

He felt satisfied, it was like a way of knowing that Christian is his, that he belongs to him and he liked the thought.

He approached, Christian was talking with other colleagues, they greeted each other normally, they knew how to act in those situations, but hints of flirtation always appeared.

"Blue looks good on you" Toto said smiling.

"Obviously, you know Red Bull has blue... but it is generally a neutral color and in different shades" mentioned the other

"You like using those shades, don't you?" Djjo

"Of course every time I have the opportunity I will do it, in fact I think I will buy another shirt soon" he said with a wink.

They both smiled, sometimes it was fun to know that they were playing on a fine line, because only they knew what they were talking about, what encrypted messages there were.

~~~~

Geri had not realized that Christian was wearing those shirts until one day she saw the closet again; she had already developed a paranoid habit of searching the closet.

Until one day he couldn't find the shirt or shirts, because suddenly they had started to vary between one or two.

And it was a different occasion, there was no sign of a shirt around and for a moment he felt relief.

She showed her mind that creating ideas or assumptions from something seen was not okay, even more so if she has never asked her husband anything.

But the strange chill would return to her when Christian returned from a grand prix, the shirt he was wearing was... one of those shirts.

She stood still with her arms crossed, watching as her husband greeted their children and pets, he approached her and left a kiss on her cheek, when Geri sought a kiss on her lips.

She felt him avoid her and the cherry on this dessert culminated, when she felt a different aroma on her husband, it was like the mixture of two perfumes, hers and someone else's.

She felt his hands cold and a tightness in her chest, she was breathing hard, because her mind was being invaded with assumptions that were probably taking the form of a person.

That's when she decided that she would touch one of those shirts sometime, that she would smell the aroma, although she didn't know exactly what use it would do other than just hurt her.

~~~~

Susie fueled her doubts when there was a blood stain on one of her husband's shirts, it was faint, it was on the shoulder of the shirt. It was strange because it's not like Toto would have had an accident... which she would know.

The thing is... those stains appeared on different shirts and they were always sometimes on the collar sometimes on the shoulder.

And there could be a million reasons why there's a stain there, but connecting Toto's unusual actions, it's inevitable to think about the presence of a third wheel in this situation.

~~~~

When thoughts take over you considerably, you begin to review the past, the present and the future...the how?, when?, and above all, something that Geri wondered was why?

She remembers seeing Christian quite stressed, there were nights when she heard him crying in the bathroom and she just didn't understand why.

Your husband was at a successful stage in his career so why this stress? Why that feeling that he was dying for something? In the present I already understood why, longing for someone you couldn't be with could be torture. But nowadays Geri could tell that Christian no longer longed for that person, rather he already had her.

She didn't want to face it yet, because they were just vague thoughts, crazy ideas that came to her mind in trying to explain her husband's behavior.

~~~~~

Susie could say what, when your perspective changes that's when normal days become cloudy, rainy.

When doubt is planted, it is very difficult to root it out. What is even worse is when you cannot tell anyone about it, it is like a poison that begins to spread throughout your head.

Maybe Toto's behavior had changed a while ago and she hadn't realized it.

Like when she saw him drinking too much, he seemed lost in his mind. She remembers asking him what was happening, if perhaps it was because of some stress issue with Mercedes, although they were getting better every day, he had just looked up and those penetrating eyes seemed annoyed at having been interrupted.

However, he gently told her that nothing was wrong, taking another sip of his drink and returning his gaze to his computer.

She felt chills, Toto rarely had those kinds of looks.

At that time she took it as something due to stress, currently she no longer knows whether to take it that way.

~~~~

Christian's hand went up and down on Toto's back, they had reunited after a few days in which they had not been able to see each other, there were obstacles.

Bycoincidences, their wives had been present at the most recent Grands Prix, and for a change they had had a lot of work developing their cars.

it is Needless to say, when they met they couldn't keep their hands off each other, so much time in abstinence had consumed and irritated them.

They needed to see each other, even if it meant taking time for themselves, for their bubble, for their garden.

The garden was still in spring, they felt that they had everything under control, which is why they felt calm.

Christian raised his hand to her shoulder, feeling the mark of his most recent bite.

"Oops, I think I overdid it" he said, tapping lightly.

Toto sighed "You haven't cared about the previous times, my love."

Christian smiled "I hadn't imagined how deep they were."

"It's only been a few times..." Toto mentioned trying to sound like a complaint but he sounded pleased "although I prefer that you do it... because I don't care."would control"

"In what sense?" He said closing his eyes, because Toto began to leave kisses on his neck.

"Because it would mark you completely all over your body," he said, gently biting the minor's ear, making himsighed gently.

"Will you show me where?" askedleaving carried away by the sensation of the other's lips.

Toto positioned himself over him, kissed his lips, his neck, down to his chest then licked and sucked each of his nipples, making them rigid and continued going down slowly listening to how soft he was moaning.taking out the other.

~~~~

Sometimes we can make decisions that can take a very painful toll on us, even more so when you have suspicions about a threat stalking your relationship.

Geri one day decided to test her husband's behavior, she prepared a dinner, she dressed beautifully for him. I was planning a romantic evening.

~~~~~

When Christian arrived he found a very decorated dinner and his wife looked beautiful, in her white outfit with some gold accessories thatthey stood out.

Christian smiled kindly, "what's the reason for this?" He said looking at everything.

"I just wanted to surprise you, I think we need some time for ourselves" she said.

The dinner went well and despite things, Christian always talked about work and other things with Geri.

~~~~

For a moment she thought that everything was fine, the dinner was going normally and Christian seemed like the old Christian to her.

Talking about work, showing their affection for their pilots, they also talked about their children, about upcoming events.

Then just for a moment the doubts dissipated and she attributed all those thoughts to her husband's behavior coming from some stress.

And that those shirts were probably just new sizes that he was wearing, for a moment everything fit, everything had an explanation.

Just for a while.

~~~~~

Unfortunately that tranquility dissipated in the blink of an eye, Geri wanted to end the night in a more romantic way.

Christian no.

When they got to the room she pulled him and kissed him.

Christian took a long time to reciprocate, he froze since he hadn't done this with her in a while.

The last few times were when he was still dealing with his feelings with Toto over the winter break.

Christian kept his eyes open and felt them moisten, he felt his lips tremble as she had her eyes closed and continued the kiss.

~~~~

She felt that everything was fine, when she separated from him, she smiled softly and took his hand to guide him to the bed.

He smiled softly at her, followed her, sat him down on the bed and she climbed onto his lap.

~~~~

Christian didn't really know what he was doing and didn't know how to move, she started kissing his neck, he felt uncomfortable. He sighed more, however, it was not from pleasure, it was from anxiety.

"Geri..." he said softly.

She hummed, holding onto his neck.

"Geri...stop" he said taking his wife's arm.

~~~~

She pulled away and looked at him with confusion and fear deep inside.

"What's going on?" He asked, staying calm.

"I can't..." he said, looking nervous.

"Because?" She said and the thoughts came back...the tranquility of dinner was over.

He swallowed, licked his lips and said "I feel tired."

"But this might relax you..."she prompted and gave him another more eager kiss and tried to start unbuttoning his shirt.

~~~~

Christian began to feel desperate, even more so when he felt his wife's hands, eager to want something more.

"Geri" he said softly taking her hands.

She pushed Christian's hands away, she didn't let him touch her.

"Geri..." I repeat once again

"Geraldine" he said with a stronger tone of voice.

Then he took her by both arms and pulled her away from him.

She looked at him surprised.

"I don't want to" he said looking at her.

~~~~

She could tell that at that moment she saw him as a scared puppy, forced to do something he didn't want to do, then she took a good look at her husband's outfit and realized that he was wearing one of those shirts... and suddenly the fear went back.

He moved away and sat next to her on the bed, they stayed like that for a long time or maybe it was a short time, he doesn't know.

There was only their breathing... then she felt how he placed a hand on her leg and placed a gentle kiss on her cheek.

"I'm sorry," he whispered, his voice shaking, and he moved away from her.

She felt her eyes moisten, and when she closed her eyes, tears were running down her cheeks.

~~~~~

Geri wasn't the only one crying that night, Christian had gone to one of the guest rooms, locking himself in the bathroom andhad cried.

Yes, part of it was because he had rejected his wife and that in a way was a blow to him, because he was hurting her directly and now he really felt like he was doing it.

On the other hand, he felt uncomfortable, uncomfortable with her touching him, because his body was already accustomed to other hands, other lips, another force. His body only wanted Toto now.

~~~~

And if we talk about lack of privacy, Toto was not far behind in that situation. Yes, he looked at Susie with love, with affection.

Even though he knew he was disrespecting her, with what he was doing, with her heart belonging to someone else.

I tried to compensate for all that, spending time with her, talking to her, listening to her about things about work or things about her life.

It was an attempt to reward things they had been missing. He was making a transition from seeing his wife only as a friend, not as something more, something he once desired, loved and cared for.

Now he loves her, but not in the same way and he also takes care of her.

~~~~

Susie had noticed it of course, the lack of intimacy she attributed to stress, because for her everything fit even more with the rhythm that Mercedes was following, they had been poor as a team for a while. But after Lewis' first victory they had started to improve, they were back in the game.

She understood her husband and accompanied him, on the other hand she was also dealing with her job and the new category she managed, so everything was normal.

It was normal until the perspective of her thoughts changed, when she felt the figure of a third person. He began to notice more.

Toto avoided his kisses, and they were limited to his cheek or forehead.

The look of affection was there, but now there was a different atmosphere. And she refused to accept it... she refused to let those thoughts cross.

She always explained things to herself, she always looked in the mirror at home and told herself that it wasn't like that... those thoughts weren't like that.

~~~~

The first rejection he experiencedvividly It was at an event, it was a private family event.

For the ironies of life, it was a wedding. An event that should be about love and affection, happiness, the beginning of a happy story.

For her it had been a moment where somehow her world began to crack. In the romantic atmosphere, the music sounded faint, he had been away for a while, he was talking on the phone, and she looked at him in the background.

He usually didn't answer calls at events like this, unless it was an emergency or an important decision with his team.

But it didn't seem like a call of that kind, not when she saw him smile in a way... that he only did when he was flirting, when it was someone he was interested in, like when he once did it with her.

He shuddered and felt that the romantic atmosphere of a wedding contrasting with his situation made everything more suffocating.

But she had the courage to push her thoughts away, she got up from the table and went to look for him, he had just hung up.

"Hello" he said

"Hello," she said, "you took too long, something happened."

"No, nothing happened," he said softly.

Then she approached with the intention of seeking his lips, but he only limited himself to her cheek, gave her a half hug and told her "let's go back to the party."

She accompanied him but felt the rejection, it hurt her.

~~~~

Christian had left many messages, he hadn't wanted to call so as not to worry Toto, but he still did.

I wanted to see him in the morning, which they generally didn't do, but it seemed such an urgency that they did it.

When they met Toto became more worried, Christian's eyes were a little swollen... he had been crying.

"God... honey, what's wrong?" He said caressing her face.

Christian didn't say anything, he just looked at him, swallowed and just hugged Toto.

The Austrian put his arms around him and asked again "what's wrong? Tell me..."

"Last night... I rejected Geri" he whispered and you could feel the fear

Toto didn't say anything, he just sighed, he continued caressing Christian until he walked away.

"She prepared a dinner, an evening andintentfrom that something would happen later..." he said, looking down "I... I couldn't" he felt the tears coming back again... "it's not right."

"Shhh" Toto silence "will be resolved"

"And when?" He said, holding back tears, "we have postponed that decision for a long time."

"I know," said Toto. "Believe me, I realize the consequences too..."

"So?...what if he suspects or something and I..." he started to say but was interrupted

"It can be normal for couples to not have intimacy one day," Toto said... "although I'm not the best at explaining that."

Christian looked at him surprised.

"I haven't touched my wife in a while," Toto confessed, "I didn't want to say it because I didn't want to make you feel obligated to do the same..."

"I... I haven't touched Geri either, I didn't want to say it either..." Christian also confessed "I love you... my body no longer wants other hands or other lips"

Toto smiled kindly and gave her a soft kiss on the lips "I love you... I want nothing more than you."

After some time to calm down and try to think about how to solve this, they had another talk... affection towards them.

"I... you know I still love him, what happened yesterday reminded me of all the damage I'm doing to him... that if we continue to drag this out... it will end badly" said Christian "I didn't say anything about intimacy because it How do you still look at your wife."

"In the same way that you see yours," Toto replied, "I have affection and gratitude for it, yes, I am also aware of what I am doing... I am also aware of how long we have prolonged the clandestinity in ours."

"What will we do then?" Christian said.

"Wait for the right moment to fix this... and be able to dedicate time just to ourselves" Toto said, placing a kiss on the other's cheek, Christian nodded and just leaned against Toto.

So in theory the decision had been made, it was the two of them, and out of respect for them they had to try to distance themselves and wish them something better than them, two sinners who are deciding to sink into their own vice.

~~~~

The days after that, Geri felt like she had sunk into a very heavy fog. Feeling emotionally distant from Christian was very difficult to process.

Although everything seemed like it wasn't, Christian was far from her, he didn't get to sleep at night, apparently he had silently started using the guest room.

Then the clothes had started to move there, I couldn't see the shirts in the closet anymore, although I knew they were in the guest room. The uncertainty of touching and feeling the aroma was affecting him.

Intuition told him that something wasn't right, fear told him that if they checked it he would feel worse.

Then one day when Christian was away, she walked into the room, opened the closet and found one of the shirts there. Geri remembers staring at the shirt and deciding what to do.

Then he hesitated, took it, felt the fabric, and then felt the aroma, a very strong man's perfume, mixed slightly with Christian's perfume.

She felt a chill, quickly placed the shirt in the same place and ran out of the room, she felt overwhelmed.

His head was trying to process what was happening, thousands of thoughts were bombarding his head...he didn't know what to do.

~~~~~

The way to discover something is different but the pain is the same or worse.

Susie remembers exactly what it was like, she knew that, he had a separate apartment near Brackley, sometimes he stayed there when they argued or he just stayed there because it was closer to the company.

In those days this he stayed in the family home. Once again he was looking for one of his shirts, although he hadn't done that in a while.

Susie then looked over where Toto was, only with his pants on and his torso uncovered. Previously this would have been a beautiful sight for her, seeing her husband like this, but today it wasn't when strange suspicions were swirling around her head.

Then she saw the reason why there were sometimes stains on her husband's shirts, a nice mark was visible on her husband's shoulder and it seemed recent... then a chain of scratches were visible on his back.

He froze there recording the image in his head, his heart beat very hard and he just left in silence.

While the bathroom in her room was still frozen, she looked at herself and could feel that this time the cracks in her world were getting bigger.

And the question was running through his head "why?"

She didn't feel when tears began to fall on her cheeks, she just felt lost in her thoughts. I just felt like everything was ending.

~~~~~

And when everything seems cloudy, a raging storm arrives, sadness turns to resentment, pain turns to anger.

Geri didn't know who he was, he didn't know what he looked like. Or maybe if she had an idea, at least she was bigger than her husband. Even so, I didn't have much information, but I knew it was a man.

She then decided to take her own measures, some part of her told her that she could get her husband back and that she should try until the end.

This person had to be someone from the paddock, someone from her husband's team or from the company.

She decided that her plans were going to change, she was going to dedicate herself to accompanying and supporting her husband more often.

And I wasn't going to ask him.

~~~~~~

Susie on the other hand was in limbo, she didn't know who she was, she didn't have a clue of anything, but that wouldn't stop her from discovering.

Taking advantage of her work range, she decided to accompany her husband on upcoming races and also accompany him when he went to Brackley.

He had to be aware of everything, his agenda, what he does, who he talks to.

And I couldn't involve anyone, because it wasn't going to generate gossip, this was more of a white collar affair.

~~~~

Parallel to these declarations of war, both Christian and Toto had felt frustrated at not being able to meet.

Toto had canceled some meetings, telling Christian that unfortunately she was accompanying him.

Jealousy was present, not insecurity, it was jealousy, Christian was beginning to detest the other woman, seeing her close to Toto, stalking.

Even though Geri was doing the same thing with him, Christian had noticed, but he ignored it... he ignored it because he was more focused on his jealousy.

On the other hand, Toto felt considerably the same, he knows his wife very well, he knows how she has changed, more control, more attention, more invasion.

He was being patient but there was a whisper inside that told him something wasn't right, unusual behavior.

~~~~~~

One day they managed to escape, they took each other's lips with great passion and gave themselves to each other for a long time.

When they were both satisfied, Toto decided to break the silence of post-coital satisfaction.

"I've noticed strange behaviors," he said as he slowly caressed Christian's body.

"Me too..." Christian said.

"Do you think..." Toto whispered

"Let's hope not..." said Christian "we better not think about this now, it's been a chaotic few weeks... so far from you"

Toto smiled and nodded obediently, hugging Christian for the rest of the time they had left.

~~~~~

The day Geri realized the name and face of that person, it was not only because of the similarity of the shirts that Christian sometimes wore (now not so much due to her presence), it was also because of the perfume.

In the paddock she saw Toto Wolff passing by signing autographs, she thought about saying hello but seeing him busy made her back away.

It was there when the man had some people around him, when he smelled their scent.

Something broke inside her, she was shocked watching the man pass by and go to his motorhome.

Toto Wolff? Her husband's rival?

~~~~

Susie on the other hand was a pretty shocking revelation, she remembers when at an event, all the team representatives were there.

She was representing her own category, but she was also accompanying her husband. While Toto was talking with other colleagues, she saw Christian, he was talking with people on his team.

He saw something unusual, the shirt he was wearing was similar in color to what Toto usually wears.

That first time she thought her paranoia and anxiety were reaching a high point, from even thinking and doubting people who weren't even close to her husband. Or so she thought.

The same thing had happened to anyone who approached Toto, he doubted everyone, he even thought that his social circle was hiding things from him.

~~~~

Geri thought so too, she thought that Red Bull hid everything from her, but that wasn't the case. She began to closely monitor her husband's interactions.

Especially when Christian interacted with him, he didn't know if it was her or something else but he felt like there was a different atmosphere.

She watched everything, the touches, the looks, the smiles, it seemed like Christian's eyes were shining.

~~~~~~

It's too much To say that they felt watched, Toto felt his wife's eyes on him.

So he tried to be quite cautious with who he approached. For some reason Susie's behavior was becoming more and more invasive.

~~~~

On the other hand, Christian felt the same way, Geri had continued trying to create intimacy between them without any success. They had gotten into an argument because of that.

Her claiming what was happening to her, him simply attributing it to stress, only for her to respond that that was ridiculous.

Yes it was, Red Bull still had an advantage even though they had more competition, but there was stress, because intuition told him that something was going to happen.

~~~~~

The day Christian had suspicions was when Susie sat next to him in the Red Bull hospitality.

The woman lately was insistent on approaching and generating interaction with him, Christian could sense the hostility but tried to behave.

Then she approached him, telling him that she wanted to talk something about his category and taking advantage of the fact that he was one of the oldest Team Principals, she could help him.

He kind of took it as silly, since Toto was the second oldest TP, but Susie put it down to not raising conflict of interest stuff and stressed how much her husband cared for her.

Christian remembers gritting his teeth when he heard the woman say that, it was a time before free practice, he hadn't changed his clothes into his usual uniform, and he couldn't do much because she arrived quickly.

She began by explaining some rules, until the conversation took an unexpected turn.

"Nowadays you get along pretty well with my husband, right Christian?" She said with her chin resting on her hand.

Christian made a confused look. "Oh well, we've always gotten along well, I guess... the rivalry is something else," he responded, as he usually does in interviews with the questions they always ask him.

"So much so that he lends you his shirts?" She said, her gaze turning dark.

"Sorry?" Christian said surprised and with a hint of nervousness.

She laughed "nothing just joking... let's continue"

Christian felt strange, that behavior was strange, but he wouldn't do anything about it, not if it was just a casual comment. I just knew that I would be careful when wearing Toto's clothes.

~~~~

Susie knew what she was doing, it was a way of giving Christian signals that she knew and would make him understand that she would fight for her husband.

~~~~~

On the other hand, Geri never really sought contact with Toto. He simply watched and even though he tried to stain Christian's clothes, kiss him and leave footprints on him.

Something in her told her to stop.

It's not because he couldn't fight because he had the energy and felt strong. But he saw his children.

He reflected on his age and his life and really thought about how difficult this situation would be.

So instead of confronting her husband's lover, she preferred to confront him.

That day he decided that the children would not be home, he would wait until it was after work and then he would talk.

~~~~

When Christian arrived home that day, it was very quiet, everything seemed normal but there was a heavy atmosphere in the air, his children were not there, there was no noise.

"Geri?" He said into the air looking to the sides

"In the kitchen" he heard someone say.

"Where are the children?" He said as he approached the kitchen.

"They're with their grandparents," she said. "We need to talk."

And a shiver ran through Christian

~~~~

Geri takes a deep breath.

"We haven't been well for a long time... you know that" she said.

Christian nodded and looked down.

"I noticed your behavior, I noticed it for a long time and I thought it was due to stress" he paused and then added. "And I didn't want to believe what I was seeing... when you were wearing someone else's clothes that you long to be with."

Christian looked up and saw her, her eyes moistened.

"Geri..." Christian said trying to speak.

"Let me continue, you know I've been keeping this for a long time," she said, knowing she was beginning to cry. "I never dared touch those clothes until one day I did, I did and I smelled that person's aroma..."

Christian looked down again, his hands felt cold mixed with sweat.

"And I knew he was a man then... but I never imagined what a man he was" he said and sarcastically said "Maybe you have good taste in the masculine gender, but your preference isn't for him to be single, is it?"

Christian gulped and his eyes also moistened.

"Geri please..." he said again

"No, let me speak first" she was forceful "I tried to revive whatever was left between us, but I realized that it's not worth it. Not when I've already lost this battle, we're already old Christian, we have children and they They are my battle now."

They were both crying now, she looked at him while he just looked down being humiliated.

"I've lived long enough and experienced controversies to make a media show," she said. "I won't give you that pleasure."

There was silence again and this time Christian did dare to speak.

"Forgive me..." he said "I know that asking you that is very difficult... but I want you to know that... I regret not stopping this when I could..."

"Stop what? Our marriage or your clandestine relationship?" She asked and felt annoyed for a moment "No, it won't be easy for me to forgive you, but I'm not going to fight a losing battle Christian, although yes, you could at least for our marriage when things were moving forward for you."

She left the house after that talk, crying in her car and went to an apartment that a few months ago she had already bought and prepared for the day she had to do this.

~~~~

Christian remained static at his table, listened as the car left, and burst into tears. The storm that he didn't expect to come true was worse.

That same night he called Toto.

"She knows," Christian said, feeling like he didn't feel anything.

Toto didn't say anything, you could only hear his breathing, he was processing everything.

"I don't know if someone told him it was you or if he found out because he saw us, I don't know," he said desperately. "He just said that he suddenly knew about the shirts and knew it was you."

"Calm down" Toto said.

"How do you want me to calm down if we don't know how he found out it was you..." said Christian.

"Will she do something?" Toto said

"No...she said no" Christian mentioned

"Then we should take that..." Toto said cautiously "Do you want me to go get you? And let's go somewhere else... I can't hear you well."

"No, I'm not fine, but I don't want to, thank you," he said, sounding almost annoyed.

"Okay...you can call me whenever you want" said Toto.

Christian didn't respond and just hung up.

It was just the beginning of his problems.

~~~~~

He stayed away from Toto for weeks, when they spoke it was soft, it was just a how are you and a goodbye with a goodbye kiss.

Everything got worse at another event, Christian knew how distant he was from Toto and in a way of feeling it he put on one of his shirts, which he still had at home.

If she didn't get close to him, she at least wanted to have him symbolically.

What I didn't expect was for Susie to come over.

~~~~

She had seen it, it had been a long time since Christian had worn Toto shirts, even her husband checked himself differently, he spent a little more time at home.

She decided to walk over and check the other man's clothes.

"Hello Christian," she said with a smile full of hostility.

"Hello... Susie" he said somewhat awkwardly.

"And Geri? I thought I'd come with you?" She said

"He preferred to stay with the children," Christian mentioned cautiously.

"Oh wow and you decide today to be like a single man right?" She said trying to joke but they both felt the hostility.

"It's not like that," said Christian.

"Or maybe you have another partner... who provides you with clothes," Susie said cheekily.

"Sorry?" Toto said

"Well because you wear really nice shirts now," she said, pointing at Christian's clothes, "better than before when you wore those ugly browns."

And that "flattery" was mixed with contempt.

"Thank you" he simply said.

"Does Toto teach you how to dress?" She said

"As?" He responded feeling nervous.

"I say this because you look better now... it seems like you have influence from him" she said with a dark tone of voice. "Can he lend you his shirts?"

"What?... No..." Christian said, smiling nervously.

"You know he has changed a lot lately and I have seen that you are very close...." she said "You spend a lot of time together... do you like my husband? Does he lend you his clothes or do you try to imitate his clothes?"

"I...don't...know what you're talking about" Christian said feeling nervous.

"No, yes, you know." She said insistently, "That shirt you're wearing, Toto was looking for it a few days ago and he pretended to have lost it."

"Susie I really don't know what problems you have with Toto... but I can tell you that..." Christian was speaking when she interrupted him.

"Yes, you know what problems I have with Toto, because you are the problem," she said, annoyed, "Listen to me carefully, you are not going to take my husband away from me, because he wouldn't be with someone as hypocritical as you, so false, and my husband is blinded by who knows what have you influenced him"

She got up and walked away, not even letting Christian say anything to her.

The latter remained static in his seat, his heart was beating fast and he felt nervous.

The hurricane finally exploded, the garden was destroyed.

~~~~~

That day Toto called Christian insistently, but the calls were not answered.

Christian after that event had locked himself in his room, taking it as a refuge, he felt nervous. He felt like his world was breaking and he was afraid of Susie's actions.

Talking about this topic with Toto would, in his view, generate a worse conflict, which he did not want.

Christian sank into bed, curled up knowing the worst storm was coming.

~~~~~

Susie noticed, she saw Toto look insistently at his phone when they were talking.

She knows he called Christian but he didn't answer. Susie thought it was stupid and even thought Christian was a coward.

But for some reason, instead of feeling happy for having bullied that person, she felt strange... she didn't feel anything... especially since she was looking at Toto quite anxiously.

~~~~~

At the next grand prix, Geri decided to take the children, because they wanted to see their father.

And Susie came to say hello, they didn't really talk, she just asked him how everything was going, what was going on with Christian.

Although sometimes the questions seemed quite invasive.

~~~~

Toto, who had been trying unsuccessfully to contact Christian, had continued making calls.

One time he did respond saying that he needed more time, he didn't like this, on one of those occasions when he was writing a message to Christian, Susie spoke up.

"What are you doing?...you seem anxious" she said.

"Nothing, just checking some things" he responded.

"Checking some things or checking to see if anyone answers you?" She said.

"Checking some things," he repeated, sounding annoyed.

"Oh... I know, maybe Christian Horner doesn't answer you?" She said and smiled contemptuously at Toto's expression.

"No... I'm not talking to him," he said cautiously.

"Of course because he doesn't answer you"

"What do you have Susie?"

"Me?.. nothing... I'm just here looking at you desperate for him to answer you" she said crossing her arms. "It seems like he's a coward."

"What are you implying?" Toto changed his tone of voice.

"He hinted at the truth, he is a pathetic coward who only hides when he is discovered" she said.

"Susie..." Toto said.

"What? You thought I wouldn't notice... when the guy was walking around in your shirts?" She said looking at him with contempt.

Toto opened his eyes in surprise.

She started clapping "Bravo! Bravo!" She said sarcastically "you have involved with the most pathetic person in the paddock, congratulations Toto Wolff"

"Susie..." he said warningly, "what did you do?"

She laughed "nothing just in front, I told him what he deserves, which is a small thing..."

Toto looked at her and remained silent.

"You didn't do that," he said, thinking about how badly Christian could be suffering.

"Yes I did and that's why the coward doesn't answer you" she said sounding proud.

Toto didn't like it

"Don't tell him like that..." he said

"What?... I'll call that little shit whatever I want" she responded defensively.

"Shut up!" he raised his voice and she crossed her arms.challenging him "I don't recognize you..."

"Thank you and your new love..." she said with that last part, his voice breaking.

Toto takes a deep breath "Susie... can we..."

"We can't do anything!, or talk, or anything Toto... but just know that I will make his life impossible" she said.

"No... Susie that..." he tried to calm her down.

"Yes,he deserves it and so do you, I won't let you live in peace even as long as you live off this damn sport!" She said and left.

He didn't follow her, he just let her go.

~~~~

She was serious, she annoyed them... Christian sometimes watched as she hung out near Toto because she knew he was watching.

It was no longer a fight to get her husband back, it was a fight to annoy them... blinded by hate, by pain.

She once kissed Toto for a Mercedes victory, Christian passed by shortly after, he had seen them. When Toto pulled away from her awkwardly, he noticed and looked at her with annoyance. She do not cares.

~~~~~~

One day Toto came to look for Christian at his motorhome, he knocked on the door insistently.

"Christian... my love..." he said whispering "open please."

The other was inside, he was just listening, he didn't want to open... but Toto was insistent.

"What do you want?" Said

"Honey, we haven't talked..." said Toto

"We have nothing to talk about..." said Christian "Why don't you go with your wife?"

"Christian that... no" said Toto "I know she told you things"

"She told me?... she sends me messages all the time, photos of you with your son..." said Christian "making me show how guilty I am, but she leaves out that you are as guilty as I am"

"Christian..." I take his hand and try to pull him.

"Let go of me, you're also a damn culprit and you seem to be doing so well, she knows it and yet you don't do anything..." he says in protest

"Yes, I do know that I am guilty, if I have done things Christian, do you know how to be careful so that I can come see you and that she doesn't find out?" He responded "but please... let's not stand out..."

"I need time..." Christian said.

"I think I've given you enough time, trying to even keep an eye on you and what about me? I want to be with you and support each other" he responded with annoyance.

"Well I need more! And I'm not like you who can probably process this better than me" He insisted

"Okay..." Toto said and left.

~~~~~

That was their last argument, a couple of months passed and Toto no longer looked for him, it's not that he didn't want to, rather he took charge of fixing everything, he officially moved into his apartment again, now all his things were there, and from time to time from time to time his children's visits arrived according to the agreement he had with Susie.

Meanwhile, Christian, who lived alone in a large house, occasionally had his children, had agreed with Geri not to mention anything, to do everything in a friendly way.

~~~~

On the other hand, one day Susie found Geri in the paddock and then decided to talk.

"Are you coming to accompany Christian?" Said

"The children wanted to see him," she replied.

And Susie just for a moment misjudged Geri thinking the woman was naive.

"Do you know what your husband has been doing?" Susie said.

For her this was another blow that was needed.

"What does he do with your husband?" Geri answered and Susie froze "yes I know.."

"And...then you..." Susie said.

"Susie... I'm already an older woman, I was in a group of singers where before all eyes were on me and my companions, I know what a controversy it is... I'm too old for that" said Geri.

"But...what about what they did to you? What they did to us? Don't you want it back?" The other woman said surprised.

"Get back what? susie? Something we lost a long time ago?" Geri said seriously, "I passed honestly. I lost that battle and I didn't realize it."

And after a while... Susie cried the tears fell slowly

"But..." she said, "I don't know what made them connect..."

"Susie, there are things that we have no explanation for... it could be that they have connected with things that were not like that with us..." said Geri, taking Susie's hands "It's not that you forgive him... it's that you letting him go and love yourself"

"Why him, Geri?... haven't you asked yourself why?" Susie said.

Geri was crying now too.

"Believe me, yes," she said, "but maybe it was destiny, I don't know."

They continued talking, Susie continued wondering why Toto connected in that way with his biggest rival... but she knew it was an impossible question.

But somehow that conversation helped Susie to vent and, above all, learn to let go.

~~~~

It seemed that after a natural disaster, everything was settling in the garden.

Christian had finally started to regret his words. And I'm looking for Toto.

When Toto opened the door he was surprised.

"Hello..." Christian said "can I come in?"

Toto stepped aside, I let him in "you didn't warn"

"I didn't think you would answer me...." he said he remained silent and after a sigh "We can't continue like this, I know it's been difficult, we have temporarily hated each other, but we just can't"

"Christian," Toto said softly.

"Just tell me that... let's try, that so much pain caused will not be in vain... please" he said through tears.

"Oh darling... of course it won't be in vain" said Toto hugging him "I'm sorry for treating you badly in these months"

"No... you excuse me" Christian whispered.

Then Toto took Christian's face and allowed himself to do something that months ago, due to all this conflict, fear and fighting, he had refrained from doing, kissing Christian's lips again.

Before long, they were curled up in each other's arms and didn't need anything else.

"So you're alone at home" said Toto

"Yes... empty feels too big for one person." Christian said.

"We should do something?" Toto suggested "Do you want me to come stay with you for a few days?"

"I would love to," Christian smiled, "although I don't know if it will feel uncomfortable... well, I have my own room, I don't use the main one."

"I won't feel awkward if I can see you happy" he said and they kissed again.

So the garden was starting to bloom after the hurricane.

~~~~~

Well, a new chapter, sorry if there are mistakes there, there are a lot of words and I really get lost in some things, I will try to fix some spelling errors👀

[megaottiptv4k]

The Best IPTV Solutions in USA: MegaOTT Leads the Way

The United States is a melting pot of cultures, attracting expatriates from across the globe. For many expats, staying connected to their home country’s TV shows, news, and cultural programming is essential. MegaOTT provides a cutting-edge IPTV solution that brings the comfort of home right to your screen, redefining entertainment for expats in the USA.

This guide explores how MegaOTT and other leading IPTV services cater to the unique needs of expats, ensuring seamless access to international content.

Key Takeaways

Learn why MegaOTT is the preferred IPTV service for expats in the USA.

Discover the essential features of the best IPTV services tailored for expatriates.

Understand how IPTV solutions connect expats to their cultural roots.

Explore technical tips for a flawless streaming experience.

Revolutionizing TV for Expats: Introducing MegaOTT

The rise of Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) has transformed how we watch TV. For expats in the USA, MegaOTT stands out as a reliable and feature-rich service, offering comprehensive access to global programming tailored to their needs.

What is IPTV and How Does MegaOTT Work?

IPTV delivers television content via the internet, bypassing traditional cable or satellite systems. With MegaOTT, users can enjoy on-demand access to their favorite shows, live broadcasts, and time-shifted viewing — all through a simple internet connection. This cutting-edge technology ensures expats can watch what they love, whenever they want.

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MegaOTT has redefined TV for expatriates, offering:

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Choosing the Best IPTV Service: Why MegaOTT Tops the List

When selecting an IPTV provider, expats should prioritize services that deliver a seamless experience. Here’s why MegaOTT is a top contender:

Key Features to Look For:

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User Feedback:

Many expats praise MegaOTT for its stability, intuitive interface, and diverse content. Reviews highlight its reliability and personalized service as key differentiators.

Top-Rated IPTV Services for Expats in the USA

MegaOTT offers unmatched value with its wide array of features and affordability, making it the best iptv service choice for expatriates seeking a reliable IPTV provider.

MegaOTT: Bridging the Gap Between Cultures

Expats often face the challenge of staying connected to their cultural roots while adapting to life in the USA. MegaOTT solves this by providing:

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FAQs About MegaOTT and IPTV for Expats

What makes MegaOTT the best IPTV service for expats in the USA?

MegaOTT offers unparalleled access to international channels, high-definition streaming, and user-friendly features, all at an affordable price.

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For expats in the USA, staying connected to home has never been easier. MegaOTT delivers a premium IPTV experience, offering everything from diverse content and high-quality streaming to intuitive navigation and affordable pricing. Choose MegaOTT today and bring a piece of home to your new life abroad.

[klaineccfanficlibrary]

Recs for fics where they sort of get "Parent Trapped"? Not by their parents, but by friends... they've been broken up or were never really together at all and their friends bring them together?

Have a look at this previous ask, as it may contain some fics that suit your request. Also, these. ~Jen

If you haven't read this one:

Little Numbers by  iknowitainteasy

Blaine sends a text message to a wrong number by accident. Things progress from there.

Lynne’s review:  For the newbies in the back, this fic was the biggest thing since sliced bread back in the day (2012). The entire fandom waited with baited breath for every single update, dropped everything when it did update, and flailed like mad online about the update. No one understood how an entire fic could be written SOLELY IN TEXT FORM. Every single word. And yet it works. It’s fantastic. It’s the only fic I ever read with my middle school daughter. You will LOVE THIS FIC. Read it. Now. GO!

Read at:  LJ or [PDF]

~~~~~

The 7 Step Plan To Getting Your Two Oblivious Gay Friends Together by llamaswithboyties

Wes and David are sick the death of Kurt and Blaine stealing glances at one another across the practise room and singing flirty duets, but still insisting they're just friends, so they put a plan into action.

~~~~~

Someone Like You by iconicklaine

Kurt and Blaine keep up their very own version of “When Harry Met Sally” for years, a friendship fraught with sexual tension and longing, until the agendas of Adele (yes, THE Adele), a bored NY socialite and a super-sweet hetero couple bring our boys together. The only problem is… they’re both in committed relationships.

Note: This story is AU after “Sexy,” and assumes Kurt and Blaine graduate from Dalton in the same year. In this future fic, set in 2025, Blaine is based off of Season 2 Blaine.

~~~~~

100 Days by borogroves

Kurt and Blaine have been best friends (and nothing more) since the age of six. Now 22-year-old college graduates, they take a roadtrip around the USA, visiting every state in 100 days. Fifty states. Two boys. One love story.

~~~~~

[healthtodys]

Renew Ritual Skin Care Formula Reviews

Introduction 🌟

When it comes to skincare, everyone is searching for the perfect formula to achieve glowing, youthful skin. One product that’s making waves in the beauty world is the Renew Ritual Skin Care Formula. Promising to hydrate, rejuvenate, and combat signs of aging, this formula has gained a loyal following. But does it really work? 🤔

In this comprehensive review, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Renew Ritual, from its ingredients to user experiences, and whether it’s worth the investment.

The Promise of Renew Ritual 🌿

Renew Ritual Skin Care Formula claims to be an all-in-one skincare solution designed to:

Hydrate and moisturize for softer, smoother skin 💧

Reduce fine lines and wrinkles for a youthful appearance 💕

Improve skin texture and tone for a radiant glow 🌟

Protect against environmental damage caused by pollution and UV rays 🌞

The formula is said to suit all skin types, including sensitive skin, making it a versatile option for anyone looking to upgrade their skincare routine.

The Science Behind Renew Ritual 🧪

To understand how Renew Ritual works, let’s break down its key components and their benefits.

1. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) 💧

A superstar in the skincare world, HA is known for its ability to retain moisture, keeping skin hydrated and plump.

Benefits:

Reduces dryness

Minimizes the appearance of fine lines

Boosts elasticity

2. Retinol (Vitamin A) 🌟

A powerful anti-aging ingredient, retinol stimulates collagen production and accelerates skin cell turnover.

Benefits:

Smooths wrinkles

Fades dark spots

Improves overall skin texture

3. Vitamin C 🍊

This antioxidant powerhouse protects the skin from free radicals and brightens the complexion.

Benefits:

Reduces hyperpigmentation

Promotes even skin tone

Enhances skin’s natural glow

4. Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) 💊

Known for its calming properties, niacinamide helps reduce redness and improves the skin’s barrier function.

Benefits:

Balances oil production

Reduces inflammation

Minimizes pore size

5. Peptides 🧬

Peptides are short chains of amino acids that boost collagen and elastin production.

Benefits:

Firms sagging skin

Reduces signs of aging

Enhances skin repair

How to Use Renew Ritual 🕒

For best results, follow these steps when incorporating Renew Ritual into your skincare routine:

Cleanse your face with a gentle cleanser to remove dirt and oil. 🧼

Apply Renew Ritual Formula on clean, dry skin. Use a pea-sized amount and massage it in upward motions. 💆‍♀️

Follow with Sunscreen (AM) if using it during the day. 🧴

Pair with a Moisturizer (PM) to lock in hydration overnight. 🌙

Pro Tip: Start with applying it once daily to allow your skin to adjust, especially if it contains retinol or other active ingredients.

Who Is Renew Ritual For? 🧐

This formula is ideal for:

Individuals looking to combat signs of aging (fine lines, wrinkles) 💕

People with dry, dull, or uneven skin tone 💧

Anyone seeking a simple, effective skincare solution 🌿

However, it may not be suitable for:

Those with severe skin conditions like eczema or rosacea without consulting a dermatologist 🚑

People allergic to any of the listed ingredients 🚫

Pros and Cons of Renew Ritual ✅❌

Pros: ✔️ Packed with proven, effective ingredients 🧪 ✔️ Suitable for most skin types 🌟 ✔️ Non-greasy, lightweight formula 🌿 ✔️ Combines hydration and anti-aging benefits 💧

Cons: ❌ Results may take weeks to appear ⏳ ❌ May cause initial irritation due to active ingredients 🌡️ ❌ Premium pricing can be a barrier for some 💸

Real User Reviews 🗣️

Here’s what people are saying about their experiences with Renew Ritual:

Positive Reviews 🌟

"My skin feels so much smoother and hydrated. After 3 weeks, I noticed my fine lines fading!" ✨

"I’ve tried so many products, but this is the only one that actually improved my skin tone." 💕

"I love how lightweight it feels—it doesn’t clog my pores or feel sticky." 🌿

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ❓

1. How long does it take to see results? Most users report visible changes in 3-6 weeks of consistent use.

2. Is it suitable for oily skin? Yes, the lightweight, non-greasy formula works well for oily skin.

3. Can it replace other skincare products? It’s versatile, but a complete routine (cleanser, sunscreen, etc.) is still recommended.

Tips for Maximizing Results 🌟

Patch Test: Always test a small area before full application to check for sensitivity. 🔬

Consistency Is Key: Use it daily as directed for the best results. ⏳

Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps maintain skin health. 💧

Avoid Overuse: Too much product can cause irritation, especially with active ingredients. 🌡️

The Verdict: Is Renew Ritual Worth It? 🤔

Renew Ritual Skin Care Formula is a promising solution for those seeking a multi-functional product that hydrates, smooths, and combats aging. While it may not work miracles overnight, its potent blend of proven ingredients can deliver visible improvements over time.

Final Thoughts 🌈

Skincare is personal, and finding the right product takes time and patience. If you’re considering Renew Ritual, give it a try but manage your expectations—it’s an excellent addition to a healthy skincare routine but not a cure-all.

Let us know your thoughts or experiences with Renew Ritual in the comments below! 🗨️

[sometimesiship]

Tagged by @tare-chan

Thank you for the tag 🥹 I can never tell if I'm supposed to reblog or post anew x__x does anybody know?

anyways!!!

1. Named after anyone

nope!

2. Last time you cried?

saturday 😂 fighting with the boyfriend LOL

3. Any kids?

nope!

4. Sports played/playing?

i grew up doing a lot of stuff, some of them sports. off the top of my head, i swam, played tennis, did ballet 🤔 later, i started lifting, played volleyball, and i get into running phases every so often. but i'm not particularly good at any of it 😂

5. Do you use sarcasm?

not really! it doesn't suit me.

6. First thing you notice about people?

idk. if the vibes are good? HAHAHAHAHA i pretty much just interact with ppl and review after.

7. Eye color?

very dark brown 👁️

8. Scary movies or happy endings?

happy endings 😨 i can't watch horror AT ALL 😨😨

9. Talents?

i can open any jar/lid. i can untie any knot. i always pick the perfect sized tupperware for whatever amount of leftovers there are.

10. Where were you born?

usa

11. Hobbies?

movies, singing, theatre, reading, eating, acting, journaling

12. Pets?

i grew up with two cats. they live with my mom. but i love them 🥹 we raised birds and a hamster as i was growing up, too. it's painful tbh 😭

13. Height?

162-ish cm / 5'3"

14. Favorite subject at school?

english!

15. Dream job?

actress 🥹

i'll tag @firewoodfigs, @aerequets, @jade-efflorescence, @gamgali, @prita-world, if you'd like to do it! and anybody else who'd like to do it, really :")

[winnistravels]

Homewood Suites Panama City Beach - Unraveling the Pool Mystery 🏊‍♂️🏨

[professorpski]

Man from U.N.C.L.E with Costumes by Joanna Johnston

Some reviewers of this movie from 2015 did not like it much, but even those had something nice to say about the costumes which are by Joanna Johnston who has worked on such films as Lincoln, Forrest Gump and Saving Private Ryan.

You see here at the top, Alicia Vikander as Gaby Teller, the young East German woman whose absent father is involved in making bombs for the US military until he went missing. She is then recruited to help find him and gets a new wardrobe to do it in. The film is set in the early 1960s, but Johnston was thinking of later in the decade. "I was primarily looking at fashion magazines of the time of the late ‘60s," Johnston told Carly Mallenbaum for USA TODAY. "I knew I wanted to keep her very youthful, but elegant. Chic; not overtrendy. I think 'fresh' is the key word for Gaby." You see here a lot of orange, a very bright and playful color, as well as a trendy newsboy cap.

On the others hand, Elizabeth Debicki plays Victoria Vinciguerra, a really wealthy and nasty business tycoon, with a more sophisticated wardrobe of black and white. All her looks, are long, lean and seem kind of mean.  

Henry Cavill plays Napoleon Solo, a thief turned secret agent, and gets to wear some natty suits while his mismatched partner is played by Armie Hammer who is the Russian agent Illya Kuryakin who, like most Soviets during the Cold War, does not get a lot of fashion into his wardrobe.

I saw this on HBO and you can find it elsewhere as well, and I must say I enjoyed more than the costumes, but then I am married to a Cold War scholar and remember the TV series for the same name from when I was a kid.

[eastcoastboyos]

Awestruck

Assembing in the kitchen of our airBnB, the boyos scarfed down leftovers and cereal. Blake tackled last night's taco meat like a champ despite waking up with the snifffles. The disease has spread.

Zipping over to Kennedy Space Center, the boys hustled to the bus tour line having learned the night before that it is a must do according to Reddt. The tour takes you around the massive shuttle assembly building via roads lined with canals (where I saw my first gator!) and deposits you at the Saturn V rocket building.

Not really knowing what the Saturn V was, the boys and I went through an introductionary video and mock control room, which simulated the first launch of USA into space. Absolutely incredible. The windows chattering with the rocket launch, the lights flickering on the actual control panels as operator voices echoed simultaneously, you really did feel like you were there in the launch room on such of a historic moment.

Exiting this room with a horde of blind folk, the boys were gob smacked, rounding a corner and coming right up to the massive rear engine boosters of an actual Saturn V rocket above our heads. Jaws dropped as we marveled at the scale and complexity of the machine.

Exploring the area, we encountered another phenomenal theater simulating the moon landing and marveled at the moon rocks, space suits, and lunar buggys around us. Blake and I joked about the Apollo 11 error code 1202 with our own error codes: 8008 for boob and 9009 for making a poop.

Finishing our exploration of Saturn V, the boys bussed back to the main compound and headed into the Atlantis Space Shuttle Building. Representing the next phase of NASA spacecraft, we were treated to another informative video on the origin of the vessel and an appreciation for the decade of engineering to design the shuttle. To our awe once again, after the imerisve shuttle launch video finished, the video screens rolled up to reveal the actual Atlantis space shuttle behind. 🤯

If our brain chunks weren't already sxattered enough, beside the large space shuttle Atlantis was a small glass box containing the actual wood and paper concept model for the shuttle built ten years prior of the first shuttle launch. Having this massive machine and simple model side by side was such an incredible symbol of engineering design to creation. We all agreed how inspirational everything was.

Goofing around, the boys played with space toilets, I reviewed some employment contract details, and we discussed favourite roller coasters while in line for the cockpit launch simulator, another winner. Some somber moments were had looking at the Challenger and Discovery debris and Joel remarked how KSC had you like "Shittttttt" and then the next moment, a quiet and reflective "shit....".

Taking a quiet snooze in the car, some of the boys recuperated as we made the final stretch to Miami Beach: 2200km in total. Discussing the long term debt cycle, toll road uncertainty, the abundance palm trees and canals, and the worst traffic and drivers we've seen thus far, the boys made it to Miami as the sun was setting. Dylan remarked at the endless lawyer billbords such as "I heart my attorney, 300k" and noted: " Half this country's entire economy is lawyers sueing everone".

Our airBnB is in a cool Latin area, and after obtaining some missing sheets, the boys downed some Corona's, slapped each of with tortillas, placed Georgie on the mantel, and head out on the town. Miami Beach is saturated with art Deco and our heads swiveled as we looked at them lit up in the night with color. Miami Beach is bumping.

Sports cars, fancy outfits, mango strip clubs, gangs on ATVs and motor bikes, the place's energy seem to match New York. Things seem full circle. After resting on the grass for a moment to process everything, (#fiveIntroverts) the boys grabbed margaritas and nachos at Oh Mexico. Letting the night fall late to the sound sof Latin musc, we savored reminiscing about the trip while periodically singing Happy birthday in Spanish.

We miss you Ben.

Derek

[killed-by-choice]

Christine Mora, 18 (USA 1994)

Christine Mora was a high school senior. She was 17 weeks pregnant when she underwent an abortion at Doctors’ Surgical Center in Cypress, California — an FPA (Family Planning Associates) location. FPA facilities have been linked to a long history of death and malpractice. She had no idea when she walked through those doors that she would never reach her 19th birthday or graduate from high school.

The abortion was done in only three minutes, which was a careless lack of patience for such a hazardous operation. Christine was left unattended afterwards and suffered a fall. Thomas Grubbs, the abortionist responsible for the girl’s 3-minute mutilation, was called to check on her.

He never should have left Christine unattended. By this time, her speech was slurred and she couldn’t respond to any questions in a way that made sense. An ambulance rushed the dying teenager to the hospital, where her father was called and informed about the abortion and his daughter’s condition.

Christine deteriorated for 8 days in the ICU before dying. Her 18-month-old was left a motherless only child. The heartbroken family was furious when the results of the autopsy came back and they saw what Grubbs had done to Christine.

The autopsy showed septicemia and hemorrhage in the brain, along with multiple cervical lacerations. It also revealed that Christine had a congenital heart defect called a foramen ovale, in which a connection between the two sides of her heart had not closed at birth as it was supposed to do. However, her heart defect did not cause her death.

Her family filed a wrongful death suit. The expert reviewing the case for Christine’s family said that the “treatment” provided to Christine at the FPA facility “fell below applicable standard” and that the “breach of standard care was the direct cause of Miss Mora’s death.” In particular, he faulted them because Grubbs had never examined Christine prior to the abortion (he’d had no contact with her at all before beginning her abortion) and because “The anesthesia record says that Dr. Bruggs did the entire extraction procedure in three minutes,” which was what caused the cervical lacerations. The lacerations had caused an amniotic fluid embolism, killing Christine.

The abortionist eventually settled out of court with confidentiality on the exact amount of the settlement included as part of the agreement.

FPA was also responsible for the deaths of Denise Holmes, 16-year-old Patricia Chacon, Mary Pena, Josefina Garcia, 17-year-old Laniece Dorsey, Susan Levy, Joyce Ortenzio, 19-year-old Tami Suematsu, 13-year-old Deanna Bell, Emmeko Reed, 16-year-old Nakia Jorden, Kimberly K. Neil and Kenniah Epps.

If it wasn’t for the abortion, Christine and her baby would still be alive.

California Certificate of Death # 94-180853

Orange County Coroner’s Report 94-06863-AB

California Death Index, 1940-1997 database, Christine Mora, 08 Nov 1994; Department of Public Health Services, Sacramento.

Mega-Abortionist Settles in a Hurry, San Diego News Notes May 1997

[fructo]

ɪɴᴛʀᴏ

I figured I ought to make this post because my blog is so messy that I'd like for any unlucky wanderer to at least have a basic premise :)

Hi! I'm Fruct :) I identify as aroace and my preferred pronouns are she/her. I've had Tumblr for over four years now, but I haven't been active up until August of 2023; Tumblr was the first community I found when I realized my asexuality and aromanticism.

I tag all of my rant posts under #fruct rambles!

I'm in my senior year of high school and as of now I plan on going to college for criminology/criminal justice and something else, currently undecided! I don't really have a lot of friends irl, so I prefer to spend most of my free time on my blog, watching television/film, procrastinating my future, or sleeping.

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ꜰᴀɴᴅᴏᴍꜱ: White Collar, Heartstopper, Genshin Impact, The Shadowhunter Chronicles, Six of Crows, Bridgerton, Baby Queen, cavetown, The Heavy, One Tree Hill, The Lunar Chronicles, Taylor Swift, Detroit: Become Human, Suits USA.... my current interest shifts a lot! chances are i'll be reblogging anything that relates to what i'm listening to, watching, or reading.

☾˚ ༘ ೀ⋆｡˚☕︎

ʟɪɴᴋꜱ!

ᴍʏ ɢᴏᴏᴅʀᴇᴀᴅꜱ ᴘᴀɢᴇ: https://www.goodreads.com/review/edit/52867387

ᴍʏ ꜱᴛᴏʀʏɢʀᴀᴘʜ ᴘᴀɢᴇ: https://app.thestorygraph.com/profile/fruct

ᴍʏ ʟᴇᴛᴛᴇʀʙᴏxᴅ ᴘᴀɢᴇ: https://boxd.it/7d6wR

☾˚ ༘ ೀ⋆｡˚☕︎

Please feel free to say hello or DM me! My DMs are always open :)