#Computer Tech Support in San Diego

[connectedcareinc]

Making Mental Health Care Easy in California

The fast-paced lifestyle in California ranges from bustling Los Angeles to serene Mendocino and often leaves little time for self-care. Consider telehealth—an advanced solution for mental health services. Virtual therapy and counseling have been rapidly gaining popularity by offering a lifeline for busy Californians. With a tap on a smartphone, residents can access licensed professionals without commutes or waiting rooms.

Convenience for Urban Dwellers

City lifestyle in San Francisco or San Diego is relentless. Packed schedules can make in-person therapy challenging. Telehealth can eliminate these barriers effectively. Professionals can squeeze in a session during lunch breaks and parents connect with counselors after bedtime. Mental health platforms in California (CA) like Connected Care provide flexible scheduling, ensuring mental health care matches perfectly with the urban routines.

Bridging the Gap for Rural Residents

Rural Californians, like those in the Central Valley or Shasta County, often experience limited access to mental health providers. Fortunately, telehealth bridges this gap efficiently. High-speed internet connectivity is increasingly available in remote areas, which connects residents to therapists state-wide. This flexibility encourages individuals in underserved regions to prioritize their well-being without long drives or costly travel.

Tailored Care at Your Fingertips

Telehealth provides comprehensive options to meet unique requirements. From cognitive behavioral therapy to mindfulness coaching, California’s virtual platforms accommodate various preferences. Residents can choose therapists based on specialization, cultural background, or language, while building trust and comfort. For instance, Spanish-speaking Californians can find bilingual counselors online easily.

Privacy and Comfort from Home

For most individuals, discussing mental health feels vulnerable. Telehealth provides a safe space i.e. your own home. This privacy can encourage openness, especially for those hesitant about traditional settings. California’s telehealth services prioritize secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms, which ensure confidentiality whether you’re in Sacramento or Santa Barbara.

Overcoming Tech Hesitations

Not every person is tech-savvy; but California’s telehealth platforms are user-friendly. Most of them require only a smartphone or computer and a stable internet connection. Mental health service providers offer tutorials and support to help clients, especially seniors, navigate virtual sessions. This inclusivity ensures no one is left behind in the digital shift.

The Future of Mental Health in California

Telehealth is the future. California’s mental health services are changing with hybrid models combining virtual and in-person care. As demand grows rapidly, the state’s commitment to expanding broadband access will further improve telehealth’s reach. This innovation promises lasting flexibility for every Californian.

Getting Started with Telehealth

Are you ready to explore mental health services in CA? You can start by researching reputable platforms like Connected Care. Whether you’re in a bustling city or peaceful countryside, California’s virtual mental health services can make care accessible, convenient, and compassionate.

Final Thoughts

Connected Care Inc is one of the most trustworthy mental health platforms in CA which makes navigating mental health care in California easy and hassle-free. Our flexibility empowers urban and rural residents to prioritize their mental well-being. When you embrace virtual therapy, you can find a perfect balance in a demanding world—one session at a time. For more information about our mental health support in CA, please contact us today at (559) 549 – 3279.

[businessesindelaware]

How Life Sciences Technology Companies Are Shaping Tomorrow’s Solutions

In a world where science and technology increasingly intersect with healthcare, life sciences technology companies are leading a quiet revolution. These innovators are not only improving how we detect, treat, and prevent diseases—they're transforming how we think about wellness, diagnostics, and even the future of medicine.

From biotechnology firms creating groundbreaking therapies to data-driven platforms supporting personalized healthcare, the life sciences sector is filled with energy, innovation, and endless potential. As part of a broader movement among STEM-based industries, these companies drive economic growth, research breakthroughs, and real-world solutions that affect people everywhere.

Life Sciences and Technology: A Dynamic Partnership

Life sciences have long referred to biology, medicine, genetics, and studying living organisms. But in the 21st century, technology has supercharged that definition. Now, it includes artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, and data analytics—all applied to solve some of the world's biggest health challenges.

Life sciences technology companies sit at this intersection. They develop software that helps researchers process vast amounts of genetic data, create wearable devices that track patients' vital signs in real time, build robotic systems that assist in surgical precision, or automate pharmaceutical manufacturing.

This fusion of science and tech is not just exciting—it's essential. With rising global health concerns, an aging population, and a constant need for drug discovery and disease management innovation, life sciences companies are more vital than ever.

Where Life Sciences Thrive

Life sciences companies cluster in regions with a strong support ecosystem. Think of access to universities, medical centers, government grants, and a talented workforce trained in science, tech, and engineering. Unsurprisingly, many STEM-based industries thrive in innovation hubs like Boston, San Diego, and the Bay Area—and increasingly, states like Delaware, Maryland, and North Carolina.

These locations provide more than just infrastructure. They offer the opportunity to collaborate with hospitals, startups, universities, and public health departments. This interconnected environment accelerates research and underscores the power of teamwork and shared knowledge in driving innovation.

Impact on Everyday Lives

While some of the work happening in life sciences labs may feel far removed from daily life, the impact is closer than many realize. Much stems from this sector: a new cancer therapy, a COVID-19 vaccine developed with messenger RNA technology, or even a digital tool that helps manage chronic illness from home.

Life sciences companies are also improving diagnostics, making it easier to catch diseases earlier and treat them more effectively. This means better patient outcomes, lower healthcare costs, and improved quality of life for millions.

The Road Ahead

Looking to the future, the role of life sciences technology companies will only continue to expand. Artificial intelligence is being used to identify new drug candidates in record time. Predictive analytics is helping healthcare providers make more informed decisions. Gene editing technologies like CRISPR also open new possibilities for treating genetic disorders.

This sector is so exciting because it doesn't just innovate for innovation's sake—it does so with a purpose. The goal is to improve lives, extend lifespans, and reduce suffering. That mission attracts top talent, significant investment, and the continued attention of governments and academic institutions.

As we move deeper into a future defined by precision medicine, smart devices, and global health challenges, the role of life sciences technology companies is more crucial than ever. These companies are at the forefront of Delaware's STEM-based industries, developing as sophisticated solutions as they are life-changing.

Whether you're a researcher, investor, policymaker, or simply someone interested in where healthcare is headed, keeping an eye on the life sciences sector is essential. It's here where science meets compassion, and innovation meets impact.

[walkerwon]

San Diego Displaying Affiliations: Lifting Brands with Creativity and Structure!

In the present, rapidly moving, undeniable level world, proper progression is fundamental for relationships, with all things being equal. San Diego, California, is home to an extraordinary get-together of propelling affiliations that concentrate profoundly on everything from standard publicizing to top-tier electronic structures. San Diego is known for its pioneering spirit, love of beachfront scenes, and serious market, making it an optimal area for showing affiliations. The city offers a blend of businesses, including improvement, development business, clinical thought, and retail, making it a solid environment for relationship success.

San Diego marketing companies: Making Modernized Encounters

San Diego marketing companies are exceptionally talented in understanding different market segments and can offer tailored frameworks to assist relationships in winning in a painful business climate. San Diego displays affiliations that utilize creativity, improvement, and information-driven strategies to plan inventive undertakings that resonate with clients. These affiliations assist in relationship-making by broadening brand awareness, conveying leads, and driving changes. In the present motorized first world, a business site is often the fundamental resource between a brand and its expected clients. The web combination has become a central showing part of that breaking point. In San Diego, site designing affiliations bid to make significant, easy-to-use objections that convey exceptional client encounters (UX). They comprehend that a productive site isn't just about looking great; it's about support, solace, and meeting business objectives.

The Best Plan of website design San Diego CA

San Diego site originators make working environments in light of various choices from feel. They set pieces of responsive designs to guarantee that regions work impeccably across all gadgets, from computers to cell phones. With the rising dependence on reduced web perusing, an adaptable, website design San Diego CA is required more than at some other time. Website plan improvement is a key for any business needing to draw standard active time gridlock to its page. A fair web smoothing out system guarantees that a website page position fundamentally in the web crawler brings about pages (SERPs), making it more straightforward for clients to find the business on the web. Web progression satisfying web integrates updating page load speeds, guaranteeing fitting articulation use, and making content that meets clients' requirements.

Digital marketing company in Nashville: Cultivating the Publicizing Scene

While San Diego is a place of combination for showing and site structure, Nashville, Tennessee, has turned into one more noticeable local area for electronic propelling affiliations. Known for its dynamic music industry and developing tech scene, digital marketing company Nashville offers a brilliant mix of imaginative personalities and shows experts who win in electronic showings. Undeniably, publicizing relationships in Nashville depends on quantifiable outcomes through information-driven crusades. They utilize progressed contraptions to follow purchaser lead, update publicizing ways of thinking, and guarantee that affiliations benefit best from the undertaking (return for cash contributed). Whether through web search contraption progressing (SEM), email publicizing, content creation, or online entertainment crusades, one of the best firms like Websites That Elevates changes frameworks to meet clients' goals.

Conclusion

Publicizing relationships in San Diego and Nashville offers affiliations to the mechanical congregations and fitness expected to thrive in the present serious significant level scene. From making stunning regions that get a brand's substance to doing information-driven electronic displaying systems that assist vulnerability and drive change, these affiliations assist relationships of all sizes with progress. If a business visionary requires ach, consider working with a San Diego show affiliation or an electronic publicizing firm in Nashville. With their creative limit and explicit fitness, they can help you change your image and ensure that your business makes due and thrives in old age.

[spacenutspod]

Members of the DSOC team react to the first high-definition streaming video to be sent via laser from deep space on Dec. 11 at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Sent by the DSOC transceiver aboard the Psyche spacecraft, nearly 19 million miles from Earth, the video features a cat named Taters.NASA/JPL-Caltech A computer screen in the mission support area shows Taters the cat in a still from the first high-definition streaming video to be sent via laser from deep space, as well as the incoming data stream delivering the frames from the video.NASA/JPL-Caltech The video, featuring a cat named Taters, was sent back from nearly 19 million miles away by NASA’s laser communications demonstration, marking a historic milestone. NASA’s Deep Space Optical Communications experiment beamed an ultra-high definition streaming video on Dec. 11 from a record-setting 19 million miles away (31 million kilometers, or about 80 times the Earth-Moon distance). The milestone is part of a NASA technology demonstration aimed at streaming very high-bandwidth video and other data from deep space – enabling future human missions beyond Earth orbit. “This accomplishment underscores our commitment to advancing optical communications as a key element to meeting our future data transmission needs,” said NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy. “Increasing our bandwidth is essential to achieving our future exploration and science goals, and we look forward to the continued advancement of this technology and the transformation of how we communicate during future interplanetary missions.” The demo transmitted the 15-second test video via a cutting-edge instrument called a flight laser transceiver. The video signal took 101 seconds to reach Earth, sent at the system’s maximum bit rate of 267 megabits per second (Mbps). Capable of sending and receiving near-infrared signals, the instrument beamed an encoded near-infrared laser to the Hale Telescope at Caltech’s Palomar Observatory in San Diego County, California, where it was downloaded. Each frame from the looping video was then sent “live” to NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California, where the video was played in real time. This 15-second clip shows the first ultra-high-definition video sent via laser from deep space, featuring a cat named Taters chasing a laser with test graphics overlayed. To see a “cheat sheet” explaining the components of the video, click here. Credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech The laser communications demo, which launched with NASA’s Psyche mission on Oct. 13, is designed to transmit data from deep space at rates 10 to 100 times greater than the state-of-the-art radio frequency systems used by deep space missions today. As Psyche travels to the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, the technology demonstration will send high-data-rate signals as far out as the Red Planet’s greatest distance from Earth. In doing so, it paves the way for higher-data-rate communications capable of sending complex scientific information, high-definition imagery, and video in support of humanity’s next giant leap: sending humans to Mars. “One of the goals is to demonstrate the ability to transmit broadband video across millions of miles. Nothing on Psyche generates video data, so we usually send packets of randomly generated test data,” said Bill Klipstein, the tech demo’s project manager at JPL. “But to make this significant event more memorable, we decided to work with designers at JPL to create a fun video, which captures the essence of the demo as part of the Psyche mission.” Feline Frequency Uploaded before launch, the short ultra-high definition video features an orange tabby cat named Taters, the pet of a JPL employee, chasing a laser pointer, with overlayed graphics. The graphics illustrate several features from the tech demo, such as Psyche’s orbital path, Palomar’s telescope dome, and technical information about the laser and its data bit rate. Tater’s heart rate, color, and breed are also on display. Members of the JPL team pose after the first streamed ultra-HD video was received from deep space. Remote team members (including Taters the cat) appear on the meeting screen. Standing, from left, are: Dan Goods, Abi Biswas, Ryan Rogalin, Meera Srinivasan, Bill Klipstein, Oliver Lay, and Christine Chen.NASA/JPL-Caltech “Despite transmitting from millions of miles away, it was able to send the video faster than most broadband internet connections,” said Ryan Rogalin, the project’s receiver electronics lead at JPL. “In fact, after receiving the video at Palomar, it was sent to JPL over the internet, and that connection was slower than the signal coming from deep space. JPL’s DesignLab did an amazing job helping us showcase this technology – everyone loves Taters.” There’s also a historical link: Beginning in 1928, a small statue of the popular cartoon character Felix the Cat was featured in television test broadcast transmissions. Today, cat videos and memes are some of the most popular content online. Milestone After Milestone This latest milestone comes after “first light” was achieved on Nov. 14. Since then, the system has demonstrated faster data downlink speeds and increased pointing accuracy during its weekly checkouts. On the night of Dec. 4, the project demonstrated downlink bit rates of 62.5 Mbps, 100 Mbps, and 267 Mbps, which is comparable to broadband internet download speeds. The team was able to download a total of 1.3 terabits of data during that time. As a comparison, NASA’s Magellan mission to Venus downlinked 1.2 terabits during its entire mission from 1990 to 1994. “When we achieved first light, we were excited, but also cautious. This is a new technology, and we are experimenting with how it works,” said Ken Andrews, project flight operations lead at JPL. “But now, with the help of our Psyche colleagues, we are getting used to working with the system and can lock onto the spacecraft and ground terminals for longer than we could previously. We are learning something new during each checkout.” More About the Mission The Deep Space Optical Communications demonstration is the latest in a series of optical communication demonstrations funded by the Technology Demonstration Missions (TDM) program under NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate and supported by NASA’s SCaN (Space Communications and Navigation) program within the agency’s Space Operations Mission Directorate. The Psyche mission is led by Arizona State University. JPL is responsible for the mission’s overall management, system engineering, integration and test, and mission operations. Psyche is the 14th mission selected as part of NASA’s Discovery Program under the Science Mission Directorate, managed by the agency’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama. NASA’s Launch Services Program, based at the agency’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, managed the launch service. Maxar Technologies in Palo Alto, California, provided the high-power solar electric propulsion spacecraft chassis For more information about the laser communications demo, visit: https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/missions/dsoc Media reel for DSOC ultra-HD video transmission News Media Contact Ian J. O’NeillJet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, Calif.818-354-2649ian.j.oneill@jpl.nasa.gov 2023-184 Share Details Last Updated Dec 18, 2023 Related TermsDeep Space Optical Communications (DSOC)Jet Propulsion LaboratoryPsyche MissionSpace Communications & Navigation ProgramSpace Operations Mission DirectorateSpace Technology Mission DirectorateTech Demo Missions Explore More 4 min read Armstrong Flight Research Center: A Year in Review Article 4 days ago 6 min read NASA’s NEOWISE Celebrates 10 Years, Plans End of Mission Article 5 days ago 4 min read NASA Provides Update on Venture-Class Launch Services Article 5 days ago

[it4aweek]

 Make sure your data is safe and secure with our Mac Data Recovery Services. Phone 858-324-2820 Email support@it4aweek.com

[it4aweek16]

https://www.it4aweek.com/

IT4AWEEK provides Data Recovery Services in San Diego, offering reliable and efficient solutions to help their clients recover lost data. With their experienced team of technicians, state-of-the-art tools and resources, and a commitment to customer satisfaction, IT4AWEEK provides a comprehensive solution for all data recovery needs. Their services include recovering data from corrupted hard drives, restoring data from formatted drives, and data recovery from deleted files. Furthermore, they provide both onsite and offsite services, ensuring the utmost safety and security of the client's data. With IT4AWEEK, businesses and individuals in San Diego can trust that their data will be recovered quickly and efficiently

[i-just-love-dorcas-meadows-blog]

Mobile Wizard - Don't Tell Anyone, But The Secrets About Cell Phones Are Here

Are you looking for advice on how best to create the most? You've come to the ideal place if you're. Cell phones are capable of so much and there's a whole lot to know when it has to do with these small communication tools. Continue reading for some info that is useful.

Try not to use your mobile phone in areas which have weak or no signal. Telephones will use electricity trying to get weaker signs. It is not important if the telephone is being used by you or not. Leaving it in these areas can completely empty the battery life of your mobile phone .

When buying your cell phone, be certain to consider packages. Many companies offer themand they're able to include things such as even a car charger or a case. It's often less expensive to purchase all these items than to buy them and there is a fantastic chance.

Look at purchasing the insurance on your own mobile phone. This can help you help save you money in the long term. If your phone stolen is broken or at all ruined, you will be able to utilize it. This may ask that you obtain a new phone, and that can cost hundreds. Insurance allows you to purchase a new phone to get a price that is discounted, and that may be well worth the fee that is monthly.

When you've got a smartphone, then be aware it will need to be replaced within a couple of decades. Like a computer, cell phones are using memory up and require operating systems. Your smartphone will get outdated and there'll not be a memory, meaning your telephone won't properly operate.

Try getting a cell phone. Should you lock the keys in your 13, this can be convenient. Start by calling a person. Hold your cellphone a foot from your car door. They hold and could press the button close to their cell phone. The auto needs to unlock.

Turn it off immediately, if your mobile phone gets wet. Take it away and remove some removable pieces, battery and also the SIM card. Put it all into a bowl full of rice. Lave it to allow the rice to wash it out. Blow it out and it should get the job done!

If your cell phone is capable of charging via a USB interface, ensure you understand what form of USB it needs. Some newer phones require USB 3.0. This can signify that plugging them into a USB 2.0 interface will probably only make them power down to lack of juice. Evidently, this manner will not be recharged by them.

To create the charge of your cell phone don't leave your cellphone on vibrate. There are places where you don't want your phone. If you are likely to be where you do not need your telephone heard, look at turning the ring volume. Leaving the phone vibrate uses a substantial amount of battery power .

A lot of folks are still not completely utilised to hands-free apparatus. These work excellent ease-of-use when talking on the telephone and also to promote security. There are programs that will assist you talk text instead of inputting the characters on your own, and there are several other hands-free alternatives on your phone.

There is a lot to understand when it comes to cell phones Since you may see. You can do a lot together and lots of the items they're capable of are not advertised. Exactly what you learned here and you'll be sure to make the most of your cell phone.

[barbiewritesstuff]

Bed time story

-- I saw the scene in Bad Times at The El Royale and thought it was just so freaking sweet so it inspired me to write but then I just kept going and going so this is a little longer than usual, sorry

Tw. Parental illness, grandparental (?) illness, brief mention of a shitty sister, alcoholism and stuff

Taglist: @mavswife , @unsurebuttrying, @dempy , @peaches-1999 --

 

 

The carrier had stopped for the night.  

One of the higher ups had been feeling bad all day, apparently, and it had gotten bad enough that they had stopped the carrier in some port in Budapest. It was a pain, as it would delay their arrival and hopping on a flight back home was both forbidden, and a waste of money. Besides, chances were that the man was fine and they would be on their way home by morning anyway.  

But being stopped in Budapest did have an advantage. Reception. His phone had miraculously picked up two to three bars of service on the ship. He wasn’t the only one thrilled with this discovery, as the entire ship had pretty much spent the day calling loved ones.  

It was 4.45 am in the port and while the sailors were going down to breakfast, in San Diego a little boy was almost ready for bed. His mother had dimmed the lights, closed the curtains and given him a hot chocolate. Her phone lay next to him, so he could hear Daddy loud and clear when he would call. It was almost time. 

He would have looked just like Jake if he hadn’t inherited your curly blonde hair and piercing blue eyes, but he certainly behaved nothing like him. Jake had been a terror as a boy, and George certainly hadn’t been an easy baby. Although that probably had more to do with him being a sickly child, in and out of hospital for most of his infancy, than any real wish to cause chaos. He had mellowed out into a well-behaved, gentle little boy who liked reading and would sometimes indulge his Daddy’s wish to play baseball.  

The phone rang.  

 

« Hey baby, how are you ? » Jake asked. He tried to keep his voice down, in order not to disturb any of the sailors he was having breakfast with.  

« What did you do today ? » He asked, waving at Rooster and the team on the other end of the cantina. He made his way towards them while his son explained that afternoon’s activities. Jake had already called that day but it had only been lunch and clearly George had been up to more adventures since his last phone call. He sat down next to Maverick and the urge to lower his voice some more arose in him.  

Jake was a deeply private person. Work and home life were to be separated at all times. He didn’t want the stress of work (and sometimes grief) to pollute the bubble of happiness he had at home. He might introduce the team to you and George at some point, but they weren’t friendly enough yet. Still, he had promised George a bedtime call, and he was going to give his boy a bedtime call, even if it had to be done during breakfast. 

« You’ll have to show me that picture you drew when I get home, yeah ? » He heard his son yawn. 

« Are you kneeling ? » He heard his son shuffle « Okay, ready ? Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep ; Angels watch me through the night, And wake me with the morning light. Amen. » He said with a gentle voice, barely above a whisper  

« Okay sweetheart, Daddy’s going to let you sleep now. I love you buddy, see you when I get back »  

George bid him goodnight and passed the phone back to you. He heard you kiss your son’s forehead and then the bedroom door close with a ‘tick’.  

« Hey baby » You said, you sounded tired. Jake felt a pang of guilt in his chest.  

« Long day ? » 

« Yeah, work was hard. The phones went out and I spent an hour on the line with tech support. Then the computer wouldn’t start, so that was another hour on the line. And then, y’know… »  

He knew. Your grandmother hadn’t been doing so well recently and you had gone to visit almost daily. That alone was bad enough, but your sister had been calling twice daily to rage about how you weren’t doing enough for the family since grandma had been brought to the hospital. It was weighing heavy on your heart and Jake hated that he wasn’t there to help, or even just to hold you.  

« I should be back by –«  Jake tried to find his phone, only to realise he was holding it. Bob helpfully mouthed ‘Tuesday’ at him 

« Round Tuesday. I should be able to pick Georgie up from school, if you want me to. I could take you both out for dinner ? »  

« I would love that. Honestly, I think I’ve completely run out of meal ideas, we have even started eating box mac and cheese »  

« Goodness gracious ! » He said in mock outrage, then softened his voice again « How about I cook next week, then ? » 

            « Sound good » 

            « How about you go to bed, baby. I’ll be home soon, I’ll call in the morning if I can. I love you and Georgie » 

            « See you soon » 

            Your end hung up first. Jake was grateful for it, he could have listened to you sleep if it meant it would alleviate the pain of missing home.  

             

 

Breakfast was abysmal. Two sausages and an omelet that barely filled half his plate served with a coffee so strong and bitter that only Hangman could drink it. It left everyone hungry and counting down the hours till lunch, where they would no doubt be disappointed all over again. 

Bob sighed. He’d never been a morning person. The navy had been hard to adjust to but waking up on a carrier was making everything so much worse, because now he had to fight the wave of nausea that came with the less than stellar sea legs the Good Lord had seen fit to give him.  

He struggled through the sausages, and like every morning, attempted a sip of the vile beverage before giving up and waiting for Hangman to take pity on him and offer to drink it instead. When Hangman did arrive, he was on the phone.  

Ah yes, the miracle of a couple bars of service had happened at around 3am and everyone had been on their phones constantly since. Bob figured he probably would be too if he had anyone to call. Hangman sat in his usual seat right in front of him but seemed very preoccupied with whomever he was talking to. 

« You’ll have to show me that picture you drew when I get home, yeah ? »  

A kid. Cute, he never would have thought Hangman to be the kind of guy to like kids, much less the kind of guy to ask said kid to show them what they drew.  

« Are you kneeling ? Okay, ready ? Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep ; Angels watch me through the night, And wake me with the morning light. Amen. Okay sweetheart, Daddy’s going to let you sleep now. I love you buddy, see you when I get back » 

Daddy ? 

Hangman had said it in such a sweet voice too, it almost reminded Bob of his own dad. He had lost his father when he was five to a heart attack and he’d never quite gotten over it. Nobody had, actually. After Dad passed, Mom’s health deteriorated and Mike, his brother, lost himself to alcoholism and within the next twelve years he had lost every other family member. All alone like that, the navy had seemed like the perfect place to start his adult life. He didn’t regret it, but he would have liked to take over his father’s bakery, that had been his dream as a kid.  

« I should be back by –«  Hangman hesitated, patting down his pockets in search of something. He mouthed the end of Jake’s sentence to him and the other man gave him a grateful nod.  

« Must be hard leaving them all the time » Bob hadn’t meant it as a reproach, but his voice had come out a little stronger than he had meant. He had never seen Jake so hurt before. Usually it was only a flash in his eyes but Hangman’s face had fallen and his mouth was slightly open, as if he wanted to say something but shock wouldn’t let him. Bob had never seen anyone look more like a kicked puppy in his life.  

« Man, I’m sorry, that’s not how I wanted that to come out. I just meant it as a statement, not a reproach… I just wanted conversation, I’m sorry » He tried to explain, Hangman stayed silent. The only indication that Bob could be forgiven being that Jake took his coffee and downed it.  

« I asked to be reserve. » Hangman whispered guiltily. It had been directed at his sausages, but Bob knew it was meant for him  

« Okay » was all he could think to answer 

« I’m not a coward » Jake tried to justify « I just – I can’t die and leave them alone, you know ? » 

« I know you’re not a coward » 

« Leaving is the hardest thing I have ever done, and I hate that I picked a career where I have to do that every morning. » 

There was a silence. Bob was happy everyone else was too busy talking to other people to listen in on what they said, he doubted Jake would even entertain the conversation if it wasn’t just the two of them. 

« Is it a boy or a girl ? » 

« He’s a boy, his name is George. He’s named after my father » 

« That’s nice » Bob said, the man in front of him seemed to hesitate for a second.  

« Do you – You don’t have to but – err -- do you want to see a picture ? » Jake asked and Bob cracked a smile. Hangman took out his phone to show him the picture of an adorable baby boy, about three years old, with curly blonde hair and a toothy grin. He was nestled comfortably in the arms of a woman with her own curly head of hair and blue eyes, but the resemblance stopped there. They looked happy. Bob wondered how many pictures like that he had at home. Not many, he guessed, they probably stopped taking pictures when Mum got ill.  

« Is that your wife ? » 

« Yeah » Jake smiled. It was a genuine smile, the first one Bob had ever seen him to « We got married a while ago, we met playing bowling. She’s terrible. She launched her ball two lanes down, which was my lane obviously. Although, she did actually score me a strike, so I guess she’s not that bad… » 

Bob chuckled. Jake was growing on him by the second. 

After their conversation, which ended rather abruptly when the intercom announced that Vice Admiral Jones was in stable condition and they would be able to leave port the next afternoon, Hangman had stuck close to Bob. The grating Hangman persona had been shed and Bob had been granted a look inside the real Jake. The real Jake was warm, aggressively nice and very proud of his wife and son. The more they talked, the more it felt like they could actually be friends, and Jake certainly felt keen. 

 

« You know, Y/n’s been keen to meet some of the team… You could come for dinner on Monday – if you want to, obviously, I don’t want to force you » 

Jake had asked when they got off the carrier. Bob wanted to say yes even before the image of what his Monday evening would look like popped into his head. When he was alone, the days tended to bleed together a little. 

« I would like that » 

And so, he arrived at Jake’s home, a bouquet of flowers in one hand and a bottle of wine in the other, and rang the doorbell with his hand in his throat. Hangman opened the door.  

Family man Hangman looked physically different. He had lost the tense posture and perfect appearance. Jake welcomed him in dressed sharply, with a white shirt and black trousers, but it felt less like he was trying to impress and more like he genuinely enjoyed dressing like that.  

He led Bob down the hallway to the living room where the dining table was dressed for four, and then through to the kitchen where you were busy getting something out of the oven. 

« I did tell her I would cook, but she likes to host » Jake told him, you looked at them both and shot your husband an eyeroll. You removed the oven gloves and put them neatly on the counter before making your way to Bob.   

« Bob, nice to meet you. I’m Y/n »   

Bob was a hugger and you were too, which was lucky because he was leaning in when he realised that might not have been appropriate. Then, the pitter patter of feet to his left pulled him out of the hug.  

George was clearly a shy child, he stood there with his hand held out for Bob to shake, trembling like a leaf and Bob couldn’t help but smile. 

« You must be George » 

 

Dinner was a success.  

Jake had mentioned briefly that you were a great cook but Bob questioned how on earth Jake managed to stay in shape if that’s how you cooked on the daily. He had never eaten so well in his life.  

You had made a roast chicken with potatoes, vegetables and homemade gravy. And for dessert, an absolute monster of a chocolate cake. By the end of it Bob wasn’t sure he would ever be able to move again, but when George, who had taken quite the liking to him, asked him to play he had accepted.  

« I like him » You said, watching Bob zoom a model airplane across the living room, much to the delight of your son 

« Yeah, he’s nice » Jake replied 

« You should stay friends » You looked at your husband. You had been married for a few years and yet, every time you looked at him, butterflies fluttered in your stomach. He looked back at you and smiled. 

« You know, I was thinking… You know your friend Jenna » 

« Jake, I can’t set him up, I have just met him ! » 

« Fine » He smiled « How about babysitting then ? You did say you wanted a second kid »  

[fandomlit]

hotch’s daughter (various!criminal minds x reader)

requested by anon “Hi lovey I loved your thing w/ the team and Rossi’s daughter and was wondering if you could do something like that but w/ Hotch’s daughter and they all try to flirt w/ her (girls included)? Thanks if you do”

summary hotch finally brings his oldest child in to meet the team, which starts a small rivalry for your affections throughout the day. but little did they know...

a/n for sure one of the longer things i’ve written but i promise, the end is worth it ;))

gif cred belongs to @toyboxboy​

rossi had been getting his ear talked off by spencer at the doctor’s desk when you walked in. he had been looking for an escape the last fifteen minutes without being too rude to the kid. then, he looked up and found the easy way out.

“hey, mrs. y/n,” he said, leaning away from the doctor to give you a smile. when the rest of the team looked up, they were met with the gorgeous sight of you balancing jack on your hip, your smile graceful and polite and stunning. 

“hello, rossi,” you greeted as he walked up to give you a kiss on the cheek. “any chance you can guide me to my dad?”

“of course,” rossi nodded, and you hooked your free arm with his as he started leading you up to hotch’s office while engaging in some small conversation.

“that’s hotch’s daughter?” emily said in partial shock, eyebrows raised.

“i didn’t know hotch had a daughter,” derek scoffed, eyes never leaving you.

they all watched you and rossi walk to your father’s office. you entered without knocking, giving your father a smile as rossi walked to his own office. “she’s incredibly beautiful,” spencer commented.

“that’s an understatement,” derek contributed.

“no doubt,” jj added. emily was still staring at the door with her mouth agape. jj looked over and scanned her friend’s expression. “you okay, emily?”

“i didn’t have enough time to profile her,” emily hummed to herself. “if i had a little more, i’d know if she was gay.” jj chuckled.

“well, let me know if you find out.”

after about thirty minutes of trying to get work done, the team all perked up when hotch’s door opened. he was chuckling at something you were saying, him now holding jack in his arms.

“team, this is my daughter, y/n,” hotch introduced finally. “and you all know jack.” you gave them a wave and a smile. “y/n, this is derek,” the man gave you a charming smirk, “jj,” the blonde smiled politely, “emily,” the girl wasn’t even attempting to hide her checking you out anymore, “and spencer,” the doctor gave you a shy wave.

“it’s lovely to meet you all,” you nodded. “good to know my father’s in good hands.” they chuckled as you gave them another smile. hotch’s phone rang and he sighed, giving you and them a nod before taking off down the hall with jack to a more private place.

“so, y/n,” you looked up to see jj had spoken, “why haven’t we met you yet?”

you gave them all a smile and leaned against an empty desk. “i moved out the second i turned eighteen and went to med school in california.” they gave you impressed looks. “yeah, full ride.” you gave them a wink that they couldn’t help but melt at. “but uh, after that i took an internship in san diego and didn’t move back until a month or two ago when i heard about the divorce.” they nodded with sympathy, but you simply shrugged in response.

“do you have a job up here yet?” derek asked politely.

you nodded. “oh, yeah. im a local m.a., not too far from where my dad lives. i figured it would be nice to be a part of my little brother’s life, you know?” they all nodded.

“how are you liking quantico?” emily asked, still giving you that flirtatious look that made you blush and smile shyly.

“it’s a beautiful town,” you nodded. “admittedly, i haven’t gotten to see too much of it yet, what with work and jack. but there’s plenty of time for that.”

“i’d love to show you around some time, if you’d like,” emily smiled. you blushed again, but before you could answer, hotch came back.

“all introduced?” he asked with a sigh. they all nodded. “great. get back to work.” he lead you back up to his office, where you gave emily a quick glance before shutting the door. the girl was biting her lip with a smile. she looked around to see the team all giving her incredulous looks.

“what? she’s cute.”

later that day, derek found you making two cups of coffee in the break room.

“someone’s got a sweet tooth,” he said, watching you pour a third packet of sugar in one of the mugs.

you giggled, looking up with a smile that he easily returned. “and that someone’s my dad.” he chuckled as you stirred the steaming liquid.

“so what was it like, growing up with aaron hotchner as your dad?” he asked, getting out a mug to make himself a cup. 

you shrugged, moving to pour some coffee in his cup without saying a word. he gave you a smile as thanks as you said, “he’s a good dad. little strict with all my high school boyfriends, of course, but otherwise he was comforting and very loving.”

“bet you had a lot of boyfriends in high school,” derek chuckled, taking a sip from his mug.

you gave him a smile. “bet you had a lot of girlfriends, derek.” something about the way you said his name made him feel cocky.

he shrugged. “what can i say?” you laughed with him before going to take your father his coffee.

“emily, right?” prentiss turned around to see you standing behind her desk with a small smile. she gave you a grin and nodded.

“prentiss.”

“emily prentiss,” you tried, walking closer to her. “i like it.”

she gave you a smile, leaning back in her chair as you perched on her desk. “has anyone told you you have very pretty eyes?” she inquired. you flushed, tucking a piece of hair behind her ears. “i’ll be the first to admit, im a little curious of you, y/n.” you tilted your head. “i just think there’s a lot i could get to know about you.”

“well,” you drawled, “you are a profiler.” she let out a small laugh. “profile me, emily.”

she looked you over with a smile. “you wear a ring on your right ring finger. at passing glance, someone may think ‘sure, she’s taken’ but in reality, it’s common in people who are dedicated to their jobs.” you looked down at the small silver band as she continued, “and speaking of your job, i get the sense that you went into the medical profession because of your dad, right?”

“yeah,” you confirmed, still smiling gently. “got sick and tired of seeing him all beat up.”

“so when you felt powerless over that as a child, you wanted to make sure you weren’t powerless when you were an adult,” she concluded. she gave you a look. “good enough?”

“perfect,” you complimented. she was about to propose that date again when your father called you over.

“y/n, can you come watch jack?”

“yeah,” you said, standing from emily’s desk and smoothing out your skirt. “i’ll talk to you later, emily.”

she watched you walk away with a confident smile.

you had been sitting in hotch’s office with the door cracked, holding jack as he slept in your arms. you had a book in one hand and your other supporting your sleeping brother whehn jj had peeked in to give hotch some paperwork. with your father nowhere in sight, she was greeted by that pure sight instead.

“you know,” jj started, walking into the room and grabbing your attention, “they say there’s something to be said about women who are good with children.”

“do they?” you hummed as she placed a stack of papers onto hotch’s desk. she gave you a smile and a nod. “then im sure there’s something to be said about women who are communication liaisons, no?”

“im sure there is,” she hummed as she walked out of the room, leaving you with a smile as you returned to your book.

“i think im gonna ask her out,” derek nodded, sitting on the edge of jj’s desk near the end of the day.

“like hell,” emily scoffed, sauntering over with her arms crossed. “remember when i already did this morning?”

“and did she give you an answer?” derek shot back. “yeah, that’s what i thought.”

“maybe we shouldn’t be trying to go for our boss’s daughter at all,” jj proposed. they all considered as penelope came walking up, a file in her hands.

“who? y/n?” the computer tech questioned. they all confirmed. penelope shrugged, “well, it’s too late for that.” they all gave her a questioning look. she simply pointed toward hotch’s office. they all followed her finger.

they watched reid walk up and give you a quick kiss and smile. their jaws dropped as he slid an arm around your waist and you lifted your purse onto your shoulder. you both started down toward the doors, where you would have to pass the team in the process.

“thanks for the warm welcome today, guys,” you said, giving them all smiles. spencer smirked unbearably at your side, absorbing the glares and shocked looks of his coworkers and friends. “i really appreciate it.”

they all nodded and muttered. spencer stopped right after you had walked past them. “oh, here, i forgot something.” he handed you the keys to the car. “you go start the car, i’ll be out in a second.” you nodded and gave him a kiss on the cheek.

spencer turned around and quickly went to his desk, opening a drawer and taking out a small jewelry box, which they saw was fit for a nice necklace. as he walked past the team he said, “night, guys.” they were no longer looking at him. just as he passed them, he turned again, “oh, and one last thing.” they looked up to meet his smirk. “checkmate.”

[deeg9]

Guilt spiral. (Fan Fiction)

[Picking up where S4 ended] - Part 8

\\ Read Part 7 here \\

“Detective Lopez,” Lopez answered her phone on the first ring.

“How long ago was that?” She put the phone between her shoulder and ear to free her hands. She pulled up a map on her computer. 

“Can you email me the three towers?” She asked, snapping in the air to catch Tim and Sergeant Grey’s attention from across the room. She rattled off her email.

“Okay, thanks.” She hung up. 

“The tech team said there was unusual activity on Chloe’s social media account that can be traced back to a cell phone 15 minutes ago,” She pulled up the email and projected a map on the war room monitor. 

“Where?” Tim asked, looking over her shoulder. 

“The ping was south of Irvine, here.” Lopez used her index finger to circle the three towers on the map. 

“Those all blanket I-5. Did Jake provide any locations in that direction?” Sarge asked Tim. 

“There was a house in San Diego but that’s still pretty far away.” Tim nodded his head. “I’ll call local PD and see if they can keep tabs on it for us.” 

“Are they still tracking the phone?” Sarge asked Lopez.

“It appears to be shut off now but Highway Patrol is already in that general vicinity. I’ll get them this the latest intel and put them on alert.” Lopez picked her phone back up and dialed. 

***********************

Lucy and Hajek passed the drive in silence. She assumed he must have run out of ways to ask her if she was a cop. 

She wasn’t sure how convincing their social media accounts had been. His body language betrayed none of his thoughts.

He’d spent several minutes looking through both profiles, and even played a couple older videos from Chloe’s instagram that Jake was in. Eventually, he shut his phone off and focused on driving.

He’d cut over to a different highway heading East about an hour south of LA. He could be heading to Palm Springs, she thought. 

That would technically be on the way to one of the properties associated with him in Phoenix, AZ. She couldn’t imagine he was planning on driving through the night to get there—especially knowing how many times they’d have to stop for gas along the way.

If he really thought she was a cop, he wouldn’t want to risk stopping if he could help it. She glanced at the gas meter and saw he still had over a half a tank left. She estimated he could drive for two more hours before he needed to fill up.

She wasn’t deeply familiar with this area but she knew there were at least a half dozen interchanges within a half-hour drive. It was much more remote too. He could kill her and then get anywhere in the state with ease. 

Lucy’s thoughts drifted to Tamara. She wondered what would happen to Tamara if she didn’t make it out of this. Would Tim be the one to tell her Lucy was dead? Would he take Tamara in and keep her safe? 

She wasn’t sure if Tim would be up for that last part. May be Nolan and Bailey would take care of her. 

She tried to push away the regret that crawled up her spine. Tamara was legally an adult but she deserved a strong support system from people who loved her. 

She’d lost her parents, Jackson, and then one of her closest friends. It wouldn’t be fair if Tamara also lost Lucy. The universe couldn’t be that cruel, could it?

She’d made the wrong call today and the people she loved might have to live with the consequences.

***********************

After Tim wrapped up his call with SDPD, he rejoined Lopez and Sergeant Grey in the war room. Lopez was drawing another circle on the map along I-5. 

“What did you learn?” Tim asked. 

Lopez looked nervous.

He clenched his jaw. It wouldn’t be good news.

“Highway patrol got a report of items being tossed out of a black SUV on I-5 South. They think it’s related.” Lopez pulled down the screen on her phone to refresh her email. 

“What was it?” Tim swallowed. 

“Clothing. They’re sending photos of it over now.” She tilted her phone in her hand to indicate she was still waiting on the photos to come through. 

“Did they get a license plate?” He asked.

“No," She shook her head, "just the vehicle description. The report also said the windows were tinted too dark to see inside so it could be nothing.” 

Her phone vibrated and she quickly took a look. 

She pressed her lips together and typed in a code to screen share the images on the monitor. 

Tim watched as a photo of the pants Lucy had worn that morning popped up on the screen. It was followed by the leather jacket, the boots, and the white tank top. 

His heart caught in his throat when he saw the photo of the tank top. 

It was covered in blood. 

He closed his eyes but it didn’t matter. The image was stamped on the back of his eyelids. 

“Bradford,” Sergeant Grey grabbed his shoulder. “This is a solid lead. They found her clothes, but it’s not a body. We should stay optimistic that Lucy’s still alive.”

Tim nodded and looked down at his list. He had officers posted at each location in the LA area and was waiting to hear back from departments in cities across the Southwest from San Diego, CA all the way to Santa Fe, NM on what resources they could spare.

He knew they were getting closer. He just hoped Lucy survived long enough for them to find her alive.

***********************

Hajek looked over at her as she bit her lip and closed her eyes. He cleared his throat, interrupting her guilt spiral about Tamara and Tim. 

“I haven’t threatened you in at least an hour,” he commented, surprising her.

“I’m just worried about Jake,” she lied. “Do you think the police hurt him when they arrested him?” 

“No one was hurt. This isn’t the first time law enforcement closed in on part of my business,” he explained, “and the men on my payroll are coached not to shoot their way out. So unless your boy pulled a gun on a Fed, he’s sitting comfortably in a cell right now.” 

She nodded. 

None of this made sense: Hajek admitting to being an ex-cop, telling his men to lay down their arms instead of shooting police, and trying to comfort her? 

She replayed the day’s events in her head. He’d given ‘Jake’ the money to do a drug run, but he wasn’t able to follow through with the plan. That didn’t matter because it would still be considered intent to distribute narcotics. 

He had definitely forced her to leave against her will--at gunpoint.

He was probably trying to lower her guard. He could be lying about being an ex-cop. If he got her more comfortable, may be he thought she’d slip up.

“Do you feel bad about it?” She asked, a new idea coming to mind. 

“About what?” He responded, a defensive edge to his voice. 

“That you used to be a cop. Is that why you tell them not to shoot?” 

“It’s bad for business to shoot cops,” he gave a non-answer. “If my guys shoot a cop, they get locked up for longer—maybe even for life—and I have to hire new people. In case you didn’t notice, I don’t trust new people.”

“Isn’t it bad for business when the cops shut you down?” If she could keep him talking, she might finally be able to get a read on him. 

“No, not in the long run.” He shook his head.

“That doesn’t make sense to me,” she prodded. 

“I don’t appreciate when law enforcement slows me down, but the truth is competition increases in my line of business with police involvement.”

She gave him a blank stare and he shrugged.

“Law enforcement hasn’t successfully reduced the size of the drug market since before you were born. In a lot of ways, they’ve made it worse by forcing operators to trust less and kill more to weed out undercover cops. Do you know how many perfectly sweet kids I saw turn into brutal killers over the years because of that dynamic?”

She shook her head. 

“Too many to count. Drug trafficking is projected to be a trillion-dollar industry in the next decade. The Feds, local and state police—they’re all fueling the economy they’re trying to destroy and they’re clueless about it.”

She thought about what Smitty always said about hot spots in town. He called them “whack-a-moles”: You knock one down, a new one pops up next door. She’d seen it happen too, and she’d only been on the force a fraction of the time. 

Perhaps that was why Hajek was so hard to catch.

“So you don’t see cops as a threat?” Lucy asked. 

“The police are a nuisance,” He admitted. “The biggest threat to my business is decriminalizing drugs, and that’s not going to happen in my lifetime. Not in this country.” 

“I guess the answer is no then,” she looked out the window, taking note of the names of each exit as they passed. 

He raised an eyebrow in question. 

“You don’t feel bad.” She clarified. 

“No, I don’t. I’m a good employer. I put out clean products. In my own way, I’m making a difference.” 

She had to control her reaction not to completely balk at that, but wasn’t quite successful.

“I’m not saying I’m a saint, sweetheart,” he smiled at her. “I’m just a realist.” 

“More like an opportunist,” she corrected.  

He nodded. 

“Days like this—my business barely takes a hit, and the cops will continue to take out smaller players which creates more and more opportunity for me.”

“Is that why you changed careers?”  

“When I was a cop, I locked up kids on the street for possession, selling, you name it. I watched their futures get ruined because of a system that preys on the most vulnerable instead of helping them.”

That stung. Just a few months ago, she tried to help a kid she caught selling drugs for the first time. Chris wanted to charge him as an adult, but she only cited him. She’d tried to minimize the damage but the entire situation still went south. 

“What’s your point?” She asked him. “I get the feeling you’re gearing up to some big takeaway?” 

He cracked a smile at that.

“My point is you should look the other way when it comes to drug busts. You’re not making a difference.” 

“I’m not a cop,” she reinforced, “but even to me that sounds like a pretty self-serving takeaway.” 

“Take it or leave it,” he slowed the car down and pulled onto the shoulder. 

Lucy’s pulse skipped into hyperdrive and she sat straight up and braced herself.

She examined Hajek’s body language. He was relaxed.

He didn’t reach for his gun. 

He saw her reaction and to fuel her confusion, she was sure he looked at least a little offended. 

“There was a gas station about three miles back.” He motioned his head toward the direction they’d just driven. 

She stared at him. 

“By the time you make it there and call your friends, I’ll be long gone. Take my advice and don’t try to interfere again. Next time, I will kill you,” He promised. 

He unlocked the door. 

“I don’t have shoes,” she stated the obvious, but still reached for the door and opened it. 

“Consider it punishment for lying to me,” he said point-blank. “Go. Before I change my mind.” 

She climbed out of the car, barefoot, and Hajek peeled away. His goons followed a couple seconds later. Lucy took a beat to memorize their license plates and check her surroundings for a callbox. She sighed when there wasn’t one in sight. 

Resolved, she started the jog back to the gas station, feeling every rock, shard, and prick in the hot dirt under her feet. 

[jessicalynnhepner]

What Every Parent Needs to Know About Child Sex Trafficking

For most police officers, this scene is a familiar one—a young kid gets mixed up with the wrong person and finds him or herself on the wrong side of the law. In virtually every case, this would be the end of the story. The young girl would get a slap on the wrist and be released into her parents’ custody where they could, presumably, set her straight. And, at this point in our story, Officer Scott was prepared to do just that—to trust the overwhelming testimony of prior experience and process this girl out so that he could get on with his shift. But, something was different this time… Discerning the SignsAs Officer Scott sits down to file his paperwork, he’s reminded of last Tuesday’s roll call.  His Sergeant, having recently attended a training seminar on human trafficking, used that day to teach his officers how to identify potential trafficking situations. All of a sudden, alarm bells start going off in Scott’s mind: The Fear — Sure, a kid’s going to be afraid of the consequences. But, this girl seems to fear for her physical safety. She’s acting like there’s something worse waiting for her than an angry mom and dad at home. The Stolen Merchandise – Why did she need a Red Bull and a pack of condoms? Scott recalled that traffickers use starvation to control their victims. Usually, their only choice is to steal the bare necessities. The Boyfriend – Per the owner’s description, this guy was at least 10 years older than she. What were they doing there together in the first place? A New ApproachWith these things in mind, Scott calmly invites the young lady out of holding and brings her to a quieter part of the station, away from prying eyes and menacing glances. She looks cold, so Scott hands her a sweatshirt. As he does, he notices a small tattoo of a crown with the name ‘Hugo’ scrawled beneath it—likely a brand to show who ‘she belongs to.’ They start to chat. This time, he speaks less like a cop and more like a friend. Clearly, she hasn’t had anything to eat for quite a while. Moments later, a female officer appears with a bag from McDonald’s. The three make their way to a private lounge. As they talk, the girl lets her guard down. Scott listens as she describes her broken home life, struggles with friends at school, and her constant search for belonging. All the while, her phone continues to buzz. “Your boyfriend?” “Yes. He just wants to make sure I’m ok.” He really is a great guy, she explains. He’s been there for her when her parents weren’t. He shows her the affection and attention she needs. She feels protected. He loves her……only, sometimes he makes her do things—things she would ordinarily never do. TrustHaving earned at least a glimmer of trust, Scott asks if she would slide her phone over. Reluctantly, she does, and he begins to scroll through the text messages. Wisely, Scott checks his emotions before he begins to read. It doesn’t take him long to realize these are not the supportive words of a loving boyfriend. No, they’re the verbal assaults of a degenerate thug bent on belittling her into submission. Scott does his best to hide his disgust as he reads about threatened consequences for ‘missed quotas.’ Horrified, he sees insults that no human being should ever have to endure, capped off by threats against her little sister for talking to the cops. Officer Scott thanks the young woman for her trust and politely excuses himself to make a call. He can read the writing on the wall: this girl is clearly a victim of trafficking. She needs someone with much more experience than him to help regain her freedom. He picks up the phone, dials his Sergeant, and together, they get to work. What Made the Difference?This story, though generalized in some ways, is rooted in the accounts we hear from police officers every day. The first part of the story is common enough. But, what about the second when, in Scott’s eyes, the girl goes from ‘shoplifter’ to ‘trafficking victim’? Not so much. So, how do we get from A to B? How do we help police officers learn

to look at each ‘punk kid’ as a potential victim, to ask deeper questions, and find the real story lies beneath the surface? Just as in Officer Scott’s story, that turning point comes when an officer recognizes the signs, trusts his or her gut, and decides to unravel that thread. It all starts with that one officer—a soldier on the front lines of the underground battle to set captives free. This can only happen when officials at every level of law enforcement learn to detect the signs and receive the tools they need to bring trafficking victims out of the cruel darkness and into the liberating light of day. National Human Trafficking Law Enforcement Training ProgramAt ERASE, one of the most impactful things we do is train police departments so that they produce more officers like the one in this story. It’s our mission to educate officers to detect the warning signs, identify potential victims, and safely lead them to freedom.  Your donations make this possible. Source Child Sex Trafficking-Not My Child Mom shakes her head and Dad raises his voice. Their 16-year old daughter storms up the stairs. As the bedroom door slams, she collapses on the bed with phone in hand. She’s ready to vent her frustrations one status update at a time. With every angst-laden tap of the keyboard, she lays bare her soul: “Nobody here gets me.” “No one understands!” “I feel unloved.” 📷An hour later, a boy from the next town over reaches out. She doesn’t know him, but they’ve got a few mutual friends, so it’s probably no big deal. He’s cute and thoughtful. And, he seems to understand what she’s going through better than anyone else. For the next two weeks, they exchange messages every day. He’s sweet, a digital shoulder to cry on when nobody else seems to care. They decide to meet up in person, so she borrows Dad’s car “to meet some friends at the mall.” That night, Daddy’s little girl doesn’t come home for dinner and Mom sits up all night. The next morning, they call the police. An officer searches her computer and finds evidence of the girl’s new relationship. Turns out, the boy she thought she knew didn’t exist. And, just like that, she’s gone.Reality check about child sex trafficking At ERASE, we hear heartbreaking tales like this all too frequently. Stories from average families dealing with everyday stresses when out of nowhere, their child is lured right out from under them. Whenever we tell these stories, the most common response goes something like this: “Child trafficking is something that happens to those types of kids out there. We live in a great community and our neighbors are good people who look out for one another. Something like that could never happen to one of my children.” This is the kind of response that makes us cringe. If only parents knew what we know, they wouldn’t be so quick to ignore this real and pervasive threat. Sadly, that very ignorance is what traffickers count on most when looking for children to target. The danger is far more imminent than most parents recognize. If we’re going to protect our children, we need to be clear on the real threats child traffickers impose. Traffickers are Smart, Motivated, and Tech-SavvyA dark and horrific market has grown up around the purchase and sale of human beings. Researchers estimated that, in 2007, Atlanta’s underground sex economy alone brought in $290 million. Even in a far less “saturated” market, sex trafficking in San Diego enables a pimp to pull in over $11,000 per week. Fast forward 10 years and there’s no reason to think that number hasn’t grown. Innocent children aren’t given a pass here. Instead, the most vulnerable among us are routinely bought and sold like property—many of them up to 15 times a day. With business booming, traffickers are working harder than ever to keep up with demand. Leaving no stone unturned, they use social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat, to research, target, and groom children for sexual exploitation. In fact, 77% of sex trafficking victims

report having been initially approached online. Just as a skilled marketer uses sophisticated keyword searches to identify his audience, traffickers monitor social media for anything at all that would suggest an easy target:Children with social media profiles open to public viewing Teenagers posting introspective status updates about feelings of insecurity Boys and girls who are venting about arguments with their parents Like a lion crouched in his thicket, a predator will scan through lines of text looking for vulnerable children to drag off into the tall grass. How many of those lines will have come from one of your children? Yes, your child can be a victim of sex traffickingThe children that traffickers rip from their happy homes aren’t pretend characters on television or disembodied faces from the evening news. They’re our kids, the ones we work hard to raise and the ones we hope to see grow up happy and healthy. They’re the kids we teach to be smart, to mind their surroundings, and never talk to strangers. And yet, we give them free reign to explore every dark corner of the internet via their cell phone. We must do betterLittle more than half of parents closely monitor their children’s online activity. So, when a stranger asks to connect on Snapchat, it’s nearly an even shot that no one will be looking over that kid’s shoulder. You can count on a child trafficker to take that bet. Do you know which platforms your children are using or who they connect with online? Do they have any secret accounts and how would you find out if they did? If someone asked to meet in person, would they do it? Can you be sure? These questions may seem intrusive and even overbearing. However, considering the reality of child trafficking in the United States, we have to ask these questions.  Every day, thousands of children disappear into slavery. We’d like to hope our kids could never be victims but the facts simply don’t allow us that option. Understanding the facts of child trafficking is the first and most important step in prevention. There is HopeGood people around the world are standing up and fighting back against this great moral evil. You don’t have to live in constant fear for your children. The story we shared at the beginning of this post doesn’t have to be your story. And with some common sense and the will to step intentionally into your kids’ digital lives, you can protect them from becoming a victim of sex trafficking. The question is: will you? At ERASE, we want to educate parents on how best to protect their children from online predators. Please take a look at our tips and best practices pages to see how you can teach your children to be safe online.Juvenile Delinquent or Victim of Human Trafficking? Blog Story of a Human Trafficking Victim It’s midnight. Officer Scott pulls his patrol car into the lot of a small, 24-hour convenience store. As he approaches, he peers through the decal-laden glass door to see a middle-aged man struggling to restrain an agitated 16-year old girl. The store owner had caught this young woman and her boyfriend stuffing items into a small handbag. Her companion—a ‘white man in his late 20’s’—had bolted out the door without so much as a backward glance. The last thing on Officer Scott’s mind was “human trafficking victim”. Scott had seen this before. Some young teenager, looking for thrills, decides to pocket a few items from the local bodega and gets grabbed by the watchful owner. As he escorts the girl to his police car, Scott’s treated to an earful. She can’t stop going on about what a jerk he is, how he had violated her rights, and how much trouble she’d be in if he didn’t let her go right away. “Just wait until I call your parents,” he thinks. 📷 The Same Routine When they arrive at the station, Scott walks this young woman to his desk. She can hear the snide remarks of a few men handcuffed to chairs nearby. As they leer conspicuously at her, she shrinks further into herself.  Scott starts in on his typical line of questioning: name,

age, address, and so on. The entire time, her phone buzzes with one text message after another. She begs Scott to let her reply, but he refuses. “There’ll be plenty of time to talk to your parents later.” “I’m not worried about them,” she snaps back. “They don’t give a crap about me, anyway. They’re too busy arguing to even notice I’m around.” Not sure what to make of that outburst, Scott begins to sort through the items she had attempted to steal: a sleeve of Hostess Cup Cakes, a Red Bull, and a box of condoms. “Must be one heck of a boyfriend to leave you there like that, huh?” “You wouldn’t understand. He loves me. He takes care of me.” Angry and frustrated by this girl’s bad attitude and ignorance about that poor excuse for a boyfriend, Officer Scott escorts her to a holding cell and prepares to process her out.Is This the End of the Story?

https://whateveryparentshouldknowaboutcps.blogspot.com/2020/08/what-every-parent-needs-to-know-about.html

[allthevmff]

Find Afrocurl’s work // AO3 // LJ  interview from vmfictitious // originally posted Mar. 20th, 2011

How did you get into Veronica Mars fandom?

Somewhere in the middle of S2, a friend of mine from high school started to talk about this show and how much I’d like it. At the general description of a high school detective, I borrowed her S1 DVDs and devoured the show in three days.  After that I started to discover fandom, mostly because I used Inigo’s transcripts to keep myself up with what the show was doing before I could watch live.

Shortly after starting the show, I had this job where I spent too much time in an office and was easily bored. I used a bunch of downtime to read fic and post in a message board (FanForum for anyone curious.)  When that job ended (thankfully) I had all of this spare time and just sort of fell into writing.

Were you an experienced writer when you started writing for VM?  If so, what kind of writing had you done, and/or what fandoms had you written for?   If not, was it really intimidating to post your first story?

I’m a little fuzzy on these details right now, but I wasn’t that experienced when I started writing in VM. I think I had a story or two written in The OC before I posted here, but I had some great support from a few friends (sarah_p //  Sarah's Crack ) for one was a big support) when I did post my first story.

What was it about Veronica Mars that interested you?  Why did you feel compelled to write for this particular show?

I really fell for the characters when I started to watch. Veronica was such a compelling character, and as I kept watching I fell more in love with Logan, too. I felt compelled in that post-S2 summer to see the relationship between Logan and Veronica explored (as so many other people did.)

Are you creative in other media for fandom (vidding, icons, etc.)?

I pick up making icons here and there, but I don’t think I have the same skill as many other people do. It’s a different creative medium, and one that I think stretches a different part of my brain.

What was the best moment for you, in fandom?  (Not necessarily a moment in the show, but fandom itself.)

I think it was the moment when I found myself in a position to go to all of these events around LA and San Diego. I found that people around LJ were interested as a result because there was something for people to enjoy that I had been able to capture.

If you had a magic wand, and could change VM fandom in any way, past or present, what would you do?

I wish S3 hadn’t been so divisive—it’s spoiled so many people on the show, and when you still love parts of it, but not all of it, it’s hard to stay positive around other people.

Of your accomplishments in fandom/cyberspace, which are you most proud of?

Weirdly, I think it’s little things I’ve done that bring a smile to my face. Sharing my time with the cast with others in any way. That’s not just the picspams when I went to an event, but these moments where I could get autographs or phone calls to other people. At different times, I’ve been able to make a friend’s birthday just a little brighter with a message from the cast (Sarah and another friend M.)

What’s your favorite VM episode and why?

I go back and forth on this answer all of the time, but I think it’s Ain’t No Magic Mountain High Enough. In part because it was the first episode I remember watching live, and also because I’m a sucker for banter between Logan and Veronica. That whole episode is filled with it, even if they aren’t together as a couple.

What’s your least favorite episode and why?

Blast from the Past—I just can’t get behind the mystery of the week, or what Jackie does to Veronica as a way to keep Wallace to herself.

How do you feel about season 3?

I’m a mixed bag on the subject. I think that the first arc has promise, though it didn’t do much to satisfy my need for Logan and Veronica in a healthy relationship. I’m not a fan of how Piz was introduced, or what his purpose was in the long run.

The Dean O’Dell arc lacks heart (and the Hearst rapist does too when I look at it), and the last five are just all over the place.

In total, I haven���t brought myself to rewatch the whole season since it aired, but I made a promise to myself at some point I would (I plan to live-blog all of the episodes, but I only managed to finish the first three.)

If you met Rob Thomas, what would you say to him?  (Assume that you have taken magical drugs that enable you to not be tongue-tied and you can completely speak your mind.)

I briefly met him and talked to him during season three, but if I could have a longer conversation, I’d really want to understand what his motives were for Logan and Veronica in that season. It seemed that the show always had Logan and Veronica together off screen so that the audience had no real reason to understand those later break-ups.

If you could talk to the writing staff, what question(s) would you have for them?

I’m always interested in some of the specifics of the room—are there any writers who cater to writing for certain characters? What characters do you like to write more than others? I think I’m just interested in their process more than anything else.

Writing

Which story of yours is your favorite, and why?

I’m really a fan of “The Black Hole” because I think it was a different sort of writing exercise for me. I also think I was really into the moment when I wrote it, and it shows. I can’t remember how long it took me to write, but I think it was a pretty quick write once I had the idea solidified in my head.

Are there any stories of yours that are (to your surprise) fan favorites?

Not really a surprise, but I love the reaction I had to Rational Thought. My Piz issues just got one big escape in that piece and everyone who read it had a similar reaction.

Do you (or did you at first) feel uncomfortable posting R or NC17 rated stories?

I think I was a bit apprehensive the first time (especially since it was my first fic in the fandom), but as I’ve written more and more of those fics, I’m more comfortable with the ways of writing it. I also love all of my betas who help me through the mechanics of writing it.

If you could start over and rewrite any of your stories (assume unlimited time and you would be paid for your efforts, because this is a fantasy), which story would you choose, and what changes would you make?

I’m not proud of Compulsion as it was written in the end, so I’d work there and really craft the narrative more than it is now. It’s not that it’s not beta-ed, but that it wasn’t really planned or structured beyond what is written. I think there was promise in the beginning and it floundered.

Do you write for any other fandoms?

I write here and there in a few other fandoms, but most of my work is in VM.  Some of the other shows are harder to get a feel for, so much that I don’t know if I have the character voices down.

Do you write any original works, and if so, can we see any of them?  Have you ever taken any writing classes?  Have you ever published anything? Won any competitions?

I wrote a few pieces of original fic, which are at my writing community. I haven’t been one to take a writing course, but in high school I had an award-winning poem at the local county fair.

That piece, I wrote was in my junior year of high school, spring semester (so let’s call is March 2000.) We had to write an emulation of Langston Hughes’s “I Am”, and I went all out—confused kid to the max. My teacher ate most of it up, and had me submit it to the Fair.  It went on to win the best poem for high schoolers, the best high school piece and Best in Show for all student work. I have three lovely ribbons, a paper weight to show for it.

What other VM author influenced you the most?  Do you have a favorite VM story (by another author)?

I spent most of my time reading things from Loveathons and Fic From Mars when I was reading, so I guess any of those authors. I really love dark_roast’s ( dark_roast) style. I think mutiousmuse and truemyth (TrueMyth) each have some amazing pieces, too. What’s great about being part of fandom is learning how much else you have in common with authors you love. I’m still friends with Musey and Truemyth after I met them at Comic Con in 2006.

Overall, I think my favorite story is Finite Erasure (TW), which puts me in the camp of loving angst. I worked with Trixx (Trixx) as she wrote it and I think I fell for the story she was telling and how much it hurt along the way.

What fanfic do you wish you’d had the idea for and written yourself?

If I had a mind for her particular brand of crazy, I’d have love to have written One True Pair, because the creativity and perspective amaze me.

Who are your favorite traditional authors?  Do you have a favorite book or series?

I love Oscar Wilde’s wit; I love Fitzgerald’s use of flawed characters. When I was in college I became a huge fan of Isaac Bashevis Singer. Sadly I’m not a huge book fan, though I do love words and compelling stories. Persuasion is one of my favorite stories, along with The Alchemist. I found myself more easily distracted by television as a kid and when I do get a book, I tend to read some fluffy chick-lit.

 Getting to Know You

To which character in VM do you feel you are the most similar, or what situation in VM reminds you of your own life?

Even though I don’t write her enough, I feel like I’m a slightly less tech-savvy version of Mac. I wasn’t one to have boyfriends in high school, and I think that just influences my outlook now.

Share a fun memory with us, something related to fandom.

This moment at an event in San Diego where my friends and I spent a good five minutes trying to remember the Eleanor Roosevelt quote from Logan’s voicemail.

Or the time I had Jason write a message to my journal without him really knowing where it was going.

Dog person, cat person, neither or both?

Cat person! My cat Auric loves everyone he meets, and wants to keep me from my computer when I leave it open in his presence. He really loves to sit on my keyboard when I’m not around.

What was the happiest day in your life (that you can share with us)?

December 12, 2000—the day I got into college. I’m pretty lame most of the time.

The apocalypse is on us.  You’ve got five minutes to gather your stuff before you flee (assume that your loved ones are already safe).  What do you take?

This is going to be pretty typical, but my laptop, and external hard drives, so I’m not without my pictures. Maybe a few of my autographs and old-school photos too.

What don’t we know about you, that we should know?

I’m not nearly as interesting as I sound on the internet. ;)

 The Nuts and Bolts of Writing

Do you consider yourself a stickler for grammar, or do you prefer a more casual approach?  Specifically, serial comma: for or against?

I’m weirdly a stickler for grammar when I’m not the one writing. I’m usually for the serial comma, which I blame on years of it being grilled into my head from school.

What grammar issue do you constantly have to struggle with?

 Spelling—I’m horrible at it most of the time.

 Do you have any writing reference books you can’t live without?

 I have a few copies of writing guides tucked away in my garage, but I don’t regularly look at them when I’m writing.

Are you a plotter or a “pantser”? (Do you outline your stories or do you write “by the seat of your pants”?)

It really depends on the story. I have some basic idea of a fic when I start to write it, but there are times when I only know that general outline and other times when I have a better plan.

There’s one story that’s been buried on my computer that’s plotted more than anything else I write. There are notes on how each chapter should work, but I only did that because it was a true multi-chapter fic.

My other fics that have turned into WIPs are not as plotted as they should be.

 What’s your favorite point-of-view to write?

 I love third-person more than anything else. It gives you the flexibility to talk about more than one person in the context of the story.

What type of writing is your favorite to write (dialogue, plot, action, interior monologue, description, sex scene, etc.)?  Your least favorite?

Dialogue—no questions. I love banter as much as anyone else.

My least favorite—probably sex scenes. They’re awkward to figure out, positions, how clinical but not too clinical.

Do you listen to music while you write?  Do you listen to different music depending on what you’re writing?

I do, unless I’m watching TV. My music doesn’t change depending on what I write, though maybe it should. My poor iTunes has been known to be demonic when I read fic, though it doesn’t do that as often when I’m writing.

What inspires you to write?

 I like motivational moments that can drive a point home—so I tend to write shorter pieces that are about emotions instead of plot driven.

What blocks you from writing?

Lack of time. The inability to express what I’m looking for.

 Specifically for Afrocurl!

What surprised you the most about Jason Dohring in person (that you can share with us)?

He’s a genuinely sweet person who adores his fans and what they do for him. I’d never had too many experiences with actors before I met him and he set the stage for being kind to fans.

How is he like Logan?  How is he not like Logan?  Did he do anything that freaked you out after watching him on TV so much?

I think he has Logan’s physical ticks—hair rakes and the like.

 He’s not as precise with language as Logan. In person he’s sort of like any other California guy I’ve met.

Which story of yours would it appall you the most to find out that Jason had read?

The Weevil and Logan story. I think he’d blush and be shocked at the subject more than anything.

Which of your celebrity encounters thrilled you to death, but the rest of world could care less?

The girl who loves politics was thrilled by meeting Justice Scalia at my college. Though I’m sure I’m the only one who can appreciate it now.

We know you do a lot for charities.  Do you have anything coming up that we should know about, that you’d like us to support?

Since Sweet Charity has ended, I haven’t done much work for charity recently. I’ve been a little too busy with the rest of life to help out with the Queensland floods and the like.

What’s your dream job?

Working at a high school teaching either Government or US History, maybe AP if that’s an option.

Your life seems to be going through a lot of changes right now.  How do you see yourself ten years from now?...family, job, hobbies, etc., anything you want to share with us.

I’d love to have a stable job, with friends and family nearby for support. I can’t hope for much else than that right now.

 Find Afrocurl’s work // AO3 // LJ

Source: X

reposted from vmfictitious // originally published on Mar. 20th, 2011

[techpros1-blog]

TECH PROS, SAN DIEGO'S MOST REQUESTED, MOBILE COMPUTER TECHNICIAN AUTHORITIES. | 12 YEARS REMOTE SUPPORT, MOBILITY, PROFESSIONAL ON SITE EXPERTISE. Rescue + Tech Pros Desktop Easy Log In, allows IT & customer support teams to provide comprehensive, efficient support to not only PCs & Macs, but Android & iOS mobile devices as well.

Tech Pros

Twitter

Linkedin

Facebook

Youtube

Instagram

[canyousevmyheavydirtysoul]

Bodyguard II: Familial Ties (Part II - Chapter 1) (Brendon Urie x Reader)

You reached out a hand to grab the metal railing as you rounded the corner before starting up the glass steps. The S.H.I.E.L.D key card dangling from your utility belt created an audible smack as it hit against the top of your thigh with each rise of your leg; you made a mental note to request a re-do of your customized uniform – one that ensured that the garment wasn’t almost entirely made out of latex.

Agent Smith – or Spencer, as you’d come to know him as – passed you as he walked the stairs in the opposite direction, sniggering as he watched you snarl and angrily rip the card from your belt, having finally had enough of the horridly annoying sound.

You tossed him the filthiest look you could muster up, along with a very impolite hand gesture, which only made him laugh harder and send an over exaggerated wink your way. That was the dynamic of the relationship you had built with him over the past couple of months; both of you would seize any opportunity you could to annoy the crap out of the other. In fact, you were ninety-nine percent sure that he was the one who had arranged for your uniform to be manufactured out of such god-awful material.

It was all in good fun, though; playful banter pushed aside, you both genuinely cared for and looked out for each other. And that was more crucial than one might think – especially in such trying times.

You and Spencer found solace in the fact that you were both stuck in the same dreadful reality – a world without Brendon Urie.

Even though you had busied yourself with focusing on getting a grip on your powers practically immediately after the funeral, there was no escaping the crippling ghost of grief. There was a constant dull ache inside of you that, despite what you were doing or who you were with, would not go away. It felt as if a vile concoction of anxiety, dread and anguish was coursing through the blood in your veins in a continuous loop, returning in stronger concentrations with every beat of your heart.

There were nights when it literally made you sick. Where you would stay hunched over the toilet bowl, expelling only small volumes of bile because what little food you’d managed to stomach throughout the day had already come up hours ago. And you’d stay there on the floor, not wanting to go back to bed because you knew that when your head hit the pillow and your eyes closed, all you’d see was his face.

Those nights were usually the nights you’d call Spencer, and he’d tell you that he couldn’t sleep either and that he wishes that he had stopped Brendon from getting on that quinjet. Then you’d tell him not to blame himself, and that it wasn’t his fault.

Both of you knew it was a lie.

Because it was his fault.

And it was your fault, too.

It was everyone’s fault.

Because if one of you, just one, would’ve run faster or yelled louder or done something, then Brendon would still be alive.

Both of you knew it was a lie.

But you said it anyways.

Every time.

Because that’s the thing about feeling guilty over a loved one’s death; no matter how much you convince yourself that you are in some way to blame, there’s always a part of you that wants – that needs – someone to try and convince you that you aren’t. And that – that is crucial in the healing process. If there’s someone else that still has faith in you, then there’s a reason for you to collect all the broken parts and fix yourself up again.

That’s why you were so thankful that you had Spencer – and him, you – because you helped each other heal, even if it was fraction by fraction. You weren’t immensely close, the two of you. Those late night talks weren’t too frequent and your conversations regarding the topic were few and far in between, but still, the two of you shared a warped bond that allowed a sense of camaraderie and a pillar of trust to form. You knew that in a few months time you probably wouldn’t be as close as you are now, but the relationship’s foundation was set in stone, and despite neither of you having verbally said it, you both knew that you would always be there for one another if the other needed it.

“What are you looking at, Smith?” you snapped, hatefully squinting at the man as you climbed the steps.

He scoffed and looked you up and down before declaring, “Nothing much.”

“Funny,” you cocked your head to the side as you poked your tongue at the inside of your cheek and pretended to think. Then, you shut him down with a single sentence. “That’s exactly what Linda said when I asked her what she thought of you.”

Spencer stopped dead in his tracks and watched you with a blank expression as you continued upwards, sniggering as you took each step.

“That was uncalled for,” he said solemnly.

“Your face is uncalled for,” you replied tauntingly, reaching for the door to the tech room.

“You’re such a child,” he groaned, rolling his eyes dramatically.

Looking over your shoulder, you stuck your tongue out at him, causing both of you to burst out laughing before you waved goodbye and stepped in to see Dallon.

The room was dark, with the only bit of illumination coming from the abundance of active computer and holographic screens. You took careful steps, looking down as you did so to make sure that you didn’t accidently step on some important documents scattered on the floor or trip over some complex gadget.

“Dallon?” you called out to the techie, not able to see him in the bad lighting.

Soon after, a head popped out from behind a particularly big computer screen with a seemingly startled expression on its face.

“Oh, (Y/N), hey, um…” Dallon tripped over his words, hands rushing to get rid of the evidence of what he’d been busy with. “What are you doing here?”

“My watch is acting up,” you explained, taking a big step over a piece of equipment you didn’t recognize so that you could walk over to Dallon’s desk. “Who were you video calling?”

Dallon’s head immediately turned to look at his screen, and he realised that he’d forgotten to close the video call tab. Working quickly to make sure that you didn’t peek over his shoulder to check who the last call was to, he pressed a key on the keyboard and wiped the tab from the screen.

“Oh, that was just-“ the techie struggled to think of someone, eventually settling on: “my mom! Yeah, that was my mom!” He laughed nervously, scratching the back of his neck.

“Uh huh,” you frowned slightly and ran your tongue around the inside of your mouth; Dallon was acting oddly strange and jumpy, but before you could ask if he was doing alright, he jumped in.

“You said you’re having watch problems?” he raised both brows and gestured to your watch.

Shaking your head lightly to refocus, you began removing your watch and nodded as you handed it over to Dallon. “Yeah. It’s been dropping calls and displaying interference while I’m on missions.”

“Huh,” Dallon pushed his glasses up the ridge of his nose as he examined the watch. When he came to a conclusion as to what the problem was, he gave you a small smile. “Just needs a software update. I’ll do it and get it back to you within the hour.”

“Great, ‘cause Romanoff and I are heading out at sundown. Thanks, Dall,” you pinched the techie’s cheek affectionately and he smiled in appreciation before you started to walk off.

“Oh!” he called after you, prompting you to turn around, “I forgot to mention… Doctor Ross is looking for you. ”

Shooting range. S.H.I.E.L.D HQ.

Swiping your key card over the sensor, you opened the glass door and entered the range, holding it open to allow two agents to exit.

They thanked you and you smiled politely before starting forward, taking slow steps toward the man you came here to see. His forehead was creased in concentration as he aimed the handgun at the target, determined to hit within the demarcated areas.

Much to both of your surprise, he managed to get shots that were quite close to perfect, and after staring at the target in shock for a second, he broke out into a triumphant smile.

“You’ve gotten better,” you commented with a grin, now picking up your pace.

Aaron’s head turned in the direction of your voice and when he saw it was you, he returned your grin with a much more charming one.

“Oh, yes, definitely,” he breathed, sniggering under his breath as he pointed up, “I’m not hitting the ceiling anymore. Fury will be pleased to hear that.”

“I’m sure he will,” you giggled softly, moving to rest yourself against the wall, “Agent Weekes mentioned that you were looking for me?”

The doctor frowned for a moment as if trying to recall why exactly he had been; when he remembered, he snapped his fingers and perked up.

“Oh! Right! I was thinking of going to see my father in Alcatraz tomorrow – just to get some answers of my own – and I wanted to ask you if you’d like to accompany me,” Aaron explained; you opened your mouth to respond but he cut you off with a raised hand and a nod of understanding, “But I then realised that it would be inappropriate to ask you to do that, considering he… you know, practically ruined your life… so, I mean, I wasn’t going to ask. I’ll manage by myself.”

With a wheeze and a slight shake of your head, you spoke. “I have no problem with going with you, Aaron. Yeah, he did majorly screw up my life but…” you took a deep breath and shrugged, “you need the support, and I’m gonna be there for you. I mean, you’d do the same for me, I know you would.”

Aaron smiled fondly at you before frowning in worry and reaching out to take your hand. “Are you sure? I didn’t mean to put you in such an uncomfortable-“

“I’m sure. What time do we leave?”

✧ ✧ ✧

 Alcatraz prison. San Diego, California.

There was a loud buzzing sound and a mechanical whirr as the steel gate opened up to allow entry into the prison. It was daunting, being in this place. The air was so thick with despair and heaviness that it made your skin crawl, and it was as if you could sense the presence of all of the horrific people who’d once been sentenced to life behind these bars, almost like they were now a part of the building itself.

Judging from the way he’d tensed up, you could tell that Aaron felt the effects, too. After tossing a fleeting look at you, he led the way into the expansive corridor, with you following close behind.

As soon as you stepped into view, your ears were filled with the repulsive sound of hundreds of scratchy, rough voices catcalling you. The prisoners rushed forward to the bars, trying to get as close to you as they could, while vile comments spewed from their mouths.

They couldn’t reach out far enough to touch you, thankfully, but that fact didn’t deter them from trying. You were most likely the only woman that they had seen in years – possibly decades – and their sexual desires had skyrocketed at the sight of you.

Aaron tightened his jaw and stepped in front of you in an attempt to shield you from their view but since the cells ran along the left and right sides of the corridor, it wasn’t much help. Still, you appreciated the gesture and reached out to squeeze his hand to show him that you did.

In response, he intertwined his fingers with yours and gave a gentle squeeze back. The physicality of your and Aaron’s actions simply spurred the inmates on, and their hollering only increased, both in volume and in vulgarity.

You blocked them out for the most part, not bothering to pay attention to what exactly they were yelling at you. But when they began making gestures was when you started losing patience.

One man in particular, a gruff-looking one with thinning hair, saw it fit to make a V with his fingers and stick his tongue in the middle – a motion that stopped you dead in your tracks.

Letting go of Aaron’s hand, you took a slight step forward. Tilting your head to the right, you focused your gaze on his tongue and not a second later, it began freezing from the tip up, slowly, until it was completely covered in ice.

Then, with a sickly sweet, innocent smile, you snapped your fingers and the ice shattered, leaving the prisoner with a void where his tongue used to be. Aaron widened his eyes and let out a short, incredulous laugh, and you turned to smile at him before arching your brows and addressing the rest of the men.

“Anyone else?” you yelled out, holding out your hands. The silence in the air was cold. “No? Lovely.”

Once again slipping your hand into Aaron’s, you resumed walking, with you leading the way this time. The doctor couldn’t help the smirk that formed on his lips as you did; confident (Y/N) was his favourite (Y/N).

You came to an armed door at the end of the corridor and quickly typed in the S.H.I.E.L.D access code to unlock it and allow you and Aaron entrance into the next block of cells – the more heavily guarded ones that housed high-profile criminals, such as Doctor Jacob Ross.

His cell was not too far away from where you were currently standing and as you started towards it, you felt your stomach twist as you began to regret coming here. A lot of what happened last year was due to this man’s orchestrations, including a certain someone’s death, and despite what you’d told yourself the day before, you didn’t know if you could look at him without blowing your top and destroying the entire Alcatraz facility.

You fell a few steps behind Aaron, allowing him to be at the forefront yet again, and swallowed harshly as you looked at him. You were doing this for him. He’d helped you through every part of your trauma over the last couple of months, been there when you needed him and nursed you through countless panic attacks. The least you could do was support him while visiting his father.

Even if said father was a lying, psychopathic, evil son of a bitch whom you hated with every fibre of your being and wanted nothing more than to destroy.

Shit, that whole ‘not blowing your top’ thing was gonna be hard.

“Uh,” you said softly, stopping a few steps away from the cell, “I think I’m just gonna… stay here.”

Aaron, noticing the slight blue glow of your veins, nodded in understanding. “I think that’s a good idea,” he supported, “Won’t be long, promise.”

You gave a small smile and a nod and watched him walk off before letting your face fall and taking a couple deep breaths to calm yourself down. Sticking your hands in the pockets of your leather jacket, you closed your eyes and started to think happy thoughts, blocking out everything else.

Naturally, blocking everything out resulted in you not paying any attention to what was being said by both Aaron and his father. That is, until you heard your name.

“(Y/N), dear, are you going to simply stand in the shadows the entire time or are you going to come say hi?”

The sound of his voice made you sick, and you had to fight the urge to throw up as you opened your eyes and looked over at him. He was smiling at you – a knowing smile, a taunting smile.

Summoning your legs to move and not fail you by giving in, you cautiously stepped forward.

“(Y/N),” Aaron spoke, reaching out for you, “You don’t have to-“

“No, boy, let her come,” Jacob encouraged, narrowing his eyes ever so slightly as he watched you come closer, “She has something to say to me.”

Oh, yes, you did. You had so many things you wanted to say to him. But you weren’t about to give him that satisfaction, so you remained silent.

Determined to get you to crack, he smiled evilly before opening his mouth again.

“I must say, it’s very strange to see you without your bodyguard by your side. Where is he? Recovering from a bullet wound? On a secret mission in Peru? Oh,” he chuckled, looking down at the ground and snapping his fingers before fixing his gaze on you and smirking, “that’s right. It’s neither of those, now is it? Ah, nevertheless – I heard he went out with quite a… bang.”

There was a loud cracking sound as a shard of ice flew from your hand with such force that it pierced the Perspex of the cell, the pointy tip coming to a halt a mere inch away from Jacob’s face; the Perspex had slowed down the shard’s momentum and stopped it seconds before it could puncture the doctor’s brain.

Your breathing was heavy and ragged, and you tore your gaze from the prisoner to look at his son, who was standing in shock, mouth agape.

“I’m sorry, Aaron,” you breathed shakily, backtracking and shaking your head, “but I have to go.”

_______________________________

Thank you for reading x

 Taglist:

@avangardv

@arosebyname

@avengertrash21

@ryan-ross-that-fucking-gay

@azumitoshiki

@tiffisnotnormal

@darknessdancing

@raversam

@theieroenthusiast

@the-ghost-of-hemingway

@laerkers

@peters-vlogs

@brendon-is-my-daddy

@hockeyswag-boll

@gutsbonesandbeauty

@username-number-01834

@untilyouburnallofthewitches

@underscoredarcy

@aminasmells

@becausebands

@converseskyline

@opheren

@justalineinasong15

@vinyloider

@attractiveugly

@twentzy—dun—fandoms

@tirzahs-heart

@tegan-eva

@i-only-date-flower-boys

@jishwatylrandtop

@blueskiesbleakeyes

@robinruns

@hi-ho-and-hello

@svintsandghosts

@brendonuriehimself

@mckenzie-evelyn

@beebo-stuff

@iamafishandigosplish

@sunshineandapplepie

@kealohilani-tepise

@bookworm104

@sheridans-dynamos

@phoenixsong16

@justawriterinprogress

@anotherwriterinprogress

[remsisincca]

At REMSIS Inc., we provide IT Management, IT Service, Tech Support, Computer Security, Cyber Security, & Business IT in Escondido, San Diego, La Mesa, Oceanside, Carlsbad, San Marcos, CA, and the surrounding areas.

[it4aweek]

IT Training services in San Diego. Grow your IT skills in San Diego with our comprehensive IT training services! Phone: 858-324-2820  support@it4aweek.com