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no-144444 · 3 months ago

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chapter three: blast from the past (l.n4)

summary: lando norris was a preppy asshole in secondary school, and you were the girl he despised. years later, you're a hot-shot sports lawyer rewriting the rules of the sport he calls home, and your paths cross, whether you want them to or not.

pairing: lando norris x fem! lawyer! reader

a/n: anything in orange and bold is the past/ in school

“Homework, Mr. Norris?” Mr. Catton was not one to be fucked with, and Lando had fallen asleep at 3am doing his biology homework.

“See, the thing is sir-”

“Not good enough, Lando. I know you’re busy, but school is important too,” he shook his head. “Detention, my office. Lunchtime.”

He let his head drop against his desk as he saw his teacher walk past. “Sir, I already have detention with Mrs. Daly at lunch,” he admitted, feeling all the eyes in the room on him.

He sighed and placed a hand on Lando’s shoulder. “After school then. Just an hour-”

“Sir, I got a two hour detention last week-!” one of the other students, was his name Mark? Maybe Wayne. Lando didn’t know. But he did know that this would warrant a grudge, and Lando really didn’t want another 6’ rugby player to have a grudge against him.

“Sit down Mr. O’Brien!” Mr. Catton commanded. A chair scratched against the floor. “Mr. Norris is under exceptional circumstances.”

O’Brien scoffed. “More like exceptional advances-”

A cacophony of laughter erupted from his friend group, but it was silenced quickly by Mr. Catton quickly swerving his head. “What was that O’Brien?”

“Nothing sir,” he cleared his throat. “Sorry.”

“After school detention for a month,” Mr. Catton’s voice cut through the classroom. “I don’t care about your rugby team. You’re going to be scrubbing desks for me.”

Lando looked up and saw O’Brien staring him down like he was a bull ready to fight. Fuck. Another X on his back.

Lunchtime was quiet. Lonely. Mr. Catton had gotten him out of his lunchtime detention with Mrs. Daly, only if he’d come to his office at lunch. Lunchtime was always quiet. Whether he was at a track or in school, or even at home. He was always lonely. Always alone. People on track thought he was too nice, too soft, too slow. People at school thought he was too flashy, too egotistical, too much. He just… wanted a friend. He wanted someone to talk to about everything. He had his friends, but they were busy doing lunchtime rugby drills. All the girls he knew were busy doing their art practicals. He was just… waiting for Mr. Catton.

“Now, Lando,” he smiled, sitting at his desk. “Take a seat, please.”

Mr. Catton was nice. He cared about Lando and his education, not just his racing results like some of the other teachers. He wanted to finish school because it mattered to his mom. He didn’t want to disappoint her, also, he may need a job at some point, if F1 doesn’t work out. Mr. Catton’s office looked like it was straight out of Harry Potter. Old books on even older shelves, plaques for things long forgotten at the school, different pictures in black and white, a big oak desk with stacks and stacks of papers and copies. He was sure he’d seen a monocle at one point. The computer screen on his desk didn’t exactly fit in with the aesthetics of the room, but Lando was sure it was old, so that kind of made up for it.

“How are you doing?” Mr. Catton asked, closing over the book in front of him.

“I’m… fine,” Lando nodded, playing with his hands. “Nothing much to report.”

“You’re failing three classes, Lando,” Mr. Catton had a habit of not sugarcoating things. “And we need to fix that, lest you want to repeat this year.”

“I know, it’s just with racing, I have so much to do at the tracks, and then here and-”

“I know it’s a lot. And it’s very overwhelming. And you’re doing better than I or anyone else could’ve imagined. But we need to solve this. I have a solution for Biology and English, but you need to find one for Physics, alright?”

Lando’s eyebrow raised. “What solution do you have?”

“A tutor,” he smiled. A knock at the door took the attention of both of them. “She’s here just in time. Come on in Y/n!” he called.

Lando’s face went grey, he was sure of it.

So, maybe he might’ve made a mistake by calling you socially awkward and boring, because that spread like wildfire, and no one would talk to you. It’s not like he meant to, he just wanted his mates to stop teasing him about you. He wasn’t interested in you, in any capacity. He just… should’ve chosen his words better.

“Lando,” you nodded politely at him as you sat beside him. “Mr. Catton.”

“I’m under the impression you two know each other?” he prompted.

“Our parents know each other,” you explained before Lando could say yes. He turned to you, a confused look on his face. You knew each other. “Yes.”

“Very good,” Mr. Catton smiled. “So, every week, you’ll get a tutoring lesson from Y/n, here. She’ll meet you on a Tuesday after school when you’re here, or else it’ll be up to you to sort out a time to call,” he explained, his eyes on Lando. “I need you to understand how important passing these classes are, alright? I don’t want to have to make you repeat a year.”

Lando nodded, knowing the expectations he had. He didn’t want to disappoint anyone. He didn’t want to make this a problem. He didn’t want to have to repeat a year. He also didn't want to have to see you every week when he knew what he’d said.

“I understand.”

“What I don’t get is how you calculate that,” he admitted, pointing to his copy. “It’s fucking impossible.”

“It’s not, you just take the numbers from here,” you explained calmly. “See?”

Oh. That was simple. “Oh-uh- t-thanks.”

“No problem,” you nodded curtly. “Just do some of those questions and tap me if you need some help,” you instructed before going back to whatever you were doing. Matter of fact, what were you doing? “Do your problems, Lando.”

“What are you doing?” he asked, turning his eyes back to his copy and starting some of the questions.

“I’m making you information sheets,” you explained.

“What do you mean?”

“Basically mind maps of all the information of the topics we’re studying and going to study this year, so you can keep up. I’ve noticed you’re a visual learner, thought it might help,” you shrugged. “Go back to your work now.”

He nodded, and tried to ignore the way he felt himself… soften towards you when you mentioned noticing that he was a visual learner. What you were doing was kind anyway, but that was a lot of work, yet you were doing it without being asked.

“Will do,” he nodded and went back to his questions. He couldn’t help but feel bad for his comments, but this made him feel worse.

After a few minutes, his questions were done, and he had questions for you. The suffocating silence was becoming too much for his overactive brain, and he was desperate to know more about you as a person. “Want to play twenty questions?” he asked.

“I have more questions for you, if you’ve done those,” you offered.

He rolled his eyes. “Can we play twenty questions as I do the questions?”

“If it helps you work better,” you shrugged, handing him a new worksheet on photosynthesis.

“What’s your favourite colour?” he asked, his pen scratching against the page.

“Red, maybe,” you shrugged. “What’s your favourite subject?”

“PE,” he chuckled. “How do you like the school?”

“I don’t,” you admitted, a rare moment of truth between the two of you. “What’s your favourite circuit?”

“I like Spa,” he shrugged. “What’s your favourite part of your job?”

“Getting to be other people,” you rattled off. “What’s the worst part of racing?”

He gulped for a moment. “The media. Like… the backlash and all. What’s the worst part of theatre?”

“The same,” you agreed, looking over his answers. “That’s wrong,” you pointed out, fixing his calculations. He looked up, seeing how close you were to him, and he jerked back. It wasn’t because he didn’t want to touch you or anything, it was just… a reaction. Your face blanked, and he was sure his went bright red. You were both quiet for a minute, and you turned back to your work. “You can just finish up that worksheet and give it back to me. Then we’re done for today.”

He nodded, noticing the way your posture was much stiffer than before. He didn’t want to admit it, but he knew you knew he’d started the rumor, and as selfish as it sounded, he hoped you’d never bring it up.

Lando looked down at his phone to see a message from you.

Hello Mr. Norris,

I won’t be able to attend our debrief this weekend, so please seek counsel from Mr. Davidson, and he will relay all information to me to continue building your profile. Sorry for the inconvenience and thank you for your understanding.

Y/n Y/l/n.

“Fuck you princess,” he cursed under his breath, pushing his phone back into his pocket. I should’ve just turned this whole idea down. I should’ve just ran the other way. I should’ve never taken up this position. I should’ve-

“I’m exhausted,” Oscar yawned as they sat around the motorhome after the win. “Can’t believe this is only the start of the triple header.”

Sierra appeared beside him, Liam beside her. Lando’s head throbbed with a headache that had been building since the start of the weekend.

“Ready?” Sierra asked Oscar.

“Yeah,” he stood from his chair and led her to his Driver’s Room.

Lando sighed as Liam stood over him.

“Y/n’s not here-”

“I noticed,” Lando gritted out, crossing his arms. “Well, come on, out with it.”

“Do you want to go-”

“If I wanted to go somewhere, I’d have gone. Wouldn’t I, Liam?” His voice was sharp. Too sharp. Too obvious. Liam flinched at his tone.

“Have I done something to offend you?”

“Not you directly. Your girlfriend is pretty fucking annoying though,” he grunted out, a subtle dig.

Liam raised an eyebrow. “I thought you knew Y/n?”

“So she is your girlfriend?” he scoffed. Of course. Of course he was. Of course you’d never be upfront and honest about the fact that despite everything you’d been through with Lando, he’d never be enough. He shook his head.

Liam cleared his throat. “Well… no. But I knew who you’re talking about with your insinuation,” Liam caught his own slip-up as Lando chuckled at his back-tracking.

“You don’t need to prove anything to me,” Lando held his hands up in mock surrender, just anyone with eyes could hear the patronisation in his tone. Liam frowned. “Good for you. I’m sure she’s a head wreck to date. Good fuck though.”

Liam’s face dropped. Lando didn’t even know what was coming out of his mouth, he was just… upset. You always brought him to the edge, and yeah, maybe he went too far this time. How was he supposed to not? He shook his head, trying to shake off his own words. He had to stop giving you this much control over him. He just had to… forget. To relax. To get the fuck away from you.

“A-hem,” you cleared your throat from behind him and he felt his blood run cold. Fuck. “I’m sure you’ll be fine to take this on your own, Liam?” you turned to your colleague. Liam just nodded, offering you a pitying smile. “Mr. Norris, that was highly inappropriate, and I will bring this issue up with our HR department. Spreading lies about anyone is awful, but to have them contain such crude accusations is just wrong. I’ll see you next weekend.”

Fuck. He was fucked.

𓆝 𓆟𓆝 𓆟𓆝 𓆟𓆝 𓆟

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sttm99 · 11 months ago

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You've always noticed Bakugo.

Easily.

You almost took it as a thing of pride, having been able to see the potential so easily. When you were all fifteen-year old first years, you could so easily tell he was handsome. Your teenage eyes always seemed to search for him in every class, every room.

He was brash and unpolished, loud, obnoxious, and an all-round piece of shit. But that stupid, wattpad-infested, schoolgirl mind of yours couldn't help but eat it up.

You could never muster up the courage to talk to him, though. He was mean, and you weren't like Mina or Kirishima that could hang out with him and not be bothered by it.

So you settled with admiring him from afar, keeping your attraction to yourself and never really coming into the space that is Katsuki Bakugo throughout your first year.

Second year was the year you had your first encounter with him. It was in the final months of the year, when you two had been paired together for a project.

He came over to your table at the end of the school day with his bag lazily slung over his shoulder as he stood above you by your desk.

"My room this evening. 6:30. We'll start then and see how far we can go." He tells you swiftly, in that voice that had begun to crack already, eliciting slightly more mature thoughts from you.

"Sure." You murmur as you looked up at him.

He turned around and left immediately, not once turning back to look at you, his other friends following him out the door.

You knocked on his door at 6:33, foregoing your uniform for a simple, little t-shirt and plaid trousers. He opened the door almost instantly, ushering you in and shutting it quick behind you.

"This is how it's gonna go-" He begins as he takes a seat on his desk, powering up his computer. You take the small moment where he's facing away to admire his back, his shoulders bare from the sleeveless tee he has on.

When he turns back, your face is back to a blank stare, eyes directed towards the poster he has above his bed. It's an all might one, and you think you remember it being limited edition, an expensive one that was hard to get a hold of.

"Oi, over here." He scolds you, and you turn back to him.

"Sorry," you mumble, as you step over to him, standing between his desk and his bed.

He glances at you, taking in what you're wearing. "You can sit on my bed. Those aren't outside clothes, right? So it's fine."

You slowly sit on his bed as he begins to open up a Word document. The project was for history class, and you two had gotten a time period you were disgustingly educated in.

Bakugo had already started the work, surprising you a bit. He began pointing out what he'd already done, and what you'd be doing to complete it.

"And-"

"This is wrong, by the way." You cut him off.

Bakugo looks at you slowly, a scowl taking over his pictures. "Wrong?"

You nod, your shyness melting off in the presence of your intelligence. "Yeah. This -" You point to a paragraph header. "- didn't start happening until about 50 years later - 54 specifically, actually. So, if you talk about the monarch right before this, it would look weird cause he couldn't have come into power without this practice."

Your eyes are on the laptop, pointing out mistakes and making corrections. And for the first time since you started at UA, Bakugo noticed you.

It was a subtle switch, where he went from seeing you to actually noticing you; from hearing to listening.

Were you always this smart?

Was your voice naturally that way?

Have you always smelled so good?

The evening ended with you making suggestions and adding about three paragraphs to the work.

And as he closed his eyes to sleep, all Bakugo saw was you.

This is five years past. Mina had invited a small group of them to her apartment for a mini reunion, and just like in his room years before, Bakugo noticed you.

He noticed you standing in Mina's kitchen by the sink, washing off the sauce Denki had accidentally spilt over your palms, whilst the others were in Mina's living room playing a game of charades.

"Hey." You turn to look at Bakugo by the door.

It wasn't like you'd suddenly become friends after the project you two had done together, but you could tell he'd warmed up to you a bit. He looked at you sometimes, more often than before, and didn't look away immediately after making eye contact.

Sometimes, he'd ask your opinion on something(you liked when he did. He valued what you had to say), or he'd make some side comment about you when you'd pass him in the hall sometimes. But they weren't regular Bakugo mean. He was warming up to you, in his own Bakugo away, but warming up nonetheless.

"Hi." You say back to him, turning off the tap before going to wipe your hand with some paper towels.

"Haven't seen you in a bit," Bakugo mumbles as he steps closer, leaning his hip against the counter, some few feet away from you.

Whilst he came into the spotlight, bright and loud like his quirk, you'd decided to follow Aizawa's footsteps and become an underground hero instead- foregoing the limelight for a career in busting crime rings and fucking up drug lords.

You shrug, not really looking at him, your eyes instead focusing on your hands as you dried them.

You'd grown out of your little crush quickly after graduation. Even though you could appreciate just how blindingly handsome he was, just as you'd expected, he didn't have your heart racing anymore, didn't get your palms sweaty.

Sure, maybe the sight of his veiny forearms and large shoulders did something to your stomach, but you knew the difference between pure lust and actual romantic feelings.

"Kind of the point of my work, don't you think?" You ask rhetorically.

He shrugs back. "How's it going, anyways?"

It's not something he can do, the whole underground thing. His quirk isn't quite right for it, and neither is his personality. And with how his time in UA went, he was far too recognizable to go undercover anywhere.

But he could appreciate that you were good at what you did. He wouldn't admit it, but he did keep up with some of the people he didn't bother talking to after graduation. Just a few - Deku and Todoroki - sometimes he'd look at what Uraraka and Jiro are doing.

Admittedly, he checked up on you far more often than he was willing to expose. He knew a lot of your missions and was eerily familiar with your high success rate, too.

"It's fine." You say as you throw the towel into the bin and lean back against the counter behind you, your palms holding the edge as you looked at Bakugo. "Not so glamorous, a bit scary sometimes, I guess, but- that's hero work, isn't it?"

He hums, and at the back of his mind, he hopes the others don't bother coming to look for either of you soon.

"I guess so. But hey, you've been doing good." He admits.

You raise a brow and are unable to keep the smirk off your face. "You've been following up on me?" There's a teasing lilt to your voice which Bakugo had never encountered before. The tilt of your lips changes the entire dynamic of your face.

You're less melancholic now, more sultry and seductive, and it's pulling him in without him understanding why. It's something he'd never seen from you in UA, and he wonders... what else has he not seen from you?

He scoffs at your words, folding his arms over his chest as he stares you down. "I keep up with hero news."

You chuckle a bit. "You're doing well, too, though."

He shrugs. "Thanks, I guess. 'M just waiting for all those old geezers to fucking retire."

You laugh aloud at that.

Bakugo sees Kirishima step into the doorframe behind you. He glares quickly, purposefully as you're not focused on him, still laughing. He's signalling for Kirishima to leave - he doesn't want this moment with you to end just yet.

The redhead complies, not without shooting Bakugo a sly look.

As you turn back to him, his disposition is different. He's less put off, and he's gotten closer. "So -" He starts, drumming his fingers over the countertop"- what are you doing after this?"

And you smile at him, in that sly, sultry way you did before. "It's up to you now, isn't it?"

This most probably won't have a part 2. I just wanted to get it out of my drafts.

#bakugo x reader #bakugou katsuki x reader #bakugou x reader #bakugou katsuki #mha bakugou #katsuki bakugou x reader #bakugou katuski x reader #bnha x reader #bakugo fluff

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aboringredmop · 9 months ago

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some personal notes from the Becky and Joe q&a!!

magnet from webseries is a boy

computer & family are their favorite episodes

Joe likes the memory song most, Becky likes love

there's more merch coming out!! within a month :)

Becky's fav designs are Lesley and the train, joe likes the mirror because it's stupidly easy

tv show karaoke version on Spotify one day maybe

us event maybe, they want first class plane tickets

the Christmas tv episode was scrapped because their contact only allowed for 6 episodes, would've been fun. there was gonna be a character called Winter Susan

concept art book maybe! they also want to make something educational to fit the theme/vibe of the show

tv soundtrack on Spotify also soon sometime maybe

they would love to go to mexico

they talked about some scrapped characters (Duncan Andrews who was gonna be in Death and is shown in the quiz part of Electricity, care bear- type annoying character who died in the trios bed. clipboard)

duck autotune was removed because of The Government

warren was slightly based off of a real guy who worked with Becky and Joe

they really liked the tawog collab because of how much creative freedom they were given

red guy will be eternal

their favorite animation style within the show is, funnily enough, claymation

Becky and Joe are very big jack stauber fans and would love to collab some day

the deleted wine bottle scene from Time was part of a scrapped piece of lyrics (about aging wine) that was replaced by the rotting apple

Becky Joe and diamond Daniel will officiate your dhmis themed wedding

they're not 100% sure there will be more dhmis episodes, because of the time and money it takes. they feel like it's a bit weird to have a second kickstarter

Blu ray for the tv show maybe? international release soon

any teasers for future (dhmis) stuff will be released on their youtube channel

they're not releasing the pilot, pack it up guys

(legally not allowed, to expensive to buy back I believe? the sped up part at Rotterdam might've not been allowed either. rights are owned by turner)

they have an emailadres where you can send fanart! [email protected]

#dhmis #dont hug me im scared

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darkficsyouneveraskedfor · 2 months ago

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Pent Up 6

No tag lists. Do not send asks or DMs about updates. Review my pinned post for guidelines, masterlist, etc.

Warnings: this fic will include dark content such as noncon/dubcon, virginity loss, age gap, and possible untagged elements. My warnings are not exhaustive, enter at your own risk.

This is a dark!fic and explicit. 18+ only. Your media consumption is your own responsibility. Warnings have been given. DO NOT PROCEED if these matters upset you.

Summary: you seek validation through online correspondence with incarcerated men, only for one to lock you down in turn.

Characters: convict/excon!Thor (silverfox)

As per usual, I humbly request your thoughts! Reblogs are always appreciated and welcomed, not only do I see them easier but it lets other people see my work. I will do my best to answer all I can. I’m trying to get better at keeping up so thanks everyone for staying with me.

Your feedback will help in this and future works (and WiPs, I haven’t forgotten those!) Please do not just put ‘more’. I will block you.

I love you all immensely. Take care. 💖

You peer around awkwardly, unsure of the fine silvery cutlery and which of the forks to use. You can’t help but feel out of place as you’re the youngest at the table; by decades. It’s surreal, like when your mom left you with your great grandparents as a child. She said it would be a few days but it turned out to be a month. They never had you back.

You fidget and play with the frill along your left shoulder. The asymmetrical cut isn’t your favourite. You’re not sure what high school you was thinking, even if it was only a few years ago.

“That colour is gorgeous on you,” Frigga preens, forcing you out of your anxious trance.

You smile sheepishly. “Thanks. I... love your hair pin.”

She touches the pearl barrette in her hair. “Oh, thank you, dear.”

He uses the smaller fork, you think, to poke at her salad. You’re not into kale, you find it dense, but you know better to complain or decline. Just like with her son. You gulp and grab your fork. It’s like when your great grandmother made you that olive and cottage cheese delicacy you vomited into her garden. The salad is more palatable.

You taste it, hoping the task of chewing can save you from talking. They all are exceedingly skilled at that and you don’t have much to offer. If you try, that screaming inside your head might escape to the outside.

You wince as Thor rests his large hand on the back of your chair.

“She’s a very clever woman. She works with electronics. Oh, and is she attending classes.”

You swallow and nearly choke. He’s bragging about the lamest things in your life. Your job is boring and you don’t really do anything with the computers yourself. And classes... you’re just trying to pad your resume.

“It’s very important to get an education,” Odin intones. “What’s more important is what you do with it. I spent a fortune on two engineering degrees for this one...” he shakes his head. “And look where he ended up.”

You’re even more confounded by that revelation. Thor? An engineer? What on earth got him put in prison? You try not to delve too far into that riddle. It’s probably best to ignore that. How many red flags did you already ignore? What’s another.

“It’s nothing special. Just... business admin. Basic stuff,” you shrug.

Frigga’s eyes narrow and Odin tilts his head. They aren’t impressed and they shouldn’t be. That might be something. If they don’t approve of you...

“And... I’m stuck with my parents still so... you know...” You add.

“She is saving money. For us,” Thor assures. “You know things are difficult these days and father always said there is value in hard work.”

“Mm, so I said,” Odin drawls. “Certainly, I hear your brother took that to heart. I hear he’s hired help.”

“Oh?” Thor sniffs. “And still he could not come see me?”

“He has not come to see all of us. Your mother only chanced upon him herself. Hasn’t even the time to pick up the phone for her--”

“He is busy,” Frigga assures Odin as she pets his hand. “He will be here for your father’s birthday. That is what matters. And his assistant, she was darling. Though he was in a state. You know how he can be. Perhaps you might ask his advice, Thor. He could help you find some work.”

“Hm, I suppose I could try asking,” Thor shifts, retracting his hand from the back of your chair. “I am not helpless. I have plans...”

“Yes, son, you have told us the same many times. I believe the day before your sentencing,” Odin scoffs. “A bit old now to be falling back into bad habits.”

“Father. I’ve turned myself around and she,” he reaches over to take your hand, your fork scraping your plate, “will keep me straight.”

“Right,” Odin crosses his arms and leans back. “Don’t tell me so, show me.”

“Father, I--” Thor clears his throat.

Silence rises with a rippling tension. You look between his parents. You piece together the few clues you have. You can’t really begrudge them their doubt. You have your own.

“Well, I have one in particular,” Thor pushes his chair back and keeps hold of your hand.

He slides your fork free and puts it on the table. You peek up at him, confused. He kicks his chair back and he turns, lowering himself to one knee with a grunt. He digs in his pocket with his other hand and pulls out a band with a large diamond sparkling in the light.

Frigga gasps and you gurgle. Odin sighs.

“My queen, how I’ve waited so long for us to be together and now I can’t hardly wait for it to be. Please, will you make me your king?” He holds up the ring. You could fold over and evaporate into the floor. Sweat glazes over your face and your scalp itches. What do you say?

“Um,” you sniff and blink. Your options are many. You really don’t have any. You’re too afraid of even saying no to him. Even with witnesses. “Yes?”

He squeezes your hand and you let out a fluttery noise. Your heart is thumping, deafening you as the world pinpoints to his grip on you. He opens his hand and slides the ring onto your finger. You stare at the large rectangle diamond framed in smaller diamonds on a gold band. It must be expensive.

A chair scrapes and you wince. You look over as Odin clucks and turns on his heel. He swipes up his can from against the table and marches out. Not a word, not a look. You look at Frigga as she gives a gentle smile.

“He’s in shock, I think,” she says.

You glance at Thor as he stares after his father. His face falls. He lets go of you and gets up, another groan as he does. He sits in his chair and frowns.

“I thought he’d be happy,” Thor mutters.

“Oh, of course he’s happy for you, son,” she affirms and reaches across to her son. He takes her hand. “I am. Don’t you worry.”

“He didn’t say anything,” Thor sneers.

“Thor, it’s been a lot. You’ve been away from us for so long and now this... it’s all very sudden. We’ve just met this lovely woman.” She looks at you kindly. “What are your plans? For the wedding?”

“I have my trust,” Thor recoils and crosses his arms, almost petulant. At his size, the bratty demeanour is almost laughable. “I was not entirely unproductive in prison. I only ever did what needs to be done. Mother, you know I am not a cruel person. I’ve made mistakes, I admitted them. And you all hold it against me.”

“No, we don’t, darling--”

“You do! But only my diamond forgive me. She is so kind and--” he huffs. “He couldn’t even stay and face me. Congratulate me. Worse, he’s disrespected my future wife.”

Wife? You could faint. You brace the sides of the chair to keep from doing just that.

“Dear,” Frigga’s eyes meet yours. “Are you unwell?”

You shake your head. You lean forward and catch yourself against the table. You reach for the tall glass by your plate.

“I only need water,” you assure her.

“Mm, yes, we shouldn’t let all this go to waste,” she tuts. “You know, your father just needs time. He is like you and your brother. You only need simmer in your thoughts then you come to sense. Eventually.”

🩷

Leaving brings both relief and dread. You are glad to be free of the repressive exuberance of Thor’s family estate but uneasy at the prospect of being alone with him. Again.

You sit in the passenger seat and stare at your hand. The large stone is as heavy as a boulder. You are not Sisyphus. You’re not sure how much further you can get it up the hill.

“I am so happy. Are you?” He asks.

You sit up and suck in a thick breath. You are many things. Afraid, lost, almost mourning. You regret being so stupid. Those idiotic emails were only meant to be... well, an ego boost. You are so pathetic, you wanted desperate men to tell you lies. And you told your own.

“Thor,” you utter cautiously. “It’s a very nice ring and a very nice gesture but... I’m still very young and I don’t have much. I think maybe--” You pause and weigh your words; does the boulder roll back to the bottom of the hill? “Maybe that’s why your dad wasn’t happy. Because I’m not—not the right person for you right now--”

He slams on the brakes. You squeal as the seat belt keeps you from hitting the dash. A car honks and serves around him. He ignores them.

“Not right for me? You are the only one for me,” he insists. “My queen, you said yes to me.”

“I did. I—I didn’t want to have this conversation there. It’s not that... It’s... I’m... I have to finish school and right now isn’t good for me--”

“You don’t need school. I will take care of you--”

“Thor, I can take care of myself--”

“It is my job to take of you,” he snarls.

You lean away from him, startled by his deeper tone. In the cabin of the truck, he is even bigger. You wipe your sweaty hand on your skirt.

“It’s very sweet of you but--”

“You said yes,” he growls.

You blink, eyes tinging with moisture. You wet your lips. Your throat is scratchy.

“Yes,” you nod. “Thor... My parents... you know, I think maybe before we decide anything I need to talk to them.”

“Oh, I will be speaking with this man, this stepfather of yours. I will not be asking anything of him either. I will be telling him,” he says.

You gulp. While the idea of him intimidating Andy is on the surface amusing, it’s deeply troubling too. You don’t want your family to know anything about Thor.

“Well, let me talk to them first.”

Another car honks and you look out the back window. Thor is unbothered by the roadblock he’s caused. You are about to melt into a puddle.

“Can I be honest?” You ask.

He stares and nods. The lines in his face trace his displeasure. Your eyes wander to his rounded muscular silhouette and his thick hands. The intrusive thought of them around your neck make you squirm. What if he killed someone?

“I didn’t tell them yet,” you blurt out. It’s true but still a lie because it isn’t the truth you kept from him. “My family. I never mentioned you. I... never told them about anyone so I think they might be surprised and, so, er, can’t you let me... tell them first?”

He looks at you. His forehead wrinkles. He exhales through his nose. Another car lays on their horn. He shakes his head and sits straight.

“I suppose...” he mutters as he hangs his head. The horn continues to blare.

He grips the wheel and he face twists in agitation. He peels his fingers off and balls his hands to fists. He hits the steering wheel and snarls.

Before you can react, he taps the button on his seat belt and it retracts. He swings open the door, mindless to oncoming traffic, and gets out of the car. He lands heavy on his feet and marches along the side of the truck.

You panic and scramble to untangle yourself from your seat belt. You fall out of the truck as you hear him hollering.

“You honking at me?” Thor barks as he approaches the other car. “You’re messing with the wrong man.” You sprint around the truck bed as he gets to the driver’s window. He bends to snarl through, “why don’t you open up and face me, eh? Coward!”

“Thor, please, get back in the car,” you scurry over. “Please, we’re in the way--”

“No, he has no patience!” He hits the top of the car and leaves a dent. You gasp. It looks as if it took him no effort at all.

The man in the car is frightened. He curls over his wheel and revs in a futile effort to scare away the raging giant. You grab Thor’s hand and pet his forearm.

“Thor...” you peek once more at the scared driver. It’s your fault. All of this is your fault. “My king.” You coo at him shakily. “Please get back in the truck and take me home.”

“He is disturbing us! He could go around--”

“Thor!” You nearly shriek. “How can I marry you if you are so angry? If you do not listen to me?”

His eyes round and he twitches as if he’s been struck. He looks at you and his face turns grim. “Marry me?”

“I didn’t-- I wasn’t saying no. I was just saying—asking for some time,” you look him in the eye, caressing him, calming him like a riled dog. “But I can’t marry someone who does these things.”

He lowers his head. He actually looks guilty. He nods and turns. He bends and taps gently on the window. He waves his hand.

“Sorry about that. Bad day,” he gives a sheepish grin. “Here.” He lets you go and takes out his wallet. He takes out a couple of bills; each at least a hundred dollars. “For the roof.”

He tucks the money under the wiper and stands straight. He latches onto you again and drags you away. He sighs out the tension.

“You are right, my queen.” He says. “This is why I need you. To keep me in my right mind.”

#thor #dark thor #dark!thor #thor x reader #series #pent up #fic #dark fic #dark!fic #marvel #mcu #avengers #u

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artsekey · 1 year ago

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I'd been seeing videos on Tiktok and Youtube about how younger Gen Z & Gen Alpha were demonstrating low computer literacy & below benchmark reading & writing skills, but-- like with many things on the internet-- I assumed most of what I read and watched was exaggerated. Hell, even if things were as bad as people were saying, it would be at least ~5 years before I started seeing the problem in higher education.

I was very wrong.

Of the many applications I've read this application season, only %6 percent demonstrated would I would consider a college-level mastery of language & grammar. The students writing these applications have been enrolled in university for at least two years, and have taken all fundamental courses. This means they've had classes dedicated to reading, writing, and literature analysis, and yet!

There are sentences I have to read over and over again to discern intent. Circular arguments that offer no actual substance. Errors in spelling and capitalization that spellcheck should've flagged.

At a glance, it's easy to trace this issue back to two things:

The state of education in the United States is abhorrent. Instructors are not paid enough, so schools-- particularly public schools-- take whatever instructors they can find.

COVID. The two year long gap in education, especially in high school, left many students struggling to keep up.

But I think there's a third culprit-- something I mentioned earlier in this post. A lack of computer literacy.

This subject has been covered extensively by multiple news outlets like the Washington Post and Raconteur, but as someone seeing it firsthand I wanted to add my voice to the rising chorus of concerned educators begging you to pay attention.

As the interface we use to engage with technology becomes more user friendly, the knowledge we need to access our files, photos, programs, & data becomes less and less important. Why do I need to know about directories if I can search my files in Windows (are you searching in Windows? Are you sure? Do you know what that bar you're typing into is part of? Where it's looking)? Maybe you don't have any files on your computer at all-- maybe they're on the cloud through OneDrive, or backed up through Google. Some of you reading this may know exactly where and how your files are stored. Many of you probably don't, and that's okay. For most people, being able to access a file in as short a time as possible is what they prioritize.

The problem is, when you as a consumer are only using a tool, you are intrinsically limited by the functions that tool is advertised to have. Worse yet, when the tool fails or is insufficient for what you need, you have no way of working outside of that tool. You'll need to consult an expert, which is usually expensive.

When you as a consumer understand a tool, your options are limitless. You can break it apart and put it back together in just the way you like, or you can identify what parts of the tool you need and search for more accessible or affordable options that focus more on your specific use-case.

The problem-- and to be clear, I do not blame Gen Z & Gen Alpha for what I'm about to outline-- is that this user-friendly interface has fostered a culture that no longer troubleshoots. If something on the computer doesn't work well, it's the computer's fault. It's UI should be more intuitive, and it it's not operating as expected, it's broken. What I'm seeing more and more of is that if something's broken, students stop there. They believe there's nothing they can do. They don't actively seek out solutions, they don't take to Google, they don't hop on Reddit to ask around; they just... stop. The gap in knowledge between where they stand and where they need to be to begin troubleshooting seems to wide and inaccessible (because the fundamental structure of files/directories is unknown to many) that they don't begin.

This isn't demonstrative of a lack of critical thinking, but without the drive to troubleshoot the number of opportunities to develop those critical thinking skills are greatly diminished. How do you communicate an issue to someone online? How do look for specific information? How do you determine whether that information is specifically helpful to you? If it isn't, what part of it is? This process fosters so many skills that I believe are at least partially linked to the ability to read and write effectively, and for so many of my students it feels like a complete non-starter.

We need basic computer classes back in schools. We need typing classes, we need digital media classes, we need classes that talk about computers outside of learning to code. Students need every opportunity to develop critical thinking skills and the ability to self-reflect & self correct, and in an age of misinformation & portable technology, it's more important now than ever.

#computers #pc #digital #rant #something something planned obsolescence

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simmplykam · 11 days ago

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ARCHITECTURAL LEGACY CHALLENGE:

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This challenge is inspired by the lives and creations of famous architects, most of which lean into modern design. The aspirations, traits, and goals of each generation are all common in a legacy challenge. However, I am more of a builder in The Sims, so I wanted to create a legacy challenge that really leans into the building aspect of the game. Each generation must live in a house that is a replica or derives inspiration from that architect’s portfolio. I will attach a singular inspiration photo for each, but I highly recommend doing your own research to find the best reference photo for your build! I also plan on posting my own builds for each generation on the gallery.

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Gen 1: Frank Lloyd Wright

- Begin on an empty lot

- Study Engineering at University

- Enter Education Career

- Teach Fabrication Classes

- Master Fabrication Skill

- Level 5 of any instrument

- Serial Romantic Aspiration

Traits:

* Family Oriented

* Hot Headed

* Self Assured

Gen 2: Louis Kahn

- Fine Arts Degree

- Enter Art Critic Career

- Master Painting Skill

- Level 5 piano

- Complete Metals & Crystal collection

- Painter Extrodinaire Aspiration

Traits:

* Creative

* Gloomy

* Good

Gen 3: Norman Foster

- Enter Civil designer career

- Level 5 baking skill

- Max logic skill

- Transform Evergreen Harbor’s eco footprint

- Stay involved in NAPs

- Outdoorsy lifestyle

- Eco Innovator Aspiration

Traits:

* Genius

* Bookworm

* Green Fiend

Gen 4: Walter Gropius

- Enter Military career

- Quit the Military career before becoming an adult

- Go to college as an adult and earn an education degree

- Become a Professor

- Leader of wealthy men’s club

- People person lifestyle

- Renaissance Sim Aspiration

Traits:

* Neat

* Perfectionist

* Insider

Gen 5: Alvar Aalto

- Earn computer science degree

- Enter designer career

- Marry a fellow designer

- Master handiness skill

- Master entrepreneur career

- Computer Whiz Aspiration

Traits:

* Practice Makes Perfect

* Romantic

* Ambitious

Gen 6: Paul Revere Williams

- Earn physics degree

- Join mechanical engineer career

- Level 5 writing

- Have at least 3 famous friends

- Protest for sims rights

- Frequent traveler lifestyle

- Successful Lineage Aspiration

Traits:

* Generous

* Self-assured

* Proper

Gen 7: Moshe Safdie

- Enter landlord career

- Freelance writer

- Have a small farm with goats and bees

- Level 5 fabrication skill

- Level 5 gardening skill

- People person lifestyle

- Five Star Property Owner Aspiration

Traits:

* Idealist

* Perfectionist

* Loves outdoors

Gen 8: John Lautner

- Earn Fine Arts degree

- Level 5 piano

- Level 5 handiness

- Own a Jazz club

- Marry an alien

- World-Famous Celebrity Aspiration

Traits:

* Geek

* Erratic

* Goofball

Gen 9: Charles Correa

- Earn a History degree

- Level 5 archaeology

- Level 5 wellness

- Attend all festivals to learn about cultures

- 3 gold parties

- Fount of Tomarani Knowkedge Aspiration

Traits:

* Child of the Village

* Outgoing

* Loyal

Gen 10: Antoni Guadí

- Own a pottery business

- Master pottery skill

- Master wellness skill

- Own a bee hive and have a good relationship with them

- Complete seashell collection

- Outdoor Enthusiast Aspiration

- Remain single

Traits:

* Loves Outdoors

* Vegetarian

* Non-romantic

I hope you enjoy this challenge, especially all my builders! As someone who typically struggled with legacy challenges I hope this is enjoyable for all!! 🫶🏻

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anki-of-beleriand · 2 years ago

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Bad Liar ch.7

Summary: Life is about lessons, and Wanda has been learning some harsh facts that had define her life and taken her to a place in which she was given a second chance. Then, all of a sudden, she meets you, and she realizes why it's easier to lie to yourself than to accpet what's right in front of her.

Pairing: Wanda Maximoff/ Female!reader - America/Kate - Mentions of past Vision/Wanda - past Natasha/Reader - Some Female!Reader/Carol Danvers

Warnings: Slow burn - slightly Enemies to friends to lovers - Mentions of abusive relationships - Toxic relationships - angst - drama - mentions of abuse - idiots in love - homophobia - more tags as the story progress.

Author's note: Here is a new chapter and right now there is no place to run, many secrets are out and it is time for everyone to start playing a part in the game.

As always, English is no my mother tongue, so please forgive the grammar, spelling and funny mistakes!

Chapter 1 - Chapter 2 - Chapter 3 - Chapter 4 - Chapter 5 - Chapter 6 - Chapter 7 - Chapter 8 - Chapter 9 - Chapter 10 - Chapter 11 - Chapter 12 - Chapter 13 - Chapter 14 - Chapter 15 - Chapter 16 - Chapter 17 - Chapter 18

Chapter 7

Whispered secrets

The Innovation Classroom had been a donation by the Bishop Family a couple of years ago. The main goal was to provide the school with the latest technological gadgets and programs so their students could always be up to date offering their students the right tools to keep up with their education. Everyone had access to the computers and the red of the school, but in reality only a few select students excel in the art of encrypted information.

America hated pne of those peoople, mainly because ever since she arrived at school her main goal had been to hit on a very clueless, and very exasperating Kate Bishop. But, after the long conversation she held with the team, America knew this would be their only chance to get some answers.

Everyone had their attention on Riri Williams.

The young woman chewed on the gun in her mouth, her brows knitted together while her brown eyes pierce every member of the advance class with a glint of curiosity in her eyes. Riri stopped for a moment on America, before her eyes set on Kate who was bouncing restlessly right behind her best friend.

Kate tensed lightly, her heart beating fast just as Riri smirked winking at her. Kate felt her cheeks warm, and America cleared her throat while positioning herself in the line of vision of Riri. The black-skinned woman chuckled tilting her head while resting her elbows on the table arching her back pinning America with her eyes.

"So, you guys want me to hack into personal files, get information from a private company and… What do I have in exchange?"

Riri could tell her question caught everyone in the group off guard, they were not expecting such an answer and this was the perfect opportunity for her to make the right move.

"Money wouldn't be an issue." America intervened stepping forward.

"Money can't buy everything in life, Chavez." Riri rolled her eyes leaning forward while scratching the back of her neck.

America opened her mouth but Riri tilted her head, soon her eyes found those of Kate who looked around before settling her eyes on her.

"How about a date?"

The silence that followed could be broken by a needle falling to the floor. America was left frozen in place, her shoulders put back and her brows knitting together while she clenched her fists closed. Kate from her part was slightly confused, her heart beating fast just as she turned to America then back to Riri.

Kamala had her eyes on Kate, whereas Yelena and Loki were looking intently at America. The tension in the room could be cut with a knife, and America had to hold herself for doing or saying something that she could regret. Riri for her part chuckled, playing the part she was asked to play.

“Come on, it shouldn’t be that hard! You guys came to me, after all.” Kate turned to America, and America hesitated for a moment. It was Loki the one who decided to break the silence.

“I believe we are very curious in knowing who you have in mind, Riri. We cannot force anyone to date you, as you so eloquently put it, money can’t buy everything and this would need to be a decision made by said person.”

“Always big with the words, and the fanfare, Odinson.” Riri rolled her eyes before she nodded towards Kate. “I was thinking, Bishop over there. What do you say? The Winter break is almost here, and I heard the Ball this year would be fantastic…so…Bishop comes with me, and I will give you what you want.”

That comment did it.

America straightened up, jerking her head to the side so her eyes locked onto those of Kate. The other teen was just as shocked as America, though America could swear she saw curiosity in them too. The young woman clenched her fist closed, while Kate started babbling away while trying to explain, and ask, and said a hundredth things at the same time.

"Well, what is it gonna be? Unless this information isn't as important as you made it look."

In all honestly, everyone was wondering the same.

While it was truth that during her babysitting duty, America had become overly found of the twins, their snooping around in the life of their newest teacher had become somehow America’s recent obsession. The young woman had not dared to revel that much, but Kate knew America had been worrying about her sister and the recent attraction she had developed for Wanda. When the black-haired woman turned to America she could see the conflict in her stance, and the way her eyes went from Riri to her.

Kamala stepped forward, chewing on her lower lip while crossing stares with Yelena. America for her part stood on her spot, her mind going over the different options they had. Why was it so important to find out about this woman? Why was she so curious about Wanda Maximoff? It seemed that everyone was wondering the same, and all eyes were now in America.

Kate chewed on her lower lip, the decision should be easier than what it looked at the moment. Kate understood America’s worries, but they had other ways to find out about Wanda. They could use other means, and Kate had a hope that perhaps…that maybe America and her could go…

For a brief moment, America turned to Kate who was glancing at Riri, and Riri was looking back at her. A waved of jealousy grew inside America and she just clenched her jaw closed. This was such a mess, and it should be an easy decision on her part, still…

“America?" Kate asked, and all of a sudden her expression changed. Her face hardened and America could recognize the spark of annoyance in her eyes. "The decision should be easy, you know?"

And of course, America knew it should be easier. But as of late she had seen the change in you, she had read the messages you and Wanda had exchanged and America couldn't help but think of the twins with their scars and the fear in their eyes.

Loki locked eyes with Yelena, and both of them were as expectant as everyone in the room. Then Kate shook her head, she huffed, pushing America out of the way and walking straight towards Riri.

"You have a deal, Riri." Then she softened her features, her tone of voice changing into one of pure sweetness flirtation. "And now that I think about it, I would be more than happy to go with you to the Ball…I promise you, it will be unforgettable."

Kate leaned in, placing a single kiss on the woman's cheek before turning around, she walked past America towards Kamala, grabbing the hand of the other girl she left the room without saying another word.

America felt a knot on her throat, the display of cowardice she just showed to Kate and her friends heavy on her shoulders.

"Well, then who are we looking for?" Riri smirked, stretching her arms and getting ready to work.

Loki hesitated for a moment before stepping forward to provide the names and what they were looking for. Yelena made her way towards America who seemed to be unable to move.

"You are an idiot." Yelena hissed, shaking her head. "All you have to do is admit to her that you are in love with her and then she would have still done it but without the theatrics."

"I could not… She is… Kate is free to do what she wants." America replied quite stubbornly.

"She is doing this for you, America." Yelena shot her a disappointed stare. "You better fix this or you will really lose her forever."

"Okay, found it!" Riri exclaimed and America dropped her eyes before going to the older woman.

Yelena was tempted to hit America, but she decided against it. Loki shrugged and the both of them knew this would be the last chance Kate and America would have to finally be honest with one another and give into what they really want.

“Fuck, you guys better take a look at this.” Loki said leaning forward, he and Riri wore the same angered expression.

America frowned moving closer while standing behind them. Her breath caught in her throat at the file, and Yelena cursed in Russian, the pictures, and the police records as well as the medical files were all there. Whatever or whomever Wanda was before getting to the school was not something nice, or even a happy life; the found the restriction order against her husband, the petition for divorce and the fight for custody. Riri whistled, she felt sorry for even asking for payment for something like this.

“Wanda Maximoff, isn’t she the new literature Professor? The one in charge of your class, Chavez?”

“Yeah, she is.” America replied softly.

“Damn, she really…this is…” Riri turned to the other girl shaking her head. “This is some heavy stuff, you know?”

“I know.”

“Please, Riri, no one can know about this.” Yelena intervened, Riri snorted pointing to the file on the computer.

“Of course not! She is hiding from her maniac husband, here let me show you the new underground railroad…It seems that she has been receiving help from some powerful people.” Riri stated tapping on some keys before showing the group a classified document.

_________________________

The halls inside the adjacent building to her school were empty and cold. America could hear the echoes of her footsteps and that of her friends following her to the main playroom. Loki and Yelena had been discussing the findings in whispered tones, none of them had been completely happy with the discovery but now many pieces in the puzzle that was their new Professor finally fell into place.

America stopped right outside the playroom, her eyes falling on Kate who was laughing with Kamala while Balder and the twins played around the slides.

“You better fix your screw up, America, and soon, Riri is quite the catch and Kate doesn't seem that indifferent to her.”

With those words, Loki went in stretching his hand out to stop Balder from hugging him. The both of them engaged in their ritualistic banter of bickering, while the twins waved at America who shifted her weight from one foot to the other before going in.

Tommy and Billy had changed in the last couple of months. America remembered the first time she met them, they were quiet and quite shy. At first America thought it was because they didn't know her and were still testing the waters around her. But then, she saw the fear in their eyes, how they would look at the clock and then at the door, how jumpy they were with loud noises, or how they would wake up sweaty and crying. Now for America it was obvious the shy, almost submissive nature of Wanda, how protective she was of her intimacy, or the fact the boys and her never used short sleeve clothing or why the twins had learnt to bathe alone without any help.

Not that it helped a lot.

America and Y/N had seen the scars, and while no words had been exchanged between them, they knew what was behind the Maximoff family. And America now had enough proof to prove her sister with the full background of Wanda.

The question was, when should she tell her about it?

“You are thinking too loud.” Kate approached her with her eyes never leaving America's ones.

“I have a lot to think about.” She mumbled shrugging, the twins went back to their stuff putting everything away while Balder whined.

“Yelena told us what Riri found.” Kate softened her stare putting her right hand around her left elbow. “It must be awful…”

“You know you don't have to go with Williams to the Ball, right?”

Kate cocked her head, glancing at America out of the corner of her eyes. America waited patiently, her eyes glancing everywhere but at her best friend and Kate sighed shaking her head, she turned around closing the distance between herself and America, the dark haired teen tensed with her heart leaping inside her chest.

“I know, but you know what?” Kate said breaking her lips into a smirk America had never seen in her. “I realised that if the woman I want doesn't want me back, then I can't wait any longer… I’m going to explore my options. Thank you, America. I think I wouldn't have done this without your help.”

America stood there, dumbstruck while Kate winked at her, turning around to join the others. She could tell America was still watching her, and Kate smiled in satisfaction knowing her words had the desired effect on America. She just hoped America would do something, or else she would never forgive her for letting this chance go away.

_____________________________________

Wanda glanced at the watch on her wrist, she winced noticing the time while her face turned to the rain right outside her windows. She had taken far too long grading some papers, the twins must be waiting for her getting restless back in the playroom in the small building in the compound.

The young woman yawned, picking up her papers and her stuff before her hand went to grab her mobile. She hesitated for a moment until her eyes fell on the last message she received. Your name on her contact list was familiar, as well as the obvious signs that she was ignoring you completely. For more than a week, all Wanda had done was put your messages to the side, and those encounters she had come to look at with an eager heart were now almost non-existent as she made sure to always be out of her home before you.

A part of Wanda, the rational one, knew she was being childish and that what she was doing was prolonging the inevitable. Another part, the emotional one, the damaged one… Was afraid. She was afraid of what everything meant for her, of the sudden surge of emotions she was experimenting for you.

Wanda knew she was damaged goods, and that she had her children to look after. You on the other hand were free, intelligent, beautiful, and you already had someone in your life that apparently made you happy. Why would anyone want Wanda at some point?

Not that Wanda was thinking about being with you. That would mean she liked you, and not in a platonic way. That perhaps her dreams, and the speeding of her heart at the thought of you, meant she was attracted to you, which was impossible because she was not like that. She liked men. Penis. Yeah, she liked that.

So, you do like her in a sexual way, eh?

A voice in her head asked, and Wanda hated to find the teasing tone of Pietro behind such a statement. She could imagine him, with his smirk and teasing glint, dancing around her while saying innapropiate things that would make her blush a hundred different shades of red. She missed her twin, and in moments like this, she wished he was still with her.

“I don't like her like that, I can't.” Wanda replied softly to no one in particular.

Wanda never thought her life would have changed the way it did.

The weeks had turned into months, and she found herself experimenting changes that were affecting her in positive ways. No longer was she afraid of getting home knowing dinner was not done yet, or to get something wrong and get mistreated for it. She could finally have a voice and an opinion and people around her respect her, and actually took her word with admiration. Sometimes the dark clouds of her past came forward, and in those moments she went to her children to find the energy to continue.

Wanda felt her life was finally getting into the right path. Her students had been amazing with her, and as of late it seemed as if their motivation had shifted and the young woman had never felt more supported than ever.

She didn't need complications, and you had become one. A complication she never thought possible, a complication she couldn't afford to have.

Whatever sadness she reflected in her face was soon wiped out when she caught the sound of laughter. She let out a sigh of relief knowing her children had not been alone for so long, and the fact the voice of her students reached her ears told her they had been in good hands. Her phone vibrated once more, but she ignored it completely, she never thought or even contemplated the fact that you might be there.

She entered the room with a confidence she soon lost as soon as her eyes found yours. And whatever she was trying to not feel came back tenfold. Her sweaty hands, the tingling on her lower abdomen and the summersault from her heart. Everything came accompanied by a flush of her cheeks and the widening of her stare.

You stood there rather conflicted, at this sudden appearance. The sound of laughter and conversation became too deafening, but you put your mobile away and took a few steps towards Wanda.

“So, you are alive.” You promised yourself you wouldn't let the bitterness you felt at Wanda's lack of response get to you.

But that was easier said than done, the young woman was standing before you quite healthy and rather unfazed by the fact you had written to her a couple of times until you gave up on any answer. You felt humiliated, and also a little hurt, you thought the both of you were friends. And you felt ridiculous for hoping that maybe…

“I… I was… Yes, I mean…” Wanda made a gesture with her hands, her eyes looking everywhere but at you. “I've been busy, uh with school and…”

“Hey,Maximoff, I'm not asking for explanations.” You replied nonchalantly, your stare hardening. “I was just curious because Tasha told me you and I were supposed to organise the Winter Festival.”

"The winter festival, yes! Yes, she did.We are!” Wanda interrupted her voice, raising slightly with a high pitch at the end.

You arched a single eyebrow, your lips quirking upwards in silent amusement. Wanda almost slapped her face at such an answer, she tried to recover her momentum by clearing her throat and grabbing her purse with both hands.

"I didn't understand much, but we'll, I guess we are in a committee…"

"We are the committee." You interrupted tilting your head, this time around you were frowning. "Nat didn't explain everything, did she?"

Wanda pursed her lips and after a moment she gave in, shaking her head. You could only roll your eyes glancing at the ceiling, of course Natasha had not said anything to the other woman and it would be up to you to explain to her everything that needed to be done. You had a feeling this was the older woman's doing, a well-exécuté plan to torture you and make you spent time with the very woman that had been shaking your world as of late.

"What else did she have to explain?" Wanda finally asked, she dreaded your answer for she had been trying to avoid you for more than a week and this sudden event would only make her spend time with you.

She knew Natasha had placed the responsibility on her shoulders a week ago but Wanda had been down a road she was not familiar with. She hated the beating of her heart, the sweaty palms of her hands, the nervous tingling in her stomach and the flush on her cheeks whenever she was in front of you. Or whenever she received one of your messages that she had been ignoring for quite some time.

She hated the fact she was standing in front of you and you seemed at ease, knowing Wanda was the only one suffering such conflicting emotions and not being able to do nothing to appease such emotions.

"Well, this event is quite important, you know?" You lifted your hand to scratch he nape of your neck, a nervous trait you had picked up when faced with your reality.

Wanda was about to speak when the twins and the rest of the teens came towards you. Her students were mostly smiling, while America seemed rather gloomy at the moment.

"Mom!" The twins came running towards Wanda hugging her around her waist, Wanda smiled softly placing a tender hand on their heads.

"Hey, boys, how was your day?"

"It was awesome!" Billy exlciamed and Tommy nodded in agreement, you softened your stare watching the scene with a heavy heart.

Soon Tommy and Billy were telling their mom all about their adventures, and you had to look away with a frown in your face. America and Loki glanced at one another, a plan already forming inside her head as to what she should do.

“So, Y/N, we were thinking… It is late, and everyone in the room is hungry, right guys.?” America turned to her friends, you narrowed your eyes when it took them half a second to react with nodding heads and hands on their stomachs.

“Right, so hungry much, eh?”

“Oh, come on, Y/N, it has been a while since you last take us to Olympia and we could take the twins there too and Professor Maximoff of course.”

Kate grabbed your arm, she put on her best puppy stare while Kamala grabbed your other arms and America tilted her head amused. You snorted shaking your head, lifting your eyes you could see Wanda glancing at you and the twins frowning in confusion.

“What is Olympia? “ Tommy asked tasting the word on his lips, Balder opened his eyes wide, grabbing the young twin by his shoulders.

“You don't know??” Tommy scowled, lowering his eyes and shaking his head.

“It's the best place on earth!!” Balder turned to you and Loki. “Pleaseee, can we go?”

You raised your brows at Wanda, your eyes finding hers. The young woman was just as confused as her children, your heart shrank st the sheer familiarity you saw on those three faces. America pressed her lips together, she could see the conflicting emotions running through your eyes, the change in your posture, the softening in your expression.

The young woman clenched her jaw tightly, fighting over the myriad of thoughts passing through her mind. America was ready to burst out until a familiar hand grabbed her softly, she turned to see Kate offering a single shake of her head while pulling her aside.

“so, what do you say? We could have something to eat and discuss the preparations for the Ball.” You proposed shrugging, you could see the conflicting emotions running through those green eyes, but you could also see the lost battle as soon as the twins turned to her with begging eyes.

“I guess we could…” Wanda winced when the twins squealed and soon everyone was just walking outside the building.

Yelena caught up to America and Kate, her hand closing on America's wrist.

“What are you doing? Aren't you going to tell your sister about Maximoff?”

America hesitated for a moment, she turned to see you talking lightly with the other woman. Your face had changed completely, no longer wearing the wrinkles of concern or boredom you usually wear after a long day in the office. There weren't any signs of tiredness or anxiousness you got whenever you were with Carol. There wasn't even the dark cloud above your head, the one you had been wearing all week long, whatever was happening through your head, America could see the positive effect Wanda had on you. And without a doubt, the young woman knew you had a positive effect on Wanda.

“I think she should know.” Kate commented to America's side.

“It is only right.” Loki chimed in, America hesitated and it was Kamala the only one to actually voice what America had been thinking all along.

“But it is Professor Manximoff's secret, we can't go around telling everyone much less Y/N about this.” Kamala crossed her arms standing her ground.

“Why not?”

“Have you seen Y/N? Or, Professor Maximoff for that matter?” The group all turned to Y/N and Wanda. “Whatever we say or do right now could be bad for…”

“For them.” America shook her head turning to her friends with a determined stare in her eyes. “Let's give them time, I agreed that this can't be kept a secret, but for now we should be able to protect Wanda's privacy.”

The group hesitated for a moment before all of them nodded. They could keep the secret, for now. But for America the situation was turning into something really problematic, and her first instinct was to make sure you were okay, that you were happy. Thus, with a pursed of her lips she decided it was time for her to give you a push in the right direction.

_______________________

Olympia ended up being a restaurant right outside the city.

It was a five storey building, it was surrounded by a beautiful garden with fountains made of Led lights. The twins were dumbstruck, walking down the road leading from the parking lot to the main entrance. To their side Balder had taken the task to explain what they would find inside, and you had taken your spot right beside Wanda to do just the same.

“I can't believe you never heard of this place.” Wanda tilted her head, her eyes watching with some amusement your childish excitement and the small smile playing upon your lips.

She thought your giddiness was quite adorable, and she had to stop herself from just leaning in and grab your hand in hers. Her heart hammering against her chest at the mere thought.

The restaurant was owned by the most peculiar family; they had built the place as a theme restaurant in which families and friends could come over to enjoy games, shows and nice warm meals. Wanda and the twins were awestruck at the sight of mythological creatures and decorations welcoming newest arrivals.

The smile on your lips softened at the sight of Wanda walking around the place with the twins shying away with big eyes glancing around the place. You could tell this was her first time in such a place, and a part of you had to wonder if Wanda had never been in a place like this one.

“Mommy, can we go?” Tommy asked shyly pointing at the playground to the right, Wanda hesitated with her breath caught in her throat when your hand rested on hers.

“It is completely secure, and they would have America and the others watching over them while we look for a table.” You said to Wanda, your thumb making soothing circles on the back of her hand. “What do you say, Princess? I know it must be quite the tortuous experience to be with me but we can…”

“It's not a tortuous experience.”Wanda replied, cutting herself off before she could reveal something else.

You nodded curtly letting go of her hand before nodding towards the lifts.

“I know just the place for you and the twins to enjoy this first time.”

You waited patiently for an answer, you were trying to quiet down the thoughts running inside your head. The best policy you could apply to just ignore the growing need to connect with the redhead standing in front of you. You had missed your conversations with her, the banter you had formed with the woman after a fateful day in which you had come to appreciate the twins. For more than a week you had tried to reason with yourself and the piercing need to talk to Wanda.

When she didn't answer, and it was quite evident she was avoiding you, something in you broke a little. You were not one to beg, so you stopped writing after two days, but seeing her again you knew you couldn't let go without, at least, trying to forge a friendship with Wanda.

Because that was all you wanted, right?

Friendship.

And that was all Wanda was ready to give you, right?

Friendship.

“Don't worry, Professor, they are in the best…Yelena, No!”

Kamala screamed running after Yelena who was already trying to steal a Nerf gun from a kid, Balder and the twins were already getting armed with Loki giving clear instructions. America winced chuckling while Kate rolled her eyes crossing her arms.

“Guys…” You said and America waved at you.

“I know, I know.”

Kate turned to Wanda, wincing a little, “Don't worry, I made sure they are okay.”

Wanda chewed on her lower lip, her eyes had not stopped checking the crowded restaurant while her own panic rose inside her throat at the sight of the twins mixing up with the rest of the children. You could tell she was tensed, her eyes worrying but what you saw there was actually terror.

In just a second, Wanda was breathing hard, her eyes going wide open and body covered with a thin layer of cold sweat. She started trembling, and you could tell she was about to have a breakdown. Without thinking too much you stood in her line of vision, your hand grabbing hers in yours.

“Hey, Wands, it's okay, they are going to be fine.” You spoke softly, soothing words and brushed caresses on her hands while you dragged her away from the crowded hall. “It's okay, come…you're going to be fine.”

Wanda clenched her eyes closed, and she let you take her away until the sound of a bell echoed in a closed room and soon. The sound of people disappeared. Wanda opened her eyes only to see you looking back at her, you offered a reassuring smile with the lift sliding all the way to the last floor.

“Are you okay?” You finally asked, Wanda flushed looking away.

“Yes.” Her tone was cold, and you could tell she was embarrassed by the scene.

“You know, there is nothing to be emb…”

“I know.” She cut in exiting the lift as soon as the doors opened.

You scowled, glancing at your reflection before following the young woman out. The fifth floor was something out of a Jurassic Park movie, wherever she turned there was a jungle like atmosphere with replicas of dinosaurs around. You couldn't help the half smile stepping inside the floor while locating a good table. This was, by far, your favourite place to be; you walked past Wanda, your eyes sweeping the place really quick until you found the person you had been looking for.

“Ajak!”

The woman straightened up, turning sharply towards you, her eyes going big while a grin broke on her face. She gave some final instructions before approaching you with arms outstretched to engulf you in a tight embrace.

“Y/N! And here I thought you had forgotten all about me, mija.” Ajak stepped back giving you a once over, her eyes sharp and witty taking into the form of Wanda who was standing at a safe distance before they settled on you.

“Never, Ajak, but work and life has consumed most of my time.” You winced apologetically. “But I am here and I have new guests that have never tasted your amazing cuisine.”

Wanda found herself under black, piercing eyes that were a mixture of warmth and curiosity. The woman stretched out her hand, Wanda took it in hers almost wincing at the tight grasp.

“Now, a guest of Y/N will always be welcome, I'm Ajak.”

Wanda offered a tentative smile, her eyes going to you then back at Ajak.

“I'm Wanda.”

“Well, we cannot have this! A table for two? For you and your date.”

“No!” The quick, rather panicky scream coming from Wanda and yourself made Ajak turn suspicious eyes to you then to Wanda.

You knew you were blushing, but you didn't dare to look over at Wanda before clearing your throat to clarify the situation.

“We're not… She is not.. I mean… She is my sister's teacher so we just…”

“Yeah, no date or, her sister is my babysitter and…”

Whatever else the both of you were going to add soon died off while you just stood there rather awkwardly. Ajak snorted, shaking her head while pointing to the tables.

“So not table for two…”

“We came here with everyone, America and her friends and Wanda's children.”

Ajak nodded in understanding, finally pointing to the furthest corner in the room pointing to a balcony and a couple of torches.

“Well, you can have the spot by the balcony, I will send someone soon…” Ajak then winked at you, and there was a hint of mischief in her eyes as she continued. “It's always good to have you back, and this time around with such a beautiful woman by your side.”

You put a hand on your face hiding away your embarrassment, Wanda merely clapped her lips closed blushing lightly at the implications of those words. Without nothing much to say, you and her were led directly to the last spot.

“This is beautiful.” Wanda sighed dreamily, lifting her eyes to the sky above their heads lowering her gaze to see the outline of the city on the horizon.

Your heart twisted painfully in your chest, you furrowed your brows turning away to glance outside the balcony.

“I still can't believe you didn't know about this place.” You commented lightly. “This is the best restaurant in the whole East Coast, and it can be quite fun to spend some time with friends and family.”

Wanda sighed knowing she had missed the chance to get to know the world right outside her universe. She did not know much about the world, or places outside Westview or the events Vision used to take her to. The only holidays they had shared had been to Sokovia for the funeral of her father, a holiday she would always remember. Wanda jerked awake when a warm hand placed softly in her hand, she turned sharply to you and her breath caught on her throat.

“Are you okay?” You asked tentatively, Wanda stepped back from your grasp offering a shaky smile.

But before she could answer or you could say anything else the sound of laughter and loud conversation distracted the both of you and the group of teens with the three boys came around to occupy a chair in the big table. The twins ran directly to Wanda, and their excited chatter was enough to distract Wanda of her thoughts and the emotional situation she found herself in.

Dinner was a strange event for Wanda and yourself. You both found yourselves sitting side by side with everyone sharing stories about school and Summer holidays, the twins were quiet watching and hearing everything while enjoying the dinner. Your eyes never drifted away from Wanda for too long, the young woman was quiet at first, her fingers tapping on the table while holding a strained smile hovering protectively around the twins.

Wanda had always been a mystery for you, from the moment you met her she had been a contradiction of shyness and resolution. There were moments in which you could see a fire inside her eyes, the sharpness of her tongue and her intelligence always challenging you in ways you found fresh and exciting. There were other times in which she made herself small, the dark clouds of fear and uncertainty shadowing those flames while offering a vulnerable side you wished you could protect.

You snorted, shaking your head while everyone at the table laughed, your eyes drifted slightly only to see Wanda glancing at you with amusement.

“And then, of course, Y/N had to come out of there all dressed up in clothes that were not even hers and mom and dad decided to have the talk with both of us.”

All the twins winced while Wanda chuckled, raising a single eyebrow. You rolled your eyes hiding your blush, the twins scrunched up their noses looking around until Billy decided to speak.

“What talk?” He asked innocently, and the question soon quieted down the laughter making everyone squirmed on their spots.

This time around you raised a brow at Wanda, daring her to answer that question to them.

“Want to explain that, Mommy Wanda?”

The deep shade of red that decorated the woman's cheeks caught you off guard. The woman looked away hiding her flustered expression, you didn't expect that reaction to your comment. Something inside you ignited with curiosity to explore that sudden discovery, but soon Balder decided to break the uncomfortable tension in the room with his own innocent comment.

“The talk about sex, dummy!”

“Balder!”Loki exclaimed, slapping his hand while his little brother turned big curious eyes his way.

“How does he know about that?” Kamala asked, but Loki made a face.

“He overheard Thor, and he is a little brat that can't keep his mouth shut.”

“You’re the brat!”

Loki opened his mouth to retort but you lifted your hand shaking your head. The uncomfortable moment had passed, but you were still thinking about Wanda's reaction.

“Okay, you two stop it, let's choose the desert.”

“Dessert?” Tommy turned to Wanda. “Can we have dessert, mommy?”

You smirked watching as Wanda squirmed under your stare, she was trying really hard to ignore you but you made sure this time around it was impossible for her to do so.

“Oh, what do you say mommy, can we?” You spoke before you could censor yourself, Wanda glared at you clenching her fists closed.

“Y/N, really?” America asked in disbelief, she glared at you and you opened your mouth.

“Just stop, it is not as funny as you think it is.” Wanda turned around, softening her facial expression while placing a hand on Tommy's head. “I think we should go. Perhaps another time.”

You yelped, feeling the kick in your chin, turning around you saw America flaring at you still but this time around she was pointing to the other woman, her eyes big and eyebrows raised trying to speak to you without words.

The twins moaned in protest, but Wanda was already standing up until she felt your hand on hers. She didn't turn around, but you didn't need to, you stood up and circled the young woman standing in front of her, your free hand on Tommy's shoulder.

“Please, desserts here are delicious and… It's on me.”

“I don't think…” Wanda started but her resolution crumbled as soon as you stepped forward. Your eyes softened greatly, and your next words piercing Wanda's resolution.

“Please, sorry I was an ass, I just don't know how to act when I'm around someone like you.” You didn't mean to be this honest, you knew everyone was watching the interaction and probably this conversation would be something America wouldn't let go anytime soon.

“Like me?” Wanda asked confusedly.

You broke into a bitter smile shrugging, “like you.”

The silence would have grown even more uncomfortable if it hadn't been by Kamala and Kate that soon were making quite the ruckus to select the best dessert of the night.

“Why do you like to make my life more difficult than it already is?” The question left her lips before she could stop it, and while she didn't quite mean to ask that, once she had said it a burning desire to know grew in her.

You blinked a couple of times, looking away while shrugging.

“I don't know.” You sighed lifting your gaze to the woman in front of you. “You just…Make it too easy and I just can't help it.”

Wanda let go of Tommy who had joined the others around America and Kate that were now explaining what each dessert had. Wanda had enjoyed her afternoon with her children and her students, that you were there with her had been just a plus she was still trying to pretend she didn't enjoy.

Truth was, if she were to accept why she was so conflicted with your presence, why she had been avoiding you for the last couple of days, why she got so nervous around you. She would be admitting to something up until a couple of months ago she thought was a sin with someone that was already engaged in a relationship.

Wanda had a lot to lose and nothing to gain. So it was better to pretend nothing was happening, it was easier to break something that was just starting to grow.

“My grandparents and Tony's parents started the tradition of the Winter Festival.” Your voice broke into Wanda's thoughts, she turned to you quite surprised and you offered a single smile nodding towards the balcony.

The morning breeze brushed against your cheeks, you leaned forward with the palm of your hand stretched out to receive the first snowflakes of the season.

“My grandmother was a writer, and she was quite the romantic fella.” You chuckled remembering your childhood, the stories your grandmother used to tell right before going to bed. “She thought that a Ball and a festival around the Holidays would bring everyone together and would make a good way to find love.”

“A dreamer, then.” Wanda offered a half smile, she wrapped her arms around herself standing a few feet away from you.

The night had been strange, but not unpleasant. She couldn’t remember the last time she went out to a nice restaurant to eat, or to have some amount of fun and see her children free the way they had been that night. She looked at you out of the corner of her eyes, her heart fluttering lightly when you continued talking about your family and the traditions of the school, your tone of voice softening with the weight of memories and wishfulness. The confusion Wanda had been experimenting as of late was diminishing as you continue speaking, and the young woman knew sooner or later she would need to face whatever was growing inside her heart.

But for now, she could pretend.

“Then, whatever we do, whatever we plan, must be incredible.” Wanda stated after you had finished talking, you snorted shrugging.

“It’s a matter of honour.” You replied conspiratorially, your eyes twinkling at her reaction. “Believe me, we have been at this since we were at school so…”

Wanda chuckled shaking her head, for what little she knew about you and the others, everyone had gone to the same school and your friendship was based on banter and familiarity. She had seen firsthand how competitive all of them were, the great friendship amongst the families that controlled a whole school and many important businesses in the world. Wanda’s face fell for a moment, she had entered a world that could turn against her at any moment, one wrong step, or one wrong word could kick her out and leave her exposed to the man she had been running from. Natasha had been right when she said this would be important for her, and while Wanda didn’t think for one moment the older woman had tricked her in any way, she knew right now great things were expected from her, a payment for the favours she had received so far.

Movement to her side called her attention, and Wanda soon found herself far too close to you. From this distance she could see the light in your eyes, the small happy wrinkles around your eyes and the curve of your lips. She could also feel the warm emanating from your body, and a part of her, a crazy almost childish part of her, wondered what would happen if she were to close the distance…

Have you ever been attracted to someone other than Vision? Have you wondered what would have happened if people didn’t try to tell you who you should love or be with?

The words of her last therapy session with Hope resounded inside Wanda’s head, but before anything happened you chuckled nodding your head towards the restaurant.

“You’re gonna have two kids running on sugar rush in a moment, you know that, right?” You couldn’t help but laugh at the glance of pure horror she put on as soon as she realized the twins were eating a huge plate of dessert while bouncing restlessly on the chairs.

“They have never had so much sweet before…” Wanda started worriedly, your grabbed her hand winking playfully at her.

“Then, let me help you with tiring them up so you won’t suffer later on.”

“What do you mean..?”

“Well, this restaurant has many playgrounds, and I’m friends with the owner so…let’s go, time for you and me to play some!”

Wanda was not sure what was happening, or what exactly were you talking about. But whatever it was, she didn’t care at the moment, the only think she could think was your hand wrapped tenderly around hers, and the childish grin playing on your lips. Everything else was forgotten.

______________________________________

It was way past midnight by the time you parked Wanda’s car in the garage.

“You didn’t have to come with me.” Wanda shifted her position on the front seat, she turned slightly to see Tommy and Billy fast asleep.

You turned off the care tilting your head to see the twins then at Wanda who was looking completely tired. While it was true that you didn’t need to drive Wanda and the twins back home, but you couldn’t help yourself; you offered while lending your car to America so she could take the other’s home.

A part of you didn’t want the night to be over yet.

“I know but I just figured you may need some help with those two.” You pointed to the twins, Wanda smiled softly.

“Thank you.” She mumbled lowering her gaze, her hand closer to yours. “I don’t remember the last time I have so much fun.”

You smiled satisfied, “I’m glad to hear that.”

There was a moment of silence filled only with the knowledge that you were lost. As soon as you lifted your gaze you could see those green eyes glancing back at you, Wanda was looking confused and tired. But there was evidently some sort of happiness in her face, she was relaxed and for a moment your thought perhaps the weight she had been carrying was lifted. Not for the first time you wondered what had happened to her, what had really brought her to your doorstep with two kids and not husband.

It's not my secret to share.

“I think you should have more moments like this one, you and the kids.” You said after a moment, breaking the growing silence in the car.

“I think we are still getting use to this.” Wanda replied softly, and while she didn’t elaborate you could tell that this was part of the past you were dying to get to know.

“Well, if there is any way for me to help you loosen up more, Princess, don’t hesitate to tell me.” You winked at her enjoying the soft colouring on her cheeks, Wanda straightened up trying to gather her thoughts.

“Right, I think we need to first work on the preparations for the festival and…” She trailed off when you placed a hand on hers.

“Yes, yes…don’t worry about that, Princess.” You then opened the door and grabbed the car keys. “Come, I will help you take these two to bed.”

It didn’t take too long to take the twins into their room, both of them protested and turned around as soon as their bodies touched their beds. The only thing Wanda could take off of them were his shoes and jackets, she was about to insist on them getting in their pyjamas but your hand on her shoulder stopped her.

“Let them be, we really tired them up in the laser tag.” You whispered by the door, Wanda hesitated for a moment making sure that the boys were only on their shirts and with a blanket on top of them.

“I guess it wouldn’t make any difference.”

Wanda whispered back making her way towards you, finally the tiredness of the day was catching up to her and you could see the bags under her eyes and the cold of night sneaking inside her clothes. You pulled her out of the room gently, closing the door behind you leading the young woman to the hall and the stairs, Wanda stood by the stairs glancing at you then at the door down the hall. You shifted on your feet before glancing down the stairs.

“Look, today was nice.” You stated scratching the nape of your neck. “I haven’t had so much fun in a long time.”

“Me neither.” Wanda answered truthfully, her lisp curling slightly at the memory. “And the twins, they were happy too.”

You nodded smiling, “yeah, I could tell.”

Wanda put her right arm on her forearm, she glanced down then back at you.

“I’m sorry I was avoiding you this last week.” Wanda finally said without looking you in the eye, this was easier said than done, and while the reasons of her avoiding you were not clear for you, Wanda was not about to admit them yet.

“I’ve been having a long week, and I just…”

“Hey, that’s okay, I guess. I understand.” You replied leaning in, making it impossible for Wanda to look away. “I just hope you’re not doing it anymore because we need to start making preparations, and I was hoping you would come to my place and have some lunch.”

Wanda opened her eyes; she nodded slowly still a little confused until you rolled your eyes at her.

“You know? So we can start planning the Winter Festival.”

“Oh, right, yes, sure.” Wanda bounced slightly, flustered she tried to hide her yawn but it was almost impossible to do so.

“Go to sleep, Wands. See you tomorrow.”

Before either of you could do something, anything at all, you decided to lean in and kiss Wanda on her cheek. It was a short brush of lips, but it was enough to make her catch her breath and warm all over.

And just like that, you turned around and left before anything could be done or said.

_____________________________________________________________

Next Chapter: Reader and Wanda start getting closer, the twins like this new addition to their family. America and Kate find themselves at a crossroads after Riri decides to play a flirty game, and Carol is at her wit's end with Reader. Someone from Wanda's past come into the scene, and Reader is dangerously clueless about the whole situation.

#fanfic #wanda maximoff #wanda maximoff x reader #wandaxreader #female reader #imagine wanda maximoff #wanda maximoff x female reader #MCU AU #Modern MCU #Wanda Maximoff/Feamle!reader

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respocked · 10 months ago

Text

I'm thinking about work anyway so fuck it

Star Trek Public Primary School AU 🛸 !

Kirk

-the headmaster!

-went into education because of his own unfortunate childhood

-has an uncanny ability to tell which student has a bad home life

-remembers everyone's name, even if you went to his school 5 years ago for 2 months

-misbehaving teenagers send to his office get some candy and a motivational speech that changes the course of their lifetime

-most days can be found hovering suspiciously outside of spock's classroom

-way better with older students, 12-13 - has absolutely 0 idea what to do with young children

-which is awkward when while waiting for spock outside his classroom he tries to make small talk with them (-so... son... read any good books lately? -i can't read!)

Spock

- teaches early education, 6 to 9 year olds

-greatly overqualified for the position, had a human psychology degree, interspecies child development degree, highly regarded in scientific community

-could be teaching university but prefers to spend his time sitting on carpets with children drawing clouds

-his class is extremely nontraditional - no desks, sitting on the floor, tons of meditation, classes in nature

-does not adhere to the program at all but somehow his classes always score the best on all exams

-turned down a position in a trendy montessori school for a public one

-parents either go out his way for their child to attend his class or request someone else - either from homophobic or xeniphobic reasons

Uhura

-the school's cultural assistant!

-also runs student exchanges with other countries and planets

-speaks every minority language that has representation in the student body

-also a substitute teacher

-she can give a super interesting lessons

-but takes 0 shit from students who won't respect her

-runs an extracurricular activity with spock when she teaches immigrant and refugee students to express their emotions with music

-is the best at pitching a project idea for funding, which is why her office and spock's classrom are the best equipped ones in the school

-spock's bestie, they hang out after work (gay/lesbian solidatity)

-still lives with her parents, they're super close

-wants to date but it's too boring compared to writing another lesson plan

Bones

-the school nurse! & in charge of nutrition

-teenagers are afraid of him

-small children absolutely love him

-takes his daughter to work and lets her draw with crayons on his important papers

-also constantly in spock's classroom, but to complain

-"damnit, spock! give them all the vulcan cuisine you want, but don't send them crying to me after they get an allergic reaction!"

-"meditation? maybe have them meditate on doing some real work for once"

-but when parents with pitchforks come to complain abt spock's methods he defends him like a lion

-he sends them piles after piles of scientific proof of why spock's method are actually the bestest and most efficient

-when kirk thanks him for stepping in he pretends like he doesn't know what he's talking about

Chapel

-teaches sex ed!

-the sweetest teacher ever

-one of those teachers that noone is intimidated by but noone disobeys because noone wants to makes her upset

-uses her Blonde White Straight Pretty Woman priviledge to convince reluctant parents to sign up their kids for sex ed

-goes All Out on halloween tho

-you know she is there, dressed like a witch, running an educational halloween themed activity! paper bats hanging from the ceiling!

-has gluten free and vegan candy in case the winners have a food sensivity!

-has a secret crush on Uhura and Spock both

Chekov

-teaches IT

-burned out miracle kid

-graduated university when he was younger than his current students

-lets students play roblox on the computers

-and teaches them how to torrent

-somehow noone from the faculty knows where he lives

-background check turns up nothing

-"did you know computers were invented in russia?"

-puts 0 effort in but somehow his students love him

-little girls take sneak photos of him to edit in a flower crowns

Scotty

-teaches a woodworking & engineering class and does janitor duties on the side!

-like kirk, absolutely 0 idea on how to treat younger kids

-strict

-has to be, no joking around power tools!

-but you know praise from him hits different

-will tell students he's proud of them when they make theit first little table

-can fix everything

-say "this interactive blackboard is broken!" three times to summon him

-marries to his career, teaching fulfills his paternal calling

Sulu

-teaches biology!

-rule follower

-stressed out about exams 3 years before his students

-not very inventive but everyone wants his class because there is a hamster in the classroom

-classroom full of houseplants

-if you agree to water them when he's away you will receive a 50 page manual on proper misting techniques

-not strict at all but will give a dressing down to a student who is seen treating a living thing badly

-can be bribed with plants

#disclaimer - this is not consistent with american schools #idk how they work ive never been #star trek tos #star trek the orginal series #spock #kirk #star trek AU #star trek headcanons

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academiclifexd · 5 months ago

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"How Technology is Changing the Way We Learn"

In the past few years, there has been a sudden rise in the use of technology in various aspects of life, especially in education. With the increasing availability of digital tools and online resources, students now have more access to more information and learning opportunities than ever before. This shift has significantly changed the way we students study, collaborate, and comprehend academic content. As a Senior High School STEM student, I’ve witnessed firsthand how technology has shaped our academic journey throughout the years. Here are various reasons why technology is changing the way we learn.

1. Access to Various Sources

Back in the earlier days, the library was the primary source of information. The library was a haven not just for bookworms, but for students who needed help with their homework. The library had a collection of books that were full of specific information that assisted students in finding answers, solutions, definitions, and terms needed for their homework. Growing up in Gen Z like myself as a STEM student relies much more on technology nowadays than a physical library because with a touch of a smartphone or a click of a computer, you now have access to different websites that contain the information you need, especially when you need to conduct a research study, which most students use Google Scholar.

2. Interactive Learning Tools

Textbooks are no longer the only tools we use to learn. Interactive apps, simulations, and educational games have become commonplace in many classrooms. As a STEM student, I’ve experienced how these tools make learning more engaging. Apps like Khan Academy offer interactive courses in math, physics, and computer science, breaking down complex topics into bite-sized lessons with visual aids.

Platforms like Quizizz display flashcards that could help students enhance their active recall, memorizing, and understanding of the concepts easily because of the quiz game it offers.

3. Collaboration in Real-Time

One of the biggest changes technology has brought to education is the ability to collaborate in real-time, regardless of any location in the world. Platforms like Google Docs, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom have been helping students ever since the Covid-19 pandemic struck. During the pandemic, remote learning platforms became essential for continuing education. Even though many students faced challenges with online learning, these platforms provided a way for education to continue without interruption all thanks to the implementation of Online Classes. Now, blended learning—combining in-person and online education—is becoming the norm, offering more flexibility for both teachers and students.

4. Personalized Learning

Every student learns differently, and technology is helping cater to these individual learning styles. Adaptive learning platforms use algorithms to tailor lessons to each student’s needs. If you’re struggling with a particular topic, these platforms adjust the difficulty and provide extra support until you grasp the concept. Tools like Duolingo and Grammarly, which offer students language and grammar support are just a few examples of how technology provides customized learning experiences.

For us STEM students, this is particularly helpful, especially when using Grammarly for a research project. Using Platforms like Grammarly helps correct revisable sentences and paragraphs easily in one click, providing less effort and less time-consuming for us students.

5. Preparation for the Future

Technology isn’t just transforming education for the present; it’s also preparing students for the future. As technology like AI and Programming evolves, we students could resort to learning skills like coding, and learning the different types of programming languages so that we could adjust to the evolving technology all around us.

6. The Potential Downsides

While technology has brought us numerous benefits, it’s important to acknowledge the challenges and disadvantages it presents. Overreliance on technology can often lead to distractions, with social media and games constantly thriving for attention. Furthermore, the concept of Technology and its use remains a problem in many parts of the world, where students lack access to the necessary tools and internet connectivity to fully benefit from online learning resources.

#education #academic #reading

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noiriarti · 11 months ago

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The Arrangement: Armitage Hux x Reader (College AU) Ch. 1

Summary: A cuddle-buddies-to-lovers college AU.

[Ch. 1], Ch. 2, Ch. 3, Ch. 4, Ch. 5, Ch. 6

Chapter 1: A Can of Homestyle Chicken Soup

It started because of a can of soup. Armitage didn't quite know how he ended up here, standing in his bathing suit in his own bathroom, waiting for you. Well, he knew, but he still thought it was the weirdest alternate universe he could have ended up in since this morning. Not that there was any other option. He wouldn't just skip out on helping you once you'd cut your hand, of course. When you split open your palm with the pull-top chicken noodle soup (homestyle), he heard your hiss in the kitchen of your shared suite from his room, and he rushed out. He was the only other one home--Kylo was at practice, Phasma was in class--and luckily, his car was parked around back. The gauze from the first-aid kit was rough against his fingers as he pressed it to your hand. You had just wanted some soup for breakfast, you said. It was clear you needed stitches, mainly because it was on your palm, easy to accidentally open again, but it was only an inch long. Armitage mentally placed a bet on three stitches, and he was right, he discovered when you had arrived to the emergency room. He was a premed, anyway. It was practically educational to be there and watch the physician work while you held his hand tightly, afraid of the needle. Three stitches later, you were strictly ordered to avoid wetting the injury, your palm almost absurdly bulked up with gauze and bandages.

That was a problem, though. Your hair was greasy, and you had an interview for an internship at four. You needed the experience--it was junior year and you had just switched into computer science--but more than that you needed to come off as a young professional, not a greaseball. But no wetting the injury meant no showering, and that meant greasy hair. You were complaining about the dilemma on the way back to your shared house in his immaculate Lexus when he practically had an out-of-body experience and asked you if you wanted his help. He had literally actually legitimately asked you to shower with him. What the fuck was wrong with him? He kicked himself mentally, but you hadn't found anything weird in the offer, and happily accepted.

At 2 p.m., he slipped on his swim trunks and walked over to the bigger bathroom. It was yours and Gwen's, technically, but he sometimes used it when Kylo hogged the one they shared. He liked yours better, anyway. It smelled nice, and it at least seemed like there were two people cleaning it, instead of one who did so regularly and one who somehow found a way to make it even more gross every time. He pulled out the folding chair he had dug out of the garage and set it up in the shower. There was no denying that this was going to be fucking weird. Since you had moved in this year, the two of you had only hung out in groups or, occasionally sipped coffee in the bleary hours of the morning together, trying to pump out some assignment or study for some test. Other than that, he didn't know you like Gwen did, though that was his own fault. He was kind of a recluse, and he was taking graduate bio and psychology courses, so he was never lounging around the house anyway. Pretty much all he needed to know was that Millie was obsessed with you, trailing you around the house and sneaking into your bedroom some nights. That was character endorsement enough.

You knocked on the door, and pushed it open gently with an awkward smile. Totally normal, hanging out in the bathroom with your roommate. Your roommate, who is shockingly hot under his crisp collared shirts, it turns out. But you elected not to think of that. At all.

"Hey. Thanks for doing this, Armitage. I just--I'm so sorry I'm so gross. I didn't expect you, or anyone really, would have to do this for me," you said, stepping into the shower with him. You untied your robe to reveal your bikini in a way he hopefully didn't find sexy--that would make your rooming situation just downright weird.

"It's really no problem. I've seen worse at the hospital, I promise." It was true. Nothing you could ever do would surpass that one guy whose surgery he watched who he swore had cysts within cysts. It was gruesome. "But if you throw up on me, or get pus on me, I'm moving out," he added with a chuckle.

"Alright, ready?" He asked. You nodded, moving your bandaged hand far away from the shower head, so he turned the water on. Of course, it was immediately freezing, and you gasped.

"Sorry, sorry!" He yelled out as he cranked the handle to the warm side. He gritted his teeth and begged the gods to turn it warm soon because he was getting the brunt of the water.

It took a minute, but it finally got warmer. The pipes in your building gave decent water pressure, but any toilet flushing or sink turning on would fluctuate the temperature wildly. The housing was cheap enough that none of you complained, though. Armitage angled the shower head fully toward you, and your hair started getting thoroughly wet. For a moment, he wondered why people enjoyed shower sex. The spray off your body was hitting him in weird directions, some of it going straight into his eyes, and he was miserably cold and wet. There wasn't enough warm water to hit the both of you, and he was just there to help, not to shower, so he didn't get any of it. His thought just distracted him from the inevitable: it was time to begin.

"Ready?" He asked you, but he was really asking himself. Although you told him you were, the answer inside his head was a resounding no. When was the last time he had touched someone's hair? Or, hell, even touched someone? For a moment, his heart ached as he realized he couldn't remember the last time he was hugged. Was it his mother? The details of her face were slipping away from him; he could hardly remember the exact contours of her nose, or whether she had dimples, or if she had a cleft chin. What were her hands like, again? He could barely picture her, the image going fuzzy the more he tried to grab onto it. His chest felt like someone had taken a hammer to his ribs, leaving a gaping, raw hole.

He was so distracted, he barely even noticed when he put his hands on your head. He gently worked his thumbs over your scalp, working in the water. He grabbed some cheap 2 in 1 shampoo/conditioner--the one you had texted him you had left in the bathroom for this very purpose, to make it quicker than a full hair care routine, and he lathered it in his hands. It smelled like crisp green apple, so fresh and bright and energetic that he decided he had to stop being angsty, and just focus on the task at hand.

When he applied just a bit more pressure, going down to the nape of your neck with his sudsy hands, you let out a borderline sinful groan. The truth was, you hadn't felt anyone taking care of you like this in a long time. And his hands were so big and strong, you almost wanted to ask if he'd do this again. But that would be weird. So, you let yourself close your eyes and enjoy the feeling. You could feel warmth radiating off his body, and his nearness from the water that was cascading off of him and onto you. Although you found him hot--not that you would ever verbalize just how badly you wanted to run your hands over his lean chest--just being near someone was comforting. Just a touch that didn't want to take you for a drink or fuck you, a touch that had no ulterior motives. Simple, honest, trustworthy. You had been falling asleep clutching a stuffed dog the past couple of nights, imagining it was someone who would pet your hair as you fell asleep and tell you it'd all be alright. You couldn't stand it when every single time a hookup or a guy you were dating was cuddling with you, then immediately tried to grab your ass or shoved his boner against you. Simple, honest touch. And you were getting it from your roommate of all people.

He angled the water back to your head, rinsing out the suds in silence, as both of you enjoyed the quiet moment of intimacy. It wouldn't happen again, after all. After a few seconds, the water ran clear, and Armitage spent another couple of seconds chasing bubbles that weren't there. If he stopped, it would be over, and he'd have to go back to his room, alone. There, he'd remember the lonely ache that he pushed away with books and classes and As on his transcript that he hoped his father would acknowledge. Here, he was single-mindedly focused on you, and nothing else mattered. Even he recognized that he was taking weirdly long, so he counted down in his mind--5, 4, 3, 2, 1--and shut off the water.

"Thank you so much Armitage. You're literally a lifesaver," you commented, turning around to face him, "And look! My hand's still dry!" You wiggled your fingers at him with a bright smile to prove your point. His chest constricted, like it was somehow aware that his yearly ration of human touch was over. He masked that feeling with a chuckle and some platitude in response to you. He excused himself and dried off with a towel, which he unceremoniously tossed onto the bed when he was back in his room.

He peeled off his bathing suit and put on his standard outfit for working at home (a polo and dark jeans), trying to forget the feeling of your warm body near his. Armitage was on auto-pilot, and he was good at it. He tossed the swim trunks and dirty clothes in the washer, pulled out his textbook (Modern Physical Organic Chemistry) when he got back to his desk, and buried himself in it like he didn't feel empty. Even when he made himself a gourmet dinner of instant mac and cheese and ate it over an MCAT flashcard session (it was never too early to start, his father said), he barely felt the aching loneliness in his chest. Only Millicent curling around his feet pushed that feeling away, but she had left, probably to scurry into your room as you went to bed, leaving him alone for hours. That's how he liked it, anyway, he thought.

Around midnight, he closed his lab report--finished, of course--and changed into his flannel pajamas. Somewhere in between neatly folding his polo and putting it in the dirty hamper, he heard it.

There was a knock at his bedroom door.

#armitage hux x reader #armitage hux x you #armitage hux/reader #armitage hux/you #general hux x you #general hux x reader #general hux/you #general hux/reader #general hux fanfic #armitage hux fanfiction #armitage hux #star wars sequels #fanfiction

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postgamecontent · 6 months ago

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The Unisys Icon: One Canadian Xennial's Memories of Ontario's Obscure Computer

One topic that often comes up in retro gaming circles is how aspects of gaming history not part of the American story don't get enough attention. I personally feel it's mostly up to the people to whom the stories belong to tell them. So I am going to follow my own advice today and tell the tale of a computer that statistically speaking almost no one has used, and some of that computer's software. I have to tell this story from memory, because this computer and its software functionally no longer exist. Practically no photographs of any of its games exist. We're relying on decades-old recall here, so… I'll do my best.

The Unisys ICON was a computer developed as an initiative by the Ontario Ministry of Education to create a standard for Ontario schools. It used an Intel 80186 CPU and its OS was an early version of a Unix-like system that eventually came to be known as QNX. Yes, the Blackberry one. Still in use, I believe. Each Unisys ICON came with its own monitor and a very robust keyboard with a trackball embedded in it. Computers ran in a network from a designated server machine. They were pretty expensive and the whole program was quite controversial, with many considering it a colossal waste of tax money. I mean, in hindsight… probably?

The first line of ICONs were introduced to schools in Ontario in 1984, and support for the platform continued until 1994. During that time, several models were created along with a fair bit of bespoke software. Most of it was meant to be educational, used for teaching programming to older kids and more general lessons to younger ones. I don't recall any pure games without any educational component, although some of them really danced on that line. When the ICON program was canceled in 1994, the Archives of Ontario declined to preserve the ICON and its software. They were all ordered to be destroyed, and just about all of them were.

Only a few fully working models are known to be in existence today, and some of the software was just straight-up lost forever. No emulators exist, and there is no way to play any ICON software unless you have access to one of those few remaining units. So yes, all my UK friends out there? I know you dislike it when Americans make jokes about your Spectrum and Amiga computers and games, but you can only joke about something if you've heard about it. No one jokes about the ICON. I mean, until they find out about its nickname, "The Bionic Beaver". That's easy pickins.

My elementary school in a small Northwestern Ontario town had about a hundred students total from Junior Kindergarten to Grade 6. It was such a small school, we didn't even have a Grade 5 class and teacher. They just divided the Grade 5 students by academic achievement and stuck the higher achievers in the Grade 6 class and the lower ones stayed in the Grade 4 class with slightly more difficult texts and homework. Anyway, it was a small school. It no longer exists. But in the 1980s, we had a couple of Apple II computers. They were pretty old by then, and the green and black monitors didn't impress kids who had tasted the Commodore 64, Tandy, or NES. But hey, we played Oregon Trail, Carmen Sandiego, and Crosscountry Canada on them when we could.

I remember when we got our ICONs. It was a pretty big deal! Our school received four of them, with one designated as the server. They were put in a prime location in the hallway, between the fourth grade classroom and the school entrance. If a person was going to the auditorium, they'd have to pass by them. Not like those Apple IIs, tucked away in a less traveled part of the hallways. Our school was proud of those ICONs, and the student body was excited to use them. One of the fun things about visiting the junior high school was that it had a whole lab of ICONs, with different games. Pure decadence! Absolutely sick!

Anyway, the memories of Xennials from Ontario are by and large all that remains of these things now. Even the Wikipedia entry's list of software is missing games I know I played on there. So what can you do? I'm going to talk about some of the games I remember, and since literally no screenshots exist, I drew some pictures. Quickly, mind you. And from 35+ year old memories, no less. Sorry, it's all I've got.

(Not actual screenshots)

SpectICON: This was a paint program, and when our ICON computers were turned on this is what they defaulted to. When the program loaded up, it had a colorful picture of a tree in autumn in place. You could change the palette using the trackball, and if you rolled it with some power the colors of the tree would wildly alternate. My friend Peter dubbed this "Disco Tree". It could do some simple animation, mostly by morphing between two images. I used this to make an animation of a robot turning into a car, because I was ten years old in 1989 and Transformers was the thing.

Offshore Fishing: One of the more popular games in my school. You would move your boat to different locations on a map, after which it would switch to a side-view. You then used the trackball to maneuver your fishing net, trying to catch as much as you can. If a shark comes, it will break your net and you'll lose a lot of money. This was supposed to teach us about the fishing industry, I think?

Math Maze: Another popular one in my school. You would make your way through a maze, battling monsters and looking for treasures. You could pick a knight or a wizard, and your choice of weapon between a sword and a wand. Knight with wand was splendid. No effect on the gameplay, of course. When you met a monster or found a treasure, it was time to do MATH. The last boss of the dungeon would ask what weighed more, a pound of feathers or a pound of gold. We were very proud when we sorted out the answer to that one. The cut-out box at the side showing a close-up of the action had some interesting visuals, at least.

A Day in the Life Of: We didn't have this one at my school, but the junior high school had it and I played it there. A strange game where you played as a student, and you could just straight up cut school and go to the mall if you wanted to. The mall had some different spots to visit, including an arcade where you could play a minigames called Mutant Bunnies Attack or something. It was basically Activision's Kaboom, and since we had a trackball… well, this was a pretty good time. I don't remember the actual point of this one.

Crosscountry Canada & Lemonade Stand: You might know these games from other platforms. They were ported to the ICON and played pretty much the same way here as anywhere else. Both were old hat for us and didn't get much play as a result.

Greenhouse: A gardening game. You had to grow plants by setting a variety of conditions, including temperature, watering, and sunlight. Each plant had different needs, but if you could sort it out you would be rewarded by seeing them grow. I messed around with this one a bit, but it was on the junior high school computers so I didn't get to play it as much as I would have liked.

Robot R&D: Robots! This was a cool one. You would build a robot from different parts and materials. You could then put them through a variety of tests to see how they would react. You could immerse them in water, try to crush them, or just drop them from high places. For most kids, you had them at "build a robot".

There were lots of other games, but these were the ones I played and the ones I remember. I wish I could tell you about all of them, but this is the limit of my knowledge. Maybe someone else out there can remember other ones and talk about them? I hope that one day this off-beat, highly geographically and temporally localized computer is properly archived and its software is made accessible again. I would like to play Offshore Fishing at least one more time in my life. Thanks for reading!

Extra Note: I just remembered the darned things would say HELLO when you booted them up. A talking computer?!

#retro gaming #unisys icon

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attendsquoi · 7 months ago

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Thea's Quest ~ Ch. 7

Chapter 7: Targets

Summary: Thea and Kaldur spend the day learning about computers, help Superboy pick a name, and save two countries from war.

Warnings: canon typical violence, blood and injuries

Word count: 3.5k

Thea was glad to have a day off. She needed to catch up on some of Diana’s homework and fill out a few mission reports – and of course some rest was always appreciated. But first, she had to meet Kaldur in the mission room. A week or so prior, the team had found out that Thea didn’t know how to use technology, given its habit of attracting monsters. With the help of her magical pendant she wasn’t at as much risk anymore, but she still didn’t really know how to approach electronics. Kaldur had offered to try to teach her some things on their days off, so that was where she was headed.

“Hey!” Thea called to the Atlantean as she walked into the mission room.

“Good morning, Thea.” Kaldur replied.

The two got to work, Kaldur first showing Thea simply how to gesture in order to turn the screen on.

“I’ve seen so much stuff that is unexplainable by science, and yet this feels so magical to me.” Thea said to Kaldur as she practiced.

He had opened his mouth to reply when their comms went off.

“Aqualad.” Kaldur reported.

“Red Arrow.” Came the voice on the other end.

Thea frowned. She wasn’t a fan. Red Arrow was aggressive, which she could look past, but his general distaste and distrust of her and her friends – especially Artemis – rubbed her the wrong way. She just felt like something was off about him.

“I need access to the Justice League's database and the exact height of the League of Shadows assassin known as Cheshire.” Red Arrow said.

Kaldur moved over in front of Thea to pull up the necessary information.

“Checking. Cheshire is 1.67 meters.” Kaldur said.

“Um…” Red Arrow trailed off.

Thea rolled her eyes.

“She’s 5 foot 6.” She clarified.

“And exceptionally dangerous. Do you require backup?” Kaldur asked.

As much as she didn’t like Red Arrow, Thea respected Kaldur’s kindness toward his friend.

“Please. The last thing I need is the Junior Justice League.” Red Arrow rejected.

“Just our computer.” Kaldur said sassily.

Thea couldn’t help but chuckle.

“Good luck, my friend. Aqualad out.”

~~~

After their call with Red Arrow, M’gann walked through the mission room. Thea and Aqualad followed her to the hangar to wish her and Superboy a good first day of class.

“Ready for school? I made our lunches.” M’gann said as she flew toward Superboy.

“The first day of the scholastic season carries great cultural resonance. We want to wish you both well.” Martian Manhunter said as he, Red Tornado, Kaldur, and Thea approached.

“Guess it's not a Kryptonian thing.” Superboy said sadly.

Thea felt a wave of anger at Big Boy Blue. The way Superman ignored his clone reminded her of the ways the gods ignored their unclaimed children.

Powerful people need to learn how to parent. She thought with a frown.

“Wait, Thea, why aren’t you going to school?” M’gann asked.

Thea’s eyes widened in surprise.

“Oh, uh, I don’t go to school.” She said, unsure how to answer the question.

“What do you mean?” M’gann asked. “Surely you care about your education.” She continued.

“No, of course.” Thea said.

“Just, the last time I was in school was five years ago, and a harpy attacked one of my classmates.” She explained.

Everyone looked at her with some amount of confusion of concern.

“He was fine!” She assured.

“But anyway. I’m – uh – I’m homeschooled.” Thea said.

“You may wish to change before you depart.” Kaldur mentioned to M’gann, changing the topic.

“Ah! I spent hours choosing this outfit. What do you think?” M’gann said as she spun around, her clothes transforming out of her hero outfit and into a skirt and blouse.

“Can M'gann M'orzz pass as an Earth girl now?” She asked.

“Well…” Kaldur trailed off, unsure how to break the news.

Thea pursed her lips, holding in a giggle.

“Just kidding!” M’gann laughed.

“Meet Megan Morse.” She said, her skin changing from green to caucasian.

“What's your new name?” She asked Superboy.

“My what?” He asked.

“I chose the name John Jones for myself. And suggested John Smith for Red Tornado. You could be a John too.” Martian Manhunter suggested.

“Pass.”

M’gann – or Megan – put her hands on Superboy’s arm.

“Conner's always been my favorite name.” She said.

Superboy shrugged ambivalently, accepting the title.

Thea thought back to her most familiar Connor: Connor Stoll. Half of the set of twins who consistently lovingly made her life at camp difficult as hell.

“A last name will also be required.” Kaldur said.

“Perhaps Kent?” Martian Manhunter suggested.

“Oh, in memory of Dr. Fate, the late Kent Nelson.” Megan said.

“Of… course.” He replied.

Thea sensed something off and looked over at Kaldur. She tilted her head slightly to indicate her question. The boy winked at her. Thea’s eyebrows raised at the implication. Superman’s last name is Kent; that’s knowledge to file away for later.

“Okay, sure. I guess it'd be an honor or something.” Superboy, now Connor, agreed.

“Well, Conner Kent, time to change your shirt.” Megan said.

Connor looked down at his shirt, then back at her, confused.

“You don't wanna reveal your identity.” She explained, tapping his chest.

Connor reached over his shoulder and pulled off his shirt. Thea’s eyes widened. She may not like the boy romantically, but he was by no means an unattractive man.

“Ugh, will this work?” He asked, pulling the shirt inside out.

Megan looked like a deer in headlights.

“Works for me.” She all but drooled.

Thea put a hand around her mouth to stop herself from laughing, or at least hide her gleeful grin. Kalur glanced at her and chuckled.

“Wait, shouldn't I be Conner Nelson?” Thea heard Connor ask as he and Megan walked away.

“They grow up so fast.” Manhunter said fondly.

~~~

Kaldur and Thea took some time the rest of the morning to do some work, and make lunch. Thea really liked spending time with Kaldur. It reminded her of her early days at camp, meeting and getting to know Luke, Annabeth, and Grover – back when it all felt so simple.

Later, they returned to the mission room. Thea was slowly but surely getting the hang of using the cave’s computer, but she could always use more practice.

Again, their comms went off.

“It’s me. I may possibly be in over my head.” Red Arrow said.

After a brief conversation to plan, the call ended.

“You go ahead.” Thea said as soon as Red Arrow hung up.

“You’re not coming?” Kaldur asked, seeming confused.

“He doesn’t like me.” Thea stated bluntly. “The whole situation will be easier if I’m not there. He’s not upset by my presence and you don’t have to worry about the two of us not getting along.”

Kaldur paused, thinking over her words.

“You do not need to come if you really do not want to.” He began. “But I think we will need your help. As… abrasive as he can be, he does not hate you, and I know that his distrust is misplaced. I will not force it, but I would like you to come with me.” Kaldur said.

Thea’s posture softened.

“Okay.” She said. “But only if you don’t leave me alone with him.” She commanded.

“Deal.” Kaldur said with a smile.

~~~

Kaldur and Thea arrived in Taipei covertly. Zeta tubes meant no TSA, but Thea didn’t want to risk openly carrying her sword into a politically tense situation, so she stuck with her dagger hidden under her jacket. The two were standing in front of a podium where Red Arrow, along with Lex Luthor and the representatives from North and South Rhelasia were.

Thea felt a presence behind her.

“Get ready.” She whispered to Kaldur.

He turned around to face the disguised woman as Thea shifted over slightly, getting out of the way while making sure to watch Kaldur’s back.

“That is far enough, Cheshire.” He said.

The assailant acted innocent for only a second, before pushing a button on the tea cart she was pushing and leaping away. Kaldur pulled the water from the cups on the podium, forming a wall of water just as Red Arrow shot an arrow, setting off the bomb. Fortunately, Kaldur’s wall held, but the exertion it took was obvious. As soon as the explosion cleared, Kaldur dropped the barrier.

“It’s over, Cheshire.” Somebody said.

“You would think so.” She replied coyly.

Thea’s eyes narrowed. A helicopter carrying a group of assassins piloted next to the building.

“Take Sportsmaster. Cheshire’s mine.” Red Arrow commanded Kaldur.

“Thea–” Kaldur started.

“Protect the ambassadors?” She said, already pulling out her dagger to engage the closest Shadow.

“Yes.” He acknowledged, focusing his attention on Sportsmaster.

Thea moved quickly, focusing on the Shadows and making sure they couldn’t get too close to the ambassadors. She only had her dagger, and the Shadows were trained in a different fighting style, but her years of sword practice and combat training made her a formidable opponent. The whole time, Thea was careful. Monsters could be killed and would eventually come back – but these were mortals, and she didn’t want to murder anyone.

Thea ducked a blow from the Shadow in front of her, then kicked their leg out from under them. They fell and hit their head on the ground. Quickly another Shadow engaged her. They circled each other, each landing hits and defending against the others’ attacks. Oddly, this Shadow seemed to be pushing Thea away from the ambassadors rather than getting closer to them himself. Thea glanced over, trying to find Lex Luthor as well as her friends. The slight moment of distraction was enough for the Shadow to push Thea outside the building. As soon as her foot crossed over the threshold, the soldier spun around, heading back to the ambassadors.

“Vlakas!” She swore, realizing the trick.

~~~

Before she had the chance to run back inside, though, a sudden searing pain cut through her shoulder. She grabbed the area, pulling her hand away to see blood coming from a slice – almost like that of a small arrow. Something on the ground caught her eye and she kneeled to find a feather. She picked it up. It was a grayish color, but when it caught the sun it gleamed gold, and when she turned it to the side, it was razor sharp.

“Oh, Styx.”

It was as if her realization summoned the flock. Spinning on her heel, Thea spotted the treeline and ran for cover. It wasn’t great help though – Stymphalian birds are incredibly dangerous monsters. The mortals she ran past looked confused, but Thea paid them no mind, certain that the Mist would do its work. Thea tried not to be slowed down by the birds, even as their feathers slashed cuts in her skin.

“One monster is bad enough, but a whole swarm? Really?” She muttered under her breath as she finally reached the trees.

Of course, it didn’t stop the birds from following her, but at least she wasn’t as obvious a target, and they couldn’t shoot their feathers from above.

“Okay, Thea. Think.” She said to herself.

“Defeating the Stymphalian birds was one of Hercules’ tasks. But he used brass bells from Athena – what am I supposed to do?” The girl thought out loud.

It was too little, too late. Some of the birds had found her. There weren't as many as before, but that hardly mattered. Pulling out her dagger, Thea really wished she had her sword. One of the birds flew close – it looked like a pigeon, but bigger, and stronger – and Thea swung at it. She knocked it aside before its bronze beak could grab her, but it was only stunned for a moment. It flew back toward her, gaining speed. A pigeon shouldn’t be as menacing as a peregrine falcon, but Thea was very afraid.

This time, she had a better idea of what she was up against, and her aim held true. Her dagger sliced through the bird, turning it to golden ashes, though not before its feathers cut open new wounds on her hand.

A much worse pain shot through her abdomen. Thea looked down to find one of the other birds pecking, working its way through the skin of her stomach. She yelled, shoving forward her dagger with her injured hand, but another bird intercepted her, sending the dagger flying a few feet away.

If she made it out now, she would survive – the injuries weren’t too severe. But she was defenseless against the monsters, and she knew that without some loud noise to stop them, they would strip her to the bones.

Suddenly, a resonant boom sounded from inside the building, then a pause before more loud bangs. The lives of the ambassadors crossed her mind, but regardless, she had never been so grateful to hear a bomb and gunshots.

A few of the birds startled, and went flying away. The other, still cutting up Thea’s flesh, stayed for a moment. The adrenaline Thea got from looking down at the wound gave her the energy to kick the bird away and scream. Fortunately, it was enough for the creature to fly away after its family.

Thea slumped against a tree. From where she lay, she could see into the building, though her vision was gradually blurring. Having not prepared for a monster attack, she didn’t have her typical supplies on her. Thea pulled off her partially shredded shirt, leaving her in her sports bra, and balled it up to put pressure on her jagged wound. Her energy was draining, and nectar and ambrosia would have to wait until after Kaldur and Red Arrow found her – if they even would.

“What a way to go.” She muttered to herself in Greek, closing her eyes from the pain but trying to stay awake.

~~~

Fortunately for the young heroes, the guns Thea had heard did not maim the ambassadors, but rather an attacking Shadow. Sportsmaster and Cheshire had disappeared, but the treaty had been signed.

“I can't believe we just did a solid for Lex Luthor.” Red Arrow complained as he and Aqualad walked through the building.

“Not for Luthor, for peace.” Kaldur said, looking around for Thea and concluding that she must be outside.

“Beyond that, if Ra's and the League of Shadows wanted to sabotage the Summit, the signing of the treaty renders their contract moot. It is over.” He assured.

“Is it?” Red Arrow questioned as they stepped outside.

“I heard what Sportsmaster said. Do you really think there's a mole on your team feeding him intel?”

“I cannot rule out the possibility.” Kaldur said diplomatically.

“I will investigate quietly.” He said.

“Not tell them?” Red Arrow asked, surprised.

“I do not want the unit unraveling over baseless suspicions. And if there is a mole, I have no wish to tip him or her off.” Kaldur explained.

“Good luck with that.” Red Arrow said with a salute, turning to walk away.

“One moment, my friend.” Kaldur said.

“Tonight, you could have called Green Arrow for help or the Justice League. Instead, your first instinct was to call the Cave.” He observed.

Red Arrow paused.

“You're right. The team deserves… has my respect.” Red Arrow admitted.

“I'm still getting used to this solo act stuff. But if you need me, I'll be there.” He said kindly, moving to shake Kaldur’s hand.

The boys stepped away from each other. Red Arrow stopped suddenly, furrowing his eyebrows, looking off past the fountain. Without saying anything to Kaldur, he broke into a run toward the treeline.

“Arrow?” Kaldur called after him, but the hero was too distracted and said nothing.

Kaldur, confused, followed after him.

~~~

Thea had remained awake, but was afraid to try to get up due to the injury in her side. She saw Kaldur and Red Arrow walking out of the building, but her voice was strained and she couldn’t yell to get their attention. As much as she had her issues with the man, when Red Arrow looked over in her direction, she was relieved.

He ran up to her, having spotted her before Kaldur. When he reached her he immediately scanned her body, seeing cuts across her arms and legs as well as whatever injury she was hiding with her shirt.

“Holy shit, what happened?” He asked, kneeling next to her, lifting up her makeshift compress to view her injury before pushing it back down with more pressure.

Thea gasped at the sting.

“Did a Shadow do this to you?” He asked, concerned and confused.

She shook her head.

“Stymphalian birds.” She croaked.

“What?” The boy asked.

Thea smiled a little bit.

“Greek monsters – they’re like scary, flesh-eating pigeons.” She explained.

“Jesus.” Red Arrow muttered under his breath.

“Yeah.” The girl chuckled, moving to prop her arms behind her and pull herself up.

“Oh, hell no.” Red Arrow said, pushing her back down.

Kaldur came jogging up behind Red Arrow. His eyes widened with guilt and concern as he saw Thea in her condition.

“Thea…” He trailed off.

“It’s okay. I’ll be fine.” The girl attempted to reassure though neither boy seemed convinced.

“We need to get you to the med bay.” Kaldur said, putting himself in leader mode to mitigate his distress.

“That’d be great.” Thea said, clenching her teeth as she shifted against the tree.

“I’ll help.” Red Arrow said, leaving no room for argument.

The boys nodded at each other, each moving down to grab Thea under her shoulders.

They pulled her up, Red Arrow keeping pressure on her wound.

“Wait!” Thea said before they could start moving.

“My dagger, it’s right over there.” She said, pointing a little ways away.

Red Arrow shouldered all of Thea’s weight, and nodded at Kaldur who stepped away to pick up the girl’s weapon.

“Thank you.” Thea said, reaching out to grab it.

“I can hold onto it for now, let’s just get you back to the cave.”

With Red Arrow and Kaldur both supporting her, the three young heroes hobbled back to the zeta tube.

“This is where I leave you. At least, assuming you’ve got it from here. If you need me, I can stay.” Red Arrow said.

“We’ll manage.” Kaldur told him and Thea confirmed with a nod.

“Arrow!” She called as the archer began to walk away.

“Thank you.” She said sincerely.

The boy smiled.

“You’re welcome.” He said.

“And, Thea? You can call me Roy.”

~~~

Kaldur had carried Thea to the med bay in the cave, helped her dress the wound in her side, and after some discussion, even got her to sit down on a gurney. The girl protested, but after seeing the worry in Kaldur’s eyes, she agreed.

“I got what you asked for.” Kaldur said as he walked back into the room, carrying Thea’s satchel.

“Thank you.” She smiled, reaching into the bag to pull out a small flask and a ziplock with small, yellow cubes.

Grabbing a piece of ambrosia, Thea took a bite. Closing her eyes, she savored the taste of her dad’s homemade sourdough. It had been a long time since she had seen – or had wanted to see – her father, but the taste never failed to make her feel at home.

Kaldur smiled at the peaceful look on Thea’s face before getting up to grab some disinfectant and cloth to clean the cuts on her arms and legs. Thea swallowed her bite and opened her eyes to watch Kaldur. In some ways, it reminded her of times she got stuck in the Apollo cabin with injuries. Kaldur’s gentleness, though, made the moment far more tranquil.

Kaldur held Thea’s wrist gently as he wiped the antiseptic over the cuts on her arm. He had a small frown on his face as he worked. Thea knew that look.

“I’m okay, Kaldur.” She murmured softly, looking at her injuries, not meeting his eyes.

Kaldur sighed gently.

“I know that you will recover. But I am still upset to see you injured, especially from an unsanctioned mission I convinced you to go on.” He mutters, a hint of self-loathing seeping into his tone. Thea grabbed his wrist gently, halting his movements. She looked up at him.

“It isn’t your fault, Kaldur. My injuries have nothing to do with the mission. This is just a… occupational hazard, I guess. Courtesy of being a demigod. I’m fine.” She insisted quietly.

Kaldur was unconvinced.

“You should have called for help. We would have helped. I…” He trailed off, unable to articulate his thoughts.

Thea sighed gently.

“I know you would have helped me. Of course you would have.” Thea reassured. “I just… I was being stupid. I forgot that I had comms in. I’m still… I’m still not used to this whole ‘having back up’ thing.” She chuckled weakly. “Usually when you get cornered by a monster… you’re on your own.” She said sadly.

Kaldur paused, face softening at her words. Thea let go of his wrist and he resumed cleaning her cuts, mulling over his next words.

“I understand that. It is… quite the transition. Learning how to work with a team.” He acknowledged softly. “But you’re not on your own.” He concluded, voice gentle but firm.

Thea smiled up at him, letting him maneuver her arm to reach her scrapes and cuts.

“No. Not anymore.” She agreed.

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