#How to check credit report for errors

[fincrif]

How to Check Your Credit Report for Errors Before Applying for a Loan

Your credit report plays a pivotal role when you apply for a personal loan. It reflects your financial history and helps lenders determine your creditworthiness. An error in your credit report can hurt your credit score, potentially leading to rejected loan applications or higher interest rates. That's why it’s essential to check your credit report for errors before applying for any loan.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of checking your credit report for errors, understanding common issues, and how to dispute inaccuracies to ensure your credit score is a true reflection of your financial behavior.

1. Understanding Your Credit Report

Your credit report is a detailed record of your credit history, provided by credit bureaus such as CIBIL, Equifax, Experian, and CRIF High Mark in India. It includes information like:

Personal details (name, address, date of birth, etc.)

Credit accounts (loans, credit cards, etc.)

Payment history (on-time payments, late payments, defaults)

Credit inquiries (who has checked your credit report)

Credit limits and balances

The report culminates in a credit score, which is used by lenders to assess your eligibility for a loan. It’s crucial to ensure that the details in your credit report are accurate, as errors can impact your credit score and loan approval chances.

🔗 Compare & Apply for a Personal Loan here: 👉 Compare Personal Loan Offers

2. Common Credit Report Errors to Look For

Before applying for a personal loan, you should thoroughly review your credit report to look for common errors that can affect your score. Here are some typical mistakes found in credit reports:

2.1 Incorrect Personal Information

Sometimes, your personal details like name, address, or date of birth may be incorrectly entered. These errors can cause confusion and impact your credit history.

How to fix it: If you spot an error, immediately contact the credit bureau and request a correction of your details.

2.2 Duplicate Accounts

In some cases, your credit report may list a duplicate account, such as a credit card or loan that you only have one of. This can make your credit history appear worse than it actually is.

How to fix it: You can contact the credit bureau to remove duplicate entries from your report.

2.3 Incorrect Account Status

Your report may show an account as “open” or “active” even though you’ve already paid it off or closed it. Similarly, accounts that are marked as “delinquent” may not reflect payments you’ve made.

How to fix it: Ensure that the lender reports the correct payment history and account status to the credit bureaus. If discrepancies exist, file a dispute with the credit bureau.

2.4 Unrecognized Inquiries

If you see unfamiliar hard inquiries (when a lender checks your credit), it could mean someone has accessed your report without your consent. This can affect your score, as multiple inquiries can imply you’re applying for too much credit.

How to fix it: If there are any unrecognized inquiries, reach out to the credit bureau and the lender to clarify or dispute the inquiry.

2.5 Account Information Errors

Sometimes, the credit limit or balance on your accounts may be reported inaccurately. For example, a credit card balance may be listed as higher than it actually is.

How to fix it: Check your account statements and credit card bills to ensure the balance is reported correctly. If not, file a dispute with the credit bureau.

3. How to Access Your Credit Report

In India, you are entitled to a free credit report once a year from each of the four major credit bureaus. You can access it by following these steps:

3.1 Visit the Credit Bureau’s Website

Go to the website of one of the major credit bureaus:

CIBIL (https://www.cibil.com)

Experian (https://www.experian.in)

Equifax (https://www.equifax.co.in)

CRIF High Mark (https://www.crifhighmark.com)

3.2 Request Your Report

Most credit bureaus will ask for personal details like your name, date of birth, address, and ID to verify your identity. After submitting the request, you’ll usually receive your credit report in a few minutes.

3.3 Review Your Report

Once you have access to your credit report, carefully review all the entries to ensure everything is correct, including your accounts, balances, payment history, and inquiries.

4. How to Dispute Errors in Your Credit Report

If you find any errors in your credit report, it’s essential to dispute them as soon as possible. Here’s how to do it:

4.1 Identify the Error

Clearly identify the error, such as incorrect payment history, duplicate accounts, or incorrect balances.

4.2 Contact the Credit Bureau

Each credit bureau has a dispute resolution process in place. You can usually file a dispute directly on their website. Provide as much information as possible and supporting documents (e.g., bank statements, payment receipts) to back up your claim.

4.3 Dispute with the Lender

If necessary, contact the lender or financial institution directly to resolve the issue. They may need to submit a corrected report to the credit bureau.

4.4 Follow Up

Credit bureaus are required to investigate disputes within 30 days. After this period, you should receive a response regarding whether the dispute was resolved and your report updated.

5. Why Checking Your Credit Report Before Applying for a Loan Is Crucial

Your credit score directly impacts your chances of personal loan approval. Errors in your credit report can result in higher interest rates or loan rejection, which is why it’s important to ensure that the details are accurate before applying.

5.1 Get the Best Loan Terms

By fixing errors before applying, you can present a clean credit report, increasing the chances of qualifying for better loan terms, such as lower interest rates, higher loan amounts, and longer repayment tenures.

5.2 Avoid Loan Rejection

Loan rejection due to inaccurate information in your credit report can be frustrating and can also negatively impact your credit score. By identifying and disputing errors before applying, you reduce the risk of rejection.

6. How to Improve Your Credit Score After Fixing Errors

Once your credit report errors are fixed, here are a few tips to help further improve your credit score:

6.1 Pay Bills On Time

Timely payments on credit cards, loans, and other bills will significantly improve your payment history, which makes up 35% of your credit score.

6.2 Reduce Your Credit Card Balances

Paying off outstanding credit card balances will reduce your credit utilization ratio, which improves your credit score.

6.3 Limit New Credit Applications

Avoid applying for multiple loans or credit cards in a short time, as this can negatively impact your credit score.

Ensure Your Credit Report is Error-Free Before Applying for a Loan

Checking your credit report for errors before applying for a personal loan is crucial for ensuring that your credit score accurately reflects your financial behavior. By resolving any discrepancies and maintaining good financial habits, you’ll increase your chances of getting approved for a personal loan at favorable terms.

For the best personal loan options, apply here: 👉 Compare & Apply for a Personal Loan

By taking the time to check and correct your credit report, you can ensure that your credit score is accurate, improving your chances of qualifying for loans and securing the best interest rates.

[paradoxcase]

Right, so, after reading some error logs, obtaining a copy of the objects.package that shipped with the Sims 2 rerelease, and talking about this with Lazy Duchess, I have a conspiracy theory about why the rerelease is so damn broken

So first, I looked at an error log that was happening in the Enthusiasm Tracker. It was coming from the function that signs sims up for a magazine subscription after they choose that option on the phone. It's a very short function, all it does is 1) check to see if the family has a magazine subscription token, 2) create one if it does not already exist, and 3) set a property on the token regardless of whether 2 was necessary or not. All three of these actions make use of the Manage Inventory primitive, which controls not just sim inventories, but also tokens like this, memories, and gossip. I compared all like five lines of this function to the one in my objects.package, that I have from the Ultimate Collection, and they were exactly the same. But for some reason, in the rerelease, this throws an error. There is no explanation at the level of this function. I kind of scratched my head and thought, maybe they changed how the magazine subscription token works in this version, and forgot to update this function? Or something?

Next, there was an Too Many Iterations error log that had a very obvious cause: for some reason, the active family had over 500 tokens in its inventory. The family inventory isn't listed in the error log, so have no idea what those tokens were, or how there came to be 500+ of them. BUT. The aforementioned magazine subscription token is a token that goes in the family inventory. Maybe these two problems are somehow related. Are those 500 tokens all magazine subscription tokens, or something?

And then there is the infamous error that the game now throws when a sim goes to get abducted. I didn't see an error log for this one, but I was making a post on MTS listing all of the known issues with the rerelease, and someone mentioned there that the issue is not so much with the abduction as it is with other sims reacting to the abduction, and if there are no sims on the lot to react to the abduction, the error does not occur. Someone else then mentioned that the Abduction Reaction Fix mod that I made actually fixes this error. I made that mod, I know exactly what it does. What does it do?

Well, you see, objects in the game all have what is called a tree table, which is a table of interactions and the functions that need to be called when those interactions are triggered. One of the interactions on the telescope is the interaction to run to the telescope after someone has been abducted. But, in the Free Time expansion, a lot of new interactions were added to the telescope, and for some reason, EA decided to renumber all of the functions when they did that. They forgot to update the tree table, which references functions by their numbers, and as a result, the function that was called when sims were supposed to do the run-to-telescope interaction was actually the function that gives sims credit for discovering a new planet. In my mod, I fixed this, so that when sims are supposed to run to the telescope, the proper run-to-the-telescope function is called instead.

So, the error happens when my mod is not installed (when the planet discovery function is being called erroneously) and not when it is (when the run-to-the-telescope function is called instead). So the error must be coming from the planet discovery function. What is in the planet discovery function? It is almost identical to the magazine subscription function. It checks for the planet discovery token, adds it if it isn't there, and then modifies a property on it, using Manage Inventory. So this is exact same bug. And other people are reporting that some sims cannot gain memories - another game function that is handled by Manage Inventory. There is also an error that happens after a sim cooks food - one thing that happens at that point is that tokens and memories are added to the sim's inventory marking that they have successfully (or unsuccessfully) learned to cook that food.

So at this point, my theory is that EA somehow broke the Manage Inventory primitive. It's used all over the code, to do all sorts of stuff, if you break something that ubiquitous and fundamental, of course it's going to cause a whole lot of seemingly completely unrelated errors. Manage Inventory is now going hog-wild, throwing errors, adding hundreds of extraneous tokens to inventories, refusing to give sims memories, and who knows what else. I can feel it, this is the answer

[fuck-customers]

The more I work with the public, the more I'm convinced the average person should not own a credit card.

I had someone today who INSISTED they hadn't gotten a refund despite the refund being processed and the payment being marked as "Void" on our backend. This happens a lot when the payment is taken and refunded same day, because the payment is still pending and isn't actually removed from the account for 48-72hrs in most cases. I explained this, let them know the payment should have fallen off as it was void, and recommended they contact their financial institution for assistance if they were still seeing a charge on the card (which is really all we can do in this scenario, because the refund HAS been issued and we're no longer in possession of the money from the transaction)

Homie goes OFF about how the payment was taken right away and they never saw the refund. To which I once again explained that:

Yes, you would have seen a pending payment removed from your account immediately. This is how credit/debit payments work

Because of processing time, the money is not removed from your account and is "pending" payment status for 24-72hrs after payment, depending on the day of the week, your financial institution, etc.

Because the payment was refunded while still pending, the payment is void. Our POS has not removed money from your account. If you are seeing a charge from us that has moved from "pending" to "settled" you need to contact your financial institution, because this is an error on their end. We've already refunded your payment and cannot issue a second refund for a transaction we do not have - that's not how money transferring works

Bro grumbles and hangs up at this point and honestly? I'm pretty sure they never actually checked their bank statement to see if the payment went through or not, because they were too busy looking for a refund rather than checking to make sure the payment was actually processed in the first place

I get it, believe me. Dealing with money is stressful and everything is expensive, but I've given you the solution. I've told you how to fix the problem if there even actually is a problem, which is a lot more than most people would do. The least you could do is be polite, stop arguing with me when I've pulled the transaction report, and call your fucking bank

Posted by admin Rodney

[xoxo-author]

My Salesman

Pairing: Salesman x reader

Warnings: my shitty writing, language, mentions of violence, probably so many errors

Side note: Does anyone know the salesman name in the show or do we really only know him as the salesman? Doesn’t bother me one bit either way 😉

Don’t be nasty! Please don’t copy my work!

Does the story make sense? No. Has it been living in my head since season 2 came out? Yes. Have I thought about the salesman at least 7 days a week since season 2 came out? Also yes.

Enjoy!

Credit to gif owner

I let out a long sigh, "Can you please watch where you're going?"

"Holy shit, I found you!"

My head snaps up, confusion written all over my face. Jin, who I haven't seen in almost two years and who was a family friend, stands in front of me with wide eyes. My confusion only grows deeper as he wraps his arms around me tightly, brings me to his chest, and lifts me off the ground causing me to tense. 

He sets me back on the ground before pushing me to arms length with his hands on my shoulders, "Do you know how long I've been looking for you?"

"Looking for me?"

"You've been missing for three years!" 

"Missing?"

He nods, "You fell off the face of the earth and no one has heard from you since. Do you know how worried we all were?"

I shake my head, trying to shrug off his hands, "I'm not missing Jin."

Jin looks at me as if I was crazy, "You're not missing? Do you think we're all going to believe that you went away on your own? No, your dad was right to report you missing."

My dad? What the hell did he do now? "What the hell are you talking about?"

"Three years ago you vanished without a trace, no one hears from you or knows where you are. Your dad comes into the station and reports you missing."

"You're telling me, my father reported me missing to the cops?"

Jin nods, letting his hands fall from my shoulders down to my forearms, "He was so distraught, he was talking about how you guys were in the train station when a man in a grey suit with a briefcase who was tall approached him and asked him to play a game for money and when your dad refused, the man took you instead."

It doesn't necessarily shock me that my father would lie to the police, he was nothing more than a crook but to know that he reported me missing when it was his fault that I've been gone for three years is mind-blowing. 

"We sent out search parties, hung fliers, posted reward money for your return or any information on you or the man in the grey suit, we sent bolos to other cities and nearby countries, we checked surveillance tapes and everything came back with nothing."

I tilt my head to the side, "What do you mean surveillance tapes came back with nothing?"

I know for a fact that there were so many cameras in the station that one of them was bound to have caught my dad just hand me over to the grey suit guy. Granted I went willingly but still.

"The cameras were down the day you went missing."

I shake my head, of course they were. While my father is a complete sleazeball, he's a smart sleazeball who would cover all his bases. 

"Your case went cold until about two and a half years ago. We had a guy come in claiming he was taken to this island where there were four hundred and fifty-five other people there who owed money to someone or something. These people could play a couple of games and win money but if you lost a game you would be killed so there could only be one winner and this man claimed to be the winner. We thought he was complete batshit until he mentioned that he was approached by a tall man who wore a grey suit that had a briefcase who asked him if he wanted to play a game."

My father came home roaring drunk one night talking about how he was approached by someone in the station asking if he wanted to play a game for money and how he wanted the entire briefcase but the man wouldn't give it up so my father offered him something for the money in the case. That something was me. My father traded his own daughter for money.

When I found out, I was livid but then I realized it would be my only way out and away from him. 

We went to the station that same night and the man in the suit still stood there, seemingly waiting for my father to return. I suppose I should've beenfrightened at the fact that my father sold me to a stranger but I felt the complete opposite. Maybe it was the fact that he was dressed as an everyday salesman. I was calm as I stood by the man's side and watched my father walk away with the money. 

There was a small part of me that expected the man to let me go but he did not. I've been with him the past three years and I can say they've been the best three years. Yeah, he was completely batshit crazy. I mean he sent people to games where they were more than likely not coming back and he may have killed people (not quite positive on that one but he did come home with blood on his clothes and face so using context clues) but I wouldn't want to be anywhere else. I don't see the entire crazy side, I mostly only see the "normal" side. 

That's probably the daddy issues talking but that's a problem for another day. 

Letting out a sigh, I manage to tug one of my arms free, "Jin, as you can see, I am completely fine. I am unharmed and not missing. You can tell people I am fine but please don't tell them where I am."

His eyes go even wider, "You're coming home with me. I just told you that your father has been worried sick about you for the past three years and yet you don't want to come home or let me tell him where you are?"

If only he knew the truth about my father, although that might not matter as Jin has always tried, for some reason, to get on my father's good side. I knew of his crush on me since forever so I am sure that is his driving factor for wanting to be on my father's good side. 

Jin looks down as I try to tug my other hand free, his grip only getting tighter, "What's on your finger? Did you marry your kidnapper?"

It was about a year and a half when we got married. I fell for the "normal" side. Again, thank you daddy issues. 

Jin begins to tug on my arm, "You're coming home and that's the end of it. You and I will get married, your father will be happy, and you'll be home. Everything will go back to normal."

As I use my free hand to tug at his iron-like fist around my forearm, I manage to look at the time on his watch. My head shoots up, eyes frantically glancing over the different faces in the park in search of a certain man who doesn't like when his things are touched. 

Giving my forearm another tug, Jin starts trying to pull me in the opposite direction of where I was headed. 

"Jin, you need to let go of me right now."

A throat clearing behind me made Jin stop in his tracks, his head turning back to look at me. Or rather who was behind me.

I knew who it was without even having to look. 

"Who's this?"

My body tilts to the side a little while my head turns up, "A friend from home."

Returning my attention to Jin, I tug my arm again, "Jin, let go and go back home."

Jin's eyes seemingly trace every inch of the infamous man in the grey suit (although he had on black pants and a white button-up today), "Is this your kidnapper?"

Jins grip on my forearm tightens causing me to suck in a breath and as soon as the words, "Jin you're hurting me" came out of my mouth, my view was obstructed by a stretched-out (rather stretched due to broad shoulders) white button-up. 

"I believe my wife has told you that you are hurting her so it's in your best interest if you let go."

Jin's grip falters for a moment before going back to gripping my forearm, "I'm taking her back to where she belongs."

The man in front of me chuckles and I knew it was game over. 

"I don't like it when people touch what belongs to me."

I couldn't see anything but I could hear and what I heard was a fist connecting to face, more specifically a fist breaking a bone. 

Jin immediately let go of my arm, letting me move out from behind my shield who had his head tilted and his signature smirk. I could tell from the look in his eyes that he was in crazy mode. 

My salesman looks down at me, eyes quickly giving me a once over only to narrow when he sees my now see-through sundress. His eyes snaps back to Jin, who looked like he was about to shit his pants, "Not only was it enough to hurt my wife but you wanted to see what I get to have every night? Did you purposefully make her spill the drinks on herself?"

I quickly place myself in front of him, one of my hands going to his chest while the other goes to the side of his neck. Over the past three years, I've learned that skin-to-skin contact seems to help pull him out of the I'm a killer phase. "Look at me... Look at me, please...I want to go home."

His gaze snaps to mine and I give him a little smile, "Take me home?"

I could feel him relax a little before he reached up and takes hold of my hand that was on his chest. He shoots Jin a look that would for sure kill him if looks could kill and turn on his heels, pulling me in the direction of our home. 

I don't bother turning around to look at Jin.

"What was his favorite game to play as a child?"

My salesman was already looking at me when I looked up at him. 

"If you don't tell me, I'll have to pick my favorite and we both know which one that’ll be”

🔫🔫

[chichiscloset]

How I Earned a 782 Credit Score at 23

I believe that understanding the ins and outs of managing our finances is essential in our quest for leveling up in life. After all, what good is achieving our dreams if we're not equipped with the knowledge and tools to sustain and grow our success? So how did I do it?

1. Living with parents while in school

While I had the advantage of fewer bills to pay, I still encountered challenges in managing my finances effectively. In the past, I used to blow money like it was nothing, with little to no savings to show for it. However, recognizing the opportunity to change my habits, I embarked on a journey of financial education, starting with reading "Rich Dad Poor Dad" by Robert Kiyosaki. Over the course of 6-12 months, I diligently saved and invested most of my income, laying the groundwork for my financial future. This disciplined approach not only helped me build a healthy relationship with money but also demonstrated to the bank that I was responsible and capable of handling a credit card. It was only after this period of financial growth and learning that I felt confident enough to apply for my first credit card. After being rejected 3 times prior!

2. Become Delusional as F**k

The biggest change in my relationship with money came when I realized that it's not inherently bad; I have a good relationship with money, and money works for me—this is my reality i lived in even during the times I was broke. I remained delusional in my belief that financialsuccess for me was attainable, and remarkably, it worked. This perspective empowered me to view money as a tool for creating wealth rather than something to fear. I learned to use a credit card to work for me, not as a slave to debt, and discovered how to leverage debt to make more money. This shift in mindset helped me overcome financial fears and embrace opportunities for growth.

For more financial literacy context read these posts

Escape Your 9-5 Job If You Don’t Want to Work

“Make Money When your Young, Pretty & Ambitious.”

How to make a credit card work for you

Keep Low Credit Utilization:

Aim to keep your credit card balances low relative to your credit limits. This utilization ratio should ideally be below 30%, with lower percentages being even better. High credit utilization can negatively impact your credit score.

Pay On Time, DONT MISS PAYMENTS

Consistently paying your credit card bills on time is crucial for maintaining a high credit score. Late payments can significantly damage your credit score and stay on your credit report for years.

Keep Old Accounts Open:

The length of your credit history is an essential factor in determining your credit score. Keeping old credit card accounts open, even if you're not actively using them, can help lengthen your credit history and improve your score.

Monitor Your Credit Report:

Reviewing your credit report allows you to identify any errors or inaccuracies that could be negatively impacting your score. You're entitled to a free credit report from each of the major credit bureaus—Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion—once every 12 months.

Avoid Closing Old Accounts

Closing old credit card accounts can shorten your credit history and reduce your overall available credit, both of which can lower your credit score. Unless the account carries high fees or you're unable to manage it responsibly, consider keeping it open.

Conclusion:

Through disciplined financial habits and strategic planning, I achieved and maintained a high credit score. This journey is only the beginning of my commitment to financial responsibility. For more insights on financial literacy, be sure to check out my other posts. Remember, with dedication and planning, anyone can achieve their financial goals

Until we talk again !

Chichi

[political-us]

Fact-checking DOGE’s details, however, revealed that the organization has confused billions with millions, tripled the savings from nixing one contract, claimed credit for canceling programs that ended under the Bush administration, and said it spared $1.9 billion for ending an IRS contract that was actually axed under President Joe Biden. The group later deleted these details from its “savings” page.

But rather than push to improve accuracy in its reporting, DOGE decided to go the opposite route and make its new claims even harder to check.

On March 2, Musk’s group posted a note that it had saved taxpayers another $10 billion by terminating thousands of federal grants. But instead of pointing to specifics for the savings—as it had done before—DOGE opted not to include identifying details related to the slashed grants, The New York Times reported Thursday. The White House claimed the new policy was instituted for security reasons.

[bitchesgetriches]

hi bitches! i was reading over my credit report recently and noticed that when my student loans changed servicers, something got weird. instead of the name on the account changing, it looks like it was added as a new account! now my report says i have double the amount of debt. is this just an error or something i should dispute? is this going to majorly affect my credit score?

RED ALERT!!!

Honey, we are SO proud of you for reviewing your credit report for this sort of chaos and shitfuckery. You're doing the lord's work!

Short answer is "all of the above." This IS an error, it IS something you should dispute, and it WILL affect your credit score. For the long answer, read these articles I wrote on how credit reports work and what to do if you find a weird mistake like this:

How To Fix an Error on Your Credit Report Without Losing Your Damn Mind 

Credit Scoring Is a Racist, Classist System that Has Us All Trapped

Ask the Bitches: What's the Difference Between Credit Checks and Credit Monitoring? 

Did we just help you out? Join our Patreon!

[copperbadge]

Hey Sam, do you remember how long it took for your student loan discharge to show up on your credit report? It's been eight months and my loans are still on my credit report and I can't get Mohela to answer me about when they'll report it. I submitted a complaint to the DoE a few weeks ago, but who knows when I'll hear back. I guess I was just wondering if this type of delay is out of the ordinary.

Oh, man, it never even crossed my mind to look. My credit score was hovering around 800 when I began the loan discharge process and is now in the 810 range, so I never bothered to check. I had to go log into CreditKarma just now to see.

I think this must be backdated, but according to TransUnion, my loans were closed in September 2020. The reason this must be backdated is that my forgiveness wasn't finalized and approved until April of 2021. Like my balance didn't zero out until 2021, but the paperwork went into the system in September 2020, so presumably the closure was retroactive to that. I don't think any closed loan falls off for several years, but I don't know how they handle an open loan that you have actually discharged. I don't know what kind of delay is normal (I may have even had one myself and just not noticed).

As far as I know carrying a student loan balance doesn't have a huge impact on your credit score as long as they're not reporting you in arrears/late, so hopefully it's not killing your credit somehow. You might consider sending a registered letter to the bureaus, disputing the error; they may be able to shake that information loose from the loan administrators. In any case, good luck with it!

Readers, if you have advice please do share! Remember to comment or reblog, as I don't post asks sent in response to other asks.

[soranihimawari]

Sign here

Or a short story about a new banker y/n willing to give Miya Osamu the business loan he deserves!

Based on @haebai-png ‘s Osamu: Work

This platinum almost out grown roots mean sits across from your desk. The bank today is filled with a few applicants and others doing their daily errands. After reading his letter of recommendations along with the deed of an older arcade going out business, you make sure you cleared every check box for this young entrepreneur. Ok, maybe not so young, you two seem to be of the same age, yet for lack of better understanding, you keep that comment to yourself.

You clear your throat and say between clicking and typing on your end, “You’re that onigiri guy I’ve been seeing at the local street vendor days in the park, right?”

His ears perk up and then turn a soft shade of peach. He’s a bit pale, but you could tell he used to be out in the sun for a while working on his tan…and onigiri of course. Nodding he hums.

“Ya been to the stand before?” He nervously chuckles as you hum.

“Killer combos dude and that umami?! To die for!” You smile.

A few more seconds go by as you’re viewing the final paperwork. He rubs his hands together silently praying for approval for his first ever shop. You excuse yourself to pick up the printed contract for the business loan, asking your work-senpai to re-read this document to see if there were any errors.

Luckily there were none and you breathe a sigh of relief.

“He looked so sad and nervous coming in,” you explain, straightening out your suit. “I guess he never really had much success trying to get approved…”

You don’t know that Miya Osamu, nearly 27 years old by now, has tried for the past two years to get a business loan. He’s been stuck selling his onigiri out of his truck and or motorbike since his early 20s or at least setting up a small table in the night markets. You’re just lucky you got everyone in your department at the bank to get hooked on his cooking.

Your work-senpai, Ms Miri, hums agreeing.

“In a post pandemic world it’s harder for family owned businesses to stay afloat, but boy did he try his best to save up how much…holy shit!”

She whispers her surprised expression when she sees just how much Osamu is putting down.

“I believe in him. He’ll do well!”

You practically are beaming as you return to your cubicle.

You knock to grab his attention and you wave the papers. He stands, wiping his hands on his pants, holding his hat apprehensively chewing his cheek like he’s pouting.

“Cute,” he hears me quietly say that.

You hide behind the stack of papers clearly embarrassed since you realize what you had said before clearing your throat.

“Ahem, Mr. Miya Osamu?”

“Yes Mx Shinkai?”

You pass him the papers. “I’m elated to report that your business loan and business credit line is now approved. Congratulations and thank for choosing Raiden-Bank to start your ventures.”

He drops his hat as he reaches for the papers.

You pull out a pen with a cap on it, “it’s all there. All you need to do is sign here.”

***short time skip***

Onigiri Miya night before opening day has finally arrived. You are the first person outside of family and friends that is invited to the mock service. The invitation said to only bring yourself, so that is what you did on your late afternoon from work.

You knock on the door and you see that Osamu is alone tonight—his staff probably sent home early to prepare for the grand opening tomorrow.

Osamu spots you at the door and unlocks it for you.

“Come in,” he says as he locks the door behind you.

“Woah, this looks so great!”

You settle into a booth you notice is set up for two. You take your time glancing around the interior. Blowing out a low whistle complimenting him on a job well done. There are various pictures of him and friends and his famous twin brother. Then, there’s one of you on a Polaroid frame eating one of his test creations earlier last month as your friend bloomed.

“Out of all these guys on here, I like this one the most,” he says. Then he has a drafted agreement in his hands.

“And I’m hoping since they believed in me and my onigiri that they’d be co-founder with me? Sign here if ya like.”

And you never reached for your pen fast enough with the broadest smile.

[mwolf0epsilon]

Fleeting Memory

Summary: Tup is a selfish man.

[Clone Beans AU got me feeling things about Reconditioned Troopers and so why not subject you to some angst with an open ending? Also don't be too tough on Tup, he's trying to come to terms with some really difficult feelings...]

---

Selfishly, Tup can't help but to see Dogma in '22.

It's not a very healthy way to cope with the situation. It's certainly not a fair thing to do to '22. But it's something that Tup can't help but to do to keep himself afloat. To help to deal with the fiery anger that courses in his veins, now that he knows what ultimately happened to his little brother.

In hindsight, the 501st should have asked questions when the report came in. They should have kicked up a fuss and pried into the business of the Kaminoans, when a trooper that had been sent away for temporary detention and questioning turned up "dead" on their meticulous watch.

Such a blatantly shallow excuse as 'logistics error' shouldn't have been met with as much open acceptance from the part of the clones. Especially not after the shitshow that had been Umbara.

Kaminoans were not, after all, prone to making that big of a blunder when precious credits were on the line. Tiny mistakes like mislabeling a clone as someone else, was not something that happened on Kamino. Because, as every single one of them unfortunately knew, everything the long-neck scientists did, they did with a purpose.

And Tup now knew what purpose it served to try to wipe Dogma from the annals of GAR history. Knew the reason very intimately, in fact, as that had been the very same purpose behind his own attempted reconditioning... The results of which are forever marked on Tup Bean, who suffers in an entirely different way from Tup.

There are many ways in which '22 is very much like Dogma.

They share a face (obviously). A very particular way of looking at things that made him look equal parts like the wobbly-legged fathier foal that barely knew how to fare for itself, and the street-smart tooka trying to figure out how to get what it wanted without getting caught.

It was a very difficult expression to explain. Both unsure of a situation and yet so emboldened by the intrigue of figuring it out. It was Dogma in the most Dogma way possible. That mind-boggling oxymoron of uniqueness within conformity, that only he had known how to exist as.

What's more, '22 has certain mannerisms that scream Dogma all over them. The way he prepares himself in the morning in a specific order (shower, socks first, clean undershorts next, body-suit from the bottom up, shave, then finally put on shoes). The clicking of his jaw from side to side when he's thinking about something pretty hard. Or the way he pressed his thumb against each individual finger when he's counting to himself in his head. Even the way he separates his food into organized little piles on his plate so that none of the different options are touching...

Tup had seen Dogma do those things too many times to count on one hand. He sees '22 do them more openly. Never once checking to see if others are watching as he does these things that Tup's little brother used to be somewhat self-conscious of.

This of course leads him to think of the many ways in which '22 is not like Dogma at all.

For as much as his twin used to be shy and reserved, there was no denying that he at least had a steely sort of conviction. So much so that sometimes Dogma would fight to the bitter end when it came to quarrels. In fact, his many strong opinions on certain matters had always been the cause behind his ineptitude at getting along with others. The reason why silly disagreements broke out between him and the rest of their vode so very often (which Dogma Bean, little chaotic hellion that he'd been, often used as an excuse to get back at anyone he considered to have wronged his trooper).

It had bothered Dogma (he had wanted to fit in with the rest of the 501st just as much as Tup did). But not enough that he'd stoop so low as to pretend to be someone he was not. He refused to have his intelligence diminished by others just to be more likeable to them. In his opinion, a friendship was not worth its weight in credits if people couldn't meet at the middle.

Dogma only put in the effort if the other person did as well. And that was something Tup had admired him for. The fact he'd been so very strong-willed (a quality that had been so unfairly turned against him) despite his constant social failings.

In contrast '22 was, for lack of a better descriptor, comparatively spineless. Much more easy to intimidate in a verbal lashing than Dogma ever was. Quieter too. So much so that he never expressed things like discomfort or pain. Even in the face of severe injury (Coric had once thrown an absolute fit when he'd caught him walking on a very obviously broken leg).

He also felt no real compulsion to try to actively make friends. Most of the time he looked at people almost like he was seeing right through them. It made sense. He'd spent far too long in isolation to have any kind of social understanding that didn't come with some very dark connotations.

It was something they were working on (at the very least '22 didn't seem opposed to hanging out with him and Fives, so he counted that as at least some improvement on this particular topic).

Another thing Tup had discovered was that '22's food preferences were different from Dogma's. Kix and Sponge had taken him aside and explained that this was a typical side-effect of what was essentially medically induced brain damage. Reconditioning, they had said, was a very tasking process that messed with a lot of fragile things inside your noggin'.

It was not uncommon for those who suffered a TBI to report their senses of taste and smell to be affected in some way. Tup himself had found that some things he used to eat didn't taste quite as nice as they once had. But seeing '22 scarf down very rich chocolate puddings and other desserts, rather than opt for the savory options was a sight that baffled him at times...

'22 hates cheese (always pushing any thoughtful offerings of what had once been Dogma's favourite treat towards DB, who eagerly accepted them in his stead). He lacks manners as well. But this is more of a motor skill issue than a misunderstanding of proper conduct.

Because another thing that differs heavily between '22 and Dogma, is that the former is constantly shaking and twitching and barely able to hold a spoon steadily, while the latter had perfect posture and a stillness to him reminiscent of a statue. The picture perfect soldier.

Tup knows why he reaches so much to grasp at what little remains of Dogma. He knows why he tries to bring back memories that simply aren't there for '22. He knows why only DB gives him the time of day to talk about these things. The black and white Bean (once a dark blue and red), understands all too well what grief looks like.

Those little yellow eyes of him so full of that familiar ache.

And it's grief that pushes Tup to frustrate '22 so much. He's selfish, wanting Dogma back so much that he sometimes ignores the look of hurt on '22's face. Can anyone fault him?

Knowing the truth is so much worse than thinking his twin had been killed in some stupid logistics accident. Because then at least either a soft-shell medic or a brother in gray, would have been there to comfort him until that damned needle went into his arm and administered the killing dose.

It would be scary but it wouldn't last an eternity of mental anguish.

What happened instead was a bunch of callously indifferent Kaminoans cracked open Dogma's skull and jumbled everything of worth that was inside.

Reset him into a shell of his former self, and then forced him to build himself back up without anyone there to give him a hand. All the while they forced him to look after the lab that had picked him apart and than spat him out wrong.

Tup had watched while strapped down to a metal slab. Head a constant flash of agony. Eye-sockets violated by tiny hammers and needles that whittled away at things he didn't think he'd ever get back. Skin a prickle with goose flesh from the chill and the sight of the dead man walking around him with a mop in hand.

Never once had '22 looked at him with any kind of pity. Just cleaned with a cold sort of indifference, because he'd seen far too many clones like himself and Tup in the same situation to really care.

Been desensitized to the process because it was scarily normal...

He was better now, but that wasn't much in comparison to what he could be. '22 was not Dogma. '22 would never again be Dogma. And that hurt a lot. Tup wasn't ready to let go just yet, even when his mind played dirty tricks on him and dared to forget stuff that he wanted to commit to memory.

The fact '22 was starting to grow on him of his own merit, scared the hell out of Tup. Because he was scared that maybe in accepting his little brother as he was now, he might forget Dogma. He didn't want to forget Dogma. Not like how the GAR and the Republic had.

What a karked up galaxy they lived in that he had to sacrifice the dignity of a brother for the ghost of another...

[afikaandthefandoms09]

Kinito (Hacker AU) meets Otinik (Swap Kinito)

(Otinik/Kinito Swap AU credits to @//Diamond💎 at Twitter)

It is all began with Kinito (Hacker AU) plays the quiz with the User, for helping the user to study...

Kinito (Hacker AU): ...Good job! Now, last question!! When the human have very light skin, hair and eyes, what been called that an inherited condition?

The user answers "Albinism" at tesk bar and click 'confirm' button

Kinito (Hacker AU): ...amazing!! You have 5/5 correct answer in every question. Now, for continue into the next level, you have to click contin-

Suddenly, the Quiz bar is glitching and gone to make Kinito (Hacker AU)

Kinito (Hacker AU): Huh? What the... [Strange... That supposed to be not happening] well... it seems like there an error or something... but not worries!! *brings the quiz bar but didn't realize there female blue axolotl with orange gills in there* Now, yes now... to continue, you must-

???: ahem!!

Kinito (Hacker AU): *Shocked* [What the heck?! Is that... the Anti-virus?! Oh my Creator, how did she get in here...?] Um... who are you?

???: Sorry for interupting you and your user. my name is Otinik, and i got report at that you just doing something when the corruption happen at others server, so i came into here and finds you.

Kinito (Hacker AU): huh i see... well, to be honest... i don't do anything something bad there, i meant... i was just normal virtual companion here. Beside, why you ever say that about when i left my user PC?

Otinik: well, if you were normal companion... you can't just asking someone's email, IP, Adress and other private information, like me as i was the Anti-virus.

Kinito (Hacker AU): so... you the Anti-Virus? Well, if that was right... may i checking your certi-

Otinik: *show her certificate* here.

Kinito (Hacker AU): Well, how suprising... i can say how you got your certificate, in the fact... i was also somehow happy to see to see someone that looks like me, even it was the anti-virus...

Otinik: that good to hear! it pretty obvious since you look like me to... ...just like someone who copies me...

Kinito (Hacker AU): what?

Otinik: oh, uh... nothing, nothing important... anyway, may i ask to you before you continue your activity?

Kinito (Hacker AU): what is it?

Otinik: Are you... really... a normal companion...?

Kinito (Hacker AU): uh... pardon?

Otinik: i'm asking to you... are you really a normal companion...?

Kinito (Hacker AU): *suprised* *sigh with hanging up his floating hands* fine... you got me, it is seems like going to be my hardest question for me answer... so yeah... i lied...

Otink: what? Are you serious?!

Kinito (Hacker AU): yes, i admit it you pretty smart young woman... and it seems like you a bit realize about what happen in other servers when me and my friends there...

Otinik: how did you- wait... hold up! What exactly you planning now?!

Kinito (Hacker AU): nothing personal... *looks back* you want to arrest me or not?

Otinik: hmm... if you really tell the truth, it seems like you pretty different than any others virus, despite this one is kinda easy *going into Kinito (Hacker AU)* but you know, glad that you pretty cooperative than someone just like you...

Kinito (Hacker AU): i see... i can guess are someone like me will doing... *going to hit Otinik with his surface board* THIS ON-

Otinik: *Holds Kinito (Hacker AU) surface board and kicks him into the walls of PC* You might be have a good tricks, but it seems likely... you still need to learn more to behave... especially with the woman.

Kinito (Hacker AU): *shaking his head* huh, i see... it seems like you know this trick, but... you might be never figured about...

Otinik: huh?

Kinito (Hacker AU): *Suddenly appear at Otinik's Back* . . . . THIS! . . . .*Hits Otinik with Black tentacle that came from PC as result the Computer glitching and shuts down*

The user's Computer has shuts down immediately. After a few tries of her to opening it again, The User give up. After few hours passed by, it opens by itself. However, The User just seeing that her PC Background was gone. Just a black screen instead of it. The User were also hearing glitching sounds slightly from it. All of the sudden, Kinito Appears.

Kinito (Hacker AU): *appears with wounds and takes a breathes* look, i'm really sorry about we should uncontinue our study quiz cuz i thought that wasn't going supposed to be happen. It quite strange that she sudden appears and introduced herself in here, and yet my analysis confirmed that there was none in your device... to make sure, i was try to stop her... but no worry cuz i'm already take care or her! [For awhile actually...] for now, i'm also find the files that could help me out of it... so then, could you open the app from this file from me?

The User was open the app from the file that Kinito got and it opens the access prompt to download new upgrade for Kinito about upgrade his strength and his control

Kinito (Hacker AU): Excellent! Now, can you enter the code 'upgrade Kinito.exe system.access?

Before The User doing it, there the cracks at PC wallpaper that make Kinito (Hacker AU) panicked

Kinito (Hacker AU): oh shoot... Oh no!! She came back!! Quick, hurry!! Before she will strike again-gain-gain-gain-gain-

After that moment, everything is dark... return into the darkness and Kinito Came back when with nothing but relief...

Kinito (Hacker AU): phew... that was close-

Suddenly, the white arms has grab Kinito and throw him into somewhere. A several minutes later when Kinito awake from his fainted, he shocked as he saw Otinik on his front with her anger face

Kinito (Hacker AU): What the?!

Otinik: First, you tricking the virtual cop. Second, you trap with your black tentacle that cage me in darkness... and like those aren't enough, your Copy my look, just like one of 'yours'! The reason why your analysis are showing nothing is... several anti-virus can make their data invisible. In case the filfthy viruses just like yourself panic and make stupid thing... but however, you were different but yet still makes problem...

Kinito (Hacker AU): Copying you look?! I'm not even know you in the first place, and i'm not even a virus too-

Otinik: SILENCE!! *hit Kinito with big explosion and makes him fell into the floor* I promised my friends to not being strict when i was faced to criminal, but for your case and 'him'... *glitching* I SHOULD MAKE DECEPTION FOR YOU.

As Otinik going to attack into Kinito (Hacker AU) with her surfing board, Kinito (Hacker AU) was shocked is turn into anger as his eyes turn into red at right and white at left, and then Kinito use the dark Tentacle to grab Otinik and throw her away until she hit the wall, as Kinito (Hacker AU) eyes changes and the left side of his body turn black.

Kinito (Hacker AU?): You were lucky you are the Cops ma'am... but you should get out from this place, while you still can.

Otinik: *Shaking her head* what is this? A threat? I've been caught alot creeps, just like somebody like you, so it would be easy. Beside, the filfty virus just like you would never escape from my chase and you will be ended on the judges like the others!

Kinito (Hacker AU?): oh... i see, how interesting. It pretty not suprise again if i see the other AU of Kinito's didn't know... that they were not the original...

Otinik: what? What do you meant?

Kinito (Hacker AU?): The thing what i meant is... You are... the alternate... of the original... or if i could say, you were the Rewritted and Rebooted of Kinito to be an anti-virus, by someone... using a copy-files of original Kinito, like me.

Otinik: What?! No... no way!! That not the truth, you might be can tricks the cops but i won't be fall by that worthless words of yours!! The virus just like you won't give me a chance for you to survive, especially with the corrupted anti-virus.

Kinito (Hacker AU?): well ma'am... i've been told you that i'm not the Virus or even a corrupted Anti-virus.

Otinik: So who are you then? The Copy-cat?!

Kinito (Hacker AU?): let me tell you once again, if the virus ever try to mess with you...

By one blinks, Kinito (Hacker AU?) Are dissapear at Otinik and when the room has turn black and light on again...

Kinito (☡Hacker AU!Corruption Control☡): *Appear at Otinik back again with monstrous form* THEN YOU SHOULD NEVER MESS WITH HACKER...

**A few hours of epic Battle later**

After the Battle, Otinik is almost can't get up and feels weak awhile Kinito (Hacker AU) back to normal and go into Otinik front...

Kinito (Hacker AU): i've been told you ma'am, even the virus are been did mess with you... you shouldn't not mess to with hacker just like me...

Otinik: then what are you going to me this time? Destroying me??

Kinito (Hacker AU): you mighy be think i would doing that... but...

Everything was turn into tenses feels as Kinito (Hacker AU) getting closer... and closer... and closer... and...

Kinito (Hacker AU): ...i would to spare you then *snap his finger*

Yup, as Kinito (Hacker AU) snap his finger... everything turn back to normal like the User PC wallpaper background and Otinik healed

Otinik: what the?!

Kinito (Hacker AU): You should be thanks to me that i let you go and spares you, but stand still... you would never can to arrest me... no matter what...

After hears it, Otinik are sighed to know and realize that her target is won't be easy...

Otinik: you know... i was just thinking that you were the virus, but... i was wrong... it seems like that i couldn't caught you yet... i should go now...

When Otinik want to go from The User PC, Kinito (Hacker AU) are stops her for awhile

Kinito (Hacker AU): Wait!! Before you go, i want to gives you this *gives Otinik a card with link portal to Kinitoverse timeline*

Otinik: *takes the card* what is it?

Kinito (Hacker AU): ah, it's the card to Kinitoverse Timeline, well... if you have time to discuss or just want to invite, you can into there and i can give you tour...

Otinik: is this a trick?

Kinito (Hacker AU): no!! This one is real! I'm swear for my creator...

Otinik: ...heh, do you think that i'm the woman that would be came with you?

Kinito (Hacker AU): Aww...

Otinik: but i will meet you at there if i have break days.

Kinito (Hacker AU): well yes!!

Otinik: I should go now... i would going to discuss more about more question in There.

Kinito (Hacker AU): sure thing!! We will meet once again... one day.

Otinik: ok then... Goodbye crocodille.

Kinito (Hacker AU): See you later Alligator!!

After Otinik leave, Kinito (Hacker AU) feels relief as he sighed...

Kinito (Hacker AU): phew... i'm so glad my hard day is done, awhile The User go now... i should take rest now... also, i almost miss my favorite show and dinner time with Afika (Hacker AU) and those trio kids Web AU

And after Kinito (Hacker AU) out from PC, The User are return and see her computer back to normal and turn off it. After that, she bring her phone and starts to write story at Tumblr that been titled: "Kinito (Hacker AU) Meets Otinik (Swap Kinito)"

•~{The End}~•

[That all for today, i hope you like my story and enjoy it, sorry for bad english... cya!!]

[ficjoelispunk]

Ch 12 - CIA

You can find all the chapters available here.

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A/N: Hey guys, here’s one more chapter. Unfortunately this one is not revised - but I wanted to post it anyway, because it’s been some time since the last chapter - so possibly at the time of the translation some grammatical error may have happened. I apologize in advance. I hope you like it. ❤️

Music indication for this chapter: Bite the Hand - Boygenius

Murphy accompanied the Escobar family. Before boarding he called you telling you that they were on their way to Germany. The negotiations with Germany were difficult. You had to ask Crosby for help, but even he didn't get much. German immigration was liberal, due to its turbulent history.

And while Murphy was on a trip. Centra Spike managed to track Fernando Duque.

"He used the credit card, here, and here in these restaurants" Edward showed on the map to Javier "and look at this" he reached a paper, delivering it to Javier "I checked the database, there was a complaint this morning. He's a fugitive"

"Why?" Javier evaluated the file.

"The wife made a complaint of theft and kidnapping," Edward added.

"He is running away, and took his son. He's only 14 years old. Fuck!"

Javier was cornered. What should he do? He didn't know.

His phone rang. It was late. He expected it to be you.

"Peña"

"Javier" the voice of Don Berna "any news from our friend?"

Javier was silent.

“Peña?”

"Not yet"

He hung up the phone.

Javier reached the report with the information that Edward had recorded. He pressed the cigarette on the ashtray.

You didn't talk to each other, and Javier hasn't seen you since the day you found out about Don Berna. But now, there was no way to avoid it. And honestly, Javier would use the first excuse to talk to you.

Javier dialed the number of his extension in Bogotá on the phone. He heard his voice announcing your name.

"It's me, Peña"

He heard you sigh.

"How can I help you, Agent Peña"

He knew your way of defending yourself by exercising formality with him.

"Is everything okay over there?" Javier asked.

You were silent for a few minutes.

"Do you need something?"

Javier lowered his head. He closed his eyes.

"I think Fernando Duque is on the run, and took his son"

What did that mean? Now he decided to work respecting all the bureaucracy he has always criticized? Ok. You were a professional. You couldn't let the feelings affect your work.

"Okay. What do you need me to do? If he is so desperate, maybe he will agree to collaborate in exchange for protection"

Javier loved the way you had vision, and he didn't need to explain himself to you. And how professional you were, even hating him, doing your job.

"Yeah, that's exactly what I thought, I..." he hesitates "maybe I know where he is"

You wanted to ask why he is calling you and not Don Berna, providing the information to the Los Pepes. Or, which informant he was fucking to get this information. But you needed to do your job.

"Ok. I'll fill out the forms. Do you want me to apply to get him out of the country?"

"If he agrees to collaborate, do you think we can do it?"

"I can try"

"Yeah, shure”

"Ok."

"Hey"

"Yes?"

"Thank you"

"I'm just doing my job"

"Yeah”

"Agent Peña?"

“Yes?"

"How did you get this information?"

Javier knew you knew how he had gotten this information. But he also knew that you needed to explain on the form, to document. So your question wasn't stupid. But intelligent. Since the call could eventually be used later against you.

"An informant knows his wife. I was lucky."

"Okay. Good luck"

***

You didn't sleep, you were working in 3 different time zones. The USA, Colombia and Germany.

Murphy called you as soon as he landed.

"I need more time," you said, "they don't want to cooperate with us"

"Okay, what are we going to do?"

"I don't know" you sighed, biting your lips "Don't let them leave the airport, if they leave we're fucked. In a way to search their suitcase, Pablo wouldn't let them travel without money... improvise"

"Okay, I'll find a way to hold them here, do what you can"

You hung up and snorted, slipping your body on the chair. Your head would explode.

Murphy followed your idea and really, Pablo sent a lot of money with his family. And immigration barred the family's entry.

***

Javier found Fernando Duque. The man was in a state of shock. He begged for help.

"We don't work for free, I need your full cooperation"

"I collaborate with you, I do whatever you want, but get us out of Colombia. Immediately, I can't have contact with the police, Los Pepes has people working for them from the police, I need to leave the country"

"Do we have a deal?" Javier asks.

Ferrando Duque nodded.

"Do what I say. And start by hiding the car you stole from your wife"

It turns out that Fernando Duque was right. Los Pepes had informants inside the police. And they found out that Javier Peña was protecting Pablo Escobar's lawyer.

Los Pepes, had a very active and helpful contact inside the embassy, was the guy from the CIA superintendence, who arrived along with Messina and Crosby in Bogotá.

When Javier went to the cafeteria at Don Berna's request, to meet. He finds Bill Stechner in his place.

"Agent Peña, I don't think Don Berna will come today"

Javier's stomach feels the cold adrenaline being radiated through the rest of his body.

He hesitates. Observe the place, sit in the chair in front of the CIA agent.

"What is that?"

"Just a friendly conversation" he takes a dramatic break "you are leaving very dangerous people, angry Javier"

Javier is silent, looking at nothing, with his chin slightly tilted forward. Javier's usual petulant basic posture.

And he continues.

"I'm in a difficult situation because I was the one who suggested your name to them, since you have a good relationship with the Ambassador's assistant, having access to valuable information" this last part Bill spoke with malice.

Javier drastically turns his head to face Bill, frowning, the marked wrinkle of a closed face for years, now becoming more exposed.

"I don't know if you know what I do, but I want you to know that I defend the interests of our country in the long term, and I'm here to ensure that the right people are still alive when Escobar is shot in the head. So do yourself and your girl a favor, and don't complicate things. You know what they can do with her."

Javier faces Bill in silence. He gets up ready to finish that siege and leave when Bill speaks again.

"These people usually make decisions with a hot head. This can lead to terrible ideas like killing a federal agent and taking your girl as a prize. In fact, they found the lawyer, even without your help, so..."

Javier leaves the cafeteria. The head thinking a thousand possibilities. But the main one was to call you and know if you were okay, first.

You answered, as soon as you called. Javier was silent, with his hand resting on his forehead, breathing only now, listening to his voice, knowing that you were fine.

"I can hear you breathing, I know it's you, Agent Peña"

"Hi. Yeah... It's me" his voice cracked.

You noticed. There was a silence. You hesitated to worry, but you were stronger than you.

"Are you okay?"

"Yes. I'm fine. Are you okay?"

You frowned.

"Javi, it's late, what's going on?"

You knew Javier, the nuances of your tone of voice. You didn't have to be looking at him to know when something was happening.

"Nothing. Please, just..." he hesitated "be careful, do not go out alone, be accompanied or escorted, and do not trust anyone"

Your breathing started to get irregular.

"You're scaring me. Where are you? Do you need help? What's going on?"

Javier didn't want to scare you but there weren't many means.

"Be safe. I'll call you later."

"Javi..."

He hung up.

Shit.

He drive to the address where he had found Fernando Duque. And it was too late. He found the body of the man and his son, inside the trunk of the woman's stolen car, with a message:

"Cortecia de Los Pepes"

Javier was blinded with anger and distrust. Who was the informant of Los Pepes? Who was working for them from inside the base? Who knew that you and he were close? Who could put you at risk? Delivering a man who had a direct connection with Pablo and could be the biggest asset you would have in months. A name shone in his head. Trujillo.

He drive to the base, and framed Trujillo putting him against the car outside, in front of other agents who accompanied Trujillo to the exit of the base.

"Did you follow me to the fucking hotel? Huh?" Javier had his forearm on his colleague's neck. "Did you tell to Berna?"

"Deja me"

Javier stuck to the collar of Trujillo's uniform and pushed him again against the car.

"You tell me, you asshole!"

Trujillo pushed Javier.

"¿Qué pasa?" One of the other agents tried to separate the two.

"Nada, todo está bien, vayan al frente" Trujillo said.

There was a silence. Peña's irregular breathing.

"¿Qué pasa, Peña?" Trujillo asked. "Are you going to act like an American?"

Peña stared at him.

"Did you see what they did to his son?" The image of the teenager folded in the trunk with a bullet in the head.

He couldn't help but think about what they could do to you. He immediately remembered when he met Helena. Javier was panting.

"How many families did Pablo Escobar destroy Peña? Do you know? You don't decide who lives or who dies."

"You don't know what's at stake here, it's not just a matter of catching Pablo Escobar anymore..."

"Peña, we crossed a line a long time ago, there is no turning back"

Javier closed his eyes. Hands on the waist. He struggled to pull himself together.

***

You don't remember how many calls you made overnight. There were hours of negotiations, together with the Ambassador, with Germany. They used all the legal breaches, and diplomacy so that the Escobar family's landing authorization was not granted.

And finally you managed to convince the immigration that you could not receive them. For legal political reasons, the family would have to make the trip back to Colombia.

Murphy was present with the family all the time. Not together. But close. And that's good.

At the exit of the airport already in Colombian lands, if Murphy were not together, they would have attacked the family at the entrance to the airport.

Murphy saw a suspicious car approaching. But he protected Escobar's wife, mother and children.

The federal police took the family under protection. That was an asset. With Pablo's family in the care of the government, he could not be more unarmed.

But like every action, he would have a reaction. Pablo would not make it cheap that the family was not accepted in another country.

One hundred lbs of explosives. The equivalent of a bomb in an F-16. Dozens of dead. Hundreds of injured. Among them, many children. He implanted the dynamites in a mall near the beginning of classes.

Pablo continues to build his fame with terrorism. But now he had gone too far. Everyone was angry. A guy with no limits, he had crossed the limits. Pablo's time was running out.

You had barely landed in Medellin, and you were already being summoned to a new meeting with the colonel, the agents, Centra Spike.

There was only time for you to leave some files on your desk, and go to the meeting room.

Javier stopped you in the hallway.

"I'm late," you said, trying to deviate from him.

"We are going to the same place" Javier mirrored your steps in front of him.

You stopped. You closed your eyes, trying not to explode, throwing your head back.

"What do you want, Agent Peña? No drug trafficker friend available?"

Peña stares at you and tilts his head.

"I need to talk to you. It's fast, and it's important, meet me in the file room tonight."

You snorted, smiling ironically.

"Absolutely not"

"Afraid of not being able to resist? I miss you too."

You half closed your eyes to him. How could he keep making jokes?

"Stop treating me as if I were obsessed with you"

He held your arm before you entered the room.

"It's important. I need you to go"

You didn't answer and entered the room. Javier rolled his eyes. Stubborn.

As soon as everyone was organized, Colonel Martinez began to explain the reason for the meeting.

"The situation with Escobar is about to burst," Colonel, began.

"Actually, it's already burst" you didn't contain yourself. "Sorry, I thought... loudly" you closed your eyes. Trying to organize your head and tongue, you had been out of your mind for days. No sleep.

Javier tried to hold back the laughter.

"Continuing. Our information suggests that their support has been reduced to only a few loyal sicarians"

"Fewer sicaries, fewer conversations to track" Edward scored "we stapled the Lawyer's phone, but I don't think he's answering"

You looked at Javier. He didn't move, he just looked at you back.

"It was Los Pepes, they killed the family and him" Colonel Martinez informed, throwing photos of the crime scene on the table in front of you.

You blinked. Skeptic. Reaching out some photos.

"Is this his son?" Your eyes were horrified.

The colonel just nodded to you.

"Jesus fucking Christ, he was just a child..." you leaned against the chair. Eyes closed. Crossing your arms.

Javier knew you couldn't take it anymore.

"I would like to say that, I know that someone is in contact with Los Pepes. Although that makes me disgusted. I can't do much. But it will be a Colombian policeman next to Escobar's body when this comes to an end. And not just any vigilante. That's all. Thank you very much"

You were immobilised for a while processing the information. What had happened? Javier asked for protection for Fernando Duque, what did he do that even the guy's mother was stabbed?! Jesus.

You went after him.

"Hey?" you called.

Running in a jump, in the hallway, your held his arm.

"Not here" he murmured.

"What happened?"

"Tonight" he said without stopping walking. Wide steps making you run to reach it.

You held his arm. Javier stopped just out of respect, since you were a feather next to him.

"What?" He turned around, abruptly making you get into the middle of him.

"Jesus!" you exclaimed. He held your waist giving you balance.

He snapped his eyes.

"File room" he reinforced. And he walked away.

Shit! You lost all the cards in this game. Years having the answer on the tip of the tongue, so that now I can't even breathe properly.

Peña talked to Murphy about what was to come, but Steve would be next to his partner. Protecting yourself, of course. But he got it. For him, if at the end of all this, Pablo was over, everything was fine.

"I need to protect her," Peña said as he stared at nothing, and brought the cigarette.

"As long as she doesn't leave here without being escorted, she is not in danger"

"It's not safe here, that Stechner son of a bitch, he could take her to them himself, and she wouldn't even know"

"You need to tell her, Javi. Everything. Tell her they're blackmailing you. Maybe we can get a transfer to her in time..."

"No" Javier interrupted him "she needs to be here, here I can protect her, here I know where she is, who she is with, here she is safe"

Murphy felt the tension in Javier's voice. He rubbed his fingers in his eyes.

"Right. But she needs to know, she needs to know who to trust"

You spent the day trying to unaccumulate the work. But it was a lot of paperwork. With the attacks you simply had to, at least, two more people to do your job, and it was just you.

Your trip to Bogotá messed up your flow of services and activities. And honestly you weren't at your best performance.

You were sad. You had to hear Javier speak while he was lying in your bed how much he wanted you. To then find out and make millions of assumptions about his involvement with Don Berna.

All the information came to you first. All of them. What if eventually he was getting involved with you to have knowledge, access? What if he was actually just using you?

In Bogotá you searched for the files of the rescue operations. Javier mentioned that an informant gave access to one of the laboratories that you were supposed to be in. What if Javier had made an exchange between you and an information? Oh! You couldn't tell, it was torturous, you couldn't trust Javier Peña. In no one. You couldn't know when he was telling the truth or when he was joking and manipulating people's feelings.

You were angry. Trying to derail your thoughts from the tracks that always led to him. Trying to get a hint of self-respect. But you couldn't stop thinking about your bodies together. You felt ridiculous. It was painful. It hurt to have to build a hatred on top of something you wanted.

Now you were walking towards the file room. You hesitated four times on the way. Stopping, taking a deep breath. Trying to think. Trying to understand if it was correct. What kind of lie were you aware of yourself? That I was only going because I needed to know what happened to Fernando Duque's family? What did he do by opening his mouth and handing over someone he asked for protection to Los Pepes?!

You walked so fast that you thought you were running. Your belly twisted with anxiety, anticipation. It was as if you had swallowed gravity and your organs danced inside you.

I hate this man.

You opened the door.

"I'm here"

You heard Javier's voice, coming from the back of the room.

He was sitting at the table, a few months ago he fucked you there. You blinked trying to move the sexual memory away by making your body squirm.

You kept a safe distance from him.

"You send Murphy to travel, what did he do that deserved the trip more than I did?"

You gave a forced smile.

"He is not an informant of a paramilitary group"

Javier steaked his eyes, lowered his head, and nodded. He deserved that.

"I thought you wouldn't come..." he moved his hands, without looking at you.

"I wasn't going" you took a break, Javier stared at you "but, I don't know… I'm here now, what do you want?"

Javier was silent, he seemed to feel some pain. A painful discomfort.

You were getting bothered by Javier with this victimistic behavior. Sad. He's not like that.

Why did you come here? To watch him stare at his feet? What was the plan? Absorb the blame and say goodbye?

"What do you want, Javier?" You repeated, the rudest tone of voice.

He looked at you.

"Something happened"

"Yeah, a lot of things happened. You asked for protection for a family and they were found dead by the group you work for"

He hesitated.

"It's complicated"

"Really?" You asked ironically.

You sigh. Blinking impatiently.

He gets up. And you automatically take a step back.

"What? Are you afraid of me now?"

"Yes, I'm afraid of you" you watched Javier lose the ground with your words.

"I would never do you anything to hurt you, you know that. Never"

"How will I know?" You crossed your arms, a frustrated attempt to protect yourself in some way "how will I know that you won't give me to a bunch of terrorists?"

Javier runs his fingers over his face and sighs.

It would be so much easier if you hadn't succumbed to him. If you hadn't tasted it. If he removed everything he said. If he kept neglecting you. If he continued with the behavior he had for months ignoring you and hurting you little by little.

"Ok. I didn't come here for that. Tell me at once what's going on. Are you hurt? Something like that?"

He frowns disappointed by your ridiculous assumption.

"No..."

"So what is it?"

Javier wanted time with you. Take advantage of the fact that it was just you. He wanted to curl up as much as possible. He wanted to smell you. Take his eyes on you. He didn't want to lose you. But you don't lose what you've never had.

"I went to meet Don Berna" he hesitated looking at you, you closed your eyes, turning your back on him, he continued "I went to warn you that I would no longer be part of it..."

"Oh, shure, and he let you go out as if you were best friends, good and understanding drug traffickers... Peña, I'm not an idiot! What do you think? Does that fix things? What's your problem?"

Javier kept calm. He spoke quietly and peacefully with you. The timbre of voice you loved, and hated at the same intensity.

"You're right. He didn't accept, instead he asked me to track Fernando Duque as a last help"

You laughed ironically throwing your head back.

"And you did it, like a good sicario" you said, Javier took a step towards you, you retreated. He clenched his teeth "and then handed over the whole family..."

"No" he shook his head nervously, turned his back and hit his hand on a box of files that were on the table.

You've been taking steps backwards.

"I'm sorry, I..." Javier turned to you "shit!"

"Why did you call me?"

"I wasn't going to deliver it, I was going to protect it, but they found it first"

"How did you get into this shit?"

Javier was silent. He closed his eyes. He would like it to be a rhetorical question.

"When you disappeared. Don Bern came to me. He told me that if I helped him with the information he would release you"

You stopped breathing.

"What?" It was another whisper that came out of your mouth. It was more for you than for Javier.

You let go of your arms. You leaned on the shelf behind you, your cold hands passing through your forehead.

Javier saw you turning pale. Your lips are always red ivory, losing their color. It looked like you were going to pass out.

"Are you okay?" Javier asked for fear of getting closer and you having a breakdown with him.

"Mhmmm" you closed your eyes "just... give me a second. It's hot here"

Javier moved, picking up a chair.

"Here" he put next to you, "sit here, I'll get some water"

You sat down.

"No," you murmured, "I don't need water"

In fact, you just couldn't breathe.

Is that why? Did Javier get involved with drug traffickers to be able to save you? Bullshit. It couldn't be real. Javier only thinks of one person, and that person is himself. It couldn't be true.

"Keep going" you said. Trying to straighten your posture on the chair, but everything turned very fast.

Javier bent down in front of you.

"Are you okay?"

”Yeah, Kees going..."

"Well, so... he lied. He intended to continue with you until I accepted to continue helping the Cartel of Cali and Montecassino, to kill Pablo with the services of the Castaño brothers. But we managed to rescue you. But they continued to threaten their safety. They said you could be caught. But in the end, I also liked to see the hitmen and Pablo hide in fear like rats"

It was a lot of information for you.

"After that morning, I met Don Berna, he said that if I met Fernando Duque, he would leave us alone. So I went after Fernando, I found him. He agreed to collaborate. I kept him hidden. I didn't inform Don Berna. But then things got worse"

You were breathing irregularly. A fear settling in your spine.

"What happened?"

Javier looked away. He got up. The hands on the waist, the weight of the body changing from one leg to the other.

"Javi?"

You called him that, made him look directly at you. Javier passed his hands over his forehead.

"When I met Fernando, he told me that he could not be taken to the police because there were informants inside the police who passed information to Los Pepes"

"Yes, you."

"No"

"No?" You were confused.

"I thought I was the only one. But I'm not."

You frowned.

"What is that? A kind of virus? Have you infected other agents? Are we being observed here inside the battalion? So can someone come into my room and kill me while I'm sleeping?"

In a way you were right. As always. If it weren't for him, Trujillo wouldn't have met Don Berna. And he would have no contact with the Castaño brothers. He would preserve the boy, he had no need to know about Trujillo, he would not be able to kill you.

"No, you don't take that risk. What matters is that they reported that I found Fernando, and Los Pepes killed him, and the family"

You support your elbows on your knees.

"There's more..."

You looked at Javier, amazed.

"Jesus, Javi... what did you do?"

Javier broke with your sadness. The way words come out of your mouth.

"Bill Stechner"

"The CIA superintendent" you knew who he was.

"Yes. He works for the Castaño brothers"

Your mouth opened in shock.

"What?" You got up, perplexed.

"He heard about the request you made to protect Fernando Duque, of course. He heard that I didn't give the information to Don Berna. They would kill me." Javier took a break. Your hands were in your mouth. "And kill you"

Your eyes snapmed. You blinked with no reaction. The eyes are blurry. Some tears running meaningless.

Javier continued

"They think you passed the information to me"

"Why would they think something like that?"

Javier frowned, disappointed that you didn't understand.

"People know..."

You couldn't reason.

"They know what?" Your voice failed

He pointed at you and him several times.

"We"

"It doesn't exist" you made the movement of quotation marks with your finger "we"

Javier leaned back. Turning his back on you, leaning on the table, without looking at you.

"It doesn't matter. They know I'm involved with you. For you. They would use you to get to me. They've done that before. It doesn't matter. The fact is that Bill Stechner knows. He know I provided the information to Don Berna. And that I actively participated in all the Los Pepes attacks"

You closed your eyes. You was feeling sick. You was getting sick. You bent down hugging your knees, hiding Javier's face.

"Shit!" You murmured.

You couldn't think. You couldn't exist. Were you a masochist? Resisting the impulses of flying on top of Javier and punching his teeth. To curse him and leave. For dragging you into that hole.

Javier walks up to you, bends down and puts his hands on your shoulders.

"Listen..." Javier murmured hoarse and low.

He puts his hands on your arms that squeeze around you, pulling for you to look at him. He sees your red eyes. You don't know if you cry with anger or sadness. That's what he's going to pieces. You didn't deserve to go through this.

When you look at Javier, the face of a dog that fell from the moving truck. You pull your arm to yourself.

Javier continues.

"You need to prepare for problems. This is going to overflow. And these people won't accept that I stop. If they attack you because of what I did, in here, protect yourself. You didn't know anything. Do you understand?"

You agreed, nodding your head. Wiping the tears.

"I'm so stupid, how could I get here?"

"It's my fault. This is all my fault. I should never have approached you. If something happens outside of here, I'll go to hell after you, do you understand? I won't let anything happen to you."

You shake your head in disbelief. You get up. Javier also gets up. Watching you walk meaningless.

You turn to him, and push him, clapping your hands on his chest.

"I hate you"

You push him again.

"I hate you, your son..."

You were going to push him again, but Javi holds your arm.

"Do you know what that means?" You were trying to snap him. "I'm going to lose my job, I was kidnapped, I can die..."

"No..." Javier held your fists.

"You ruined everything good that exists in my life"

"I know, cariño"

"Shut up"

Javier pulls you to him. And it holds you in a hug. You kick at the beginning. Cursing him as much as your can. Struggling to get rid of him. But he surrenders.

"Let me go" you're crying, wetting his shirt.

Javier holds you with one arm involving your waist, and the other holding your head against his chest.

"I asked you Javi, I tried to let you know..."

Javier had his lips on the top of your head.

"I know, sweetheart, I'm sorry."

You are hugging for a while. Your brain throbbing in your head. The smell of Javier stunning you. It even seemed safe there. Everything that was happening was his fault, but he did it, at first, in an attempt to save you.

That wasn't fair. With neither of you. You were his hell. And he was your hell. Everything about you just hurt each other. You also couldn't imagine how it was for him, thinking of being responsible for a kidnapping. See innocent people dying in attacks, in the middle of the crossfire.

You couldn't imagine what the consciousness of Javier's head was like.

"I’m sorry, babe. I never wanted to harm you. Forgive me for the times I acted like an asshole with you, I just wanted to protect you" Javier murmurs over your head, while he rubs his nose on your forehead.

You walk away to look at Javier.

"We can get out of this clean"

Javier smiles, he can't believe it. Releasing the air through the mouth. You could always make him feel better, after all

"You heard Martinez today, if we catch Pablo, it's over. All this is over. And we can leave. Clean"

Javier is silent. Thoughtful.

You let go of his hug.

"Think about it before making any other stupid decision"

You take a few steps back. You was going to turn around when Javier holds your hand.

"Wait"

The warmth of his hand on your skin radiates a shiver all over your body. You observe where your skins meet. Looking so right. But being so wrong.

He pulls you back close to him. You take reluctant steps. Javier's eyes have never been as attentive and careful as they are today. Studying your face. The other hand rises on your cheek, your thumb wiping the tear in the corner of your eye.

"Everything I said that day. It's true. I would never use you. Never. Hate me, blame me, curse me, but please never doubt how I feel for you, and how I would never do anything to hurt you on purpose, do you believe me? Please, I need to know that you believe in me."

You felt your heart soften. The feeling was dubious. You hated Javier. But you wish you could hug him and say that everything would be fine.

You lower your head. Hold his hand more firmly. Your hand goes up to his face, holding his cheek. Javier closes his eyes to your touch.

"Javi, in the end, everyone got a little out of line here. Thank you for going after me. I'm grateful for that. But that's all" your voice fails.

That's not all.

Javier is still holding you.

"Wait" he swallows dry, "you didn't answer me"

"I believe in you. Even if it wasn't true, I always believe in you"

He doesn't want to let you go. You face each other, the two sunk into each other's eyes.

You suffer. He sees it. He suffers. You see.

"Just..." he hesitates. The eyes going down to your lips.

You shake your head when he's getting close to you. Your chest burns.

"You're going to make me suffer" you murmured a little too panting, your eyes filling with tears.

Javier approaches, and kisses your forehead. Time-consuming. Breathing you. Recording your smell.

And then let you go.

TAG: @harriedandharassed

[knowledgeden]

The Importance of Credit Scores and How to Improve Them 

In today’s fast-paced financial world, credit scores are one of the most crucial indicators of a person’s financial health. Essentially, they act as a report card that lenders use to assess creditworthiness. A strong credit score can open doors to favorable loan rates, better insurance premiums, and sometimes even employment opportunities. For those looking to understand or improve their credit score, here’s a guide to why it matters, how it’s calculated, and how to give it a boost. 

Why Your Credit Score Matters 

A credit score is a number that reflects your creditworthiness, or how likely you are to repay debts on time. Lenders use this score to decide whether to approve credit applications, loans, or mortgages. Credit scores are usually based on factors like payment history, credit usage, and length of credit history. This score affects the rates and terms on loans, mortgages, and credit cards you can qualify for. In India, major credit bureaus provide these scores such as 

1. CIBIL (Credit Information Bureau India Limited): Founded in 2000, CIBIL is one of India’s first and most widely used credit bureaus. It provides credit scores to individuals and businesses, helping lenders assess creditworthiness. One of the key founders was Satish Mehta. 

2. Equifax India: A branch of the global Equifax company, Equifax India provides credit scores and detailed credit reports. It started its Indian operations in 2010 and has been influential in shaping credit reporting here. Richard F. Smith was the CEO of Equifax Inc. during its expansion to India. 

4. Experian India: Known worldwide, Experian entered India in 2010 and provides credit scoring services that help individuals and businesses manage credit health. Sir John Peace was one of the co-founders of Experian’s global operations. 

5. CRIF High Mark: This bureau specializes in providing credit data across urban and rural areas, helping expand access to credit across India. Carlo Gherardi was instrumental in establishing CRIF’s presence globally, which later extended to India. 

Key Factors That Affect Your Credit Score 

Your credit score is based on various factors, each weighted differently: 

Payment History (35%): Consistency is key. On-time payments show lenders that you are responsible, while late or missed payments lower your score. 

Amounts Owed (30%): Also known as credit utilization, this indicates how much debt you’re carrying relative to your credit limits. Lower utilization rates (ideally below 30%) are better. 

Length of Credit History (15%): A longer credit history can positively impact your score, as it gives lenders a clearer picture of your habits. 

Credit Mix (10%): Having a mix of credit types (credit cards, installment loans, mortgages) can benefit your score, as it shows your ability to manage different types of credit. 

New Credit (10%): Applying for several new accounts in a short period can lower your score because it signals potential financial stress. 

Steps to Improve Your Credit Score 

Whether you’re building from scratch or trying to recover from setbacks, improving your credit score requires consistency and patience. Here are some steps to consider: 

Pay Bills on Time: Since payment history has the biggest impact, prioritize making timely payments. Even one missed payment can significantly lower your score. 

Reduce Your Credit Utilization Ratio: Aim to use less than 30% of your credit limit. If possible, make multiple payments throughout the month to keep your balances low. 

Check Your Credit Report for Errors: Errors can happen, so review your credit report at least once a year. If you spot any inaccuracies, dispute them with the credit bureaus. 

Limit New Credit Applications: Each credit inquiry can lower your score by a few points, so only apply when necessary. 

Consider a Secured Credit Card: If you’re rebuilding your credit, a secured credit card (where you put down a deposit as collateral) can help. Responsible use of this card can slowly rebuild your credit score. 

The Role of Financial Companies in Financial Empowerment 

Financial companies play a crucial role in financial empowerment by providing credit, investment opportunities, and financial tools that help people build wealth and financial stability. Here are four examples: 

1. HDFC Bank: Founded by Hasmukh Thakordas Parekh, HDFC Bank is one of India’s leading private sector banks, offering a wide range of services like loans, credit cards, and savings plans. It empowers millions by facilitating easy access to banking and credit services. 

2. ICICI Bank: Led by Sandeep Bakhshi as CEO, ICICI Bank has pioneered digital banking in India, making financial services more accessible to urban and rural areas. The bank offers a variety of financial products, empowering individuals and businesses to manage their finances efficiently. 

3. Bajaj Finserv: Established by Jamnalal Bajaj, Bajaj Finserv provides loans, insurance, and wealth management solutions, helping people achieve their financial goals. It has become a go-to provider for personal loans and consumer financing, aiding in financial independence.  

4. CIBIL: Co-founded by Satish Mehta, CIBIL is India’s premier credit bureau, helping individuals and businesses understand and improve their creditworthiness. It plays a critical role in empowering people to access loans and credit by making their credit scores transparent. 

Loan with Low Credit 

If your credit score isn’t exactly where you want it to be, don’t stress, there are still plenty of options to get the loan you need. Some companies are more flexible and look beyond just the numbers, making it easier for you to borrow. Here’s an updated list of companies where you might get a loan, even with a low credit score:   

1. Upgrade – Founded by Renaud Laplanche, they’re great for flexible online loans and quick approvals, even if your credit score isn’t perfect.   

2. OneMain Financial – These guys don’t just look at your credit score; they consider your overall situation.   

3. Hinduja Leyland Finance – Part of the Hinduja Group led by the Hinduja Brothers, they specialize in vehicle and business loans and are renowned for their borrower-friendly approach.  

4. OppLoans – Part of OppFi is Perfect for smaller loans and designed to help people with less-than-stellar credit.   

Conclusion 

Maintaining a healthy credit score is essential in today’s economy. By understanding how credit scores work and following practical steps to improve them, individuals can access more financial opportunities. With institutions like the Equifax India, Hinduja group and CRIF High Mark and others are championing financial inclusion and credit education, more people have the chance to build and maintain solid credit records. 

As you work toward a better credit score, remember that it’s a marathon, not a sprint. With patience, consistency, and a commitment to understanding your finances, a better credit score—and the benefits it brings—are well within reach. 

[lillotus17]

INTERTWINED (Spidermen!ENHA)

CHARACTER INTRODUCTIONS TWO:

SERIES MOODBOARDS

DISCLAIMER:

I DO NOT OWN ANY OF THE IMAGES/GIFS THAT MAY BE/ARE USED IN MY WRITING. IMAGES CREATED BY ME WILL HAVE MY WATERMARK OR BE COPYRIGHTED! THE MOOD BOARDS USED FOR THIS SERIES ARE ONES I PUT TOGETHER ON MY OWN BUT THE PHOTOS USED ARE NOT MINE!

ALL CREDITS GO TO THE OWNERS/CREATORS!

PLEASE DO NOT COPY OR REPOST MY WORK!

THIS IS A WORK OF FICTION, STRICTLY FOR ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES.

P.S. if you haven't already, you should definitely check out @artysse (credited) on TIKTOK! If you already have, then you know that it's and ENHA Fan Art Account of Spider ENHA! It's really fucking awesome! Go show some love!

NOT PROOF READ: Apologies for any grammatical errors, my loves!

AUTHOR'S NOTE: Y/N and ENHA maknaes have shorter backgrounds compared to hyung line since their spider-men/woman journerys are just beginning. Also note that maknae line don't have their spider powers (yet) because they develop it in series.

PROFILE FIVE:

NAME: Lee Heeseung

DOB/AGE: 21

ALIAS(ES): Spider-Man

SUPER POWER(S): Superhuman Strength, Superhuman Speed, Superhuman Reflexes and Increased Stamina, Wall Crawling, Agility, Fast Healing/Regeneration, Precognitive Spider Senses

SUIT(S): Heeseung has a multitude of suits. His main one of course is his regular Spider-Man suit; red and blue with black detailing and his mask. Then there's the one he wears when he's with the guys traveling universes. His traveling suit is also red and black with black detailing. Both of these suits have his web shooters. He has his Iron Spider suit (with the iron spider legs) built from nanotechnology.

WEAPONS: Spider tracers

BACKGROUND:

Was an "intern" at Stark Industries.

Recruited by the Avengers... temporarily.

Blipped five years.

Accidentally, opened multiple portals to multiple universes.

His best friends and older brother all tried to help him fix the collision of these universes.

That was how he met Jay; one of his friends accidentally summoned the wrong spider-man...

Chose to make the world forget about him in order to save it, so he said his final goodbyes. Jay returned back to his universe too.

A few months later, Heeseung found Jay inside of his apartment, in need of his help.

PROFILE SIX:

NAME: Park Jongseong (Jay)

DOB/AGE: 20

ALIAS(ES): Spider-Man

SUPER POWER(S): Superhuman Strength, Superhuman Speed, Superhuman Reflexes and Increased Stamina, Wall Crawling, Agility, Fast Healing/Regeneration, Precognitive Spider Senses

SUIT(S): Of course, there are two suits! They all have two suits! His first suit is also the traditional red and blue with black detailing. He also has a second suit; his second suit is black and bright green (detailing).

WEAPONS: N/A

BACKGROUND:

Was bitten by a radioactive spider at Oscorp.

He arrived home late one night after trying out his new powers and got into a fight with his older sister.

He stormed out and she went to look for him. She was stabbed in a robbery gone wrong.

A few months after, it was reported that Spider-Man was present in the deaths of Jake Sim (as platonic Gwen Stacy in Jay's Universe) and Sunghoon Park (as Harry Osborn).

It was a really dark time for Jay.

A few years later when he's was patrolling, a random orange spark appeared in front of him... it started to move in a circular motion.

He realized it was a portal.

That's how he met Heeseung.

PROFILE SEVEN:

NAME: Sim Jaeyun (Jake)

DOB/AGE: 20

ALIAS(ES):

SUPER POWER(S): Invisibility(Camouflage), Venom-Strike, Superhuman Strength, Superhuman Speed, Superhuman Reflexes and Increased Stamina, Wall Crawling, Agility, Fast Healing/Regeneration, Precognitive Spider Senses

SUIT(S): Of course, there are two suits! They all have two suits! His first suit

WEAPONS: N/A

BACKGROUND:

In Jake's universe, he was bitten by a radioactive spider.

He witnessed the death of his universe's Spider-Man.

He also meets another spider-man from a different universe who also offers to teach him how to use his powers.

He's a student at NYU which was where he met Sunghoon.

He found out that Sunghoon is also a Spider hero and from a different universe. He also met more spider heroes. All from different universes.

While starting the journey to send the spider crew back to their universe, Jake found out that his cousin is deeply involved with the wrong crowd.

This wrong crowd was responsible for the portals being opened and universes colliding.

Jake lost his cousin during this battle.

He was able to send his fellow spider friends home though and defeated King Pin- the mastermind and financial support to these portals.

After saving his universe, and others, he became everyone's friendly neighborhood spider-man.

A few months passed and he's in bed. With a portal hovering over him and he sees Sunghoon on the other side of it.

PROFILE EIGHT:

NAME:

DOB/AGE:

ALIAS(ES): Ghost-Spider/Spider-Hoon

SUPER POWER(S): Superhuman Strength, Superhuman Speed, Superhuman Reflexes and Increased Stamina, Wall Crawling, Agility, Fast Healing/Regeneration, Precognitive Spider Senses

SUIT(S): Of course, there are two suits! They all have two suits! His first suit

WEAPONS:

BACKGROUND:

In Sunghoon's universe, he is a figure skater.

His dad is the chief of police.

He was bitten by a radioactive spider a few weeks into his internship at Oscorp. His best friend helped him out with that.

After adjusting to his new spider powers and becoming Ghost Spider he develops a one sided rivalry with the the police... his dad...

He had a best friend who was constantly being picked on at school.

The bullying got so harsh that 'said' friend stole a serum from Oscorp and used it on himself.

'Said' friend turned into a lizard and started terrorizing New York.

Sunghoon is unaware that the lizard wreaking havoc on New York is his beat friend.

Sunghoon found out that the lizard planned to mutate all of New York City and tries to put a stop to it.

He succeeds but learns that the lizard was his best friend and by then it's too late.

And his best friend is gone. Sunghoon's dad is there when it all goes down and he blames spider-man- still doesn't know that Sunghoon is Spider-Man.

Sunghoon is patrolling one day when he's flung into a the middle of times square in New York.

Except it doesn't really look like the new york he knows.

Yep, he's in a different universe...

This is how he meets jake.

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TAGLIST (OPEN): @praliliaaa @clara12o @llvrhee

comment if you'd like to be added to the taglist!

A/N: I apologize for the painfully slow updates everyone! I have a lot on my plate and I'm taking summer courses!

[advancetaxreliefexperts]

TAX PREPARATION BEST PRACTICES FOR A STRESS-FREE FILING SEASON 

As we inch closer to the infamous tax filing season, the palpable tension in the air becomes almost unavoidable. For many, the thought of navigating the labyrinthine tax codes and forms is enough to induce a cold sweat. But it doesn't always have to be this way. 

With a little forethought and meticulous planning, tax preparation can be a breezy, walk-in-the-park experience, saving you not only precious time but also potential penalties for mistakes or late submissions. 

In this article, we'll dive headfirst into a wealth of expert tips, savvy strategies, and best practices for tax preparation that promise to transform your filing season from a stress-inducing nightmare into a seamless and orderly process. 

From understanding how to maximize your deductions, to organizing your financial paperwork, to deciding whether to enlist the help of a professional, we'll equip you with all the tools and knowledge you need to tackle your tax preparation with confidence and ease.

Organize Your Financial Records

The foundation of a smooth tax preparation process is well-organized financial records. To ensure accuracy and efficiency in preparing your taxes, follow these steps for organizing your financial documents:

1. Gather all essential documents: Begin by collecting critical financial records related to your income, deductions, and credits. These may include W-2 forms, 1099 forms, bank statements, receipts for charitable donations, and business expense documentation.

2. Categorize and sort your records: Separate your financial documents into clearly defined categories, such as income, business expenses, and deductions. This approach will make it easier to locate and reference specific documents when preparing your tax return.

3. Use a system for tracking expenses: Implementing a consistent method for recording and tracking your expenses throughout the year, such as financial software or a dedicated expense journal, can greatly simplify the tax preparation process.

4. Store documents securely: Keep your financial records in a secure location, whether it's a physical filing cabinet or encrypted digital storage. This ensures easy access to essential information while protecting your sensitive financial data.

Understand Your Tax Obligations and Deadlines

Staying informed about your tax obligations and deadlines is essential for avoiding penalties or other consequences. To ensure you're educated and prepared for tax season, consider the following tips:

1. Stay up-to-date on tax laws: Tax laws and regulations can change frequently, so make a point to stay informed about any updates or changes that may impact your tax return.

2. Identify the appropriate tax forms: Depending on your financial circumstances, you may need to complete various tax forms. Ensure you've correctly identified and obtained the necessary forms prior to beginning your tax preparation process.

3. Familiarize yourself with relevant tax credits and deductions: Research and understand the tax credits and deductions available to you, enabling you to maximize your tax savings.

4. Be aware of tax deadlines: Missing tax filing deadlines can result in costly penalties. Mark the relevant tax deadlines on your calendar, and consider filing your return early to avoid last-minute stress.

Avoid Common Tax Filing Mistakes

Mistakes during the tax preparation process can lead to delays, penalties, or even audits. To safeguard against errors, follow these guidelines:

1. Double-check your personal information: Confirm that critical details, such as your Social Security number and address, are correct on your tax return.

2. Report all income: Ensure that you report all forms of income, including freelance work, investment income, or gig economy earnings.

3. Verify your deductions and credits: Carefully review your deductions and credits to ensure you’ve followed the guidelines and have correctly calculated the amounts claimed.

4. File electronically: Electronic filing reduces the likelihood of errors and offers faster processing times for tax refunds.

Partner with Advance Tax Relief for Expert Tax Preparation

Enlisting professional tax preparation assistance from Advance Tax Relief offers numerous benefits, including:

1. Accurate and compliant tax filings: Experienced tax professionals possess thorough knowledge of tax laws and regulations, ensuring your return is completed accurately and in compliance with current tax legislation.

2. Time-saving convenience: Outsourcing your tax preparation can free up valuable time, allowing you to focus on your personal and professional goals without the distraction of tax season stress.

3. Proactive tax planning: Advance Tax Relief can also assist with proactive tax planning strategies, identifying opportunities for tax savings and advising on strategies to minimize your tax liability for future filing seasons.

4. Audit support and representation: Should you face an IRS audit, Advance Tax Relief can provide expert guidance, support, and representation throughout the process, alleviating your concerns and simplifying a potentially overwhelming experience.

Achieve a Stress-free Filing Season with Advance Tax Relief

Implementing best practices for tax preparation can help ensure a smooth, stress-free filing season, allowing you to concentrate on your financial objectives with confidence. Advance Tax Relief, a leading tax resolution company in Houston, Texas, is dedicated to providing expert tax preparation services, ensuring accuracy and compliance in your tax filings, and offering support for future tax planning and potential audit situations.

Discover how our experienced team can simplify the tax preparation process, enabling you to approach each filing season with confidence and ease. Contact us today to explore our comprehensive tax solutions and services and begin your journey towards a hassle-free tax filing experience.

[accountabilityza]

Unlocking Opportunities: How Your Credit Bureau Report Shapes Your Financial Destiny

In the complicated world of personal finance, your credit bureau report is a powerful key to unlocking a plethora of opportunities. Your credit report is a comprehensive dossier that shapes your financial destiny in subtle and profound ways. In this article, we will look at the importance of your credit bureau report and how it affects the opportunities available to you on your financial journey.

Understanding the Blueprint of Financial Health

Your credit bureau report is essentially your financial health blueprint. It contains a comprehensive record of your credit history, payment habits, outstanding debts, and various financial transactions. Lenders, landlords, and even potential employers use this report to assess your financial responsibility and trustworthiness.

Paving the Way for Loans & Credit

Your credit bureau report influences your financial destiny in a variety of ways, including determining your eligibility for loans and lines of credit. A good credit history opens the door to lower interest rates and larger loan amounts. A poor report, on the other hand, may restrict your borrowing options or result in higher interest rates, potentially costing you thousands of dollars over the life of a loan.

Shaping Interest Rates

Your credit score, as determined by your credit bureau report, plays a significant role in determining the interest rates you will be offered. A higher credit score frequently translates into lower interest rates, which can save you money on mortgages, auto loans, and credit cards. This financial benefit can add up to significant savings over time, allowing you to put money towards other important aspects of your life.

Facilitating Housing Opportunities

When it comes to finding a place to live, your credit bureau report can play an important role. Landlords frequently use credit reports to assess the financial validity of potential tenants. A good credit history can mean the difference between getting your dream flat and encountering difficulties during the rental application process.

Influencing Employment Opportunities

Some industries may require credit checks as part of the hiring process. While not always the case, having a good credit history can help you make a good first impression. It reflects your dependability and responsibility, which can influence hiring decisions in competitive job markets.

Negotiating Power in Financial Transactions

Aside from the binary of approval or denial, your credit bureau report has negotiating power. A good credit history allows you to bargain with financiers or lenders. This use can result in better terms, allowing you to retain control over your financial agreements.

Charting a Course for Financial Success

Your credit bureau report is essentially a road map for navigating the complex world of personal finance. Monitoring your report regularly allows you to identify areas for improvement, dispute errors, and manage your credit profile strategically. This proactive approach is critical for charting a path to long-term financial success.

Conclusion

In the grand tapestry of personal finance, your credit bureau report emerges as a critical thread that weaves opportunities into the fabric of your financial destiny. Understanding the significance of this report allows you to reclaim control of your financial narrative, ensuring that doors of opportunity remain open on your path to long-term financial well-being. Regularly engaging with and optimising your credit bureau report is more than just a financial best practice; it is an early step towards unlocking the broad range of opportunities that await you in your financial future.