#the tailor of panama

[multi-fandom-madness-and-mayhem]

WHERE IS MY TURN??

[cinemajunkie70]

Happy 90th Birthday to John Boorman. There is life before Excalibur and then there is life after Excalibur! So many excellent films from one man!

[chic-a-gigot]

Beaux-arts des modes, no. 5, octobre 1935 (New York, Paris, London, Milano, Wien, Bruxelles). Modèles Originaux. Bibliothèque nationale de France

1206 Frock in mongol. Encolure, jabot and cuffs of velvet and open-worked white romain. Bise seams on the pointed top. Inserted skirt wedges. — 1206a Tailored coat of wool panama.

[demon4dilfs]

watched the tailor of panama just for poor little meow meow geoffrey rush content. was not disappointed

[chicinsilk]

Marc Bohan for Christian Dior Spring/Summer 1962 Haute Couture Collection. Muriel wears "Primevère" a suit in heart of lettuce green. Skirt with yokes, large panama with yellow edges. Detail: the green stone clipped at the top of the collar on the left. Tailor, Lesur wool. Roger Vivier pumps.

Marc Bohan pour Christian Dior Collection Haute Couture Printemps/Été 1962. Muriel porte "Primevère" un tailleur en vert cœur de laitue. Jupe à empiècements, grand panama à bords jaunes. Détail : la pierre verte clipsée en haut du col à gauche. Tailleur, de laine Lesur. Escarpins Roger Vivier.

[musicalhell]

That's the thing--Daniel Radcliffe was acting professionally before Harry Potter. He was the title character as a child in a BBC adaptation of David Copperfield and also had a part in the movie The Tailor of Panama. Obviously HP made him a star and gave him the freedom to do all the weird movies he wants, but in an alternate universe where that didn't happen? I think he would still have a decent career as one of those reliable workhorse actors Britain loves to turn out. Not a household name, but someone where you go "hey, it's that guy" when they turn up in a period drama or on a Doctor Who episode. He'd have done lot of RSC stuff, maybe wound up as a regular cast member for an "offbeat" director like Wes Anderson or David Lynch. While JKR would still be a petty, bigoted bitch.

He’s so right actually

[elmerllovett]

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[chrisdeanfuller]

The Tailor of Panama Book Review

I read the book The Tailor of Panama by John le Carre, and it didn't hold my attention. I read it because I got it for ten cents. It's about a tailor in Panama and a rookie British spy who recruits him. There are some interesting entanglements and characters, but overall the plot wanders. There's no meaningful resolution at the end. There are no twists which are often seen in spy novels. I've heard the author has better novels. It's not a recommended read.

[continentaladjusters]

How Panama City Public Adjusters Assist with Hurricane and Storm Damage Claims

When hurricanes and severe storms hit, the resulting property damage can be overwhelming for homeowners and business owners alike. Navigating the insurance claims process can add to the stress, especially when it comes to ensuring a fair settlement. This is where a Panama City Public Adjuster becomes an invaluable resource.

Understanding the Role of a Public Adjuster

A public adjuster is an insurance claims professional who works on behalf of policyholders—not insurance companies. Their goal is to assess damages, compile necessary documentation, and negotiate with insurance providers to maximize the settlement. In Panama City, public adjusters are particularly experienced in handling claims related to hurricanes and storm damage due to the region's vulnerability to extreme weather events.

Assessing Hurricane and Storm Damage

One of the first steps a Panama City Public Adjuster takes is conducting a comprehensive assessment of the damage caused by the storm. Inspecting the Property: Public adjusters inspect all areas of the property, including the roof, windows, foundation, and interior spaces, to identify visible and hidden damage. Documenting Damage: Detailed photos, videos, and written reports are created to provide evidence of the extent of the destruction. This documentation is critical for presenting a strong claim. Categorizing Losses: They categorize damages into structural damage, personal property loss, and additional living expenses, ensuring that every aspect of the policyholder’s coverage is utilized.

Navigating Complex Insurance Policies

Insurance policies are often complicated, with intricate language that can be difficult for the average policyholder to understand. A Panama City Public Adjuster has the expertise to interpret policy details and determine the coverage applicable to hurricane and storm-related damages. Policy Review: Adjusters review the fine print to identify exclusions and ensure policyholders receive the maximum benefits available under their coverage. Filing the Claim: Public adjusters handle the entire claims process, from submitting the initial claim to managing correspondence with the insurance company.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often aim to minimize payouts, which can leave policyholders under-compensated. Public adjusters advocate for their clients to secure a fair settlement. Presenting Evidence: With meticulously prepared documentation, they present a strong case for the damages incurred. Challenging Low Offers: If the insurance company proposes a low settlement, the adjuster negotiates on behalf of the policyholder, leveraging their expertise and evidence to achieve a higher payout. Providing Expert Support: In complex cases, public adjusters may collaborate with engineers, contractors, or appraisers to support their claims.

Ensuring a Smoother Recovery Process

Beyond maximizing insurance settlements, a Panama City Public Adjuster helps policyholders focus on recovery and rebuilding. Saving Time and Stress: Handling a claim after a hurricane can be time-consuming and stressful. Public adjusters streamline the process so clients can prioritize other aspects of their lives. Expert Guidance: From recommending trusted contractors to providing insights into the recovery timeline, they offer valuable support throughout the rebuilding phase.

Why Choose a Panama City Public Adjuster?

Residents of Panama City face unique challenges due to frequent hurricanes and storms. Hiring a local public adjuster ensures that policyholders work with someone who understands the specific risks and insurance challenges of the area. Specialized Knowledge: Local adjusters are familiar with the types of damages common to the region and how insurers typically handle claims in Panama City. Personalized Service: They offer tailored solutions and one-on-one support, ensuring clients feel heard and valued throughout the process. Proven Results: A reputable Panama City public adjuster will have a track record of successful settlements for hurricane and storm damage claims.

Summary

A Panama City Public Adjuster provides essential assistance in handling hurricane and storm damage claims. Their expertise in assessing damage, navigating policies, and negotiating with insurance companies ensures that policyholders receive fair settlements. For those facing the aftermath of a storm in Panama City, enlisting the help of a public adjuster is a crucial step toward recovery.

[accentonskin]

Effective Treatments to Tighten and Rejuvenate Your Neck

Wondering how to tighten neck skin effectively? Non-surgical treatments like ultrasound therapy, RF needling, and laser procedures boost collagen production to improve skin firmness. Injectable options, such as dermal fillers and anti-wrinkle treatments, smooth fine lines and restore lost volume. For more advanced concerns, MINT Mono Threads provide a lifting effect without surgery. These solutions address sagging and crepey skin, offering natural-looking results. With tailored treatments, achieving tighter, more youthful neck skin is now easier and more accessible.

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[shivshaktimachtech]

Bottle Liquid Packaging Machinery Solution

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[xtrablak674]

2024 Favorite Looks

This was the beginning of the end of my weight-loss maintenance, which lasting three years was beyond the regular trend which is at least a third shorter. I settled into a good weight but not the ideal one like at the start of the year.

In the look above I finally debuted my African kimono purchased the summer before at AfroPunk I didn't have the confidence to wear it because I wasn't quite sure how to wear it. I paired my orange fishermen pants with it and a pair of my Havianas, African fabric head wrap, my springy bracelet and my EENY gold tinted glasses. I was looking very regal and commanding as I visited the farmer's market with my nibling.

I have always loved a monochromatic look just reaching deep into the shades of one particular color. I am so happy that I have enough blue to do just that. Its not a color I always choose but it does look good on me.

This look was built around a classic dashiki. I wanted to see what I could pair with it that I hadn't previously done before, I usually wear the dashiki alone with not much adornment, know that the colors and textures can play by themselves. I love what I came up with this day, it was fun, playful in a very urban chic way.

A friend had briefly stayed in my home while I was away on my sabbatical she noted I totally have a thing for orange. Orange just compliments the browns and yellows in my skin tone perfectly. It has a lovely contrast and its a color that really pops on me. I paired it with my African wax print head wrap. An African printed bag I also copped in Ghana with a tie-dyed vest a local African designer made and this old pale yellow French Connection short-sleeved shirt and my fisherman pants which are now a staple of my summer looks. And on my feet the Donald Glover designed New Balance in a very tangy yellow.

I had bought this three-quarter shirt as a potential look for AfroPunk where I decided to go in a different direction for that day. I wanted to offset the yellow and orange with a bright red head wrap of some of my grandmothers old velvet fabric. My necklace from an artisan in Accra, bright red gloves to pair with my head covering, black hakama pants purchased directly from Japan and my No Bull fluorescent runners. Flashy but comfortable. EENY stopped me to get some video, even though I wasn't wearing a pair of their glasses I had paired my now prescription glasses that I had mopped at Rainbow.

Lastly my Orttu tangy yellow jacket, my bumble-bee blue scarf purchased in a Dollar General in Florida, the plaid flannel pants I had the local tailor make before he retired back in Panama and these Adidas sneakers I barely ever wear a cacophony of colors with a very blue base which tied his look together nicely.

[demon4dilfs]

@muskegmaenad tagged me to list 10 favorite new watches of 2024! good thing i have letterboxd because my memory is terrible lmaoo. thank you for the tag! 💖

the trial (1962) - really interesting movie with cool cinematography. and mr perkins is always fun to watch.

2. the rocky horror picture show (1975) - yes i know, i can't believe it's taken me this long to watch it. love that i actually watched a tmann bootleg of the musical before i watched the actual film lmaooo

3. the king's speech (2010) -geoffrey rush and colin firth are sooo good in this

4. the quick & and the dead (1995) - i'm not usually a fan of westerns, but this one had me on the edge of my seat. i really enjoyed sharon stone and russell crowe's characters. (also some good russell whump hehehe)

5. zodiac (2007) - i have a passing interest in the zodiac case, so i enjoyed this one. real events aside, it was just a good thriller

6. deadpool & wolverine (2024) - i mean...have to include on my list. i love wolverine. and i did go see it twice in theaters so...

7. reminiscence (2021) - speaking of hugh jackman. this was actually a really interesting movie with a unique concept. it had some twists i didn't see coming at all

8. the tailor of panama (2001) - geoffrey rush is just a pleasure to watch in every film. but this one did surprise me, i didn't expect to enjoy it so much. it has an interesting plot and even though it's a thriller/spy movie, i thought it had some very funny and heartfelt moments

(couldn't find a gif in tumblr's gif search so here's an image)

9. pirates of the caribbean: at world's end (2007) - i started rewatching potc this year, it had been so long since i've seen any of them and honestly i don't think i ever saw this one so im counting it lol. out of the ones i've watched, i think this is the best one in the series. each character is at their best

10. the hornblower series - bundling these all together. idk if hornblower counts as a tv series or film, but im gonna say they're films. obviously as you can tell from my blog i really enjoyed this series and i didn't want to pick just one

any of my mutuals who've watched a lot of movies this year, feel free to play along! it was fun to look back at my letterboxd and see what i watched last year

[isabella23ru]

Coffee Beans Market Forecast: Nestlé S.A. booms

Europe dominates the coffee beans market driven by specialty coffee trend

Market Overview:

With a CAGR of 6.8%, the worldwide coffee beans market is predicted to grow between 2024 and 2031. The projected market size in 2022 is USD 27.5 billion; by 2031 it is expected to be USD 45.6 billion. Europe now dominates the market, even though Asia-Pacific is predicted to demonstrate the quickest increase rate during the projected period.

Driven by shifting consumer tastes, growing café culture, and increasing awareness of the health benefits linked with moderate coffee use, the market for coffee beans has been constantly evolving. Aiming for sustainable sources and unique products, the market is shaped by a combination of well-known companies and many small-scale producers.

Market Trends:

The market for coffee beans is clearly shifting toward premium and specialty varieties, driven by consumers' growing respect for unique tastes and sources. This trend is changing the scenario in the industry as more coffee drinkers hunt for handcrafted roasts and premium, single-origin beans. Particularly helpful in teaching consumers about the nuances of coffee flavors, brewing techniques, and the importance of bean quality are third-wave coffee movements and specialty coffee shops. Rare and uncommon coffee varieties—like Kopi Luwak from Indonesia or Geisha from Panama—are thus in growing demand. Focusing on supply chain transparency and quality, this movement has produced direct trading relationships between growers and roasters as well as micro-roasters. Coffee growers are focusing on improving agricultural and processing techniques to satisfy the strict criteria of the specialty coffee market, often producing better livelihoods for farmers in coffee-growing areas and more value for premium beans.

Market Segmentation:

The fast rise of coffee consumption in developing nations is a key motor propelling the global coffee bean industry ahead. Particularly in Asia and the Middle East, countries with historically tea-drinking cultures are clearly shifting towards coffee consumption. This change can be explained by rising disposable income, urbanization, and the influence of Western coffee culture. For instance, as both domestic and foreign chains of stores open there, China's coffee market has been exploding at an unprecedented rate. Coffee shops have also exploded in India, and young city workers are embracing this drink more and more. The growing middle class in these countries is more receptive to global trends and more willing to experiment with numerous coffee variations and approaches. Not limited to out-of-home use, at-home coffee making is also becoming more popular, which fuels sales of ground coffee and whole beans for household use. Coffee companies are aggressively targeting these expanding countries with tailored merchandise and marketing programs, often changing their products to meet local tastes and preferences. For roasters, stores, and manufacturers of coffee beans, this evolution into new markets is creating significant opportunities that support the global coffee beans market growth.

Market Key Players:

Nestlé S.A., The J.M. Smucker Company, Starbucks Corporation, Lavazza Group, Keurig Green Mountain, Inc., Tchibo GmbH

Download free sample

[hsdigitalmedia]

Panama and Liberian STCW: Essential Training Standards for Maritime Professionals

The maritime industry is the backbone of global trade, and its efficiency and safety depend on well-trained seafarers. Two of the most significant maritime nations in this regard are Panama and Liberia, whose Seafarers’ Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (STCW) standards ensure compliance with international safety regulations. For those aspiring to excel in maritime careers, understanding Panama and Liberian STCW certifications is critical.

Understanding the STCW Convention

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) introduced the STCW Convention in 1978, later revised in 1995 and 2010 (Manila Amendments), to establish universal standards for training, certification, and watchkeeping for seafarers. The STCW ensures that maritime professionals worldwide are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their duties safely and efficiently.

Panama and Liberia, two of the largest flag states globally, have incorporated STCW regulations into their maritime systems, ensuring their training standards are recognized internationally. This has made these certifications invaluable for aspiring seafarers.

The Panama STCW Certification

Panama, known for its vast merchant fleet, plays a significant role in the global shipping industry. Its STCW certification is highly regarded and mandatory for vessels registered under the Panamanian flag. The Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) oversees compliance with STCW standards, offering training programs tailored to the evolving demands of the maritime sector.

Key Features of Panama STCW Certification

Wide Recognition: Panamanian STCW certificates are recognized by most international maritime authorities, making them crucial for seafarers aiming for global employment opportunities.

Comprehensive Training Modules: The certification covers essential areas like navigation, firefighting, emergency response, and communication.

Compliance and Updates: The Panama Maritime Authority regularly updates its training programs to align with the latest STCW amendments.

The Liberian STCW Certification

Liberia, home to one of the world's largest ship registries, has an equally robust STCW certification framework. The Liberian International Ship and Corporate Registry (LISCR) manages these certifications, emphasizing rigorous training and global compliance.

Key Features of Liberian STCW Certification

Global Employment Opportunities: Liberian STCW certificates open doors to a wide range of career opportunities on international vessels.

State-of-the-Art Training: Liberia integrates advanced technologies into its training programs, ensuring that seafarers are well-prepared for modern maritime challenges.

Ease of Access: LISCR provides accessible certification processes, catering to both experienced mariners and newcomers.

Comparing Panama and Liberian STCW Certifications

While both certifications meet IMO's stringent requirements, there are subtle differences that may influence a seafarer's choice.

Aspect

Panama STCW

Liberian STCW

Global Recognition

Widely recognized worldwide

Equally recognized globally

Registry Size

Largest merchant fleet in the world

Second-largest merchant fleet

Training Emphasis

Practical emergency response training

Advanced technology integration

Ease of Certification

Slightly lengthier process

Streamlined and efficient

Both certifications hold immense value in the maritime sector, and the choice often depends on a seafarer's employment goals and preferred flag state.

Why Choose Kalyug Training for STCW Certification?

Kalyug Training specializes in delivering Panama and Liberian STCW training, preparing seafarers for a competitive global industry. Here's why Kalyug Training stands out:

Comprehensive Programs: We provide end-to-end training in line with Panama and Liberia's STCW requirements. From theoretical modules to hands-on practical sessions, our curriculum is tailored for excellence.

Experienced Faculty: Our trainers bring years of maritime expertise, ensuring a deep understanding of both technical skills and real-world applications.

State-of-the-Art Facilities: Kalyug Training equips students with modern simulators and tools, replicating real maritime scenarios for enhanced learning.

Flexible Scheduling: Recognizing the challenges of balancing work and training, we offer flexible schedules to accommodate our students.

Certification Support: We streamline the certification process, assisting candidates in securing their Panama and Liberian STCW certifications without hassle.

Career Opportunities with Panama and Liberian STCW

Maritime professionals with Panama and Liberian STCW certifications are in high demand. These certifications not only ensure compliance with international safety standards but also make seafarers eligible for employment with some of the world's most prestigious shipping companies. Career paths include:

Deck Officers and Captains

Marine Engineers

Crew and Manning Specialists

Maritime Surveyors

Conclusion

The Panama and Liberian STCW certifications are pillars of excellence in maritime training. For seafarers, obtaining these credentials is a vital step toward a successful career in the global shipping industry. Kalyug Training is committed to equipping maritime professionals with the skills, knowledge, and certifications they need to thrive in this dynamic field.

Whether you're embarking on your first voyage or seeking to advance your maritime career, Panama and Liberian STCW certifications from Kalyug Training will set you on the course to success.

[silkendandelion]

Million Dollar Baby (completed), A One Piece fanfiction

Sir Crocodile x OC (male) Words: 40.8k Genre: Comedy, drama, smut, fluff

Summary: Crocodile takes a day off. And Doflamingo has to point out that he never does that. River meets with Vivi in almost secret.

Rated Teen and Up Audiences for suggestive content and strong language. Rating changes published per chapter.

Chapter 8

His morning had been going so well.

Woken with kisses trailed along the curve of his shoulder and a promise of spending the day together, murmured into his cheek with more kisses. He hadn’t hesitated to accept, the words “brunch” and “a little fun” never failed to rouse him, but—

This was not what he had in mind.

“I wish you had told me before that we were going to the horse races,” River groused.

“It would have ruined the surprise,” was Crocodile’s reasonable answer, said with a contented plume of smoke from his first cigar of the day.

“I hate horses.”

He pursed his lips to resist his bubbling amusement. “And what have they done to deserve your ire? They’re magnificent animals, loyal and strong.”

“Every horse I’ve ever met has tried to bite me.”

“Perhaps they smell your fear?”

“All the more reason to avoid them.” River’s nose tipped to the air, the most uppity he’s ever seen him, and he felt his face beginning to crack.

“I wasn’t aware there were so many horses in Panama. How many have you met, exactly?”

“One.”

The rhythmic lifting of his shoulders told River he was laughing at him, quietly, almost politely, and he fixed the taller man with a precious pout.

“Oh, that face tells me I won’t be able to convince you the horse you met was a statistical outlier.”

“Not a chance.”

Crocodile’s wide, jeweled palm slid along his waist, offering a champagne flute he had snatched off a passing tray, and paired with a soft smile. “Here. Should I hunt you down some fruit to apologize for my rudeness?”

“It would be a start.”

The food tents weren’t more than a few hundred paces from where he left River to keep himself busy, but the part of him that had never been good at playing nice with others made sure River never left his peripheral.

Seasonal fruits, cut into kitschy shapes caught his eye beside other cold snacks, with his victory immediately cut short by an irritating, grating drawl.

“Glad you could make it. How long have you been here without coming to say hello?” Doflamingo wedged his lanky body between him and the table.

“I was hoping to set a new record for us having been in the same area and not spoken. I’ll start the time again.”

His laugh rang beneath the shallow tent, pinging off the fine dining ware and spoiling Crocodile’s ability to recall River’s preferences for sweets. “And where’s your new toy? I want to meet them, I know they’re here.”

Mindlessly, his hands piled a shallow plate with watermelon and strawberries. In the silence that implied he should answer, he attempted to calculate the statistical probability he could keep River from the pink menace for the rest of the day. The odds were… not good.

“Follow me.”

But as they turned the corner to see River smiling, laughing with the daughter of the Nefertari family, Doflamingo’s mood soured beside him. His usual bravado dissolved to a cold, unforgiving affect in his suddenly rigid posture. Above them, the sun took their leave behind the trees, spreading a dimness over the summer picnic to become a frightened gray.

“Crocodile. You disappoint me.”

“Excuse me?” He turned when the crunch of footsteps in grass failed to follow him.

“What do you see?”

“Do not ask me pointless questions.”

“If that is your toy, the rent boy chatting with Vivi, then what else am I meant to assume?”

He was undeterred, foolishly, by Crocodile’s silence. “You seem confused. See, earlier this week I saw him while I was picking up my suit at the tailor. I thought, ‘Where have I seen him before?’ Now, watching him smile at sweet Vivi I can say for sure: I have people who work that street too. And while I’ve never had the pleasure of tasting the product myself—”

“The next words you say will have irreparable consequences on our relationship.”

He blinked behind his obnoxious pink glasses, genuine surprise painting his gape for a single moment. The next brought an easy smirk, fitting for the ever opportunist, one who was horribly, impossibly hard to frighten away. “So it’s that serious.”

“You always dance around the point, stop fucking around—”

“I think he’s a plant, Crocodile. Think of how easy you bought him, would it really be that strange someone hired him to get close to you? And take information back to Cobra’s team? The old man isn’t willing to do what it takes, but that’s nothing to say about the rest of them. It’s what I would do.”

And there were people like Doflamingo everywhere, that he knew all too well. “It’s too convenient. Too complicated, the simpler explanation is far more likely: What is all my wealth for if I don’t indulge once in awhile?”

“That good, huh?”

His scoff oozed disgust. “Go away. I want to enjoy my day off in peace.”

Doflamingo shouted after him, “I thought you didn’t take days off when you’re so close to closing!”

~*~

Beneath a tree, River sipped happily, admiring the sun beginning to emerge from behind the clouds and the mild temperature, a pleasant afternoon despite the earthen smell of animal lingering with the lunch being served. He almost mistook the steps behind him for Crocodile, until magnolias came fluttering up to his nose on the wind.

“Mr. Faustina! It’s awfully good to see you again. Are you here with friends?” Vivi beamed at him, her white-gloved hand smoothing the front of her riding outfit, a periwinkle polo and crisp trousers.

“I’m here with Crocodile. He’s—somewhere, probably with the food. Are you racing today?”

“It’s just a hobby, less of a competition, for me at least. Won’t you come meet my horse, Karoo?”

“I’m sure they’re as lovely as you are, but I’m really—,” his throat bobbed, his smile wavering, “Really not good with large animals.”

“Well, that’s all right, I won’t pressure you… Actually, I wanted to apologize.”

His surprise washed over his face in an embarrassed flush. “To me? What for?”

“For how I acted at dinner the other night. My father’s situation is… a sensitive topic for me, I’m afraid I’m still learning how to defend him amicably. With grace.”

“Never apologize for your passion. Your self-awareness is already more than anyone has any right to ask for.” He held out his hand, and placed a kiss to the back of her glove. “You have all the grace of royalty, don’t let anyone tell you different.”

She squeezed his hand before letting it fall, the furrow of her brows a reaction he hadn’t expected. “Then I’ll ask you something I had decided before to be too rude. What is a man like you doing with Crocodile?”

“I—” He scrunched his brow back at her, searching for any kind of answer but the truth. His sudden smile, cheeky against the lip of his champagne, equally she did not expect. “Would you believe me if I said I’m using him for sex?”

She spluttered politely, pink in the cheeks and holding her hand over her mouth to soften her chortle. “I’m sorry, it was too personal a question. Thank you for humoring me.”

Her acknowledgment of his deflection only confirmed how clever he found her, a princess of her own world, as deserving of her crown as she was charming. “Have you given any thought to what I asked you the other day?”

“The largest shareholder besides my father and I is Mr. Toto, at least that’s what I’ve called him since I was little, but he’s been very sick for a long time.”

“Shit,” River said, his hand beginning to twitch with want for a cigarette. They were out of time—

“His son, Koza, is in charge of his estate, but I don’t remember the last time he came to a shareholders meeting. He takes care of his father full time.”

“Do you have a way for me to contact him?”

“If I can’t get through to him, he won’t answer for you.”

“One meeting.” River insisted, taking back her gloved hand to plead. “And you need to be there too.”

“Me? I just said he isn’t listening to me—”

“And you’ll let that stop you? That doesn’t sound like the Vivi who almost threw a punch at a dangerous businessman in a fancy restaurant.”

She coughed out a laugh, embarrassed in the rose of her cheeks, but the grin at the corner of her mouth spoke of pleased flattery. And yet doubt flashed across her eyes, evidence she preened against the advice of her elders. “Isn’t that awful of me?”

“Demanding respect is always lady-like. Come on, you’re a princess of industry—lead me. Command Koza’s attention, and we might have a chance.”

Though she didn’t have time to answer, the slow slide of her insecurity into a renewed, bright smile, stuffed hope back into his chest.

“Might I know what we’re laughing about?” Crocodile said from behind them.

“I was telling her why I hate horses,” River grinned as he dropped her hand. “My backside still has the scar.”

Vivi bit her lip on another giggle. Across the lawn, the referee called for her return. “I need to be getting ready for the race. Enjoy your afternoon, gentleman.”

Once the princess was out of earshot and River was distracted, tucked into his fruits with happy munching sounds, Crocodile put his arm around his shoulders to rumble beside his ear. “I’ve seen every inch of your skin, enough to know that part of you is deliciously unmarred.”

“It was just to make her laugh,” River giggled, swiping at his chin to be sure he wasn’t getting fruit juice on the front of his new shirt. “And it made you jealous, I should say it was a successful fib.”

The breeze came by to pick up the ends of his hair, at the same time Crocodile’s smile turned down at the corners of his eyes. There it was, that ember of who he really was, what past lovers had spat with contempt—jealous. At least this time he managed to be gentle as he spoke:

“What did she really ask you?”

River fidgeted with a strawberry at the edge of his plate, the one he was saving for last. “She asked what our relationship was.”

“What did you tell her?”

“That your dick is big.”

It might have been the loudest he’s laughed in years, grinning wide, and taking River’s hand without complaint, so uncaring of the socialites who stared, subjected to their unabashed delight in each other. “She is a good kid.”

“A lovely young woman… She doesn’t need to know the truth.”

That quick, the moment was over, and though River scolded himself for speaking so candidly, he knew it needed to be said. For all the smiles they found in each other, warm to their core not by the summer sun through the branches, they both knew how they came to be here. Maybe, he believed if he stated it so plainly that they were nothing more than the mirage they painted, Crocodile might refute him.

But he stayed quiet, and the squeeze of his hand around River’s palm was not enough. It never was. Even as though both knew, under the pale blue of broad daylight:

They wanted it to be.

Chapter 9