#Express Entry Draw Latest

[federpath]

Discover the Inner Workings of Express Entry Latest Draw

Express Entry's latest draw is the key if you want to immigrate to Canada. This points-based system, employed by the Canadian government, efficiently handles skilled worker applications for Canadian permanent residency.

In this system, there are three main programs. Such as:

Federal Skilled Worker, 

Federal Skilled Trades, and 

Canadian Experience Class.

The Express Entry system ensures a fair chance for all skilled individuals. Additionally, category-specific draws have recently been introduced to further streamline the process.

To determine your eligibility, your profile is evaluated using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). This system assigns a score, ultimately ranking you in the highly coveted Express Entry pool.

You can check your eligibility by calculating your CRS score. Contact Federpath Consultants for consultation and follow us on Facebook to get all the updates from different countries.

Visit our Blog For More Information:

Call us for FREE Counseling & make your Overseas Career dream a reality.

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Latest Canada Express Entry Draw 351

Express Entry Draw #351 | 3,000 CEC Candidates Invited

[choiceimmigration]

[crossbordereducation]

On November 19, 2024, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held the 326th Express Entry draw, exclusively targeting candidates under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

A total of 400 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residence were issued, reflecting Canada’s commitment to retaining skilled workers with domestic experience.

[abhishekdigi-blog]

Canada Express Entry Latest Draw:

The latest Canada Express Entry draw highlights the ongoing opportunities for skilled professionals to obtain Canadian permanent residency. This analysis covers the CRS cut-off score, the number of ITAs issued, and essential strategies to improve your chances in upcoming draws.

[educationedgesworld]

Decoding Canada's Latest Express Entry Draw

Canada's Express Entry system has long been an attractive pathway for skilled immigrants seeking to build a new life in the Great White North. With the latest express entry draw that took place recently, aspiring candidates are eager to understand the breakdown and implications of this crucial event.

Understanding Express Entry

Firstly, let's grasp the basics of the Express Entry system. It's an online platform used by the Canadian government to manage applications for permanent residence from skilled workers. Candidates create an online profile, and based on factors like age, education, work experience, and language proficiency, they are assigned a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.

The Latest Draw: What You Need to Know

The most recent draw from the Express Entry pool saw a total of 975 candidates being issued Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency. The CRS cutoff score for this draw was 430, showcasing the competitiveness of the process.

Key Factors Impacting CRS Scores

1. Core Human Capital Factors: This includes age, education level, language proficiency (in English and French), and Canadian work experience. Candidates with higher levels of education and language proficiency typically score higher in this category.

2. Skills Transferability: Factors like education credentials, language ability, and work experience can contribute to an individual's ability to adapt and integrate into the Canadian labor market.

3. Additional Points: Candidates can earn extra points through factors like a provincial nomination, a valid job offer, or having a sibling who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

What It Means for Applicants

For those already in the Express Entry pool, the latest express entry draw serves as a benchmark for understanding the competitive landscape. It highlights the importance of continually improving one's CRS score through avenues like language tests, additional education, or gaining more work experience.

Strategies for Success

To enhance your chances in future draws, consider these strategies:

Language Proficiency: Investing time and effort in improving your language skills can significantly boost your CRS score.

Education: Pursuing further education or obtaining Canadian credentials can add valuable points to your profile.

Job Offers: Securing a valid job offer from a Canadian employer or obtaining a provincial nomination can substantially increase your CRS score.

Conclusion

Canada's Express Entry system remains a beacon of hope for skilled immigrants worldwide. By staying informed about the latest express entry draw breakdowns and strategically enhancing your CRS score, you can position yourself as a strong candidate for permanent residency in this diverse and welcoming country.

[abroadstudy24]

Canada Invites 1,470 Candidates in the Latest Express Entry Draw

Canada has issued 1,470 invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residence to candidates in the Express Entry pool in its latest draw, which took place on February 29, 2024.

The minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score required for this draw was 534, which is one point lower than the previous general draw on February 28, 2024.

This was the second general draw of the week and the sixth draw of the year. So far, in 2024, Canada has invited 14,230 candidates through the Express Entry system.

The Express Entry system is Canada’s main source of skilled immigration. It manages the applications for three economic-class immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

Candidates who are eligible for any of these programs can create an online profile and enter the Express Entry pool, where they are ranked based on their CRS score. The CRS score is calculated based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language ability, and adaptability.

Every two weeks, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducts an Express Entry draw and invites the highest-ranked candidates to apply for permanent residence. Candidates who receive an ITA have 60 days to submit their complete application online.

The following table summarizes the results of the Express Entry draws in 2024 so far:

Draw #

Draw Date

Draw Type

Invitations Issued (ITAs)

Minimum CRS Score

287

Feb 29, 2024

French-language Category-Based

2,500

336

286

Feb 28, 2024

General

1,470

534

285

Feb 16, 2024

Agriculture & Agri-Food Occupations

150

437

284

Feb 14, 2024

Healthcare Occupations

3,500

422

283

Feb 13, 2024

General

1,490

535

282

Feb 1, 2024

French-language Category-Based

7,000

365

281

Jan 31, 2024

General

730

541

280

Jan 23, 2024

General

1,040

543

FAQs

1. What are the eligibility criteria for candidates to be invited in the latest Express Entry draw by Canada? Ans – The latest Express Entry draw (as of today, March 4, 2024) doesn’t specify any category and focuses solely on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. To be eligible, you generally need a minimum of 67 CRS points and meet the requirements of a Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), or Federal Skilled Trades (FST) program. However, the cut-off CRS score for invitations keeps changing, so having a higher score increases your chances.

2. How often does Canada conduct Express Entry draws, and what is the significance of the latest draw inviting 1,470 candidates? Ans – Canada typically conducts Express Entry draws approximately every two weeks. The latest draw (February 29, 2024) inviting 1,470 candidates suggests an increase in invitations compared to previous draws, potentially aiming to meet immigration targets or address labor market needs. However, draw specifics can vary, so following IRCC updates is crucial.

3. What factors are considered in the selection of candidates for Canada’s Express Entry draws? Ans – Candidates for Canada’s Express Entry are selected based on their Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. This score is calculated using factors like age, education, work experience, language skills (English & French), and spousal points. A higher CRS score increases your chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

4. How does the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score affect a candidate’s chances of being invited in Express Entry draws?

Ans – A higher Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score directly affects your chances of getting invited to apply (ITA) in Express Entry draws. Candidates are ranked based on their CRS score, and the higher your score, the better your position in the pool and the more likely you are to receive an ITA during a draw. 

Remember, the CRS score cut-off for invitations changes frequently based on various factors. So, aiming for a higher CRS score is crucial to increase your chances of success.

5. What are the different immigration programs under Express Entry through which candidates are selected?

Express Entry manages three main federal programs:

Federal Skilled Worker (FSW): Targets skilled workers with foreign work experience and qualifications in-demand in Canada.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Targets individuals with skilled work experience in Canada under specific temporary work permits.

Federal Skilled Trades (FST): Targets skilled workers in specific trades occupations who meet the eligibility requirements.

Some Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) also fall under Express Entry.

In addition to the general draws, IRCC also conducts category-based draws, which target candidates who have specific work experience or skills in high-demand sectors, such as healthcare, agriculture, or technology. These draws usually have lower CRS cut-offs and invite fewer candidates than the general draws.

[talentconnectedworldwide01]

Is Express Entry based on luck?

latest Express Entry draw is a popular immigration system in Canada that allows skilled workers to become permanent residents. Many people wonder if success in the Express Entry process is purely luck or if there's more to it. Let's break it down in simple terms to understand how Express Entry works and whether luck plays a significant role.

What is Express Entry?

Express Entry is a points-based system designed to select candidates for immigration to Canada based on their skills, work experience, language proficiency, education, and other factors. The system is used to manage applications for three main economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class.

Points System

Candidates are awarded points based on various factors, such as age, education, work experience, language proficiency in English and French, and arranged employment in Canada. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) is the tool used to rank candidates based on these points. The higher the score, the better the chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence.

Is it Luck?

While luck can play a small role in the timing of when you submit your application and the availability of certain programs, the majority of success in Express Entry is determined by the points you earn through your skills and qualifications. It's not a lottery; it's a system designed to attract individuals who can contribute positively to the Canadian economy.

Factors within Your Control

Several factors within your control can improve your chances of success in the Express Entry system. Investing time in improving language skills, obtaining additional education or certification, gaining relevant work experience, and securing a valid job offer in Canada can all contribute to a higher CRS score.

Continuous Improvement

Express Entry is not a one-time opportunity. Candidates can continue to improve their profiles and increase their CRS scores. Regularly updating your profile with new information and achievements can enhance your chances of receiving an ITA in subsequent draws.

Conclusion

While luck may play a small part in the timing of your application and the availability of specific programs, success in latest Express Entry draw is primarily determined by your skills, qualifications, and efforts to improve your profile. By understanding the system, working on factors within your control, and continuously improving your profile, you can enhance your chances of becoming a permanent resident of Canada through Express Entry.

[visagurukul012]

How Long Does it Take to Get Canada PR Approvals?

Dreaming of settling down in the beautiful landscapes of Canada and calling it your home is an exciting prospect. However, the journey to obtaining Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada involves navigating through various processes, and one of the burning questions for many applicants is, "How much time does it take to get Canada PR approvals?

Express Entry System

Canada primarily uses the Express Entry system for managing applications for permanent residence from skilled workers. The process is designed to be efficient, but it still requires some time. Here's a step-by-step breakdown:

Submission of Express Entry Profile:

Time: Varies

After determining your eligibility, you create an Express Entry profile. The time taken here depends on how quickly you can gather the necessary documents.

Invitation to Apply (ITA):

Time: Usually every two weeks

The Canadian government conducts regular draws, inviting candidates with the highest Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores to apply for PR. The frequency of draws influences this stage's duration.

Application Submission:

Time: 60 days

Once you receive an ITA, you have 60 days to submit your complete application. Ensuring all documents are in order can expedite the process.

Make sure check this:- Best Immigration Consultants In India

Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Some applicants may choose to go through Provincial Nominee Programs, which allow provinces and territories to nominate individuals for PR based on their specific economic needs. The timeline for PNPs can vary depending on the province or territory.

Nomination Process:

Time: Varies

Each province or territory has its own processing times for reviewing applications and issuing nominations.

Express Entry after Nomination:

Time: Additional processing time

Once nominated, applicants must update their Express Entry profile, potentially leading to a quicker ITA.

Family Sponsorship

For those seeking PR through family sponsorship, the timeline can vary based on the specific family relationship.

Sponsorship Approval:

Time: Varies

Processing times depend on the type of family relationship, with spousal sponsorships generally having shorter timelines compared to parent or grandparent sponsorships.

Factors Influencing Processing Times

Several factors can impact the overall processing time for Canada PR approvals:

Application Completeness:

Ensure all required documents are submitted accurately to avoid delays.

Criminal and Medical Checks:

Time: Varies

The time taken for security and medical checks can influence the overall processing time.

Admissibility Issues:

If there are concerns regarding admissibility, additional processing time may be necessary.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, the time it takes to get Canada PR approvals varies based on the immigration pathway you choose and individual circumstances. While Express Entry strives for efficiency, factors like documentation, eligibility, and background checks contribute to the overall processing time. Stay informed, be patient, and, before you know it, you could be calling Canada your new home!

[educationedge0123]

MPNP Draw Exclusives: Who Made the Cut?

Are you ready for some exciting news? The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP Draw) has recently taken place, and we’ve got all the exclusive details on who made the cut for this round. Let’s dive into the highlights and find out who’s on their way to making Manitoba their new home!

A Closer Look at the Numbers

In the latest MPNP draw, a certain number of lucky individuals were selected to apply for provincial nomination. This is a significant step on their journey to becoming permanent residents of Canada. The draw is like a key that opens doors to new opportunities.

Who Are the Successful Nominees?

These fortunate nominees come from various backgrounds and possess skills that Manitoba is looking for. They could be professionals in fields like IT, healthcare, engineering, or many others. The MPNP draw is a way for Manitoba to welcome skilled individuals who can contribute to the province’s growth.

What’s Next for the Nominees?

Now that these individuals have received an invitation to apply for provincial nomination, the next steps involve completing the application process. This includes submitting necessary documents and proving their eligibility for the program. It’s an exciting time for them as they move one step closer to making Canada their new home.

Make sure check this: australia vs canada immigration for indians

Why Manitoba?

Manitoba is known for its friendly communities, diverse opportunities, and high quality of life. Those who make the cut in the MPNP draw are choosing to be a part of a province that values their skills and contributions. It’s not just about moving to a new place; it’s about becoming a part of a welcoming community.

Celebrating Success Stories

Every MPNP draw brings forth unique success stories. From overcoming challenges to pursuing dreams, each nominee has a tale to tell. These success stories inspire others who are also considering making Manitoba their home through the MPNP.

Conclusion

As we celebrate the individuals who made the cut in the latest MPNP draw, we look forward to seeing their journeys unfold. Manitoba is not just gaining new residents; it’s gaining talented individuals who will contribute to the province’s success. The MPNP Draw is a testament to the province’s commitment to building a diverse and thriving community.

In the end, it’s not just about who made the cut; it’s about the exciting new chapter that awaits these nominees in Manitoba. Stay tuned for more updates on their journeys!

[federpath]

Discover the Inner Workings of Express Entry Latest Draw

Express Entry's latest draw is the key if you want to immigrate to Canada. This points-based system, employed by the Canadian government, efficiently handles skilled worker applications for Canadian permanent residency.In this system, there are three main programs. Such as:Federal Skilled Worker, Federal Skilled Trades, and Canadian Experience Class.The Express Entry system ensures a fair chance for all skilled individuals. Additionally, category-specific draws have recently been introduced to further streamline the process.To determine your eligibility, your profile is evaluated using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). This system assigns a score, ultimately ranking you in the highly coveted Express Entry pool.You can check your eligibility by calculating your CRS score. Contact Federpath Consultants for consultation and follow us on Facebook to get all the updates from different countries.Visit our Blog For More Information:https://federpath.com/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-invitations-in-express-entry-draw-275Call us for FREE Counseling & make your Overseas Career dream a reality.

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Canada Express Entry Draw #349

Express Entry Draw #349 | Healthcare and Social Services Draw On June 4, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held a category-based Express Entry draw 349, inviting 500 candidates with experience in Healthcare and social services occupations (Category-Based Selection – Version 2). Applicants needed a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of at least 504 to receive an…

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Latest Express Entry Draw Canada 2023

Stay up-to-date with the latest express entry draw for 2023. Find out your chances of immigrating to Canada and explore the latest program requirements. Don't miss this opportunity to make your Canadian dream a reality. Start your journey now!.

[biowaredisasterbisexual]

What is a posting schedule, even? Anyway!

I continue to be a problem. That’s right, the latest entry of the Getting Into Trouble series is here:

Just a Person

Rated: G

Summary: This was a side of Rook she’d never seen, and damned if he wasn’t drawing her in all the same. Some of the mystery he seemed to intentionally cultivate was destroyed, and it had been fun, but this…

The actual man might just be better.

Still reeling a bit from their near-kiss in her office, Neve finally gets the answers to some of her questions about Rook.

Set after the Express Interest scene.

——————

Many, many thanks to @mvrcar and @taashyvashedan for alpha reading, and @hyperions-light for betaing! And as always, thanks to @mageofquandrix for his support! I could absolutely not do any of this without such awesome folks.

[romancingromanoff]

Secrets & Sketches

Andromache the Scythian x f!reader

I decided to create a series of loosely related one shots for Andromache (my beloved). Here’s part 1 and part 2

Summary: You were always staring at her, not knowing she was staring back.

TW: None?

Word count: +5,100

Author's Note: Hi y'all. Here's some slightly domestic fluff before the action happens and the stakes skyrocket through the roof.

Despite never having lived with four strangers before, it turned out that your new situation offered you far more privacy than you had ever experienced while living with your mother.

The woman had a compulsive need to control every aspect of your life, from what you wore to what you ate. You were barely even safe in the bathroom. The years had taught you to lie with your words and carefully crafted smiles. Knowing what she wanted to hear from you and how you could appease her temper was like mastering a second language. Your skills in the craft became more and more refined throughout the years and your confidence ultimately grew. But you underestimated your mother and made the greatest mistake of them all.

“I know you’re lying to me! What are you trying to hide from me, you ungrateful whore?”

A picture frame nearly collided with your head, chipping the door frame instead of scratching your face. The glass shattered on the floor and your body jumped twice, once at the sound and another time when your eyes settled on the damage and found that your favorite childhood photo with your grandmother was destroyed. 

“Whatever you did, I will find out! You cannot lie to me, I am your mother!”

It was one afternoon you had wanted all to yourself to go see the movie Roman Holiday after school. The charismatic Audrey Hepburn, riding on a Vespa with the largest smile you had ever seen, caused strange feelings to stir in your stomach when you had first watched the trailer. She was a princess masquerading as a commoner in order to freely experience the wonders of the Eternal City. Oh, how you envied her character. Your mother, however, could only focus on how short her hair was. The shortest your hair had ever been was when you were a fresh newborn. Once it grew past your upper back, you were never allowed to cut it, despite all the other girls you knew being able to short styles. 

“How disappointing.” She scoffed when a clip of her getting her haircut played. “Such a beautiful young woman and she wants to make herself look like a man? I really don’t understand your generation, you’re all confused.”

When you arrived home late that evening, she refused to believe the lie you had produced about giving some tutoring lessons after school. It was only two days later that she found the proof she wanted. While snooping through your journal she came across the movie ticket you had pasted next to your latest entry. She burned the entire thing as only one portion of your punishment.

How your mother could predict your actions, anticipate your every move, and see through every single one of your lies you did not know. It was like she knew you and how your mind functioned but could never truly understand how suffocated you felt by the twisted ways she expressed her “love” for you. She was your mother, the closest kin you had left after your grandmother’s passing and the woman that had known you for your entire existence. The fact that she birthed you was one she’d never let you forget, yet you knew she would spend your entire life trying to mold you into something you weren’t if she could. If she could never accept you then how could anybody else?

Then you met Andy, who always seemed to be in tune with whatever you were thinking. Hell, she could practically guess your thoughts word for word without even really trying, yet not once did it ever feel like she was violating your mind as your mother had. You were almost completely certain that she was fully aware of the times when you were drawing her. It was impossible not to see the art in her movements. She’d be doing something mundane yet slightly active such as washing the dishes and you’d pull your sketchbook out. The moment you put pencil to paper she would slow down ever-so-slightly. A plate that needed maybe two wipes suddenly took four or more to clean. She must have known what she was doing to you, softly smirking as she folded laundry 

But did she know what it was doing to you? How intensely you felt about her and as more than just an art subject, more than someone you merely admired. Pages full of sketches, varying in detail and design, became dedicated to capturing the alluring domestic side of the ancient warrior. Every angle, every shadow was carefully reconstructed (to the best of your ability anyway) as if to preserve each moment and time so that your eyes may never forget what she looked like chopping onions on a rainy Tuesday evening. A brief moment that might be incredibly insignificant for a being that has walked the earth for thousands of years, but one that was still so precious to you. The time you spent together, even the moments everyone else might consider to be dull, were filled with color all because of her.

Why she allowed you to draw her so frequently was something you couldn’t quite figure out. This rather untraditional dance the two of you engaged in was never spoken about in words. There was no doubt that Andy would have said something much earlier had she been uncomfortable being drawn by you. A part of you enjoyed entertaining the idea that, perhaps in some small way, Andy might actually return your feelings. But at the same time, you didn’t want to be wrong and come off as an artistic creep trying to invade her privacy.

The good thing was you never had to worry about any of the others looking through your sketchbook. The one time Joe had asked if he could take a peek it hadn’t even crossed your mind that you could have said ‘no’ to him. But the smallest bit of hesitance that he had seen in your eyes as you prepared to hand over your most personal and sacred treasure immediately stopped him.

“Y/N, you don’t actually have to show me anything if you don’t want to. I was merely curious but no part of me would be offended if you want to keep your art to yourself. I will always respect your privacy first.”

His words were almost foreign to you, like ones you had only ever read on pages and later discovered were pronounced completely differently when you finally heard them spoken out loud. Still, you knew Joe meant everything he said. Though all of your new companions were certainly capable of it, none of them had ever once tried to deceive you or keep you hidden from the truth. Previously living with a pathological liar had taught you all the signs you needed to know and not once had you found a single one since joining the old guard.

It was a bit startling how safe you already felt with these few strangers you had only met a few short weeks ago. You could talk to all of them about (almost) anything, although you did worry that your endless amount of questions might annoy any one of the unnaturally older beings. Sometimes you nearly cringed at the thought of how ignorant and stupid you must have appeared in their eyes. It mostly motivated you to contribute where you could. Cooking and cleaning were not tasks you necessarily enjoyed, but it felt nice to make some type of contribution to the team. Still, you longed to prove yourself as something more, to help save lives and make Andy, Booker, Joe, and Nico proud. And maybe, just maybe, if you became worthy enough of someone like your rescuer, she might look at you differently.

┊ ┊┊ 

It was nearing morning hours and your endless thoughts hadn’t allowed you to sleep yet. There was a buzzing in your body, making it impossible to fully relax, even though you knew you had a busy day of training ahead of you and you needed the rest. You tried to conjure up the comforting sound of Andy’s steady heartbeat as you imagined her lying next to you, only to grow even more anxious when you began feeling guilty for indulging in such thoughts. 

Did she even like women the way you did? You certainly had your suspicions and noticed the way her heart seemed to break anytime there was a mention of Quynh. The necklace that never left her neck also appeared to hold a great amount of pain and significance to her. But even if you were right, Andy had never brought up any details regarding her love life and you were determined to respect that undiscussed boundary. The tossing and turning was just an unfortunate side effect that eventually had you cave in and get up to grab a drink from the kitchen. 

“Can’t sleep?” The voice of the very person you had been thinking of came from behind you as soon as you had turned on a small lamp. You let out a nervous laugh and kept a steady hand on your chest when you caught her smiling directly at you. It made you take some extra time while getting your glass of water so that your heartbeat had a chance to settle.

Andy sat at the bar sipping on a mug of coffee. Even with the light being so dim, you didn’t need it to tell her beverage was completely black. 

“I still don’t know how you’re able to drink that. Every time I try it it’s like trying to swallow hot liquid dirt.”

“Really?” The Scythian chuckled and you prayed the darkness would hide your melted expression. “That’s surprising considering how you drown yours in milk and sugar.”

“Hey, we can’t all be as tough as you.” 

“No one said you had to be. No one said you weren’t already.” You supposed you were tough in the context of being able to override death itself, but besides that, it wasn’t a character trait you ever considered yourself to have. Even the immortality thing was basically a fluke. 

The dark haired woman gestured for you to sit down and you awkwardly lowered yourself into the chair across from her. Your glass of water looked silly standing next to her more refined drink. “Yeah, that’s me. I got tough hands covered in paper cuts and callouses from drawing.”

“Art is tough for a lot of people. It’s tough for me. I could never quite get the emotional vulnerability part down and I feel like all the best art pulls from that. I would say you could probably teach me a thing or two about drawing but you have something more inborn than that. It can’t be taught.”

“But you’ve never seen my work?” Had she? You didn’t think she’d go through your things without your permission but there was definiteness in her tone that told you her words were true. 

“No,” she shrugged. Nothing in her seemed to waver. “I don’t need to. There’s this look you get in your eyes when you’re completely focused on drawing that seems to transport you to this different world. I always wonder where you go but don’t want to tear you away when you’re clearly inspired.”

You had been staring at her for so long believing that she was merely tolerating your strange behavior. You assumed she simply felt unbothered. The idea that she might have been secretly staring back never once crossed your mind. 

“You… You watch me?” A beat passed and your brain short circuited, unsure of what kind of answer you even hoped to hear. If she did then was it with the same unspoken desire you held in your heart that you could be worthy of her one day? No, it had to be something far from that. Your awkward, uncoordinated behavior could only be considered entertaining at best if Andy didn’t find you pitiable. You imagined it was like watching your neighbor’s beagle after they arrived home from a medical procedure at the vet. The poor thing was so loopy yet unaware that he couldn’t walk in a straight line. Every few steps he took he’d also crumble to the floor before eagerly trying to get back up and making another attempt with the same results. That’s what she must see whenever she saw you trip over your own feet. Or how silly you looked the other day when Booker tried to show you how to hold a pistol and you shook so hard that it fumbled out of your hands.

Even with all the time in the world, it was a struggle to see yourself ever truly earning your place among the rest of the guard one day. You not only lacked combat experience but had been thoroughly sheltered from the world by your mother. She hadn’t allowed you to participate in any sports, not even the more feminine ones like dance or golf. The result was barely being able to do a push-up and having the wind knocked out of your lungs after only a brief jog. 

The others had started you off with some basic self defense techniques, which caused you to wake up with sore muscles you hadn’t even known existed. Everyone was extremely patient with you, stressing the importance of slowly building up your strength and reminding you that there was no rush to suddenly reach their skill level when they’d been fighting for longer than some of the strongest empires had lasted. But then you’d watch them training together or listen to one of them recount several of the missions they completed while you were stuck waiting in the safe house. They were out there saving lives, as well as literally sacrificing their own, while you could only hope to one day do the same. 

In the back of your head you could hear your mother berating you for having such ridiculous dreams. If she could see you struggling to learn a pull up she would certainly laugh at your miserable attempts. But Andy didn’t look at you like you were “perfectly pathetic” as your mother often described. No, she seemed to stare at you softly, which made you feel like you were the only person she was thinking about. 

“I find you interesting. More specifically, it’s been a pleasure to watch you grow into yourself these past few weeks. You look much more relaxed.”

You were fairly relaxed, aside from the fact that your heart was currently threatening to jump out of your chest. Or if physicists could somehow harness its energy then it could power the entire world. She had just admitted to finding you interesting and you were supposed to answer back in words. You took a painfully slow drink.

“Well, it has been nice being able to make my own decisions and not have someone constantly looking over my shoulder.” You think back to an instance where you were recently baking a lemon glaze cake for the team and some icing stuck to your fingers. Immediately, you went to wash your hands as your mother would have insisted upon when it occurred to you that she no longer had control over you. Licking your fingers after that had never felt so satisfying. “Even the little choices I’m able to make now are kind of exciting. Is that strange to say?”

“Not at all.” Andy shook her head. “It’s a beautiful thing, seeing how far you’ve come in such a short amount of time. Not to mention how glad I am that you feel safe enough around us to be yourself.”

A pang of guilt ran through you. What must she think of you if you were keeping cryptic drawings of her a secret? “I really do, which is why I don’t want you to believe I’m trying to hide things from you! Not forever, at least. I trust you, and perhaps it’s more than I’ve ever trusted anyone else. But with my drawings… I suppose it’s rather complicated and I’ve never willingly shown them to anyone before. They’re nothing inappropriate, though! I would never do anything like that.”

Before you could completely melt into a puddle of despair, Andy reached for your forearm, anchoring the two of you together while helping to calm you down. Her hand was warmed from holding her hot mug.

“Hey, it’s alright, I trust you too. You don’t need to explain yourself to me. I’m flattered about the drawings and it’s nothing to be embarrassed about. I can wait until you’re ready to show them to me when you feel comfortable doing so.”

It was completely vexatious how patient Andy could be with you, or how she always seemed to know the right thing to say to make you feel better. She possessed the ability to soothe the fears you understood intimately along with the others which you had tried to suppress and nearly forgotten about. You simply weren’t used to being treated in such a way. 

“How are you so patient with me all the time?” Your question came off more irritated than you intended, making you cringe inwardly. You weren’t even sure what you were really asking about.

In the few moments it took Andy to start processing the question, your thoughts finally began to come together and spill out all at once.

“I’m deeply appreciative of how understanding you’ve been, don’t get me wrong, but when I imagine myself in your position, it must be frustrating. You do so much for me, all four of you do, but you especially. I’m always needing your help with countless things even though I have nothing of use to offer in return. You’re all incredibly worldly people, capable of doing more than I ever have even before your first deaths. I’ve been kept sheltered my entire life and probably wouldn’t last a day on my own. Having me join the team probably feels a lot more like babysitting than anything else, yet you never complain about it.”

Even though you knew it wasn’t in her nature, sometimes you wished she would allow herself to be angry with you. Or if she even expressed the slightest bit of irritation then that might make you feel better somehow. You waited for Andy to tell you that you sounded ridiculous, or to make another comment about your tendency to overthink things. Nothing like that ever came.

In one swift, breathtaking movement, her hand carefully tilted your chin up towards her face so that you were caught in her stare. The skin of her thumb was rough and her green-blue eyes bore into your own, tender yet determined as they searched for something deep in your soul. Though her touch was completely innocent, it was also intensely intimate from your perspective at least. You wanted to bear your entire being to her, consciously preparing your mind and body to take in whatever words she was about to say.

“Y/N, listen to me. There is nothing you owe me. Relationships aren’t transactional and I enjoy being able to help you. You also didn’t choose this life and I can’t hold what you don’t know against you. I won’t lie and say patience comes to me easily. Truthfully, when you get to my age everything is frustrating. I’ve seen… far too much in my life aside from any type of explanation for it all and it has made me bitter. But you don’t deserve any of that and I don’t want to be that type of person anymore. I don’t ever want to turn my back on people I care about again.”

Her eyes glossed over with the hue of a haunting memory, something from her past clearly bothering her. She let go of you in the crest of the emotion and you nearly whimpered when you lost her touch, but found the rare opportunity to offer Andy the comfort she needed. 

“I may not know much in the grand scheme of things, but I know you’re not bitter. Truly bitter people try to tear down everyone around them because there’s nothing misery loves more than company. You’re nothing like my mother, she wanted to control me and keep me trapped in a life where I could never have my own happiness. You set me free. Anyway, it would be hard to live as long as you have, see the things that you’ve seen, and not become discouraged with all of the wickedness that has happened throughout history. What matters is that you’ve continued to fight for others that wouldn’t normally stand a chance on their own. If you were actually as bitter as you think, you could turn your back on everyone without a single care in the world. I see how much you care for others, Andy. Bitter people only care about themselves and I don’t see how you can believe you’re one of them.”

The fact that you were so young was partially why Andy felt the need to hold herself back and take things slow with you. Although your life would never be normal, she wanted to give you the chance to choose your own path and chase whatever dreams you fancied. Right now, it was crucial to prepare you for the world and to teach you how to keep your shared secret safe. But she knew you’d want to adventure out on your own at some point, and that you’d probably want to experiment with other partners closer to your age. Andy was aware of the baggage she carried, as well as the fact that the nature of your relationship meant she held a type of influence over you. She would never allow herself to take advantage of you like that.

But one thing she couldn’t let you do was downplay yourself, not when your words touched her in ways she hadn’t felt in thousands of years.

“Do you really believe you’re of no use at all and have nothing to offer? Y/N, I’ve traveled to every corner of the world and met the wisest individuals that still led directionless and unfulfilled lives. They thought of themselves too highly, pushed others away, and in the end their knowledge meant nothing when they were unable to make meaningful connections. You have all the time you need to perfect your knowledge and learn every skill that exists or will develop in the future.” 

Your head tilted in perplexity. 

“What? You think we had phones or electricity back when I was growing up? I didn’t learn how to drive a car until late last century. It was really like the blind leading the blind in those early days.”

Imagining a Victorian era Andy accidentally crashing a motorized carriage or angrily shaking her fist at experimental drivers from atop of her horse was certainly entertaining. You wondered if the two of you would ever share a similar experience together.

Temporarily distracted by your smile, Andy nearly forgot the importance of the message she was trying to convey to you. 

“Y/N, you’re right that you’ve never really been given the chance to grow before all of this. None of that was your fault. The wonderful thing now is that you’re on your way to becoming smarter, like anybody else can when given the right tools. What you already have, your emotional strength and intelligence, is far more rare and valuable in my eyes. You teach me to look at things from a different perspective even when I’ve felt stuck in my ways for hundreds of years. Don’t overlook how much of an impact you can make or how much we all appreciate you.”

“Andy… I��� Thank you.” You try not to cry, though you know she wouldn’t judge you if you did. Viewing your emotions as a strength is something that you never considered before. They were always a weakness back when you experienced nothing but misery, and now everything couldn’t be more different. Your new life was full of evenings spent getting tipsy and laughing at the stories your friends told you of places and times that sounded unreal. It was wanting the taste of more, the promise of the adventures that lay before you and the people you would get to share them with. It was a life you could hardly believe was real and you got to spend every single day with a woman that made your heart race with a single smile. Even if she never felt the same way about you, there was no chance that you’d trade your time with Andy for anything or anyone else. “Thank you for everything. I’m glad I get to experience all of this with you.”

She almost let her resolve crumble upon hearing your words. The grip around her drink tightened, heating up her flesh to a tender sting but she persevered through it. She knew that if she touched you again then it would all be over. There would be no way she could let go.

“As exciting as everything can be, I can’t help but feel nervous for what’s to come. I worry that no matter how hard I train I won’t be prepared. No matter how much I learn, there is bound to be something I overlook.”

How right you were.

“One thing I can tell you is that there are some things you’re never ready for, even if you spend centuries preparing. People, history, and almost everything I’ve encountered follow some type of pattern maybe 99% of the time. But all it takes is that 1% chance of randomness to make life unpredictable. Even the most meticulous of plans can end up going sideways. At the end of the day, I always ask myself why I’m here or why certain things happen and I’ve never been very close to an answer. There are questions I’ve carried with me for even longer than I can remember.”

It would have been quite terrifying to hear those words from anyone else besides Andy. If she still struggled to figure things out then you were practically cursed to be clueless for the rest of your existence. Although strangely enough, it was actually comforting to hear that she shared a similar sense of existential questioning. Both of you were human even if your lifespans or biology no longer were. 

“Okay, but you must have a guess for when we’ll see flying cars at least. Or do you believe people will really be able to walk on Mars one day?”

A smooth attempt to cover up her broadening smile by lifting her coffee up to her mouth might have gone unnoticed if you hadn’t been so enamored by each one of Andy’s actions. She had a harder time hiding her eyes, which playfully rolled at your question. 

“Sure, I suppose it’s possible. Hey, maybe you’ll be the first one and you can tell us all about it.”

“While the prospect of accomplishing something you’ve never done is intriguing, I wouldn’t want to do it without you.”

The words left your mouth, leaving only your pair of eyes holding hers throughout a deep silence. It wasn’t often that Andy looked like she was at a loss for words but this was definitely one of those times.

Quickly, you tried to cover up your confession with a stupid excuse. “I mean if there really are man-eating martians up there they’ll want to eat you first. You have way more muscle.”

“Right,” Andy laughed in agreement. “I guess that’s all I’m good for besides being a model for your artwork. Are you fast enough to draw me up there in time before I get turned into alien food?”

“Maybe.” You blushed and tried to go for Andy’s move to cover your face with your cup, only to realize that it was practically useless when it was made of glass. 

“I, uh, really wanted to get some sleep tonight before waking up for early training but I guess I’m not doing a very good job at that.”

“Sleep in, you deserve the break. You’ve been pushing yourself really hard and should get to sleep in for once. There’s no need to overexert yourself.”

“Wait, aren’t you leaving for your mission around sunrise?” Andy was planning to look for some intel in the city and you knew she might be gone for up to a few days. “Wake me up before you go so I can say goodbye.”

For a moment, all the Scythian can do is try to memorize the look on your face, wishing that she could permanently sketch the vision on paper like you could. You gazed up at her with such innocence and devotion in your eyes, as if she was simply running to get milk from the grocery store the next morning. The team had actually glossed over the more important details about Andy’s assignment and what it would entail. It wasn’t that you were unaware of Andy’s brutal past and countless killings, but you still had yet to witness such violence. She couldn’t help but worry that witnessing that side of her would not only change how you saw her, but also influence your own self perception when the time came to take another life yourself. It was painful to imagine the countless amount of years you might spend plagued by inner turmoil, hating the person you would become even if it was inevitable. She’d die in a million more excruciating ways if it would shield you from such a curse.

“Andy, are you alright?” Your voice of concern brought her back to the present. There was a slight look of worry between your furrowed eyebrows that she wished to smooth out herself, but she practiced self restraint. 

“Sorry, I guess I’m a little tired too. If you want me to wake you before I leave then I will.”

With a satisfied smile on your face, you nodded and rose from your seat. The urge to ask Andy if she might join you tugged at your heart. You always slept more soundly when it was in her arms. Your nightmares were much more infrequent by now and it had been some time since you had been able to fall asleep while breathing in her scent, snuggling deep into her chest. The temptation to voice your request was almost impossible to resist, save for the fear of jeopardizing your friendship and making her uncomfortable by revealing your feelings. 

Eventually, you found yourself back in bed alone and replaying your conversation. One specific realization you couldn’t get over was that Andy had undoubtedly expressed some type of interest in the art you made of her. Sure, it’s possible that it might have been in a completely platonic sense, but you held onto the fantasy of it meaning something more and decided you’d keep it to yourself, for now.