#Education Funding Partners

[travelwithpourpose]

Biking Adventures: Exploring Johannesburg on Two Wheels (Sustainably!)

Bike touring, cycling holidays, sustainable transportation Pedal-Powered Luxury in the Heart of SandtonNestled in Johannesburg’s vibrant Sandton district, the Radisson Blu Hotel Sandton offers more than five-star comfort—it’s a launchpad for eco-conscious biking adventures. With its recent Hotel Sustainability Basics certification 12, this urban oasis combines luxury with a commitment to…

[specialagentartemis]

Some good things happening at the local level: Land Back edition

The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians purchased back 2,000 acres of deeply historically significant land in Oregon, the site of both a massacre of Native people at the hands of the US army, and the site of a treaty signing that established a temporary truce and reservation. (Posted Jan 21, 2025)

The property was purchased directly from the previous landowner. The Nature Conservancy preserves a conservation easement on the land. The Siletz will continue to work closely with the Nature Conservancy and the BLM across the properties in the region to emphasize conservation and restoration. “To me, land back means, in its purest form, its return of lands to a tribe,” Kentta [citizen of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians and the tribal council treasurer] said. “This is through purchase, and a significant amount paid out for the purchase. So for us, that is regaining of land back, but it's not a settlement or apology for things that happened in the past.”

The Tule River Tribe in California is moving forward with a plan to buy back 14,673 acres of rivers, forests, ranchland, and wetland in a conservation project partnering with The Conservation Fund, the Wildlife Conservation Board, and various California conservation organizations. It's set to move into Tule River control (or at least co-management? unclear to me) sometime this year. (Posted January 8, updated January 10, 2025)

Charmaine McDarment, chairwoman of the Tule River Tribal Council, said in a press release that the tribe appreciates help in restoring ancestral homelands. “As the climate crisis brings new pressures to address the effects of environmental mismanagement and resource degradation, the Tribe’s partnership with WCB is an important example of building relationships based in collaboration and trust. “The tribe remains committed to supporting co-stewardship efforts and fighting to ensure that disproportionate harms to Native American lands, culture, and resources are resolved in a manner that centers and honors Native American connections to ancestral lands.”

Illinois lawmakers voted to move Shabbona Lake State Park to the management of The Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation.  The Illinois governor has a lot on his plate right now, but is expected to sign the bill into law. (Posted January 14, 2025)

The state House approved SB 867, which would transfer Shabbona Lake State Park to the Prairie Band Potawatomi. The bill now heads to Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker for his signature.  The land transfer hinges on an agreement that the tribe continue to operate the property as a park, still open to the public. Final details will be established in a forthcoming land management agreement between the state and tribe.  Prairie Band Potawatomi Chairman Joseph “Zeke” Rupnick said the bill’s passage was a “meaningful step” toward righting a historic old wrong. The land was originally part of the tribe's 1,280-acre reservation in northern Illinois. During Chief Shab-eh-nay's visit to family in Kansas, the land was unlawfully auctioned off, violating federal requirements for Congressional approval of tribal land sales. The tribe has sought to reclaim the land for nearly two centuries.

A Wabanaki food sovereignty group secured a no-strings-attached land deal to buy 245 acres of farm and forest in Maine, to focus on local, traditional, and sustainable foods. (Posted January 19, 2025)

What sets this purchase apart is that the land transfer comes without conservation easements. These easements, which frequently accompany land returns or transfers, are often well-meaning. However, they can inhibit Indigenous stewardship by preventing practices such as prescribed burning, subdivision, or particular kinds of zoning for buildings or infrastructure.  A coalition of 12 organizations and several private donors helped secure the land for Niweskok [a nonprofit collective of Wabanaki farmers, health professionals, and educators] without easements, giving the Wabanaki nonprofit sovereignty over the property, according to Heather Rogers, Land Protection Program director for Coastal Mountain Land Trust. Her organization has helped finance the Goose River purchase through fundraising and advocacy efforts.  “The land trusts had to approach it with humility - there are other ways to care for land that can end up with better outcomes, and I think we have all come to that realization,” Rogers said. “I think now that we've done it once, I think we would be open to doing it again that way.” 

Conservation, food sovereignty, water management - a few hundred acres here, a thousand acres there, there is movement to put lands back in tribal control, which is a human rights win as well as an ecology/conservation one.  This is mostly happening at state and even private levels, and is something to continue advocating for, pushing for, donating to, and finding out if you have any local movements advocating for this kind of thing near you and calling state-level lawmakers and representatives about.

[booksinmythorax]

Some tips from a librarian for today and the future:

Go to the library. Get a card. Borrow things. Buying books is neat, but the books the fascists want to ban are still there, on the shelf, at your local library, and if they aren't, you can request them. While book bans can happen and are happening in public libraries, the vast majority of "successful" challenges are happening in school libraries. You can still get books from your public library, and getting the books from the library tells your library they should keep them on the shelf. Borrowing anything, walking in the door, and/or attending programs all help get your library more funding. Fighting censorship in this way is effective and costs you $0.

Pay attention to local government. Read your local newspaper, or the local-est paper you can find. (You wanna know who can probably help you read your local paper for free? Your local library.) Look up your representatives in your state and local governments, not just federal. Read their biographies online. Find out what they stand for.

When something divisive is happening in your local community (a book ban, a school board ruling on bathrooms or sports, a change in curriculum), show up. No, literally. Show up to the school board meeting, the library board meeting, the county commission meeting. If you can't show up, make a phone call. If you can't make a phone call, write an email. Your voice has the most effect on the local and state level.

Now, counterintuitively, is a really good time to get to know your neighbors. Do not self isolate out of suspicion. We are stronger together. If you need suggestions for ways to get to know those neighbors, your local library probably has groups you can join, or will start them if you ask nicely and promise to show up. Hand to the gods, a once-monthly book club or gardening club or crochet circle might be your difference between total despair and feeling maybe pretty okay.

Only talk about your personal identities and experiences if you think you will be physically safe doing so. Consider limiting your social media posting. Buy a paper diary. Talk to people in person or via secure direct message if you really want to grow relationships and make an impact. Educating others is great and important. It's also most effective when you have an existing personal relationship with the person involved in the conversation with you. Consider starting new accounts without your face or name if you choose to continue using social media.

Avoid talking about others' personal identities and experiences, particularly without their consent. Your friends, family members, children, and partners are not tools you should use to win an argument. Point to the lives of writers, activists, educators, and artists who are out if you need an illustrative example in a teaching moment with someone you know. Others' religious beliefs, immigration statuses, queer identities, and pregnancy statuses are nobody's fucking business but their own, unless they choose to tell others for their own reasons.

[mzminola]

Every time I see news of crowds agitating against Israel outside a synagogue, or museum, or Jewish day school full of children, or restaurant, or educational event, and so on in the US, every time my thought is why the fuck aren't you holding this 'protest' at city hall? Or your state legislature? Or your federal reps' offices?

A random Jewish institution in the United States has absolutely zero power to affect the decisions made by Israel's parliament or military. You're not "raising awareness" or "drawing attention to the issue" because the general public of the US is already at least somewhat aware thanks to the news, and Jewish people are in fact one of the groups in the US to be the most fucking aware of what's going on.

If you are upset by US military aid going to Israel, you need to convince your federal representatives to change that. Those reps do not base US military foreign aid policy on random US citizens harassing other US citizens.

If you want the US to provide more civilian relief in the form of food, medicine, or helping refugees come here, you need to convince reps at every level. Can your city partner with a refugee organization to arrange housing? Can your governor arrange scholarships or exchange programs to state universities? Can the feds channel more funds to Doctors Without Borders?

Do a write and call-in campaign. Hold your protest at legislatures. File a petition. Do something to directly express your desires to the elected officials who have a direct say in policy.

We've held protests at city halls and state legislatures and federal buildings for centuries. Why aren't you doing so for this issue?

Why are you macing people attending synagogue? They have no more power over elected officials' choices than you do.

Why are you screaming at schoolchildren? They have less power over elected officials' choices than you do.

Why are you blocking entrance to a museum? Hold a fundraiser to build your own, if you want to educate people so badly!

I know the antisemites don't actually care about US military & foreign aid policy. I know the racists are simply reveling in an excuse to whip up a mob to attack Jews. It's obvious.

But if you really, truly want to help the people of Gaza, you need to stop being part of that hateful mob, and organize your own, real political actions that directly engages with your elected representatives.

[cursedcola]

Prompt: Couples will evidently begin to mimic their better half after some time. What traits do you steal from him, and vice versa? Fandom: Twisted Wonderland Characters: Everyone - because I want to and I’m amidst fleshing out all my Yuu/Character dynamics + designs Format: Headcannons. Masterlist: LinkedUP Parts: Heartslabyul (Here) | Savanaclaw | Octavinelle | Scarabia | Pomefiore | Ignihyde | Diasomnia A/N: Putting all my brain rot from my notes into something cohesive. Contrary to my love for ripping your hearts out, I've come with some fluff this time around. BTW you may or may not already do things mentioned - I write my works with a specific Yuu in mind for each character so this is based on them. Just a reminder.

Habits you steal:

Plan-Books (Inherited) : Riddle habitually carries a planner with all his tasks. A physical one, not an app in his cell phone like most students choose. You find it easier to manage and swap to paper-and-pen alternatives at his recommendation.

Tidiness (Inherited): Riddle is a nit-pickier when it comes to physical presentation. His habits of pressing his uniform, laying his clothes out every night, and dressing conservatively rub off. He has a point - ironed trousers do make a difference. Every morning he will redo your uniform tie. It's never knotted to his 'standard', and is his preferred excuse to greet you before class.

"Now, isn't that better? Surely you are more comfortable in ironed linens than those rags you'd been wearing as pajamas. You seriously found them lying in Ramshackle? Were you not given an allowance to buy basic needs? Ridiculous! The Headmaster's irresponsibility holds no bounds!" <- Utterly appalled that you've been sleeping in century-old robes. He supplies you with seven sets of pajamas, a spare uniform, and an iron + board for Ramshackle. All after reaming the Headmaster for neglect in the last dorm-head meeting - either Crowley coughed up the marks or Riddle will supply from his own bank. Seven have mercy if he chooses to become a lawyer instead of a doctor.

No Heels (Developed): Riddle has a height complex. He won't make a show of it, but you wearing heels does emasculate him. Especially if you're already taller naturally. For his sake, you choose to slay your outfits in flats.

"Are those new loafers? Oh - no, they're lovely. The embroidery is exquisite and I can see why Pomefiore's Housewarden models for their brand. I merely thought you preferred the heeled saddle-shoes we saw during the past weekend trip. I must have been mistaken. Never mind me. You look wonderful."

Playing Brain Teasers (Inherited): Riddle has this thing with memory - you don't know if he's really into preventing old-age Alzheimer's or what. He carries a book of teaser games like Sudoku, etc. for when he has downtime and you eventually get into them too.

"Oh! My Rose, would you care to join me for lunch? Trey's siblings recently mailed in a large collection of cross-words. You'll find they are both educational and entertaining - hm? I do not seem the 'type' for word-games? I assure you, even I can relax on occasion. There is no need to look so surprised." <- Riddle's been making a grand effort to do things he enjoys and become more personable. Trey's siblings did not send the collection. Riddle went into town and picked it out on his own. He also found a book on organizing excursions since he's big on quality time. He is dead-set on not being a neglectful or 'boring' partner.

Swear Jar (Developed): Tired of Riddle collaring Ace for his vulgar tongue, you suggest a Heartslabyul swear jar. When the jar gets filled, the money can be used to fund things like study materials and renovations for the dorm. Riddle liked this idea, but now implements it on anyone who sets foot in the Heartslabyul. Considering you spend most of your time there, you've had to develop a vast vocabulary beyond swearing. Oh - you also unironically use the word 'fiddlesticks' now.

Habits he steals:

Useless Expenses (Inherited): You are an enabler without a doubt. Riddle has always functioned with the bare bones - with function and efficiency being the number one priority. Ever so slowly - you've spoiled him with aesthetically pleasing stationary. At first all the needless purchases felt redundant - why buy the pillowcases with flowers when plain white is cheaper? You can invest in a higher quality this way. Yet you've ruined him with gifts that he had no choice but to use. Now he needs to buy the pens with little hedgehogs on them because studying doesn't feel the same with a plain ballpoint.

Slang Dictionary (Developed): With each passing day, all the students in Heartslabyul get more creative at bending the rules. That includes you. Riddle takes it upon himself to carry a 'little-black-book' full of all the sang words he is unfamiliar with. He does want to be a bit more 'hip' to understand you more, but at the same time he wants to bust any student being a smart-mouth. It's an ongoing battle *sigh*.

"Apologies, could you repeat that term for me? Surely it must be relevant to my lecture if you and Ace are whispering. 'Let him cook'? Do you think we are in a culinary lecture?! Have you not been listening to - ah. So it's in reference to letting me finish before interrupting...One moment. I need to make a note."

Chewing Gum (Developed): This is an ode to psychology. In short, eating is tied to a person's fight-or-flight. Instincts dictate that our bodies need to be in a calm state to eat comfortably. One day when Riddle was at his wits end, you tossed him a pack of sugarless gum and told him to chew. Disregarding Trey's unholy dental screeching, Riddle develops a gum dependence for when he's stressed out. On the bright side, his jaw has never been so sharp.

“Mimicry? You must be mistaken. Even if my influence has affected their person, surely there are only positive developments” == Riddle denies any changes if confronted. In truth, he’s well aware of how much you’ve helped him grow. It’s the opposite accusation that spikes concern. Riddle does not want others thinking you’re a mini-version of him. Rumors are not kind and neither is his current reputation. Making those amends is his burden to bare. He is flattered to see you paying attention to his mannerisms, and secretly proud that your bond is strong enough to affect the psyche.

Habits you steal:

Whistling (Inherited): Trey whistles while working in the kitchen or doing general chores around the dorm. He's not very loud with it, so not may students are bothered. Since you laze about in his shadow the tunes he goes through do become repetitive. Now you do the same when cleaning up Ramshackle. Grim wants to knock you both out because he can't take it anymore.

"Ah -- How'd you know it was me in here? Just because I bake for the un-birthday parties doesn't mean I live in the kitchen, you know. My whistling? Huh. Never thought that would be my calling card but there are worse things, haha"

Head-Scratching (Inherited): Trey's got a habit of scratching the back of his head when he's uncomfortable or nervous. That, or rubbing at the nape of his neck while adverting eye contact. You start doing this too whenever you're being scolded or put in a tough situation.

Dental Hygiene (Inherited): By far the most obvious shared trait. Trey enforces his dental habits onto everyone- you are no exception. You now own four different kinds of floss, two toothbrushes (one being electric), and have a strict hygiene routine. Your pearly whites have never been so clean. Eventually you become somewhat of a secondary enforcer, policing anyone who sleeps over your dorm to take care of themselves before bed. All of Heartslabyul learns that there is no going back when you scold Riddle for not brushing after his teatime tart, and live to tell the tale.

"Hey - uh, weird question? Were you handing out floss to the Spelldrive Team yesterday? Seriously? I though Grim was pulling my leg - oh, no! It's not weird at all! Those guys should have a better routine for all the meat they eat when bulking. I'm just shocked you got through to them." <- Very proud. Mildly cocky. He's been itching to get those negligent jocks to floss after their banquets his entire tenure, but steered away from that conflict like the plague. Thank you for making his dreams come true. Now if you could maybe get them to stop picking their gums with toothpicks?

Habits he steals:

Overbuying Food (Developed): Being a baker's son, Trey's good with finances and money. He's also meticulous with the ingredients he purchases for his bakes. You are not. You go to Sam's shop, buy whatever is on sale, and then bring it back home to improvise. This ends poorly more often than not, and behold! Trey has two Ramshackle sluggers snooping around his kitchen for eats. This is unpredictable and therefore he now never knows what amount to buy. You've ruined him.

Phone Calls (Developed): Texting is easier. Especially since phone calls can be a commitment that Trey dislikes being wrapped up in. Whenever Cater's name pops up as the caller, Trey knows he's getting an ear full. The thing is that you never. answer. your. phone. Either the text gets lumped in with the hundreds of missed messages you have, or Grim stole your cell to play mobile games. So Trey gives up and only ever calls. Either Grim will answer or you'll pick up thinking it's the snooze of your alarm.

"Hello? Prefect, where are you? It's me, Trey. Just calling to see if you're still coming to the Un-Birthday party? Riddle's getting a bit nervous since the schedule's set for the next hour. Grim's already here with Ace and Deuce - uh, want Cater to send a double to pick you up? I have a sinking feeling that you're asleep...Call me? Please?" <- He was correct. You called back not a moment after, half-asleep and hauling ass not to be late.

Speaking in Propositions (Inherited): Trey's normally good at keeping neutrality in a conversation, but getting a clear answer out of Yuu you is like solving a rubix cube. Either it's easy and instant, or a long game. Eventually your habit of indecisiveness rubs off on him and he asks questions more than answers them. Evidently this gets his younger classmen to stop asking for favors unless they really need to.

“Aha - really? I didn’t notice at all. Okay. Okay, I picked up on a few hints. What’s so wrong with them taking after me? It’s cute, right?” == Trey is the observant sort that picks up on his influence quickly. Not just anyone carries floss in their pocket at all times - and the looks from his dorm-mates when you offer some up is enough for the realization to click. Trey’s used to playing the respectable sort, and finds it endearing that you’re taking his good notes to heart. In truth, most of Trey’s mimicry is intentional. He’s a flexible guy who doesn’t mind altering his habits to fit your needs. Easier this way, y’know?

Habits you steal:

Speaking in Acronyms(Inherited): Now this is scary. The first time it happened, you had to take a pause and just re-evaluate your entire life. You don't use them nearly as often as Cater does, but somewhere along the line your brain must have rewired to speak in internet lingo. O-M-G you're TOTALLY twinning with him right now, period :)

Nicknames (Inherited): Again, frightening. You once swore against ever calling him Cay-Cay. It isn't very slay-slay. Yet you can only hear him use nicknames for so long until you're unconsciously calling people by them too. Especially since he's always dishing gossip. It starts in your head, which is fine. It's not like they know. Then you call Lilia 'Lils' and that old fart is just grinning behind his sleeve because ohoho~ young love <3

"Did you just- AHA! OMG DO IT AGAIN?! Wait, gotta get my camera out for this - wha? Oh, that's totes not fair! C'mon. Call me Cay-Cay. Just once! I won't even post it to Magicam, please? Lils won't believe me without proof! Pleasssssseeeee - " <- He actually doesn't want you to call him Cay-Cay all the time. Cater likes you using his given name, since it's more personal. Although the way it obviously slipped out on accident is just too cute to ignore.

Reality TV (Inherited): At first you don't like the gossip. It's cheesy, a bit annoying, and the shaky camera-work for nearly every show is headache inducing. Cater likes his dose of drama in his free-time, and Ramshackle has a tv that no one is using. It starts with him watching while you do other things around the dorm. Yet each time you pass the living area, you take longer to leave. Lingering around like one of the ghosts. Then he pulls you in with snacks and starts giving the low-down of what's going on, pulling out a bottle of tangerine shimmer polish to paint your nails. It's just one episode, watch it for him? Please? Oh no. No. No. Suddenly you're invested in who's the baby-daddy of little Ricky and what Chantel is going to do because her sister just lost the house to foreclosure.

"#KingdomOfDeadbeats - am I right? Ugh. I'm so glad we met if that's the dating scene back home...What?! I know it isn't real! Don't be a dummy, I was just joking! Ah! Stop! Don't hit me!" <- Half-hearted jokes about going on one of those talk-shows one day. You're an alien, after all - imagine the juicy drama and views his account would get from doing an interview? It's all jokes though. Cater likes spilling the tea, but hates being it. Don't ever abandon him and go out for milk though, kay? He doesn't want to pay Grim's child support. Otherwise he might have no choice smh

Habits he steals:

Phone/Web Games (Inherited): Cater's phone is mainly full of social media. He's not too into the gaming scene, it's not his peeps y'know? Alas, you download a few dress-up games and one MMO on his phone. First off - props on getting his phone. That's Cay-Cay's lifeline and not just anyone gets to play with it. Pray tell - what is this Wonderstar Planet (props if you know what is being ref.) and how can he become the most influential digital streamer on it? Congrats. He's addicted.

"Who's this Muscle Red and why's he bombing our raid - AH! He just tea-bagged me! So not cool...Prefect? STOP LAUGHING WE HAVE BETS ON THIS MATCH! There goes my collab opportunity, big fail" <- Muscle Red continues to make an appearance. Eventually he becomes Cater's official rival on stream, and Lils is all to invested in the tea cater drops during club meets. Side note. You're the one who gave 'muscle red' Cater's domain code. The lore thickens.

Internet Caution (Developed): This goes without saying, but Cater's well-known in the Magicam scene. He's very forward and knows his way around using charisma. Since you're not in the scene as much, he becomes more cautious of where and when he does streams. The change is so subtle that only the most observant people will pick up on it - but Cay-Cay doesn't want any creepos popping in if y'know what I'm saying. His sisters were the ones to instigate this change.

“Awe~ SRSLY?! That’s fresh news to my ears but good, right? Ne, are there any clips or pics? I need my evidence, y’see. Especially if my cutie is off taking notes from their one and only. C’mon, spill the tea!” == Cheeky Cater is well aware of what’s happening. He’d humor anyone out for some light teasing - after all, he isn’t by your side at all hours. His walls are probably the second most difficult in all of campus to bypass, so he’s both sweetened and nerved to see you picking up on his mannerisms. That’s proof of a strong attachment, after all.

Habits you steal:

Knuckle Cracking (Inherited): Deuce still does this from his biker days. It could be because joint pain from past fights, or possibly air retention in his knuckles from studying. Regardless, Deuce cracks his knuckles at least once every few hours and you began to mimic him. Some people groan at the popping sounds but it really does feel good to release the tension. Let's just hope neither of you dislocate any fingers on accident.

"Stop that! G-geez, you nearly gave me a heart attack. Thought you broke a finger...your hands are stiff? That just means you're studying a lot! I think...uh, let's break? I think there's some leftovers in the kitchen." <- Deuce 100% gets needing to pop those air bubbles. His hands get stiff from studying all the time, but don't crack them too much or you might dislocate something. Side note - he shows you how to wrap your fingers with a soothing salve. He used to do it after fights, but now it's a great help after class.

Double Notes (Developed): Deuce tries. He really does. Yet the lad just isn't great when it comes to book smarts. Seeing that he is dedicated to turning over a new leaf, you make a habit of copying all your notes. He isn't allowed to share them with Ace or Grim - else all bets are off. Sometimes you leave little 'good job' stickers on the last page for him. Is he a toddler? No. Does he peel the stickers off and save them? Totally. He is a good noodle. Suck it Ace.

Sewing (Developed): He breaks things. Most of the time it's an accident. You've learned to carry a mini-sewing kit for all the rips in Deuce's uniform. Same for mini remedies for stains and other problems. It's not like he's trying to get grass stains all over his under-shirt or to split the seam in his gloves (nearly every week). It just happens, and every time he comes to you with a kicked-puppy look with a promise of it being the last time. It is never the last time.

"Uhm...hun'? It happened again. I'm so sorry for bothering you but Housewarden is going to kill me if he sees the tear in my blazer! Can you fix it?! I can't handle another collar with my exam tomorrow! I need to breathe to focus! - really!? I owe you one! Snacks are on me tonight."

Habits he steals:

Bottomless Stomach (Developed): Have leftovers from dinner? Bring them over. He'll get the tubba-ware back in 1-2 days. Coupon for buy-one-get-one at Sam's? He'll take the extra and polish it off in less than a minute. Deuce becomes a human garbage disposal and is taking the unwanted condiments off your sandwich to eat. Just pick them off and leave 'em on the corner of his lunch plate. Even if he dislikes it, he'll down it so you don't have to.

"Mm. Oh, thanks hun' - its that all you're eatin'? You don't like the steam bun? It is a bit dry, but wasting food is disrespectful to the cooks! I'll finish it for you so have my fruit instead. You still need to eat" <- 10/10 very thoughtful and not picky at all. He is grateful to eat your cooking and will gobble up all leftovers at Ramshackle, but doesn't think twice to sharing meals in the cafeteria. He will notice though if you do not eat enough. Restocks the snack cabinet if he sees it's empty. Is touched if you routinely share things you know he enjoys, like saving half your frittata on purpose.

Early Riser (Inherited): See - even if you hate the mornings, there is no choice at Night Raven College. As Ramshackle Prefect you need to be up to take care of business before class. Deuce becomes your personal alarm clock because he wants some time with you before everyone else joins in. Mind you that he lives with three other dudes who threaten to end him every morning because his alarm wakes them up too. Eventually he can wake up without it, but the time leading is unpleasant.

"W-what? Seriously? I've been trying to be more like them! They're a good person and responsible so I've been trying to follow their example. To think we've been doing the same thing this entire time...." == Why would you ever imitate him? He's been trying his damn best to become an honor student worth respecting, and has a long way to go. To think you're comfortable enough with him to mimic his mannerisms? It's a pipe dream, one he doesn't grasp until it's put right in front of his face. You don't let anyone else pick off your plate other than Grim. The next time his clothes tear, he's already handing off his tie before realizing just what's happening. When you wrap his knuckles after a six-hour lock in at the library? He can't help but feel proud at how neat the bandages are. Suddenly the dark memories of hiding bruised knuckles from his mom are pacified with healing balm. Deuce views this development as a gift, and is grateful. Very, very grateful.

Habits you steal:

‘I owe you’ cards (Inherited): Ace's favorite social invention - the 'solid'. Nothing spells new-low like getting your friends to do stuff in exchange for a favor in the future. Most of the time Ace counts on people forgetting he owes them one, but you're not so gullible. The only difference between you both is that while Ace never fulfills his solid, you have a conscience. Give it a few more years. He'll get ya.

"I know this is the third ticket this week but - Oh! C'mon, cut a guy some slack, would you? I'm sorry for bein' late to our date. Yeah, it was shitty. I'm not trying to fight it, aright? I'm here now so let's have some fun and you can chalk three strikes on my tab. I'll even buy ya some candy - Ah! Okay! Two candies but that's where my charity ends!" <- Evidently, the 'I-owe-you' tabs cancel each other out from how often you both call in favors. It's just an excuse to do acts of service or express apologies without being too mushy. Ace is definitely keeping a track record of them though. Expect an ongoing log that dates back to the week you met, when he showed up homeless, collared, and looking to couch surf.

Profanity (Inherited): Ace swears like a sailor. Maybe not so much in his dorm because *cough* he's being policed. He holds no such reservations when you're both alone at Ramshackle. Unfortunately his potty mouth has a mind of it's own - it taints you, and you are a sham of a prefect. Ace earned a week-long collar for teaching you some Twisted-Wonderland exclusive curses. Riddle is not pleased.

Leaving the Windows Unlocked (Developed): There are only so many times he can sneak in through your window before the adrenaline-induced charm wears off. You have class in the morning, and can't be bothered to deal with him on nights he can't pass out in his dorm. Thank seven you have all of Ramshackle to yourself - because Heartslabyul sounds like a nightmare with the roommate situation. You can't leave the front door open for obvious reasons, but most nights the guest-bedroom window will be left slightly ajar in case he needs a place to crash.

"Pssst! Oi! Prefect! ...ugh, Grim! Wake them up, man! The latch is stuck. Don't go back to bed you furball! HEY! IT'S FREAKIN COLD OUT HERE SO LET ME IN ALREADY" <- Please let him in. If Ace has to spend one more night in that stinky dorm with three dudes, he'll string one of their dirty gym socks over your bed. No mercy.

Sleeping with Earplugs (Developed): Bitch Ace snores.

Habits he steals:

Notes Memo (Developed): Ace is bad with remembering things. Anniversaries? Dates? Allergies? He admits to not putting in a great amount of effort, but you can't say he doesn't try at all. He has a notes block on his phone dedicated to things like your go-to takeout orders and preferences. He even has a few alarms set days before any important events because even if you say no-gifts or plans...yeah, he's not that stupid.

Excessive Yawning (Inherited): You're always tired - it wasn't Ace's problem before but now he does feel a bit guilty. Dragging you into his messes felt different when you were just the prefect, y'know? Regardless, it's human instinct to mimic each other's demeanor so he'll openly yawn all the time - normally in succession of you.

"Hey...you're dozing off again. Am I seriously that boring to hang around? - Nah. Just messin' with you. I'd suggest taking a nap during next period but I doubt a goody-goody like you is gonna take that advice. Let's just ditch juice at lunch and go back to the dorm. Don't get mad if I forget to wake you up though"

Medications (Developed): Ace is the last person to become a human apothecary, but he's always got a pack of pain-reliever meds in his pocket with a few bandages, etc. He also attached one of those tiny capsule bottles to his keyring with some stomach meds inside. You took a spill running laps? Dang man. That sucks. Here's a band-aid for your knee. Curse you for making him the slightly-more responsible one.

"Eh..what, like it's a shock? You saying I'm a bad influence? Cause yeah, that checks. Nothin' I can do if they want to take a card outta my deck though," == Ace is entirely neutral on the topic. He is definitely smug that you're coming over to the dark side, but he doesn't need anyone to point it out. He was your first after all. Maybe the start could have been a bit better - but hey, you came around. It's not like he's hurting anyone by helping build your backbone. Although Ace will instantly deny going soft for you in any way, shape, or form.

[dontforgetukraine]

Ukraine Donation Guide Master Post

(Ver. 2 updated Aug 13th, 2024) I will be reformatting this and adding more in the future when I have time.

Also a quick note, all of the groups I have found through twitter have been around long enough for them to be vetted by each other and the brigades they work with. In fact, a lot of these groups collaborate with each other too. Those that are in the fight for Ukraine have been diligent in calling out those that are grifters. Word spreads around quickly if an organization doesn't show up with what they promised. They also use their social media (often Twitter) as a means of transparency for their work.

Remember: When considering on whether to donate, always use your best judgement and donate to those you trust if you do not see what is listed is up to your standards.

Multi-Purpose

United 24 has various fundraisers dedicated to defense and drones, medical aid, rebuilding Ukraine, humanitarian demining, and science and education. You can pick which one you want to contribute to under their various projects.

Liberty Ukraine uses funds for humanitarian aid, medical supplies, protective gear and equipment, and rehabilitation therapy. You can choose which campaign of theirs to donate to.

Come Back Alive is a charitable foundation that supports Ukraine's military with competent assistance while also focusing on security and defense. They also have projects that use sports to help veterans rehabilitate. You can choose which campaign to donate to.

Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundation works to help both civilians and Ukraine's army. You can choose to donate to an active project or any of their general campaigns. Civilian aid campaigns cover temporary housing, supporting crisis and emergency responses, schools, demining, and healthcare. Military aid campaigns cover drones, optics units, communications equipment, and support of air defense teams.

Food Aid

World Central Kitchen works with local partners wherever they are providing food aid. They make sure meals and meal kits are what the local population eats. Even though there is no separate fundraising campaign for Ukraine (that I can see), they still do great work.

Animal Rescue

Hachiko Foundation works to help displaced pets and strays in frontline areas. They help with veterinary care, outdoor shelters, setting up feeding stations, and rehoming animals.

Medical Aid

Hospitallers (Website) is a volunteer organization of paramedics that was founded in 2014. They evacuate the wounded, provide medical aid on the frontlines, assist in rehabilitation, and transfer of the deceased to burial sites. They are also supported by Ukraine Charity. Visit Hospitallers' website to see how many they have evacuated, different methods you can donate, and more information about them.

Other

Saint Javelin (Twitter; Website) is a great place to get apparel, gear, and other cool loot to show your support for Ukraine. They don't take donations, but instead raise funds through their shop with a portion of their sales going towards humanitarian aid and critical items needed by the defenders (generators, pick-up trucks, medical supplies etc). Part of their shop has items made in Ukraine to support Ukrainian businesses. Overall, their products are high-quality. I include them due to their impactful presence in the Twitter community I follow and how they make Ukraine visible in an alternative way. Consider buying someone a gift from their shop.

The Kyiv Independent (Twitter; Website) is a great English language resource for news about Ukraine. I include them because I think supporting good journalism is incredibly important, especially now when the information space is fraught with Russian propaganda, misinformation, and disinformation. My followers have probably noticed I've pulled a lot of quotes from their stories in an effort to amplify Ukrainian voices and experiences. Look on their website for more information on different way to support them, such as their Patreon.

---

If you're on twitter, there are a number of groups and people that fundraise for Ukraine and for specific units fighting on the frontlines. If there is no official website, a PayPal for donations is listed in their profiles. When considering on whether to donate, always use your best judgement and donate to those you trust if you do not see what is listed is up to your standards.

@/Teoyaomiquu almost always has a fundraiser for Liberty Ukraine with a specified purpose. At the time of writing this, he is currently raising funds for engineering equipment such as excavators. One such excavator is already in Kursk. Follow him to stay up to date with what he's fundraising for.

Dyga's Paw (Twitter: @/dzygaspaw) is a smaller group that has recently raised funds for starlinks, drones, batteries, and Ecoflow generators. You can look at the fundraising campaigns they currently have on their website.

@/DefactoHumanity represents and founded Planet of the People with their website U(a)nited for Freedom. She frequently posts updates about their fundraisers and what their partners need. They are known for providing Frontline medical aid supplies, protective equipment and other military aid, technical equipment (starlinks, drones, scopes, etc), and infrastructure equipment (generators, vehicles, power stations, etc). They even have a merch store of the battalions they partner with if that's your jam. Here is their link tree if you wish to explore more. And in case you're curious, there is an article bout the founder here.

@/wilendhornets (Website) specialize in making high quality drones that have gotten a lot of praise from Ukraine's army. They have attracted a lot of media attention too. Check out their website for the list of articles that have been written about them. Their Twitter is very active with strike footage.

Ants Kitchen Hub (@/ants_kyiv) is a volunteer kitchen that makes dry rations for the Ukrainian army. They are more active on their other social media. To learn more about them, check out their link tree.

@/frontlinekit (Front Line Kitchen) is represented by Richard Woodruff. Originally they made shelf stable food for the Ukrainian army, but now their fundraising has branched out to other campaigns such as raising funds for medical supplies and drones. They are a well known group that many battalions have come to for help.

@/bekamaciorowski (Rebekah Maciorowski) is as combat medic and nurse who helps provide medical care to soldiers and civillians at the frontlines. She raises funds for medical supplies and other equipment, but also helps train soldiers in first aid. More of her social media that features her work can be found in her link tree.

@/UkraineAidOps (Website) is another organization battalions frequently go to for help. They fundraise for all sorts of equipment from medical supplies to drones. If you're interested, they also have a shop with patches from different brigades and flags signed by soldiers. Their shop also includes a separate section called the Victory Gallery where artifacts from the war are turned into art. This includes shells that are painted on, scrap metal from downed enemy planes are turned into keychains, and pieces of a rocket are turned into lamps.

Chris Garrett is the co-founder of Prevail. His organization deals with humanitarian demining as well as training for trauma care, training of bomb disposal, and education to the public. Prevail works with local agencies in Ukraine as well as the army.

Project Konstantin (Twitter; Website; Linktree) is still going strong after the death of their founder, British paramedic Peter Fouché. His digital ghost can be found here. They collaborate with the military, thus giving them an insight into what is dearly needed. They often raise funds for starlinks, personalized first aid kits (IFAKs), generators, portable power stations, and other nonlethal military equipment. I regret forgetting them the first time this post went around. Visit their website to see everything they have done and more. It has more information on what and how they do it than this post can cover.

One Team One Fight (Twitter; Website; Linktree) has some of the original members that worked for Ukraine Aid Ops. They formed their own group after differences with the previous one, and are still helping Ukraine. They are very visible on various social media showing what they have accomplished in their deliveries to various brigades. They're another group that seeks to bring starlinks, drones, medical supplies and protective gear to the battalions that come to them for help. Check out their website for more information on their current fundraisers, their achievements, and received recognition.

NAFO 69th Sniffing Brigade (Twitter; Website) Another small group that focuses their funds on delivering drones, generators, vehicles, and saving the occasional furry companion. They are very diligent in their updates for their fundraising campaigns. Check out their website for more information and the articles written about them.

Postmaster General Boomer (Twitter; Website) focuses on humanitarian aid, animal aid, and logistics. Boomer is the beloved pet of one of the founders and the secret boss/mascot. They have many transparency reports and are diligent in reporting the various "tours" they do in getting supplies where they are needed to go. They are based in Germany but have built up many connections during their existence. They have also worked closely with Ukraine Aid Ops.

--

I am sure I have forgotten some, so please reply or comment with any more I should add to this master post. I will edit and update as I see and evaluate more.

Last updated: Aug. 13th, 2024

Version updates listed below

August 13th, 2024 Added:

Hospitallers

Saint Javelin

The Kyiv Independent

Project Konstantin

1 Team 1 Fight

NAFO 69th Sniffing Brigade

Post Master General Boomer

[thealchemistbae]

Part of Fortune Degree Meanings 🍀

Disclaimer: This post is for entertainment purposes only.

thealchemistbae © do not copy, redistribute, or edit my content.

If you enjoyed this post, you can leave me a tip via PayPal at goddessguapa@gmail.com or via Venmo @goddessguapa. Thank you.

The POF is about how and where you strike GOLD, feel naturally lucky, and effortlessly attract abundance when you lean into it.

🌈: 0° -> You're a natural talent at creating wealth from scratch or inheriting a legacy. New beginnings bring big wins. Every time you try something brand new, the universe rewards you. First to market, early investor, or building a brand from the ground up.

🌈: 1° -> Success comes when you stand alone. Your independence is magnetic. People are drawn to your solo vibe. Think: Solo entrepreneur, lone creator, self-made mogul.

🌈: 2° -> Money follows when you're in the right vibe. You attract wealth through community, aesthetics, or softness. Think: content creator, artist, or someone who gets gifted just for existing.

🌈: 3° -> Your voice, content or writing = gold. Speaking, podcasting, scripts, books, or anything with your words brings the bag. Pitch ideas...they'll hit.

🌈: 4° -> Money flows when you connect to your roots. Family businesses, real estate, or honoring your ancestry could unlock generational wealth. Sentiment = success.

🌈: 5° -> You get paid to be seen. Charisma, entertainment, and creative expression make you $$$. Think: acting, modeling, influencing, or running a show.

🌈: 6° -> You're the queen of systems. Passive income from routines, health regimens, digital products, or service-based offers that solve problems.

🌈: 7° -> Wealth flows through relationships. Business partners, romantic collabs, or social connections open doors. Think: referrals, collabs, marriage to money.

🌈: 8° -> You get luck through shadow work, sex, appeal, and taboo wisdom. Therapy, transformation, manifestation coaching or $ex work = actual income paths.

🌈: 9° -> You get luck and fortune to teach, travel or publish. Courses, online education, spiritual teachings, or anything that expands mine is your jackpot.

🌈: 10° -> Boss energy. You’re here to run empires. Real-world success through business, status, long-term investments, and strategy. Get corporate or build your own.

🌈: 11° -> You make money by being ahead of your time. Tech, trends, astrology, or community-centered biz is your path. Think: influencer meets innovator.

🌈: 12° -> Spiritual, psychic, artistic, and dreamy income streams. You can literally get paid from dreams, intuition, art, or divine downloads.

🌈: 13° -> You profit when you shake sh*t up. Say what people won’t, do what they fear. Your authenticity is rebellious and people PAY for your truth.

🌈: 14° -> There’s something magical about your wealth. You’re protected. Money shows up just in time. Trust the divine timing; you’re spiritually aligned with success.

🌈: 15° -> You are magnetic AF. People want to watch you, follow you, and throw money your way just for showing up. Fame, clout, and visibility = wealth.

🌈: 16° -> You profit by solving deep problems — either through service, healing, or creative problem-solving. Fix a broken system, and you’ll build your fortune.

🌈: 17° -> Your ideas literally turn into income. Brilliant, future-forward strategies = passive cash. You may also attract benefactors who fund your vision.

🌈: 18° -> You turn pain into profit. Period. Your hardest experiences become the very thing that makes you rich. Use your transformation to help others.

🌈: 19° -> Your voice is a weapon. You inspire, influence, and sell with speech. Speaking, hosting, consulting, or coaching can bring you massive wealth.

🌈: 20° -> You’re here to do soulful, purpose-driven work. Your fortune is tied to your spiritual calling. Money comes when you follow your mission.

🌈: 21° -> Main character energy. Luck finds you in the spotlight, in front of a camera, or when you embrace your larger-than-life personality. Fans = funds.

🌈: 22° -> You’re meant to build wealth through serious mastery. Authority, certifications, and real-world expertise = your golden ticket.

🌈: 23° -> Networking queen/king. You meet one person and BOOM…doors open. Events, socials, and group energy = money magnets.

🌈: 24° -> You’re here to make soft, sensual, and intuitive money. Feminine energy, aesthetics, and pleasure-based business = jackpot.

🌈: 25° -> You get paid from the cosmos. Astrology, energy work, divination, or being your weird, wonderful self attracts wealth from magical places.

🌈: 26° -> You’re meant to pass something down. Building a brand, inheritance, or generational wealth is your path. Think: queen of the family empire.

🌈: 27° -> You create wealth with intention. Your mindset is your moneymaker. Vision boards, rituals, scripting? They actually work for you.

🌈: 28° -> You know how to mix seduction with success. Business + pleasure = $$$. You’re intuitive, strategic, and irresistible in the boardroom or bedroom.

🌈: 29° -> You’ve lived many lifetimes and now you’re here to collect. This is master energy; your fortune shows up through power, endings, and full-circle moments. One big transformation will unlock your ultimate bag.

What degree is your POF at ? Drop in the comments.

thealchemistbae © do not copy, redistribute, or edit my content.

If you enjoyed this post, you can leave me a tip via PayPal at goddessguapa@gmail.com or via Venmo @goddessguapa. Thank you.

[astroeleanor]

💸₊˚⊹Your 2H Ruler = How to Become a Money Magnet 💵₊˚⊹

If you’re not making the kind of money you want, you need to start using your 2H ruler. This placement shows how you can earn more money & the people/situations that will bring huge financial opportunities in your life.

If you ignore your 2nd House ruler, you risk chasing the wrong goals and wasting time. This planet shows your natural path to wealth: not the path others tell you to take. The more you align with it, the easier money flows.

So, let's figure out together how to use your birth chart to become a money magnet.

HOW TO FIND THE 2H RULER:

1) Locate the sign in your 2H. Calculate your chart HERE!

2) The planet that rules that sign is your 2H ruler (see table below for planetary rulerships.)

3) Locate the house the 2H ruler occupies in the birth chart. The house it's in, shows HOW you can make more money.

Example: Sagittarius 2H=Sagittarius is ruled by JUPITER=8H Gemini Jupiter is the 2H Ruler

2H RULER IN THE 1H: Build skills and image. Start a personal brand or business. Be seen, heard, and remembered. Who gives you money: Clients who like your energy. Followers, fans, loyal buyers.

2H RULER IN THE 2H: Invest in goods, land, or things that grow. Focus on slow, steady gains. Sell tangible services. Who gives you money: Bankers, traders, investors. People who deal in tangible assets (like gold, land, supplies). Buyers who want lasting value.

2H RULER IN THE 3H: Write, sell, teach, speak. Trade goods locally. Use phones, emails, short trips to build cash. Who gives you money: Siblings, neighbors, close friends. Writers, messengers, teachers. Local businesses or delivery services.

2H RULER IN THE 4H: Buy or sell real estate. Work in land, farming, food, or tradition. Build home-based businesses. Inherit wisely and protect it. Who gives you money: Parents, grandparents, elders. Real estate agents or property managers. Family businesses or ancestral wealth.

2H RULER IN THE 5H: Create art, games, entertainment. Start passion businesses. Teach kids, coach sports, organize events. Take smart risks. Who gives you money: Artists, athletes, performers. Gamblers, investors, venture capitalists. Lovers or romantic partners.

2H RULER IN THE 6H: Offer daily services people need. Heal, repair, clean, or fix. Focus on health, pets, or crafts. Build strong work habits. Who gives you money: Nurses, vets, cleaners, tech workers. Bosses who value hard workers. Clients who need regular help.

2H RULER IN THE 7H: Negotiate smart contracts. Form joint ventures. Sell directly to clients one-on-one. Who gives you money: Business partners, spouses, clients. Lawyers, agents, deal-makers. People who invest in long-term relationships.

2H RULER IN THE 8H: Manage inheritances, investments, loans. Work with taxes, banking, insurance. Handle mergers, estates, or debts. Trade trust for power. Who gives you money: Investors, lenders, financiers. Heirs, trustees, executors. Partners who share assets.

2H RULER IN THE 9H: Teach, publish, preach, or coach. Sell services across borders. Work with law, spirituality, philosophy, or higher education. Follow faith or big missions. Who gives you money: Professors, clergy, travelers, publishers. Foreigners. Legal workers or academic institutions.

2H RULER IN THE 10H: Build a public name. Climb career ladders. Start visible businesses. Become an expert people recognize. Who gives you money: Bosses, governments, CEOs. Industry leaders and high-status clients. Customers who respect titles and results.

2H RULER IN THE 11H: Launch group projects. Build big communities. Fund dreams through social support. Join causes that matter. Who gives you money: Friends, followers, donors. Clubs, political groups, online communities. Social movements and public funds.

2H RULER IN THE 12H: Work behind the scenes. Heal, help, or create art quietly. Invest in royalties, patents, hidden streams. Protect secrets and serve faithfully. Who gives you money: Monasteries, charities, hospitals, hidden patrons. Spiritual teachers, artists, healers. Quiet supporters or secret allies.

Thank you for taking the time to read my post! Your curiosity & engagement mean the world to me. I hope you not only found it enjoyable but also enriching for your astrological knowledge. Your support & interest inspire me to continue sharing insights & information with you. I appreciate you immensely.

• 🕸️ JOIN MY PATREON for exquisite & in-depth astrology content. You'll also receive a free mini reading upon joining. :)

• 🗡️ BOOK A READING with me to navigate your life with more clarity & awareness.

[bnpd]

❛❛ NERD-JO .ᐟ >ᴗ< ❜❜ :

SYNOPSIS: you're a new transfer at a big prestigious private university. what happens when the first friend you make is a cute nerd? will you get your chance to start fresh? or will your newfound 'friendship' bring you unwanted drama in the future.

DRABBLE WRD COUNT: 2.6K pairings: rich nerd!deans nephew gojo x reader tags: cute nerd gojo, reader is kind of mysterious, gojo makes me chuckle here. NOT PROOFREAD (sorry) ill come back and remove some grammatical errors. this might be cheeks fr

NOTEᝰ.ᐟ : im late to the nerd gojo party </3 but please enjoy! please do not steal my little nerdjo pngs just because they have my 'bnpd' if you want the individual png pls just shoot me a text :) lmk if there are any issues, so i can fix them !!

a tall man sits in the far back of the lecture hall. figure hunched over the desk as he scribbles away intensely in his journal. 30 minutes earlier than the usual start of the lecture. 

the glasses that sit delicately on his nose bridge slide down every once in a while. his white ruffled hair stays still as he shuffles in his seat to adjust his posture. 

many are intimidated by his silent and blank stare. everyone but students in his science club feel that way. he’s quite the chatterbox contrary to popular belief. ask him about his favorite physics theories and he’s chatting your ear off.

he doesn’t go to parties, but invite him to a museum or a bookstore? he’s already in the car.

he’s quite polished. gojo can be one of those pretentious nerds, but he doesn’t mean to! he has lived a privileged life and acts like any other rich college student would. 

comes from a wealthy family and doesn't hide it, but he also doesn't run around telling everyone.

it might seem like he dresses like a regular guy but his clothes are still expensive. you'll occasionally find him wearing a sweater vest and button up tucked into his well-tailored pants altered to fit his long legs on formal days when he has a research symposium presentation or a meeting with the steam department about improving certain aspects he finds are not up to his standards.

most of the time, he’ll wear comfortable clothes. wears glasses, cliche, but he wears them more out of practical appeal and necessity. 

his eyes are sensitive due to a medical condition he has. so, the glasses he wears are tailored to prevent his eyes from straining. his parents urge him to wear the endless supply of contacts he has but he’s quite comfortable with his glasses. 

every pair of glasses he owns has his initials engraved on the temples, whether it’s gold or silver. whatever matches the aesthetic of the pair of glasses.

when he was younger. his parents would fund his personal ‘academic’ projects. he’d be busy every summer at a science or math camp. if they sent him to a summer camp that wasn't academically related; at camp you’d find him reading far away from everyone else. whether in front of a lake or a quiet little place in the woods. 

now? he’s still the same. just bigger. doesn’t go to summer camp but definitely stacks up his summer with internships or side projects. on top of that, he’ll spend time volunteering at local schools, teaching students in high school or middle school.

very good with kids, and more patient with them than he would be with his uni study partners. 

donates whatever money he earns at internships to local communities to aid students in pursuing their education. he strongly believes that if he can pursue education freely, so should everyone else.

his timer goes off quietly and he stops scribbling down his memorized equations. he huffs out a breath of relief yet frustration. 

 i’m still missing one… he thinks to himself. if anyone with an outside perspective were to see him they’d imagine gears turning inside of his head.

he flips the page, resets his timer, and starts again.

time passes and he realizes class has now begun. he was so caught up studying, he failed to realize that the class is now packed with other students. a few scattered seats remain vacant. 

the professor enters the class and silently unpacks her bag before greeting the class and breaking the silence, “let’s have a great semester.” she wastes no time diving into the lecture. 

gojo, contrary to popular belief, sits in the middle section of the lecture hall. he’s not fond of the back because for starters, he’s easily distracted and he can’t hear from all the way back there. the middle is just right.

he’s kind of a loner, by choice. he's just always being productive on campus.

you’ll often see him sitting alone, busying himself with his studies unless he has a meeting with his club about an upcoming math or science competition. if it’s not the season of academic olympiads, he’s alone. 

he only has two close friends: geto and shoko. geto majors in psychology. shoko is, of course, pursuing her dream of being a doctor. she’s a biology major undergoing the pre-med track. 

gojo has yet to have a girlfriend in college.

not because he can’t find someone interested in him, absolutely not. he’s handsome, intelligent, quiet, kind, and rich. he's the most sought after bachelor on campus. with his brains and looks, he's every girls wet dream.

unfortunately for him, women are always hitting on him but quite frankly, he’s not interested. or sometimes he doesn’t catch on to the fact that a woman is subtly flirting with him. 

not because he’s dense, but how would he find something he’s not even looking for?

like right now, when you gently plop down on the seat next to him. you’re quite fond of sitting in the front but the lecture hall was overwhelmingly full. there were other open seats but he looked to be the most productive and you needed that.

you were a transfer. which is odd to be one this late into college, given that you’re a senior trying to complete your last year. 

the university is a pretty big private school so no one notices new transfers nor do they care. but within them, are those who do. 

like gojo. 

he doesn’t realize you’ve sat next to him until the end of the lecture. given that he was too busy scribbling away in his journal. 

one thing about gojo is that he likes to leave when everyone is already gone and the professor is free to approach. he’s a tiny bit surprised to see it seems you think the same. but for reasons he’s not aware of, you’re there for a reason other than academics. 

he silently observes you as you approach the professor. his eyebrows raise a bit when you share a hug and it has him adjusting his glasses to make sure he’s seeing things correctly. 

interesting

you continue to sit next to him in the following weeks, seeing him twice a week on tuesdays and thursdays. you began to find yourself looking forward to it. you get to sit next to a tall dorky handsome stranger? you’ll be getting perfect attendance. 

you rarely catch a glance of him outside of class, but every time you do he is so focused. 

the more you studied him while he studied something else, the more you realized how attractive he was. even if you knew that prior to your silent observations.

from the outfits you could tell he spent some time on in the morning—you assumed he woke up earlier than everyone else, to the way his obsession with organization—you took note of when he set his things down for class and neatly organized his pens, pencils and journal for notes.  

don’t be mistaken though. one tiny peek at his journal was enough to see that despite his need to tidy things on the outside…his notes were written haphazardly and quick. notes are a reflection of your mind, and if you’re constantly thinking then your notes will be a reflection of that.

you had also come to the conclusion that he was a man that was yet to become aware of his height. he moved around like he didn’t know how much of a walking tank he was. you hoped he never found out.

the best thing about him wasn’t any of the things you listed, but it was a few of the habits he had. 

everything he owned was personalized. from the pencils he used, to his backpack. you made that discovery when you forgot your pencil pouch in the library.

it took you a total of 2 minutes to gather the courage to turn to the mysterious man beside you, and ask him for a pencil. 

“excuse me,” you said gently, “im sorry, but can i bother you for a pencil? im so sorry.” 

he stared at you and you thought he would explode you with his bright blue snow glazed eyes. 

he cracked a tiny toothless smile and you figuratively crossed your fingers, hoping he wasn’t silently judging you or worse—came to the conclusion that were unprepared and incompetent. 

you watched him intently as he reached to grab his backpack, taking in the way the black expensive leather had his initials engraved in the bottom corner. he reached his hand into his backpack and pulled out–what looked to be the most elegant, technologically advanced sleek black mechanical pencil.

“don’t worry about giving it back,” he says politely but then he goes for the blow “i know you might need it in the future.” with a hint of pretentiousness. oh!

“well… thank you,” you say a bit taken back as you reluctantly take the pencil from his extended hand. your face falls a little at his response and you deflate a little in your chair.

did he think you were…poor? god forbid a girl asks for a pencil. you’d, unfortunately, been perceived. and in the worst way possible. he probably thinks you’re irresponsible, and an idiot!

you look at the pencil and realize that–of course–he has his initials engraved in his mechanical pencils too. 

g.s.

you bite back a smile that might give away how endearing you found it. that is so cute.

he has his initials on almost everything. you try not to crack a smile at how adorable yet endearing that is. 

unfortunately, you couldn’t really put the pencil to good use because he kept fidgeting in his seat the entire class. it distracted and worried you at the same time. which was odd because he never did that. 

is he upset that he had to give you one of his spare pencils? will he ask for it back? 

as you were packing your bags to leave, you felt him heavily staring at you. it makes you pause your movement and then turn to him, and sure enough, he was looking at you. you a tiny sigh leaves your lips. 

“yes? is this about your pencil? because i have my own i just needed–”

“im sorry.” he interrupts you and it shuts you up immediately. 

what?

he might have seen the confusion in your eyes. “about what i said about the pencil, i didn’t mean for it to come off that way. i was just saying because i have a lot of them so it wouldn’t have made a difference. and i was guessing maybe you didn’t. wait–no. i meant like if you didn’t–.not that i think you can’t get your own pencils or anything like that because i am super sure you can. but if you need it you can keep it. not that you need it right? because everyone needs a pencil. like one time i–”

you stare at him as he rambles on. you’re completely endeared with the way he doesn’t look you in the eyes and the way his hands move around to prove his point. 

he huffs out a breath of frustration. you on the other hand huff out a breath of amusement and the stranger before you finally moves to look at you.

“it’s okay.” you dismiss his worries, standing their idly as you mirror his movements. 

“i just thought i might have inconvenienced you by asking,” you tell him honestly, you grab your computer and gently store it away in your backpack as you continue your conversation, “im usually prepared, but i accidentally left my pencil bag in the library this morning.”

he gives you a tiny affirmative nod, taking in your words. he swings his backpack over his shoulder, and loops both arms into their respective loops, wearing the backpack on both shoulders. 

cute.

there's an awkward silence that follows you both before the door slams shut and you realize then that the professor has now walked out. 

the stranger huffs out a small awkward laugh, “you didn’t–by the way,” he speaks then, “inconvenience me, I mean”, he clarifies. now it’s your turn to nod at him. 

this is so awkward, it almost makes you laugh. 

he breaks the silence again, “im satoru gojo, by the way.” he politely introduces himself by extending his hand in a respectful manner.

you extend yours in return, shaking his hand before sharing your name with him as well. 

“i have time to kill,” he offers, “why don’t we take a walk around campus before then? the weather is great.”

after your shared walk with gojo you learned a lot about him. 

he recently discovered his interest in kpop after his friend, shoko, played a song during a shared car ride. 

he’s a senior, like you, studying engineering and double minoring in business and mathematics. he originally wanted to minor in physics but he said his father urged him to do business instead. he had to compromise.

that doesn’t stop him from taking physics courses out of pure enjoyment though, exceeding the 18 credit limit. 

he’s also an on-campus tutor and does a work study job at the library. the old librarian on campus loves him and appreciates his extensive knowledge on literature and figured that if he spent all his time there already, might as well let him get paid for him. 

when she approached him, his ears turned a light shade of pink and you could just imagine gojo pushing his glasses further up the bridge of his nose before they slipped as he hurried to apologize. 

she waved him off and urged him to just work there already. gojo then started working with them a week later after financial aid finalized the paperwork. he remembers the look of the financial aid lady when she looked at his file and saw that he was beyond in need of financial aid. 

all she did was raise and eyebrow but clicked away. thankfully, gojo managed to get the work-study payments signed off as a form of volunteering hours rather than an extra below minimum wage salary.

he didn’t share with you the last part about his tiny altercation with financial aid though. he assumed you had no idea who he was. and you hoped to keep it that way. 

you in turn shared with him that you were transferred from another school. he already knew that (he paid a visit to the dean but he’ll never tell you that, given that the dean is his uncle afterall) he didn't know why. so, he asked.

“i transferred because there were some personal issues there and now i just want to start fresh.”

gojo raises a questioning eyebrow, but decides to respect your privacy. he hopes one day you’ll trust him enough to tell him. 

the rest of the chat was quite delightful. you were about to invite him to the cute nearby cafe you saw on your way to school, but before you could muster up the courage. 

a chime was heard from gojos pants pocket. he excused himself to check his phone. you stood there idly as he let out a tiny groan of frustration. 

“im sorry–” he apologized again. the look of pure regret made your lip quirk up again. he was so cute and polite.

“i hate to cut our…trip—short but it kind of slipped my mind that i scheduled a study group with a class i T.A. for.”

you wave him off, “it’s okay!” you reassure him with an upbeat tone in your voice, “we share a class so i’ll see you around.”

he bids you a quick goodbye and you watch his retreating figure. you sigh and head to the opposite direction. 

this semester will be exciting. 

feel more than welcome to submit a request <3 . join my tag list : ⟢ join my girlypop disc: link ‹𝟹

TAGLIST : @luvwithau : @sugacor3 : @bloopsstuff : @fushitoru : @serenityfauna : @luna-v-roiya : @rjswrld : @fartm : @bammbi-jeon127 : @gojoslefttoenail : @laviefantasie : @red-viewe : @danakul : @xchannelorange : @honoredalone : @plutosgold : @jotarohat : @shadowytiger : @um-no-ok : @lavender-hvze : @nvmlolo : @rintcrous : @jaelahh-blog-blog : @fuckerenyaeger : @bigbodiezz : @simp-plague : @lialia3945 : @gojostit : @fangirlingoverfanfic : @deluluforcarlos55 : @manyno :

omg! i didn't realize how many people signed up for my taglist <33 tysm ! currently working on a masterlist too. long shot gojo. i have not forgotten you.

©2025 bnpd. All rights reserved to the copyrights owner. Do not share, plagiarize, or translate.

[ellipsus-writes]

Ellipsus Digest: March 18

Each week (or so), we'll highlight the relevant (and sometimes rage-inducing) news adjacent to writing and freedom of expression.

This week: AI continues its hostile takeover of creative labor, Spain takes a stand against digital sludge, and the usual suspects in the U.S. are hard at work memory-holing reality in ways both dystopian and deeply unserious.

ChatGPT firm reveals AI model that is “good at creative writing” (The Guardian)

... Those quotes are working hard.

OpenAI (ChatGPT) announced a new AI model trained to emulate creative writing—at least, according to founder Sam Altman: “This is the first time i have been really struck by something written by AI.” But with growing concerns over unethically scraped training data and the continued dilution of human voices, writers are asking… why? 

Spoiler: the result is yet another model that mimics the aesthetics of creativity while replacing the act of creation with something that exists primarily to generate profit for OpenAI and its (many) partners—at the expense of authors whose work has been chewed up, swallowed, and regurgitated into Silicon Valley slop.

Spain to impose massive fines for not labeling AI-generated content (Reuters)

But while big tech continues to accelerate AI’s encroachment on creative industries, Spain (in stark contrast to the U.S.) has drawn a line: In an attempt to curb misinformation and protect human labor, all AI-generated content must be labeled, or companies will face massive fines. As the internet is flooded with AI-written text and AI-generated art, the bill could be the first of many attempts to curb the unchecked spread of slop.

Besos, España 💋

These words are disappearing in the new Trump administration (NYT)

Project 2025 is moving right along—alongside dismantling policies and purging government employees, the stage is set for a systemic erasure of language (and reality). Reports show that officials plan to wipe government websites of references to LGBTQ+, BIPOC, women, and other communities—words like minority, gender, Black, racism, victim, sexuality, climate crisis, discrimination, and women have been flagged, alongside resources for marginalized groups and DEI initiatives, for removal.

It’s a concentrated effort at creating an infrastructure where discrimination becomes easier… because the words to fight it no longer officially exist. (Federally funded educational institutions, research grants, and historical archives will continue to be affected—a broader, more insidious continuation of book bans, but at the level of national record-keeping, reflective of reality.) Doubleplusungood, indeed.

Pete Hegseth’s banned images of “Enola Gay” plane in DEI crackdown (The Daily Beast)

Fox News pundit-turned-Secretary of Defense-slash-perpetual-drunk-uncle Pete Hegseth has a new target: banning educational materials featuring the Enola Gay, the plane that dropped the atomic bomb on Hiroshima. His reasoning: that its inclusion in DEI programs constitutes "woke revisionism." If a nuke isn’t safe from censorship, what is?

The data hoarders resisting Trump’s purge (The New Yorker)

Things are a little shit, sure. But even in the ungoodest of times, there are people unwilling to go down without a fight.

Archivists, librarians, and internet people are bracing for the widespread censorship of government records and content. With the Trump admin aiming to erase documentation of progressive policies and minority protections, a decentralized network is working to preserve at-risk information in a galvanized push against erasure, refusing to let silence win.

Let us know if you find something other writers should know about, (or join our Discord and share it there!) Until next week, - The Ellipsus Team xo

[tarotwithavi]

If we could stop time, June would last forever

How Will june go for you/ some things that might happen in June/ june blessings.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

PLEASE READ!!

Hello! Lovelies, I am saving up funds for my education, any kind of help you can offer will be greatly appreciated whether it be thought purchasing or sharing this message as much as possible. Donations are not expected but really appreciated.

Masterlist 🌷 Paid services

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

Pile 1

Alright, I’m definitely getting that some of you are June babies so happy birthday to you!

The message coming through is that June will be the beginning of something new. I feel like some of you are trying out new things maybe you're starting your own business, blog, or creative project. And if you're not yet, then this is definitely the time to start documenting your journey and your life. June is about to bring a lot of positive changes into your world.

Some of you are going to meet someone really special this month someone who might stay in your life for a very, very long time, possibly even a lifetime partner. I also see that a few of you might find your soulmate someone genuine, who truly sees you for who you are, not for who they want you to be.

You are being guided to trust divine timing trust that everything happens for a reason and at the right moment. You can’t rush the process. The more you try to force things, the more they tend to slip away. So it’s better to flow with life and let things unfold naturally, at their own pace.

I also see that some of you are focusing on your health and well-being maybe you’ve started going to the gym or exercising regularly. That’s amazing, and you should be proud of that!

Another message I’m receiving is about covering your hair some of you might be wearing a headscarf, hijab, or simply choosing to cover your head. This can be a sign of spiritual protection. It’s a reminder that you are being called to protect your peace, and that you are spiritually guarded at this time.

June is bringing in so many blessings for you. I see many doors opening, opportunities flowing in, and a deep sense of gratitude filling your heart.

But here's something important: sometimes, the people we love may not be the best for us. You might be holding on to a friendship or relationship that doesn't serve your highest good mentally, spiritually, or even physically. It’s okay to let them go. Don’t chase friendships that drain you or relationships that disturb your peace. You deserve healthy, mutual, and respectful connections.

And finally, for those of you who are single or looking for love, I sense that someone special may enter your life in June. You might even get into a relationship with them! Romance feels like it’s in the air this month June is looking like a beautiful time for love.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

Pile 2

Hello Pile 2, I am definitely getting the message that you went through a lot in May. Right now, you might be feeling stuck, like your life is not moving forward, as if you are standing still. Some of you may even feel like you're living in a loop, where situations keep repeating themselves. It feels like you’re in the same place you were a year ago, and that’s deeply painful because of how much you’ve endured.

However, I want you to know that things will start improving. You are also being guided to focus more on your spiritual health. Everything you have gone through may have drained your spiritual energy or blocked some of your chakras. You are being encouraged to meditate and find peace within yourself and your mind.

I see you working very hard in June. Some of you might be preparing for or clearing exams. For others, life may feel like it is testing you repeatedly this month, and you will need to be patient.

There is also an energy vampire around you, someone who is constantly draining your energy. This could be a masculine figure, possibly someone who is arrogant, refuses to take responsibility for his actions, and blames others. I strongly suggest you distance yourself from this person or set strong boundaries. This person seems to have some kind of authority over you, possibly a boss, father figure, teacher, or someone with influence in your life.

You are beginning to free yourself from the expectations that have been placed on you. I see that you’ve always been the “perfect child,” the one who didn’t need much care because you handled everything yourself. In June, you are going to realise the freedom you truly have.

This might sound harsh, but sometimes people stay in situations they know are unhealthy and then feel victimised by the outcomes. You have every right to walk away from anything that is no longer serving you. If you acknowledge that a place or person is not good for you and still choose to stay, then you cannot blame your life when things go wrong. Sometimes, the situations we fear the most are actually the consequences of our own choices. You are the master of your life, and you have the power to change your path at any moment.

You are being strongly guided to meditate regularly this month. Meditation will bring you clarity and answers.

Something significant may have happened in February, or that month holds some emotional weight. I also sense that some of you are waiting for something to change, hoping for things to improve. But now, it’s time to take matters into your own hands. Your unwillingness to take action might be contributing to your current frustration and sadness.

On a positive note, I see that an unexpected gift is coming your way in June. This could be a lost package, a forgotten item returning to you, or even a financial bonus. Whatever it is, it will be a moment of gratitude and joy.

Your angels are always with you. Whenever you feel lost or confused, speak to them. Talk to them in any way that feels natural to you. You can speak out loud, write in your journal, or talk to them in your thoughts right before sleeping. Just try to connect, because they want to help you and improve your life. But right now, it feels like you’ve built a wall around yourself, and their messages aren’t getting through. Try to open your heart a little. They are waiting for you.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

Pile 3

Okay, so I see that you might have recently gone through a breakup or left a relationship behind. You might also be single at the moment. It feels like you are trying to move on from something or someone. This could also be related to a personal loss, such as losing a loved one. I sense that you are currently carrying a sad or heavy energy.

However, I also see that you will be travelling a lot in June, especially to places you have always dreamed of. Some of you might be visiting the beach or spending time near large bodies of water. I get a strong sense that you will be surrounded by water this month. This might also show up as taking more showers, going swimming, or simply finding comfort in water.

The universe wants you to know that whatever you have lost whether it was a job, a relationship, or a missed opportunity like an interview something better is waiting for you. All you need to do is believe in the universe and trust that what is meant for you will always serve your highest good.

You are also being guided to avoid taking unnecessary risks this month. This includes doing anything reckless or making investments you are unsure about. Be cautious and think things through carefully.

I also feel like there might be some tension in your family environment during June. You may feel like you're walking on thin ice around certain family members. Do not worry, this situation will pass.

August seems to be a very significant month for you. I see you starting something new during that time. You may receive a raise, a bonus, or unexpected financial help from someone in August. Even though this is a June reading, messages about August keep coming through, so it is clearly important for this pile.

Another message coming through is that if you have already planned something like a trip or a project it might not go exactly as expected. You could experience some delays or even rejections during the first two weeks of June. However, after that, things will begin to shift. Your luck will improve, and you will begin to feel more hopeful and positive. It is like the doors of fortune will begin to open for you after the second week of June.

I am also getting a strong message that your future is very bright, and you are meant to travel a lot in this lifetime. Movement and change are a big part of your destiny.

Overall, I see that the month of June will be a positive one for you, both financially and physically. Things might feel a bit off or challenging during the first two weeks, but after that, they will improve. You will begin to feel truly blessed.

𓂃˖˳·˖ ִֶָ ⋆🌷͙⋆ ִֶָ˖·˳˖𓂃 ִֶָ

[dandelionsresilience]

Dandelion News - March 15-21

Like these weekly compilations? Tip me at $kaybarr1735 or check out my Dandelion Doodles! This month’s doodles, like every third month, will be free to the public, so take a look!

1. Zoo 'overjoyed' as lion cubs increase pride to 10

“The litter of rare northern African lions was the second batch to be born recently at Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire, after three arrived in November. […] "The youngsters will grow up side-by-side with their half-siblings, and I'm sure they'll love having an abundance of playmates."”

2. Ohio Appeals Court Rules Trans Care Is Healthcare, Strikes Down Ban For Trans Youth

“The ruling rested on two key findings: first, that gender-affirming care constitutes legitimate medical treatment, and second, that parents have the constitutional right to make healthcare decisions for their children.”

3. Oystercatcher Recovery Campaign Offers a Rare Success Story about Shorebird Conservation

“Fifteen years of coordinated conservation efforts have produced a significant recovery in the U.S. population of the American oystercatcher[….] Schulte predicted that the protection efforts will survive [federal funding cuts] because of the large number of non-federal partners involved.”

4. Fish-tracking robot aims to make fishing more sustainable in developing nations

“A solar-powered, transparent [robot] that can roam the waters autonomously for five days at a stretch, counting fish [… can help fishers] avoid the overfishing [… and] mean less fuel consumed by boats searching for schools of fish, and less degradation of nets due to trawling where there are no fish.”

5. Zoologist Rediscovers Grasshopper Species Believed Extinct

“[… T]he Appalachian grasshopper […] camouflages with its surroundings—perhaps part of the reason people haven’t seen it [since 1946]. [… A zoologist] had seen some reports on iNaturalist that he thought could have been the species[, …] and after surveying several locations, he found a female.”

6. Scaling agroforestry can support fisheries, local food production and cultural practices

“The research found that combining native forest protection (100,000 acres) with transitioning suitable fallow agricultural land to agroforestry (400,000 acres) could [reduce] erosion and boosting nearshore food production by almost 100,000 meals per year[….]”

7. A cell pulls off one of the 'Holy Grails' of biotechnology

“[… A] single-celled alga with a nucleus [… can conduct] a chemical conversion reaction that helps create some of the essential building blocks of life. […] One day, Capone says the nitroplast could be introduced to crops to allow them to convert their own nitrogen without relying on external fertilizer.”

8. FERC: Solar + wind set for a strong 3-year run despite Trump’s sabotage

“Solar accounted for 68.2% of all new generating capacity placed into service in January – more than double the solar capacity added a year earlier (1,176 MW). […] Around 30% of US solar capacity is in small-scale (e.g., rooftop) systems that are not reflected in FERC’s data.”

9. As ghost junk haunts the sea, ‘mermaids’ are fighting back

“Just two days after completing the training, Diana Garcia, one of the Sirenas, helped remove nearly 900 kilograms (2,000 pounds) of [abandoned] ghost gear and debris in the waters near her community[….]”

10. A Nest-Protecting Program Pays Off for Alabama’s Snowy Plovers

“Over the past two breeding seasons, 18 Snowy Plover chicks fledged—a major turnaround after five years of almost no chick survival. [… The team made] a concerted effort to educate the public about the need to give the birds space[, … and] people have not directly caused plover losses in Alabama recently[….]”

March 8-14 news here | (all credit for images and written material can be found at the source linked; I don’t claim credit for anything but curating.)

[snail-day]

This is your home!

TW: Yandere behaviors, Kidnapped-ish Reader, Stockholm Syndrome, Manipulation, Older man x College student! Reader, Toxic relationship, Drugging, trapping. Gn! Reader

Wc: 1.3k

It seems like only a year ago you attempted to break up with your partner.

No—my deepest apologies—you tried to break up with your partner.

You see, he was the kind of lover who made you feel trapped. A man a few years older than you, with a stable job and a steady income, who somehow managed to fall for a mere college student.

That should have been your first red flag.

He begged you to move in, claiming your co-ed dorms weren’t exactly the safest. Did you really enjoy sharing a shower room with strangers? Was that the kind of life you wanted?

So, of course, you followed the hand that fed you. You were young, naive, and far too eager to believe in happily-ever-afters.

You moved in—why wouldn’t you? He was handsome, older, and confident, and his apartment was immaculate, with matching furniture. A dream for any broke college student.

He made space for you. A little nook for your “silly toys,” he’d tease, smiling warmly over his shoulder. He even set up a desk for you in his office so you could “spend more time together.” That is, until you spent that time playing video games instead of working on your finals.

He’d always find a way to scold you for it.

And then he started paying for your tuition.

At first, you refused—it was too much, and you had scholarships to rely on. But those scholarships suddenly disappeared. The donor funding your education pulled out, no explanation given.

So he stepped in. Your dutiful boyfriend.

He even showed you a spreadsheet, breaking down the mountain of debt you’d accumulate if you didn’t let him help. What choice did you have?

You felt bought out.

You felt like you’d sold yourself.

Desperate to regain some independence, you took up a part-time job. But even that became a problem. “I have money, let me take care of you,” he’d say, exasperated. Or worse: “Why are you working so hard when I’m here to make life easier for you?”

Still, you pushed back. For a little while, at least.

Until the day they let you go—just like that.

These strange occurrences… they made you overthink—his words, not yours—as you sat across from him at the café.

Your hands trembled as you raised the coffee cup to your lips, the warmth doing little to steady your nerves.

“Let’s break up,” you said softly, your voice barely above a whisper as you glanced away from his piercing gaze.

You caught the flicker of heartbreak in his beautiful eyes, a pain so raw it almost made you falter.

“I’m the problem, not you,” you continued, your words wavering like the hand that held your cup. “I just… I just need to get my life together.”

For a moment, there was only silence. The bustling café around you felt muted, like the world was holding its breath. His gaze remained fixed on you, unblinking, unwavering.

“That’s not fair,” he finally said, his voice calm, but there was a tension in it—a barely restrained crack.

Your chest tightened as you stared into the dark swirls of your coffee, avoiding the weight of his eyes. “It’s for the best,” you murmured.

He leaned forward, his elbows resting on the table, fingers threading together as if he were holding himself together. “For the best? For who? You?” His tone was soft, coaxing, but there was a sharp edge beneath it.

You nodded, though the motion felt hollow.

He sighed, running a hand through his perfectly styled hair. “You’re not making sense. You say you need to get your life together, but I’m right here. I’ve always been here. Isn’t that enough?”

It wasn’t enough. That was the problem.

You swallowed hard, daring a glance at him. His jaw was tight, his lips pressed into a thin line. Those heartbreakingly beautiful eyes of his—once so warm—now felt like they were cutting straight through you.

“I need space,” you said, forcing the words out before they could dissolve into cowardice. “I need to figure things out on my own.”

His hand moved across the table, fingers brushing yours. It was a tender gesture, but it felt like a trap. You pulled back instinctively, and his expression darkened, just for a moment.

“Space?” he repeated, as if the word was foreign to him. He leaned back in his chair, his arms crossing over his chest. “I see.”

But he didn’t. You knew he didn’t.

He wasn’t the kind of man who accepted things like this easily. You could feel it—the storm brewing beneath his composed exterior, the questions he was desperate to ask but refused to voice.

“You’re just… throwing everything away?” he asked, his voice quieter now, almost vulnerable. “After everything we’ve built together?”

Guilt stabbed at you, sharp and unrelenting. “I’m not throwing it away. I just need to…” You trailed off, searching for the right words, but they evaded you, leaving behind an aching emptiness.

The sound of a plate clattering in the distance made you flinch. He didn’t. He just stared at you, his gaze so intense it felt suffocating.

“Is there someone else?” he asked suddenly, his voice low but steady, like he was bracing himself for the answer.

Your head snapped up, eyes wide. “No! It’s not like that.”

He studied you for a long moment, his expression unreadable. Then he leaned forward again, his voice dropping to a whisper. “You don’t have to lie to me. You owe me that much.”

“I’m not lying,” you insisted, the desperation in your tone surprising even yourself. “This isn’t about anyone else. It’s about me.”

A bitter smile tugged at his lips. “It’s always about you, isn’t it?”

You froze, the words hitting harder than they should have.

“I guess I should’ve seen this coming,” he said, leaning back in his chair once more. His eyes flicked to the window beside you, watching the rain drizzle against the glass. “You always did have one foot out the door.”

The knot in your throat tightened, but you didn’t respond. What could you say?

For a moment, the two of you sat in silence, the space between you feeling insurmountable.

Finally, he exhaled sharply and stood, tossing a few bills onto the table. “If this is what you want,” he said, his voice void of the warmth it once held, “then I won’t stop you.”

But as he turned to leave, you couldn’t shake the feeling that this wasn’t over. Not really.

You managed to find a new apartment—a cheap, incredibly cheap one. The kind of place where the pipes rattled and the paint on the walls peeled if you so much as looked at it wrong. You had to take out a loan just to secure it, and as you stared at the mountain of paperwork, you felt the weight of your choices pressing down on you.

What had you been doing for the past year? Locked away in some castle. You almost cried just thinking about it.

The move was exhausting. Box after box filled with remnants of a life you didn’t recognize anymore. You left some things behind—things he’d given you, or things you couldn’t bring yourself to touch. It felt like shedding skin, leaving those pieces of yourself in the apartment you once shared.

A month passed in strained silence. You hadn’t heard from him, but you felt his presence everywhere. The way your phone seemed heavier in your pocket. The way every knock on the door made your heart jump. You told yourself it was paranoia, that he’d moved on.

Until one day, your phone lit up with a call.

His name stared back at you, bold and glaring.

You froze. The room felt smaller, the air thicker. The phone rang once. Then twice. Then thrice.

You didn’t answer.

When it finally stopped, the voicemail icon appeared, along with a text. You hesitated before opening it, your breath catching as you read the message.

"Can we talk?"

That was all it said.

But it wasn’t just the message. Attached to it was a picture.

Your chest tightened as you opened the image.

It was of your desk. Your old desk. The one from his office. On it sat your “small little toys”—the ones he used to tease you about. The picture was perfectly framed, almost artistic in its composition.

He still had your things. Of course, he did.

You told yourself you should’ve picked them up by now. That you’d been putting it off because you couldn’t stomach the thought of seeing him again.

But now… now you weren’t sure if going back was an option.

Your phone buzzed again, and you jumped.

Another text:

“You forgot these. They’re waiting for you.”

Something about the message sent a chill down your spine.

Waiting. That word lingered in your mind, heavy and suffocating.

You stared at the screen, your thumb hovering over the keyboard. You could just ignore him, pretend you hadn’t seen the message. But deep down, you knew he wouldn’t stop. Not until you answered.

And the worst part?

You weren’t sure if you wanted him to.

You told yourself you were overthinking. The picture, the message—it was just him being thoughtful, wasn’t it? After all, he was a caring guy. Always had been.

You stared at the text again. “They’re waiting for you.”

Your things. That’s all he meant.

Still, you hesitated. The memory of his voice, so calm and steady in the voicemail, echoed in your mind. It wasn’t like him to sound so… subdued. You’d expected anger, bitterness—anything but that gentle request.

Maybe you owed him this much. A chance to talk, to clear the air.

You typed out a quick reply:

“Okay. When?”

His response came almost immediately, as though he’d been waiting for you.

“Tonight. I’ll make dinner.”

Dinner. Of course, he’d turn this into a gesture of kindness. That was just like him—always going the extra mile, always making you feel like you were the center of his world. It had been suffocating at times, sure, but it wasn’t bad. Was it?

The memory of his smile tugged at your mind, warm and genuine, the kind of smile that made you feel like everything would be okay. You wanted to believe in that version of him, even now.

So, that evening, you found yourself standing outside his door. The apartment looked the same as you remembered—pristine, welcoming, like it had been plucked straight from a magazine. You knocked hesitantly, the sound of it feeling too loud in the quiet hallway.

The door opened almost instantly.

He stood there, his face lighting up at the sight of you. “You came,” he said, his voice filled with relief.

“I—yeah. For my stuff,” you replied, shifting awkwardly.

“Of course,” he said smoothly, stepping aside to let you in. “Come on in. I just finished cooking.”

The smell of something delicious wafted out, warm and inviting. It made your stomach twist—not from hunger, but from the strange mixture of nostalgia and unease settling in your chest.

You stepped inside, your gaze sweeping over the apartment. It was exactly how you left it. No, that wasn’t right. It was better. Cleaner. More organized. Your things, the ones you’d left behind, were neatly arranged in the same spots they used to occupy.

It was like you’d never left.

“I made your favorite,” he said, leading you to the dining table. The plates were already set, the soft glow of candlelight dancing across the surface. It was the kind of effort he always put in, the kind that used to make you feel special.

But now, it felt… off.

“You didn’t have to go through all this trouble,” you said, forcing a smile as you sat down.

He chuckled, the sound warm and familiar. “It’s no trouble. I just want you to feel comfortable.”

Comfortable. That’s what he always said when you’d been upset, when you’d tried to pull away.

The dinner was good—perfect, even. He talked about small things, work, how he’d been keeping busy. He didn’t ask about your new apartment, didn’t press you for details about your life. If anything, he seemed… patient.

When the plates were cleared and the conversation lulled, he stood and gestured toward the office. “Your things are in there. I packed them up for you.”

You followed him, your steps hesitant. The office looked exactly as you remembered it, down to the way your desk was arranged. Your “small little toys” were lined up neatly on the shelf, untouched except for the care he’d taken to clean the dust from them.

“I didn’t want you to feel rushed,” he said softly, watching as you looked over the room. “I know how much these meant to you.”

You glanced back at him, guilt prickling at your chest. He was smiling, that same warm smile that always made you feel safe. But there was something in his eyes—something you couldn’t place.

“Thank you,” you said, your voice quiet.

He nodded, stepping closer. Too close. You could feel the warmth of his presence, the subtle shift in the air as he reached out to brush a strand of hair from your face.

“You know,” he said, his voice low, almost tender, “you don’t have to go. You can stay here, where it’s safe.”

The words were kind, caring. But they lingered in the air, heavy with implication.

“I can’t,” you said, stepping back. “I—I have to go.”

His hand dropped to his side, his smile faltering for just a moment before it returned, softer, gentler. “Of course,” he said. “Whenever you’re ready.”

You swallowed hard and turned away, focusing on the task at hand. You quickly grabbed your little trinkets, each one feeling heavier than it should as you set them into the small box he had left out for you. The edges of your vision blurred slightly, and your mind felt strangely… woozy.

“You feeling alright?” His voice was warm, almost teasing, and you could hear the smile in it even though you weren’t looking at him.

“I’m fine,” you said, but your voice sounded far away, almost like it wasn’t yours.

The room seemed to tilt ever so slightly, and you reached out to steady yourself against the desk. The surface felt cool under your fingertips, grounding you just enough to stay upright.

“I don’t know,” he said, stepping closer, his tone a mockery of concern. “You look a little pale.”

Your head turned toward him, but your movements were sluggish. His figure was close now—too close—and his smile, while soft, seemed sharper somehow, like it could cut you if you looked at it the wrong way.

“You’ve been so stressed lately,” he continued, his voice dripping with honeyed care. “All this running around, all this independence... It’s no wonder you’re not feeling well.”

“I just need to—” You stopped, the words slipping from your mind as quickly as they’d formed.

“Shh,” he murmured, reaching out to steady you, his hands gentle as they guided you back against the desk. “It’s okay. Let me take care of you.”

“I—” You tried to pull away, but your body wasn’t cooperating. Your legs felt like lead, your arms heavy and limp.

“There we go,” he whispered, his voice almost soothing as he adjusted his grip, cradling you like you might break. “Let’s get you back to where you belong.”

The words sank into you like cold water, and your heart pounded in your chest. “I don’t—”

But your voice was weak, and the edges of your vision darkened as your knees gave way.

He caught you, of course. He always did. His arms were steady, strong, and terrifyingly familiar as you seemed to melt into them.

“You’ll see,” he said softly, his lips brushing against your temple as the darkness closed in. “This is for the best. You’ll understand soon enough.”

The last thing you heard was the faint click of the lock turning.

When you woke up, it was in a bed you knew well—his bed. The familiar scent of expensive lavender laundry detergent and faint cologne clung to the sheets, grounding you in a way that made your head spin.

Your body felt heavy, but there was no immediate pain. Just a dull, aching tiredness, like you’d slept too long.

The soft shuffle of footsteps drew your attention, and he appeared in the doorway, carrying a tray of food. His face lit up when he saw you were awake.

“There you are,” he said, his voice warm and soothing. “I was starting to worry.”

You blinked at him, your mind foggy. “What… happened?”

“You fainted,” he explained, setting the tray down on the nightstand. “I knew you weren’t feeling well, but I didn’t think it was this bad. You’ve been pushing yourself too hard.”

“I need to go home,” you murmured, though the words felt weak, half-hearted.

He crouched beside the bed, his hand reaching out to brush the hair from your face. “You’re not going anywhere until you’re better,” he said softly, but there was an edge of finality in his tone. “I can’t let you hurt yourself like this.”

You opened your mouth to protest, but the sincerity in his eyes made the words catch in your throat. He wasn’t angry—far from it. He looked… concerned. Genuinely so.

“I made another one of your favorites,” he said, gesturing to the tray. “You need to eat something. Please.”

And somehow, you did.

The first week passed in a haze. He was always there, tending to you with quiet patience and a gentle touch. He cooked your meals, brought you tea, even read to you when you were too tired to focus on your own.

When you’d ask to leave, he’d smile, tilting his head like you’d just said something silly. “Why would you want to leave when you’re safe here?” he’d ask, his tone light, affectionate. “This is your home.”

At first, you resisted. You’d test the locks when he wasn’t looking, search for your phone, try to reason with him. But each time, he’d find you.

And each time, he’d reassure you.

“I know this is hard,” he’d say, holding you close as you fought back tears. “But I promise, I’m doing this because I love you. Because I can’t bear to see you hurt yourself.”

The way he said it—so tenderly, so earnestly—made it harder to argue.

Months passed.

Your protests grew quieter, your attempts to leave less frequent. He never raised his voice, never hurt you. Instead, he smothered you in kindness, his care so unwavering it became impossible to distinguish from love.

He brought you little gifts—books he thought you’d like, your favorite snacks, new clothes in your size. He’d sit with you for hours, talking about everything and nothing, his laughter warm and infectious.

And slowly, bit by bit, you began to feel it: the comfort of his presence, the safety of his arms.

You still thought about leaving sometimes. But every time you’d imagine the cold, lonely world outside, his face would appear in your mind, smiling, reassuring.

“I take care of you,” he’d remind you. “No one else will.”

And part of you started to believe him.

A year later, the apartment felt less like a prison and more like a sanctuary. Or at least, that’s what you told yourself.

You’d stopped counting the days a long time ago. The routine he built for you was too carefully crafted, too comforting in its predictability. Meals prepared before you asked, your favorite books always within reach, even the temperature of the room adjusted to perfection. He knew what you needed before you did.

But tonight, something felt different.

He sat beside you on the couch, his arm wrapped around your shoulders as always, his fingers idly tracing circles on your arm. The television played softly in the background, though neither of you were paying attention.

“You’ve been quiet today,” he said, his tone light, almost teasing. But there was an edge beneath it, subtle but sharp, like a blade hidden beneath silk.

You hesitated, the words catching in your throat. “I’m fine,” you replied, offering a small smile. “Just… thinking.”

He tilted his head, his gaze soft but probing. “Thinking about what?”

“Nothing important,” you said quickly, looking away.

His hand stilled against your arm.

“I hope you’re not thinking about leaving me,” he said, his voice so soft it made your skin crawl.

You froze, your heart skipping a beat. “I’m not,” you said, too quickly.

He smiled then, that same warm, reassuring smile that had once made you feel safe. But now, it felt like a mask. “Good,” he said, leaning in to press a kiss to your forehead. “Because you know what happens when you try.”

Your stomach twisted, memories flashing through your mind.

The first time you’d tried to escape, you’d woken up hours later, your body weak and trembling, with him at your bedside, his expression one of heartbreak. “You scared me,” he’d said, brushing a hand through your hair. “I can’t lose you. Don’t ever do that again.”

The second time, he hadn’t been so kind. His voice had been cold, his eyes devoid of warmth as he’d pinned you against the wall, his hand gripping your wrist just hard enough to bruise. “I love you,” he’d whispered, his breath hot against your ear. “But if you try to leave me again, I’ll have to show you how much.”

You hadn’t tried since.

Now, as you sat beside him, the weight of his arm around you felt suffocating. You nodded mutely, your hands curling into fists in your lap.

“I’m glad we understand each other,” he said, his voice bright again, as though nothing had happened.

He reached for the remote, turning off the television, and stood. “Come on,” he said, holding out a hand to you. “Let’s go to bed.”

You hesitated for only a moment before placing your hand in his. His grip was firm, steady, like an anchor pulling you under.

As he led you to the bedroom, his fingers intertwined with yours, you caught a glimpse of your reflection in the hallway mirror.

The person staring back at you was a stranger—someone small, broken, and unrecognizable.

But it didn’t matter. Not anymore.

Because as he closed the bedroom door behind you, the lock clicking into place, you knew one thing for certain:

You weren’t going anywhere.

And neither was he.

Characters:

BNHA: Hawks, Dabi, Endeavor

AOT: Erwin, Zeke, Levi

JJK: Gojo, Geto, Nanami...(maybe Yuta...if he was older)

HxH: Chrollo, Illumi, Hisoka

[botanicalsword]

2025 | from 10 Jun ⊹ ˖ ࣪ ☁︎ A Year of Expansion, Opportunities, Growth, Good fortune ‧₊˚

𖤓

10 Jun, 2025 - Jupiter enters Cancer ⊹ ˖ ࣪ ☁︎

This time, Jupiter in strong Cancer - lead to a temporary revival in the real estate market

Jupiter, symbolizing expansion, opportunities, growth, and good fortune, enters the emotionally rich and family-oriented sign of Cancer

Energy will transform into nurturing, protection, a sense of belonging, and emotional connections

Around June 30, 2026 Jupiter will leave Cancer and move into Leo

⁺‧₊˚ ཐི⋆♱⋆ཋྀ ˚₊‧⁺

Aries Rising - Jupiter in your 4th house (home, family, roots)

Favorable for buying a house, moving, or home renovations

Improved family relationships, fostering warmth and support among family members

Enhances emotional security, suitable for healing childhood traumas

Possible indirect assistance from family members in career or financial matters

Taurus Rising - Jupiter in your 3rd house (communication, learning, short trips)

Enhanced communication skills, beneficial for writing, teaching, sales, etc

Improved relationships with siblings, opportunities for mutual growth

Learning new skills with support from sponsors, good luck in exams

Ideal for short-term courses, certificate programs, yielding high returns

Gemini Rising - Jupiter in your 2nd house (money, values)

Increased financial luck, potential for extra income or salary raise

Enhanced financial management skills, increased confidence in values

Favorable for wealth accumulation, especially suitable for long-term savings and investments

Attracts benefactors offering practical support (such as material goods or resources)

Cancer Rising - Jupiter in your 1st house (personal, outward image, development)

brings favorable outcomes

Overall luck improves

the beginning of a new phase in life

Increased popularity, more opportunities for self-expression and expansion

Enhanced confidence, improved physical and mental health

Attracts people who are beneficial for you - starting new projects or transitions

Leo Rising - Jupiter in your 12th house (secrecy, healing, subconscious)

psychological healing, overcoming past troubles

deep insights in religion, mysticism, and spiritual growth

Hidden benefactors support your advancement behind the scenes

beneficial for careers in behind-the-scenes work, healing, or charity

Virgo Rising - Jupiter in your 11th house (social, connections, aspirations)

Expands social circle, connects with influential and resourceful individuals

Friends bring tangible opportunities, fostering mutually beneficial collaborations

Favorable for joining organizations, associations, and achieving long-term goals

Stands out and gains support in group activities

Libra Rising - Jupiter in your 10th house (career, social status)

opportunities for promotion, salary increase, and role expansion

Elevated social status, recognition, and trust

Improved relationships with superiors and authority figures

Ideal for expanding personal brand or venturing into new entrepreneurial directions

Scorpio Rising - Jupiter in your 9th house (higher education, overseas, philosophy)

good for studying abroad, immigration, smooth visa processes

Opportunities for in-depth exploration of philosophy, religion, law, etc.

Good luck in matters related to distant places, foreign affairs

Beneficial for career development in publishing, teaching, or public speaking

Sagittarius Rising - Jupiter in your 8th house (deep resources, partnerships, healing)

Partners and collaborators may experience financial gains, benefiting you as well

Opportunities for inheritance, subsidies, funding, insurance claims, etc.

Emotional and psychological transformations lead to successful healing

Improved intimacy in relationships, fostering a sense of security and trust

Capricorn Rising - Jupiter in your 7th house (partnerships, relationships)

Marriage or romantic relationships stabilize and improve, potentially leading to marriage

Enhanced cooperation, favorable for signing contracts and joint projects

Attracts influential and resourceful partners

good for expanding public relations, legal, or business negotiation endeavors

Aquarius Rising - Jupiter in your 6th house (work, health, daily habits)

Improved work environment, manageable workload, and support from benefactors

Favorable for job hunting, promotions, or transitioning to new positions

Enhanced health, finding suitable treatments or wellness practices

Ideal for lifestyle improvements and establishing healthy habits

Pisces Rising - Jupiter in your 5th house (creativity, romance, children)

significant improvement in love life, opportunities for romance for singles

closer family relationships, good fortune for children

good for artistic pursuits, performances, or creative projects

increased enjoyment, opportunities for travel, leisure, and entertainment

>> Career • work a job or start a business? �� Natal Chart Observation >> Career • A Sudden Change - What Happens Next? ✧ Solar Return / Lunar Return >> Career • Indicators for your potential and talents (Part 1) >> Career • Indicators for your potential and talents (Part 2)

>> Back to Masterlist ✧ Explicit Content

Exclusive access : Patreon

[marydoyouwrite]

Make It Up To You

PAIRING: sugardaddy!Yuta x lawstudent!Reader

GENRE: smut, angst

SUMMARY: With dreams larger than life, Y/n dips her feet in unchartered territory. She comes in wanting nothing else but to make her dreams of becoming a lawyer come true, only to be woken up by reality once the midnight clock strikes. Now she's gotten greedy. She wants both her dream and her sugar daddy back.

WARNINGS: There is sex, yes, but I think I wanted to focus on warning everyone of the emotions that come with this piece! There's a lot of inner conflict happening. Yuta uses pet names like baby, sweet girl, and princess. Hair pulling and overstimulation are present.

enjoy!

8.5k word count

----

“Being the firm’s youngest partner is what you’re turning your back on, are you sure about this?”

You look out the window of the conference room you’re in and then at the glass of  bourbon on the table top. You play with the rim of the glass before bringing it to your lips to take a sip. The drink brings a gratifying burn down your throat. 

You set the glass back on the table and looked out the window again, eyeing a particular building in the sea of concrete spread around the city. Then you turn to look at Suho, the firm’s senior partner,  straight in the eye, “I’ve never been surer.”

Suho sighs and walks to where you are, “You’re the best we ever had. But you have too much talent to be pinned down in one place. So go ahead.”

You give your boss of five years a grateful smile, “Thank you, I appreciate it.”

“The doors to the firm are always open for you, Y/n. Remember that,” he adds. 

And you will remember it. But now, your head is set on finally staging the reunion you’ve been yearning for for the past five years. To put yourself again within the circle of the only man you burned for – Nakamoto Yuta. Nothing and no one can stop you anymore, not even hell. 

–Blooming–

It was the summer before you started law school when you met Yuta. You were running the counter in a high-end bar a few blocks away from Harvard, serving drinks to what you can only assume to be senior law students of the crimson-branded university by the way they were discussing their review subjects for the next semester. And this is exactly why you fought to get this part-time job. Partly because you needed money and partly because of the crumbs of legal knowledge that you know will come in handy when it’s your turn to study.

Even if you’re not going to Harvard, you can’t wait for school to start. You had no support, no fall back, no rich parents to shell out cash for crimson education. Despite all that, you figured you were going to chase your dream of becoming a lawyer even if you can’t get into your dream school.

“One whiskey on the rocks please,” the gentleman starts “with your number on the side, kindly.”

You stare at the patron in front of you, your eyes raking over the sharp features of his face. His eyes, his nose, his jawline. Everything is devilish – that’s the word you’re going to use to describe him, devilishly handsome.

“Uh,” you clear your throat, “I’ll get that drink started for you. As for my number, that one might rack up your bill.”

“I’m not one to worry about bills, darling,” he answers with an upward curve on his lips. 

You heard about this myth before. Rich young men scouring through bars and libraries, looking for desperate pretty girls to fund and blow wealth for. Desperate is what you are. Pretty? Arguable. 

“Well, that makes one of us,” you retort as you finish preparing his drink. “One whiskey on the rocks, without my number on the side.” The man laughs at your spice and the kick of innocence it comes with. It’s painstakingly obvious to him that this is your first rodeo and he doesn’t mind.

“I’m Yuta,” he offers before taking a sip of his drink and sliding a crisp five hundred dollar bill across the counter, “For my bills.” And just like that, he’s walking away from you, leaving you in slight surprise, thinking this is the biggest tip you’ve ever received. 

But that night wasn’t the last time you’ll see Yuta.

The gorgeous man became a regular. For the next few days, he kept buying just a single drink, barely sipping it, and then leaving a hefty cash for his ‘bill’ which is 400% more than what he has to pay.

“Yuta, sir, you have to stop giving me so much tips,” is what you finally told him one time, only to receive a, “But those aren’t tips. It’s my show of gratitude for allowing me to look at such a pretty sight.”

Then days became weeks and you found yourself looking forward to seeing him. His presence has become a comfortable staple during your shifts, especially when he’s such a smooth talker. Saying the right words, initiating the right conversations. You’ve become so comfortable you finally gave him the side he ordered the first time you met – your number, free of charge.

“If you give me a ridiculously high tip tonight, I’ll take my number back.”

“Come on, pretty girl, that’s not who I am.”

“Then… just 10% is enough,” you said. Yuta lets out a full grin at the compromise you offer, only to order a $2,000 whole bottle of expensive ass wine. You just shook your head at his antics, looking forward to when he’ll put your number into good use.

You didn’t have to wait long because the moment you clocked out, you received a text message from an unknown number.

Free to take a call now? -Y

Instead of replying, you called the number, knowing full well who it belongs to. Not a second later, the person on the other line picks up.

“How did you know my shift is done?”

“I just do,” he answers, “Your voice sounds even prettier like this, when it’s close to my ear.” you fix the strap of your bag on your shoulders to deflect the warm feeling brought by his compliment. 

“Why did you want to call me?”

“Let me take you to dinner, princess. Tomorrow night at 7PM. You don’t have to prepare anything, it’s going to be just dinner.”

“Just dinner?” you confirm while biting your lip. Truth be told you saw this coming. You can smell wealth emanating off of Yuta from a mile away. The way he speaks, the drinks he orders, his every movement is a type of refined you can’t learn, no. It was a birth rite he earned. 

And while Yuta has been nothing short of a gentleman towards you, in his world, you’re not the type of person he’s going to settle with. You know all this is just a fun time for him and to be honest, you’re intrigued by it, too. You want to have fun, too. But you have no idea how this works or if you’re even built for this world you’re trying to enter in.

“I promise, just dinner. And talking.” He says assuringly.

“O-Okay.”

“Great, I’ll pick you up tomorrow.”

But Yuta didn’t just pick you up. He bought and sent you a new dress, a new pair of shoes, and a pair of earrings that you’re afraid to google how much because you want to maintain a normal blood pressure. 

The drive to the restaurant was quiet and uneventful, partly because you’re stunned to see how Yuta looks like in the open and under better lighting. At the bar, you can barely see his features, but even so, you already knew he looks so beautiful. But now, you’re gutted and blown away. You can’t help but steal glances at him and you know he notices it based on the subtle smirk he sports every time you turn your head to him. 

“I’m glad to see you’ve taken a liking to my face,” he says and you choke on your saliva because you didn’t expect him to address it.

“You’re not so bad,” is all you can offer and Yuta chuckles at your attempt to hide your true feelings.

“We’re almost there.” 

And true to his promise, in just a few minutes, you’re pulling up to a fancy restaurant with lots of light and posh cars parked in the driveway. Once fully parked, Yuta goes out and opens the door for you. You take his hand stretched out to help you and observe the scenery before your eyes.

The restaurant had an open garden with a big fountain. The location was overlooking the city and away from all the noise and pollution, something you’ve been used to your whole life. If what you’re seeing is a foreshadowing of what’s about to happen during dinner, you guess you’re not mad.

Once you enter the place, the receptionist brings you to a semi-secluded table. There was enough privacy for you and Yuta if that’s what he was aiming for. So when you’re both fully seated, you decide you don’t have to beat around the bush.

“Why did you ask me out for dinner?”

Yuta was not shocked at all. He fully expected questions from you. “Been wanting to take you out for dinner since the first time I saw you,” he offers.

“Okay, but,” you blow out a sigh before continuing, “Can I be honest?”

“Of course, I expect you to be.”

“I know what this is, okay? Do you want me to be your sugar baby?”

“Smart girl,” Yuta muses. “How can I get you to say yes, then?” He inquires. He absolutely knows you’re in on this. You just needed to set some things straight, but he already knows you’re on board.

“Well first, I can’t with the lavishness.” 

“You can’t with the lavishness.” Yuta repeats in a declarative tone, urging you to clarify.

“Yes, I can’t. I just,” you take a pause, a deep breath because you can’t believe what you’re about to say. But you’re determined to say it. If Yuta wants to have his fun, you’ll gladly play. But not without advancing your own interests, too.

“Go on, darling.”

“I just –, I have an approved law school application with Harvard. But I’ve enrolled in a different law school instead. Somewhere I can afford. But Harvard is where I want to be. So, instead of earrings and dresses like this,” you said pointing to the beautiful piece you have on, “Use your money to fund my education.” You said in one breath.

You study Yuta’s face. There's a hint of growing interest in his eyes and something more that you can’t name. He adjusts on his seat before speaking, “Y/n, I’ll fund Harvard,” he starts, “But that’s not all I’ll fund. Since you said your piece, my piece is that I get satisfaction out of seeing you spoiled. I need you pampered in every possible way. Without you giving that to me, I’m out.”

“Well, okay. But not outrageous.” 

“Not outrageous,” he assures. “Was that all you wanted to say?” 

“Didn’t think you’d agree so quickly,” you said quietly.

“Being a lawyer – that’s a dream worth supporting, baby girl.” You look up to meet his eyes, the sound of the new endearment making your insides swirl. 

“I also wanted to add,” you fidget your fingers at this next bit, “About sex… when? And uh, how often?” 

Yuta subtly rubs his lower lip with his forefinger. First, your adorable gestures. Then, your drive and determination. Now, talking about sex with him. Yuta’s convinced you were born to drive him insane.

“Why don’t we settle on a natural pacing? There doesn’t have to be a set date, just when you feel it’s good for you. This doesn’t have to be strictly transactional.”

“It doesn’t?” 

Yuta chuckles, “It doesn’t. I only have one condition on this.”

“Okay, what is it?”

“The day you become a lawyer is the day we part ways.”

—

You recall your first dinner with Yuta like it was just yesterday. But time flew by so quickly. It’s been five years since that summer. All the time you spent with him was nothing short of blissful. Yuta has spoiled the hell out of you, giving you whatever you want and whatever you need, even his cock. 

In your first semester, when you first experienced the infamous baptism of fire during a recitation that followed the socratic method, you were sobbing in the hallway, walking mindlessly out of Langdell Hall. Once you were out of the building, Yuta’s car was already waiting for you with his window down and a cup of your favorite drink in his hand– something that made you sob even more. 

In the short while you’ve been his sugar baby, he’s memorized all the things that comforted you, including the cheap five-dollar tea from your favorite shop down the street.

By the end of your first year, you learned the bitter truth that Harvard law was cut throat in every way possible. Not only were the majority of your peers coming from rich, well-connected families, but they were also the best of the best. You busted your ass off studying day and night. Thanks to Yuta, you no longer had to work. You were provided with anything you needed. Allowance, lodging, tuition, books, everything. And your hard work paid off. You ranked second in the whole batch by the end of the term. But what you don’t have is the smell that emanated from the rich. 

You weren’t one to envy, you know the value of hard work. When both your parents died and you were left to fend for yourself, you did. Now that you’re practically living your dream, you force yourself to focus and ignore everything else, but you can’t help but listen in on the conversations during the last day of school. Everyone had something – a vacation home to visit, an internship for their family business, a meeting with the politicians. You felt like a sore thumb and the feeling left a toxic taste in your mouth.

“Hey, princess.” Yuta greets.

“Hi, daddy,” You greet back, melting into him in an embrace. You put your arms around his neck and just settled there for a while. Yuta withheld nothing from you including warm affection. 

“That’s not a tone fit for someone who just ranked 2nd in all of this year’s batch?” He says as he rubs the small of your back, taking your bag from you. 

“Hmm…”

“Have something for you,” he says. You unwrap your arms around his neck and look up at him. He takes out a cream envelope from his pocket and hands it to you. You open it and inside were plane tickets to your favorite country.

“Iceland?! Are we going to Iceland?” you scream in excitement.

“Yes, we are. It’s your reward for doing so well,” he softly says as he caresses your hair. 

“Oh my god,” is all you can say as you reach out to kiss Yuta on his lips. 

And just like that, Yuta made sure you stood with confidence. 

When everyone was taking internships, he sent you to Japan to intern for the country’s top litigation firm where you spent eight weeks learning and being trained by the best lawyers. You even got a certification for writing and speaking Nihongo. You didn’t realize then, but Yuta’s chest swelled with pride every time you conversed with him in his native tongue.

When everyone got invited to networking events, you were his plus one in every benefit gala and company events attended by all the top businessmen and  politicians. And every single time, he introduced you as the brilliant girl soon to be Harvard attorney that caught his attention.

When everyone was pitching in so much money for the batch year-end parties, Yuta sponsored one whole party in your name, flying everyone out to Singapore for 2 days and 3 nights. Yuta told you to say it was from your rich dad because according to him he is your daddy to which you rolled your eyes in response.

And when your stress reached high levels, he made sure to pamper you in ways only he can do. Stuffing your pussy with his monster cock, eating you out until you pass out, giving you orgasms enough to sustain you to eternity. His gentle demeanor is taken over by a beast once you’re in his bedroom, marking every part of your skin, animalistically taking you in every possible position. Yuta made sure you received sex only from the best – him. 

Yuta never allowed you to bow your head, instead he always held your chin up. He never let your confidence die down. Because of him, you became unstoppable. 

And now, you’re roughly just 5 minutes away from knowing the results of the bar, from being a lawyer. You know you’ll get it. There’s no other possible result but passing it and even potentially topping it. You prepared yourself for the day when you and Yuta have to go your separate ways.

There’s an indescribable pain in your chest. 

The day you reach your dream is the day you die. 

You love Yuta. How could you not?

But he doesn’t. He made his condition clear. The very day you become a lawyer is the day he disappears. Fuck.

Here you are, in front of your laptop, in the middle of the living room of the penthouse that Yuta gave you, with fingers shaking, you refresh the Supreme Court’s website. While others were out with friends and family, you chose to know about the result alone and inside. Just to privately celebrate what you were about to gain and grieve what you were about to lose. 

When the site refreshes, you scroll down to see the names of the passers, the first one belonging to you.

2025 Bar Examination Top 10 Examinees

1. Jung, Y/n …………………… 90.7700%

Just seconds after you see your name, your phone buzzes. It’s a message from Yuta.

“Congratulations, Atty. Y/n. Never doubted you for a second.”

And as your finger hovers over the text, your thumb shakily taps the call icon next to Yuta’s name. You bite down on your lip in hopes that the inevitable won’t happen…

The number you have dialed is now unattended, please try again later.

And you broke down. Yuta is officially gone. In the flurry of congratulatory messages, there you were, mending the brokenness in you that you know will never heal.

– Withering –

After taking your oath as an attorney, you quickly joined the best of the best – Anderson Kim & Tomotsune– the top litigation and commercial law firm in the country with clientele both in US and Asia. 

You were both a lion and a bull, a ruthless negotiator specializing in commercial disputes. Your peers call you the merciless closer for closing negotiations far too in favor of your clients, leaving the opposing side with, well, nothing. In your defense, you found every opposing lawyer you faced to be too lazy and negligent causing them to lose out. Meanwhile, you feed on the challenge.

In your 5-year career, you had no losses under your belt, making you the favorite and most sought after lawyer by corporations. Your firm racked three-fold in profits, making it easy for you to climb up the partnership ladder.

But you only had one goal. And today’s the day you reach it. 

“Atty. Jung, welcome to Nakamoto Holdings. It’s a pleasure to finally have you join the team,” Johnny Suh, head of legal and your new boss, greets. 

“The pleasure is mine, Atty. Suh.”

“Do you have any idea how hard we fought for you? HR had a field day,” Johnny says. You laughed at his remark but inside, you knew how hard Nakamoto fought to get you.

When news that you declined the offer of partnership from Anderson Kim & Tomotsune spread, companies raced to entice you to join them. But you only had Nakamoto Holdings in mind. It only made sense to join the best of the best on your new venture. While you had other motives, you also had pride. Sure there was a bit of a push and pull, leveraging on the uncertainty of your sweet ‘yes’, but all of that was just a part of your ploy, a negotiating skill you learned to get the upper hand. 

But now you’re here and you want to see Yuta again.

Just as you were about to continue your conversation with Johnny, the door to the conference room opens to reveal the man in your thoughts.

“Yuta,” Johnny says, as he bows. 

You turn to where the door is, find Yuta’s eyes, and give him a full bow.

–

Johnny had told him there was new blood he wanted him to meet. Someone he’ll definitely like, according to Johnny. What his friend failed to mention was that this new blood was you, the girl that took his heart. But maybe the term woman would be a better fit for you. What he sees is no longer the young wide-eyed Y/n from years ago. 

In front of him was someone more poised, more confident in the way she carried herself. Your once carefree hair, now flowed in controlled waves, a subtle elegance that matched the sharpness in your gaze. You were wearing something tailored, something that accentuated the shape of your body—making him note the added fullness in your hips.

Your eyes were the most different. They used to be soft, filled with the innocence of someone just beginning to experience the world, now they held an edge—an intensity that came with your reputation. He heard stories about you. Of course, he did. He knew about the young lawyer rising through the ranks, feeding dust to the seasoned.

So it’s not surprising that there was a quiet power in your presence now. And yet, when you met his gaze, there was a flicker of something familiar—a quiet vulnerability, a hint of the girl who he once held close to him. 

“Mr. Nakamoto,” you greeted him. 

“Atty. Jung.” he acknowledged back.

“You know her already!” his head of legal says. 

“I think everyone knows Atty. Jung, Johnny.”

“You’re right. In fact we were just talking about how hard it was to get her.”

“Is that right?” 

Yuta sees you shifting from your position, turning your body to face him better.

“Atty. Suh flatters me, it’s my pleasure to join the company,” you tell him while reaching out your hand to offer a handshake.

“We’re glad to have you here,” he responds as he takes your hand in his.

—

“You’re fucking crazy,” Yuta scorns as he takes a drink of his favorite whiskey. The one he ordered the first night he saw you at that bar across Harvard.

“How is getting top talent crazy? Don’t you agree she’s the best in the field right now?” Johnny defends.

“She is. That’s why I’m restraining myself from punching your face,” he tells his friend. “But you know exactly who she is. Don’t fuck around.”

“Ya, I’m not fucking around! And what? Your feelings are getting in the way of business now? So what if she was your sugar baby and the love of your life? That baby is going to lead us to the frontlines.”

“Johnny Suh, you watch yourself. Don’t you damn speak of her name carelessly. I will fucking kill you. Even if you’re my best friend.” The intensity in his eyes sobers Johnny up.

“Damn, you still have it baaad,” Johnny says as he steps out of your office, avoiding the chaos that’s about to befall him.

Yes, he does. Not a day went by that he didn’t think of you. Did he have regrets? Zero. He did what he had to do to make sure you were as whole as a person as you can be. 

But a longing? A big one.

Five years ago, Yuta knew you were going to pass the bar. There were no retakes, he absolutely had faith in you. So when he sees your name in the list of passers, bagging the top 1 spot, it comes as no surprise. He was so proud of you and wanted nothing but to engulf you in a hug, spin you around, and pepper your face with kisses. He wanted to celebrate with you and whisper in your ear many times how proud he is of you. 

But he had a promise to fulfill. 

Yuta was enamored by you but falling in love with you was something he failed to calculate. He only wanted to spoil you, to make you his by offering to be your sugar daddy. But he thought all that would be a passing season in his life. After all, he wasn’t the type to  take things seriously. But that summer passed and there came autumn, then winter, but the feeling never left. You were very much still there.

But then again, loving you was easy. You were the most beautiful person in his eyes. Everything about you captivated him. The way your body responds to his every call and every touch sets him on fire. He burns for you, romantic as it may sound. He was very much yours as much as you are his. 

But Yuta noticed how you would get quiet. You would look out the car window, deep in thought, letting out a sigh he knows you don’t notice. And he knows that it’s because sometimes, you feel less than what you’re actually worth. 

No matter how hard he makes sure that you don’t feel any less than your peers, he knows that he can only do so much. The rest of your healing from feelings of inferiority is yours, and yours alone to make. 

So when you finally reached your dream of becoming a lawyer, Yuta knew that the only way was to set you free. For you to achieve every achievement, on your own, without doubting whether or not you did it by yourself or because of him. He did not dare take the opportunity from you even if it came at the cost of his own happiness. 

So he settled with watching you from afar. Updating himself with your latest wins. 

But now, you’re here. If his gut is right and it was your own doing that brought you back to him, then he will do anything to fucking get you back.

Yuta drinks the last of his whiskey and heads out of his office.

– Budding –

It’s only your first day but you’re already leaving work at 11 p.m. Johnny told you to go home hours ago but even so, you had to ride out your high by organizing everything. Your stuff, your files, your projects in the pipeline. You wanted to make sure you hit the ground running.

As you were walking to your car, you bumped into a wall, only it wasn’t a wall. Because if it was, then you wouldn’t have a familiar pair of arms wrapped around your waist saving you from a fall. 

“Careful,” Yuta says.

After being momentarily stunned by his presence, you quickly separate yourself from him. You adjust your dress and clear your throat.

“T-Thank you.” Fuck, did you have to stutter?

“Are you heading home just now?”

“Yes. I was just working on some stuff, Mr. Nakamoto,” You look at him only to see a confused face.

“Already? You just joined today.”

“Just wanted to do my best,” you say. “I’ll be heading home now, Sir.” You said briefly before bowing and walking to where your car is. 

You wanted to get away from him. Being near him was clouding your mind. It was suffocating. You thought you were already stronger than this. You thought you could finally handle anything. And yet, just one touch from his hand has you spiraling again. The unanswered questions in your mind are resurfacing back again. Questions like, did he really have to leave? 

Fucking pathetic bitch, is what you thought to yourself. You are exactly that. A pathetic simpering  bitch.

Just as you were about to enter your car, a hand grabs your wrist, forcing you to face the culprit.

“What the hell?”

“Let’s talk,” Yuta demands, almost in a pleading tone rather than a demanding one, which is funny because begging is more of your turf than his. 

“There’s nothing to talk about,” you spat. You feel his grip tighten around your wrist.

“Don’t drag this out, Y/n.”

“Oh, so it’s just Y/n now? We’re back to first names, is that it? Okay if that’s how it is, then, you can’t make me talk to you,” you mock, “daddy.”

You see Yuta seething at your sarcasm. After all these years, you still know how to push his buttons. Your spunk has not faded even one bit and this fact makes Yuta blink in realization. He mellows out at the realization that you are still very much the Y/n he knows. The one with burning questions in her mind. 

Yuta blows out the air from his lungs. “Please, Y/n?”

 You rashly take your hand back. “Fine,” you relented. 

—

You decided talking in the office was a bad idea. With the fountain of emotions bubbling in your chest, you might throw a furniture or two at Yuta’s face and you’d be charged with damage to property. No, thanks. 

“I want to talk at my home,” you told Yuta. You needed home court advantage for the conversations that will be had tonight. 

It was your plan all along to talk to Yuta. It’s why you wanted to join their company in the first place! But you can’t handle how fast things are unfolding. Didn’t expect that Yuta would be the first one to approach. Definitely didn’t expect this scene of his car tailing yours.

As you reach your home in the shape of a three storey townhouse with a gracious driveway, you brace yourself for what’s to come. Should you remain stoic? Should you put a wall around your heart? Honestly, you haven’t decided.

You park your car and you see Yuta doing the same. You were the first to enter the house so you leave the door open for him. And when he’s fully in, you’re ready to square him.

“It’s a really nice home, Y/n.”

“So what, we’re going to gush over architecture, now?” you mumble as you sink down on your sofa. When you look up, you see Yuta’s tongue poking his cheek, clearly about to lose it, but he’s inside your house. He won’t dare lose it.

“Separating after you became an attorney was the plan all along. You knew that since the beginning,” Yuta calmly starts. He eyes you as he invites himself to sit on the chair across you, leveling the field between the two of you.

And you just stare at him. So many words pooling in your mind, constructing arguments, preparing to launch a missile of anger. 

But all of a sudden, a foreign feeling washes over you — defeat. There was no winning here. Even if you get to say your piece, the conclusion is inevitable. 

It seems that Yuta moved on and you did not. You’re still the mess of a fool who is clearly, hopelessly in love with him. Despite the prestige, the reputation you built for yourself, everything crumbles down in front of him.

You hate it. You abhor it.

You stand from where you’re seated and turn your back away from Yuta, deciding that faking it might be the way to go. Strengthening the dam in your heart might be your saving grace.

“Y/n, talk to me,” he stands, “Baby,”  Yuta got to you and held your hand, willing you to face him. And when you do, you explode.

“Don’t fucking call me that!” you shout, “You LEFT me. Immediately dropped me when you had the chance.” The dam, fortified as it may, has reached its limit. 

“You did not hesitate, did not bat a damn eye. You never looked back,” you sob and finish in a broken voice.

Yuta looks at you with equal brokenness in his eyes, devastated at where his decision left you. From holding your hands, he holds you in the same manner he has held you before – one arm around you and one hand soothing your back – exactly how you remember it.

“I’m sorry, baby,” Yuta croaks.

You punch his chest in an attempt to save yourself. You punch him again to prove a point.

“So why?! Did you hate me that much? Was I so pathetic in your eyes that you couldn’t...” you dropped to the floor and sobbed in frustration. At this point you were just  fully letting your heart out. Fuck masking it, fuck hiding it from Yuta. You deserve this, you deserve to let your pain known to the person who inflicted it.

"No, Y/n," Yuta begins to explain as he kneels in front of you. Now both of you are on the floor. He wipes a tear that fell down your cheek. "I'm so proud of what you made for yourself. This is all you. But before, even when you tried to hide it, I saw whenever you thought yourself to be less than everybody," this time Yuta brushes a stray hair away from your face.

"So when you finally became a lawyer, I couldn't rob you of the opportunity to heal. To take full ownership of your life without associating credit to anyone. Even if it meant leaving you, the only girl I loved and truly cared for."

Your lips part at Yuta's sudden confession. You wrap your head around his explanation and you hate how you immediately see reason.

You remember how your confidence solidified throughout the years. No one can put dirt on your name because it was clear as day that your accomplishments were yours and yours alone.

Years of self doubt brought by your background, or lack thereof, went down the drain when you started getting favorable decisions for your clients left and right, when your negotiations closed million dollar contracts.

So, Yuta was right. You did heal that part of your heart. But not without having another hole in it. A desperate yearning that nothing and no one could satisfy.

But there was a point of clarification that had to be made.

"The girl you loved...?"

"Yes, baby. I had to leave you. The girl I loved and still love."

You suck in a breath, "You never called again. You were totally gone."

"And it killed me everyday, sweet girl. Didn't even know I'd get to hold you again like this," he says quietly as he rests his forehead against yours.

"Knew I hurted you. I knew you'd hate me. And god forbid reappearing in your life would open wounds you're trying to heal. So I just watched you from afar," he says as he wipes another tear escaping from your eyes.

"You looked beautiful in your red dress, accepting that award three years ago. Top outstanding young women under 30, was it?” He recalls. You release a tearful chuckle because you were indeed wearing red that night, hoping that Yuta was watching and that the sight of you in a pretty dress would entice him to call you again. He didn’t call but he was watching.

“Let me make it up to you, Y/n. If you’d let me, I’d make up for our lost years all my life.”

 You shifted into hugging your knees close to your chest, just quiet and thinking. Considering. But only so slightly because the answer has already been set in stone. You want him so terribly your body aches. 

The pressure in the air shifts, anger dissolving and being replaced by something else, a feeling born out of the same passion.

You mumble something from under your breath, half wanting to be heard, half hoping to be hidden.

"Hmm, what was that?" Yuta inquires, angling his head to hear you better. So you repeat yourself, this time your words coming out as a whisper.

Yuta holds the side of your thighs, desperate to make out of what you want, "Can you speak louder, my sweet girl? Tell me what you need."

"I said, then fuck me and break my back!" You said, mortified and frustrated that you had to repeat the same thing thrice. You glare at Yuta who doesn't mirror your expression. 

Instead he had a blooming smile on his face, biting his lower lip to stop himself from breaking out into a full grin. He can't help but think how painfully adorable you looked.

But you're right. He had years of stolen intimacy to make up to you. He better get to work and he will.

"I'll make love to you the whole night, baby," Yuta says as he stands. He takes both your hands in his to help you up as well. He takes your face in his right hand, caressing your cheek with his thumb.

"Will do it just the way you like it," he finishes in barely a whisper before he leans down to claim your lips in his. 

Yuta's tongue was exploring, memorizing every crevice on your lips, mapping every corner one by one before seeking access.

When his other hand settles on the back of your head angling you to the perfect position, you let out a small whimper granting him access to you. He takes your tongue in his mouth, sucking on it, pouring every bit of his longing into the kiss. 

When he separates from you, you were panting. Your lips swollen and irises blown out. Yuta swipes his thumb across your bottom lip.

"Will take my time with you. Make you come on my fingers first, then on my tongue. Will make you come at least twice, or maybe thrice, before I fill you with my cock. Then when you're tired, you can sleep but when you wake up in the morning, you'll find that I'm still inside you, still not done. How's that sound, sweet girl?"

Your lips part at how delicious his plan sounds. You also caught yourself letting out a wince imagining how awful walking will feel tomorrow. But nonetheless you give Yuta a nod. 

Yuta kisses you again. This time, you put your arms around his neck, desperate to be near him. He breaks the kiss only to move your hair away from your right shoulder, revealing your neck, giving him a blank canvass to leave open mouthed kisses on. 

“Want to see you,” he murmurs against your feverish skin, his hand reaching to the zipper at the back of your dress, dragging it down your waist. He peels your dress from you like you were a gift, letting the fabric pool at  your feet. You shiver at the feel of the sudden air on your skin. 

Yuta takes a step back to take in your form, relishing every curve on your body. It wasn’t his imagination that your hips got fuller. You were just as beautiful as the last time he saw you, if not, even more. 

He walks behind you to remove the clasp of your brassiere. He glides it down your arms until it falls and unites with your dress on the floor. You suck in a breath as he places his palm over your stomach to bring you closer to him. His other hand snakes beneath your breast only to ghost his thumb over your nipple.

His hand on your stomach slowly travels south,, finding its rightful place inside your underwear. When he dips his finger into your slit to touch your bud, you put a hand over your mouth to prevent a moan from escaping you.

“Don’t fight it. Let me hear how good I’m making you feel.” Yuta warns as he fully inserts two fingers inside you, curling them to find the soft spot inside of you. He dips his finger in and out, repeatedly hitting the right spot, settling into a rhythm. 

“Yuta, I–,” you said, gasping, wanting to finally get the high only Yuta can bring. You’re unable to form words with the heat of his body grazing against your back and the sinfulness of his fingers working on your core. 

But Yuta understood. He thumbs your clit as he continues to scissor and curl his fingers inside of you. His lips pressed against the part of your ear that dips to meet your neck.

The room was filled only with your noises and the wet sounds of his fingers against your flesh. As he sped up, your legs buckled and stomach tightened, indicating that you were very very close. 

And Yuta knows this, too. A familiar feeling of your body etched in his memory. The way your face contorts in pleasure and your desperate gasps are indicators that you were about to come undone.

With his other hand, he grabs your breast to fondle  you into climax, “Come on baby, be a good girl and come on my fingers.”

And you do, a wave of pleasure hits you at the sound of Yuta’s voice. Your core clenches on his fingers, your chest heaves up and down trying to get enough wind in your lungs, and your knees wobble just a little bit. 

Yuta eases out his fingers from you and brings them to his mouth to taste you, “So sweet, want to taste directly from the source.”

Yuta carries you to the sofa but before he can lay you down, you weakly protest, “Bedroom please. The sofa’s real leather.” Yuta lets out a quiet laugh. He considers challenging your protest, to tell you he’ll buy you a new one in the morning because he is impatient. But then this was your home — one that you built through hard work. So he follows.

“Where’s your room, baby?”

“Second floor, first door on the left.”

Yuta carries you up to your bedroom and when he gets inside, he surveys the interior of it. 

“Yuta, need you to undress please, need to feel you closer,” you plead.

He places you in the middle of your bed before he steps away just a little bit to remove his shirt. To you it felt like he was unbuttoning his shirt so painfully slow, but in truth you just wanted to feel him skin to skin as soon as possible.

When Yuta was finally out of his top, you felt yourself salivating at the sight. He for sure got bigger than he was years ago. His muscles were more defined now and the veins on his arms were more prominent than how you recalled them to be. When your gaze lands on his hands, you see that his fingers slightly glistened from remnants of his spit and your cum.

“Your pants, too, Yuta, please,” you beg when you see him already coming to you without removing the bottom pieces of his clothing.

“Later sweet girl. Remember what I said? Won’t stuff you with my cock until I’ve made you come at least twice.”

You groan as Yuta hovers above you using his arms as an anchor on both sides of your head. “I won’t go anywhere, I’m yours the whole night and moving forward,” He comforts as he lowers his head to your lower stomach, his fingers toying with the garter of your underwear. He only fiddles with it slightly before ridding you from the last piece of fabric you have on. 

Another fire is lit within Yuta as he eyes your soaking core. He licks his bottom lip at the sight before him. With some sweat on your forehead and your hair earlier well put but now carelessly splayed, you are a goddess in his sight. 

He plants a kiss where your slit begins, dipping his tongue just slightly to touch your bud. He glides it up and down, flicking it repeatedly, and his movement sends sparks to your body. You arch your back and instinctively try to close your legs at the feeling of his tongue. But Yuta doesn’t let you. 

He looks up at you with knitted brows as if to warn you not to get in his way of having his fill. He parts your legs wider with his hands to get a better taste of you. His tongue travels down to wear your entrance is, slurping, sucking your essence. Meanwhile, his thumb pays attention to your clit, tapping it at a mind blowing pace. 

Your hips buck at the overwhelming sensations you feel throughout your body. The walls of your room become a silent witness to your vulgar moans, no longer making an effort to stifle it. Your arousal has completely taken over you and you can only shout Yuta’s name over and over again.

Yuta replaces his busy thumb with his mouth, wrapping his lips around your clit, alternating between sucking and licking. 

“Oh god!”  you cry in a raspy voice. You don’t think you can take it anymore, you might just die tonight from Yuta’s mouth. 

You bring a hand to Yuta’s hair only to tug his head closer to you, “M’so close,” you desperately tell the beast drowning himself in your wetness. You know he’s just enjoying himself and that he can take the whole evening just feasting on you.

You draw labored breaths as you brace yourself for another orgasm. What takes you there is Yuta inserting three fingers inside of you, pressing upward and against the opposite side of your clit adding pressure to your lower stomach. 

True to his promise, you’re cumming for the second time but this time on his tongue. You writhe under him, legs shaking from the intensity of your high. He continues to lap at your folds and you sob at the feeling of overstimulation.

Weak as you may be, you try to push Yuta’s head away from you only for him to gently take your hand in his and continue slurping you. He doesn’t separate his lips from your core until after another minute. Once he’s done, his lips and chin were glistening from your juice.

Yuta’s eyes don’t leave your wrecked form as he stands to take all of you in, his hands resting on the band of his pants, the outline of his cock pressing against the poor fabric. You don’t want anything more at this moment than for him to fucking take it off already. 

“Yuta,” you said breathlessly and with half-lidded eyes, “You fucking owe me time so stop teasing me and remove the damn pants.”

Yuta only smiles at your desperation, thinking its fucking cute. “Do you have condoms for me sweet girl?”

You freeze. Of course he doesn’t have a condom prepared, he couldn’t possibly have expected to have sex with you tonight. Neither did you, to be honest. But the difference between you and Yuta was that you had a plan in play and you made sure you were prepared at the onset. It’s just humiliating that you have to reveal yourself so early in your ploy.

You clear your throat, “You can go raw.” You inform him as you avert your gaze from him, “I’m on the pill.”

Yuta just nods understandingly, having no hint that the fact of your birth control was solely for him. 

“No condom?” He asks and you only nod at him. “Fuck.”

Yuta wastes no time and finally removes his trousers. He lifts his feet off the ground only to fully remove the fabric from him. His cock was free at last, rock hard, long, and leaking. You sigh at the view and the fantasy that ran wild in your head. 

Yuta ran a fist up his length as he approached you. He dips his head to kiss you and you taste yourself from your lips. 

“You look so beautiful,” he praises. “Ready for me?”

You can only nod in anticipation. 

“Need to hear you, baby. Can you use your words?”

“Yes, want you, daddy. Need you inside me.”

“Good girl.”

Yuta aligns the head of his cock to your opening, slipping past through the rim, intruding further. You bite the inside of your cheek at the burn of the stretch. Yuta sinks deeper in you and you close your eyes at the feeling of being impaled by something that seemed to be thicker than your forearm.  You feel the friction of his skin and veins grazing against the walls of your cunt. 

Little by little, Yuta bottoms out and you feel the tip of his cock touching your uterus, sending your body into a jolt. Pleasure and pain mixed so beautifully.

Yuta grunts at the feeling of your tight pussy squeezing him, “Fuck, you’re so tight around my cock. Nobody fucked this cunt good while I was gone?”

You whimper at his words and shake your head, “Nobody could break me the way you could, daddy.”

“Fuck.” 

Yuta finds himself with blooming anger in his chest. It was his choice to leave you, for your benefit, he continues to convince himself. He was the one that let go and yet, the thought of other men knowing you, making you moan, touching you, and leaving remnants of themselves on your skin makes him angry. He had no right, yet he was furious.

With the storm in his heart, Yuta starts to rock himself inside of you. Thrusting his hips slow and deep, doing his best to remove any memory of another man from you. He hooks his hands under your knees to bring your legs closer to your chest so he can feel more of you.

The tension and the slap of his hips against your lower body brings your temperature up. You’re delirious.

Yuta tightens the grip he has on your legs but only for a moment. He moves his hands to grip your waist in a way that you know will leave bruises. 

“Yuta!” You scream as he manhandles and flips you so that you’re on your knees and stomach. He takes you from behind, his pace unbroken by the switch in your position. 

The change makes you feel all of him even more. Each one of his thrusts send you to heaven. You arch your hips further up and reach out to one of his hands only to put it on the back of your head. He fists your hair into a ponytail and pulls you up to him.

“Moan my name louder. Let them hear who’s making you feel good, sweet girl.” Yuta whispers in your ear as he takes his other hand to one of your nipples.

“Fuck, daddy! Yes!” You shout as a stray tear escapes from your eye. This riles Yuta up, making him add a notch to his speed. 

Yuta knows you’re close again. He feels the muscles in your core fluttering around him. And to be honest, he is, too. 

Yuta brings his hand to your core, his forefinger pressing and thumbing against your clit. The sensation makes you thrash against his hold, but with your hair still on Yuta’s fist, he doesn’t let you away from him.

Yuta thrusts into you one more, and then another, and then on the third one, you’re pushed over the edge, a fire of orgasm sipping through your soul. Yuta doesn’t stop. He also chases his high, not relenting his movement. 

“D-Daddy, s’too much.” you blabber. 

Yuta doesn’t prolong your agony. He turns your face towards him to take your lips into his as he cums inside of you. He lets out a guttural growl as he fills you to the brim with his seed, your wetness and his mixing inside of you. 

You’re catching your breath as both of you collapse on the bed, a blanket sound of heavy breathing surrounding the two of you. His cock softens inside of you but he doesn’t thrust out.

Instead, he brings you close to him and peppers your shoulder with kisses, “Love you so much, ” he murmurs against your skin. 

“Love you, too.” you mumble tiredly. 

He takes out his cock from you and moves you so you’re on your side facing him. He takes one of your hands to his lips. He just stares at you with the same longing he had from earlier. He wonders if you truly have forgiven him or if his presence triggers unpleasant feelings in your heart. He doesn’t want that. 

But he knows, this conversation can be had another time. For now, he’ll do as he swore. To make it up to you until morning comes. 

[elodieunderglass]

So, in the various relationships in the Killieverse, who's the "They SAID no PICKLES" partner?

oh my goodness! none of these weirdos eat burgers! how did I come up with so many people who canonically are not eating burgers. all right

Killie and Derek Derek and Killie are like this for each other. Killie is stoic and silent about taking damage to himself, but his response to anxiety and uncertainty is to lunge forward. He's possessive and protective, in the sense that he takes all the self-preservation and regard-for-one's-self that he doesn't have, and places it nicely like a little flower crown on someone else's head. Killie is also weirdly, brokenly gallant. ...It isn't always obvious that he's being gallant. Derek is a normal guy who would manage his own pickles. (in his case it would probably be cheese that he wanted left off, because he likes pickles). and he would be so, so happy to manage all the negotiations in the couple, because Killie's methodology is so very strange and off-putting, and a little too menacing. Derek is trying to sneakily get someone's attention to quietly resolve the problem before Killie notices and makes it weird. Derek is normal, patient and kind. Derek has probably worked in food service himself. Derek knows that mistakes are honest, and that changing orders is difficult, and jobs are hard, and that most people don't know about the meat+dairy not being kosher in the same dish thing, and that education on such matters is not going to be effectively achieved by Killie glowering at people.

Killie would never eat a burger for a long list of reasons. He doesn't eat mammal meat unless he can see it carved off the animal for himself, he doesn't trust melty cheese, and he could never manage that much ("AND there's chips?!" in a tone of throttled outrage, as if chips are an utterly unreasonable expectation on top of everything else.) Actually. One of the oldest Killie/Derek scenes I ever wrote is about how Killie Would Not Eat A Burger, in the context of him explaining to Derek that sexuality is fake and unreal, and everyone who claims to experience it is either lying or wrong. Like burgers, Killie says loftily, everyone lies about eating 'em. And Derek, paddling like mad in these unexpectedly deep waters, has to forcibly drag himself away from that, because he's just been handed the key to unlock whatever the hell Killie's sexuality is, but with the massive distraction of - what do you mean you've never had a burger -

Charlie and Killie Approach the counter together and form a polite and normal request, their different and distinctive wild-animal-in-a-Situation vibes suddenly gone all smooth and domesticated. gives an unsettling and weirdly unwelcome picture of what they'd be like if they hadn't split into two separate people as an embryo.

Pippa and Killie

Neither of them care about pickles on their own behalf, and with both together, they both agree they care less than they would have alone. But both of them would go up to the counter for each other. Knight and princess, but it's unclear which is which (and also both of them are the horse.) Pippa and Rossa Pippa does it. it's unclear whether Rossa was confusing about his order on purpose, because he loves watching her do it.

Charlie and [YOU] Charlie is the perfect person to send up to the counter if you didn't want pickles, because he does not find it unpleasant. it's mildly fun for him, actually. Charlie's day job involves being sent to do EXCUSE ME HE SAID NO PICKLES, but for things like funding and nonprofit organisations. Politely negotiating someone else's pickle order is enrichment for him, and an education for everyone else. Charlie asks for things off-menu and gets them. Unfortunately, the pickles are the only part of the burger Charlie would eat, so you really ought to just give them to him to him to eat instead.

Charlie and Suraiya (their younger nerd friend) One of the early scenes I've written about them is basically Charlie climbing across a counter to make Suraiya a new sandwich. Charlie's lesson to Suraiya is to make space for herself.

Bill and Helena The twins get the "being slightly gallant" from their dad, who, much like a rooster, considers all pickle-negotiations taking place in a certain radius of himself to rightfully be his duty. He would incite a pickle discussion as self-assigned alpha male on behalf of unknown women, children, and the bewildered. one of those embarrassing old guys. Unfortunately for Bill's combativeness and sense of dignity, he's married to Helena, who is furious in every waking moment that when she TRULY expresses her feelings, it causes a SCENE, and scenes are BAD. She hates and resents how bottled-up she is, and therefore how unsafe she is, because she is not allowed to defend herself from threats (unfortunately, such threats include people breathing in an annoying manner, songs played on the radio, the movement of birds outside, and mild inconveniences.) Anything and everything could be the last straw for Helena. She's far too upper-class and rarefied to be what Americans call a "Karen." Instead, what Americans call a "Karen" is trying to articulate the vague, wispy little shadow on the wall cast by the colossus of Helena. Helena deals with her own pickles. She's waiting like a hyena for the poor server to mess up the pickles. She'd do Bill's too. She NEEDS to make a SCENE and here is a REASON. it's a good thing those two don't eat burgers.

Ciara and Colm

Colm would never complain about pickles, or do it on anyone else's behalf. you'd have to do this for him or he would DIE.

Ciara would like to be the sort of person who would be assertive, but doesn't know a normal way to do so (she's aware that her parents are a lot, though) so rather than be embarrassed would like to avoid it.

Bren'n'Blaw

They are QUITE ODD. I would think they would go up to ask for a new burger together.

But they're so weird. they are probably deconstructing and reconstructing the two burgers to make two different burgers, one with Just Pickles and one with The Everything Else, and then they both share both of them. in the Land Rover in the carpark.

Ken + anybody

Although Ken's vegan, you could unfortunately probably get a whole pickled cow into his burger without him noticing. (the intersection of "vegan" and "boatie" and "geologist" resulting in a guy who mostly eats baked beans from a tin with a spoon - and what's worse, apparently thrives on it.) if you complained about having pickles, he would probably take your sandwich and remove the pickles for you. and do something faintly weird like putting the pickles in his pocket. and then give your sandwich back in the nicest possible way. Sorted! And you know what, it would be.

(why his pocket? is he going to eat them later? why not eat them now? is he going to... recycle them? is there a duckling in his pocket? will the duckling eat the pickles?)

Charlie would've probably run around Ken in tight circles, like a sheepdog with only one sheep, checking to make sure that everything was vegan on his behalf, and having a grand time going EXCUSE ME! HE IS VEGAN, if they weren't. Charlie was probably reading labels. KEN THOSE AREN'T THE VEGAN HARIBO.

this is unhinged, I hope I understood the assignment