#Hybrid Work Model

[impaaktmagazine]

The Future of Work: Hybrid Work Model Evolved | IMPAAKT

Explore the evolution of the hybrid work model, its impact on productivity, collaboration, and what lies ahead for the future of work.

Hybrid or Remote – What Would You Prefer?

This question captivates many of us, especially as we navigate the ever-changing dynamics of flexible working. Rather than debating which is better—remote work or in-office—this article explores how each model has evolved and how the hybrid work model has emerged as a strong, sustainable solution. More importantly, we’ll look at what lies ahead for the modern workforce.

Let’s take a journey through the evolution of workplace setups, from the traditional office to the rise of remote work trends accelerated by global events. These shifts have reshaped our understanding of productivity, collaboration, and flexible work schedules. By unpacking these changes, we can better prepare for what's next in the future of remote work.

This isn't just about speculation—it’s about adapting to the real possibilities shaping our world of work.

The Evolution of Work

In the past, work meant a designated office space. Employees commuted daily, met face-to-face, and operated under structured routines. While this fostered camaraderie, real-time feedback, and team bonding, it also brought challenges—commuting stress, rigid schedules, and office distractions.

Then came the COVID-19 pandemic, and with it, a global shift toward remote work. Businesses were forced to adapt overnight. Zoom meetings replaced conference rooms, and platforms like Slack became essential. The new model offered benefits like better work-life balance, reduced costs, and increased autonomy—ushering in a new era of flexible working.

The Rise of Remote Work

What began as a crisis response soon revealed lasting benefits. Employees reported higher productivity at home due to fewer interruptions. Organizations realized they could hire from a broader talent pool, enhancing workforce diversity and inclusivity.

Even traditionally physical industries, such as healthcare and hospitality, found ways to integrate remote technologies. Remote work trends such as telehealth and virtual client services began to redefine how essential services could be delivered.

Enter the Hybrid Work Model

As businesses explored post-pandemic operations, many landed on a blended solution: the hybrid work model.

This approach combines the best of both worlds—face-to-face collaboration and remote flexibility. Employees alternate between working from home and being on-site, maximizing productivity, engagement, and well-being. For many, this balance is the future of sustainable, flexible working.

Hybrid setups differ. Some companies require office days for meetings; others let employees decide based on project demands. This level of personalization in the hybrid workplace allows for a truly flexible work schedule, empowering workers to perform at their best.

The Future of Work: Navigating Complexity

The future of work is clearly leaning toward permanent hybrid and remote arrangements. Technology continues to evolve—tools for virtual collaboration, cloud-based systems, and stronger cybersecurity measures are making this shift more feasible than ever.

Employee expectations are also changing. New workforce entrants, raised in a digital world, seek flexibility, purpose, and inclusivity. They’re drawn to companies with hybrid work models that reflect these values and foster a forward-thinking culture.

Challenges and Considerations

Despite its benefits, the hybrid work model isn't without hurdles. Maintaining culture, collaboration, and equity requires innovation. Leaders must move away from outdated time-tracking toward outcomes-focused performance evaluations.

Clear communication is essential. Policies around asynchronous work, virtual meetings, and information sharing must be defined. Managers should foster trust and empowerment across physical and virtual spaces, ensuring all voices are heard.

Conclusion

Choosing between remote and in-office isn’t the main challenge anymore. The key lies in creating inclusive, flexible environments where employees can thrive. The hybrid work model supports this vision by combining autonomy with connection.

For HR professionals and organizational leaders, success depends on nurturing trust, aligning on clear goals, and prioritizing well-being. Equip managers with the tools to lead hybrid teams effectively. Develop performance metrics based on impact, not hours. Most importantly, keep evolving your culture to reflect the changing landscape.

The future of work isn’t just about where we work—it’s about how we work together. Embrace change, lead with intention, and you’ll position your company to not just survive—but thrive.

Want to explore how your organization can implement impactful workplace strategies? Check out top insights on IMPAAKT—your trusted top business magazine.

#Hybrid Work Model,Future of work,Top Business Magazine, IMPAAKT Magazine

[micecafejourney]

Over the past few years there has been a sea change in the way that business travel is changing in the landscape of business. Conventionally, business travel was equal to face to face meetings, long flights, and hotel stays. But with the rise of remote work around the world, the type of business travel has changed significantly. Remote work, pushed by the COVID 19 virus, is making companies rewritten their travel policy, redefine the productivity and redefine how they work with their teams.

[dublin-technology]

The future of work is flexible! Learn why Dublin, CA is leading the charge with innovative coworking spaces designed for growth, creativity, and connection. 🌐 Read more here!

[quarecresourcespvtltd]

The Way We Work Has Changed – Now It's Time to Change the Way We Hire

The way we work has evolved, and so should hiring. Traditional recruitment methods no longer fit today’s dynamic workforce. Discover how innovative hiring strategies can help you attract top talent, improve retention, and build a resilient team in a changing job market.

[workplaceexperience]

Hybrid Work Model: Shaping the Future of Workplace Experience

The way we work has dramatically changed over the past few years. One of the most significant shifts has been the rise of the hybrid work model, a combination of remote and in-office work. As organizations continue to adapt to this new way of working, the focus has also shifted toward enhancing the overall workplace experience. But what exactly do these terms mean, and how are they reshaping modern businesses? Let’s explore how the hybrid work model is revolutionizing the workplace experience.

Understanding the Hybrid Work Model: The hybrid work model is a flexible working arrangement that blends remote work with on-site presence. Employees can work from home or any location they choose for part of the week and spend the rest of the time in the office. This model is increasingly popular in organizations of all sizes and industries, driven by the technological advancements that make remote work feasible and the desire for better work-life balance.

The hybrid model offers employees greater flexibility, which has proven to increase job satisfaction, reduce stress, and improve productivity. With the freedom to choose when and where they work, employees can tailor their schedules to suit their personal lives and work needs.

Workplace Experience in a Hybrid Model: Workplace experience is the overall environment and culture employees experience within the workplace, including both physical and digital aspects. It encompasses everything from the office layout to the tools and technologies available to employees to the way team dynamics are fostered.

In a hybrid work environment, the workplace experience must be redefined. Since employees split their time between home and the office, organizations need to provide tools and strategies that ensure consistent engagement, communication, and collaboration no matter where team members are located. The workplace experience in a hybrid model isn’t limited to the physical office but extends to how companies support remote work and maintain a culture of inclusivity.

Key Elements of the Hybrid Work Model That Shape Workplace Experience

Technology Integration: For the hybrid model to be effective, technology plays a crucial role. From video conferencing platforms to project management tools, companies need to invest in the right technologies that facilitate smooth communication and collaboration between remote and in-office employees. Cloud-based tools like Google Workspace, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom have become indispensable in creating a seamless experience across different work settings.

Flexible Workspaces: In a hybrid work model, the office no longer needs to be a traditional space where employees sit in assigned desks. Instead, it can be a dynamic environment that encourages collaboration and creativity. Hot desking, flexible seating arrangements, and collaborative spaces are common in modern offices designed to support hybrid work. This allows employees to choose the type of workspace that best suits their tasks for the day.

Employee Well-being: The hybrid work model also prioritizes employee well-being. While remote work offers flexibility, it can sometimes lead to feelings of isolation or burnout. A positive workplace experience includes a focus on mental and physical health, ensuring employees have access to resources like virtual wellness programs, mental health support, and ergonomic home office setups.

Communication and Culture: Maintaining a strong company culture in a hybrid environment requires intentional effort. Communication is key—whether it's through regular check-ins, virtual team-building activities, or transparent leadership. The workplace experience must be one that promotes trust, collaboration, and inclusivity, regardless of location.

Benefits of the Hybrid Work Model

Increased Flexibility: Employees have more control over when and where they work, helping them maintain a better work-life balance. This flexibility can reduce stress and increase job satisfaction.

Improved Productivity: Many employees find they are more productive in a hybrid setup, as it allows them to focus on their work without the distractions of a traditional office environment while still benefiting from the collaboration and support that come from in-person interactions.

Talent Attraction and Retention: Offering a hybrid work model can make companies more attractive to top talent, especially those who value flexibility. This can improve retention rates, as employees are more likely to stay in an organization that values their work-life balance.

Cost Savings: Organizations can save on overhead costs, such as office space, utilities, and other operational expenses, by supporting remote work. These savings can be reinvested into improving workplace technologies, enhancing employee benefits, or fostering a better workplace experience overall.

Conclusion

As businesses continue to evolve, the hybrid work model is here to stay. By embracing this model and focusing on enhancing the workplace experience, organizations can ensure that employees remain engaged, productive, and satisfied, no matter where they work. The key to success lies in creating a flexible, supportive environment that fosters collaboration, well-being, and innovation for all employees, whether they are in the office or working remotely.

[beingjellybeans]

How Forcing Employees Back to the Office Undermines the Green Revolution Sparked by COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic was a disruptive force, reshaping lives and industries across the globe. Yet, amid the challenges, it also triggered an unintended green revolution—an opportunity to rethink our approach to sustainability. As lockdowns and restrictions led to a dramatic reduction in pollution, carbon emissions, and waste, many began to realize that a more sustainable future was possible.…

[doctorweebmd]

accidentally* brainstormed a very complete outline for chapters 4-8 for eih, which should theoretically take us through Part 1. which is. you know. a godsend or whatever.

*accidentally meaning i was just eating delicious pancakes and the thoughts happened. usually its me crying screaming and shitting myself in front of an empty word document where ideas manifest. this is notably much more pleasant.

[cookinguptales]

a few times I've had anonymous asks like "you should start a patreon!" and I am always like "what would I even make one for" and those anonymous people never tell me so idk if they're interested in my meta or my tarot readings or my fiction or my essays on religion/folklore/history or what

that said I did actually make a placeholder patreon a thousand years ago before they upped their fees (because they said that anyone who made a patreon in like the next day would get grandfathered in lmao) and I just never. used it. because I was like "well, patreon is for people with talent SO."

but I have to be honest like -- with this new story I'm writing, I really love it! and I fully intend to release it for free like I do all my stories, but I find myself wanting to write all these little extra scenes and essays on historical context and artistic influences and stuff as well as just wanting to be able to give like... basic writer's commentary...

and I keep thinking "maybe this is actually a good use for the patreon? you could release a base version for free and if people are interested in extras they could go to the place where you're posting them?" and then I think "no, no one would ever pay for early access to your work or to your ramblings about how the story of the minotaur is really likely just propaganda reflecting the historical attic frustration towards (and eventual triumph over) a semi-foreign naval power they'd been paying tribute to"

and then I think NO there are plenty of people with no talent who have thriving online presences you have plenty of talent!!!! and there has to be someone who wants to learn about ancient greek sacrificial customs as couched in h/c romance.

and if no one does want that, well like. it's not like you'll be out anything for trying. you're writing it either way because you've got fucking brain worms, so you might as well experiment with a new way of posting it.

and yet I do kind of have a weird mental block when it comes to charging money for much of my work, and I don't know if that's because I spent most of my life writing fanfic or it's because I have an aversion to the life of a professional writer or if it's just garden-variety imposter syndrome!

...so idk, that's what my brain's been doing lately lmao.

[goodoldbandit]

Insider Threats in Hybrid Work Environments: Mitigation Strategies.

Sanjay Kumar Mohindroo Sanjay Kumar Mohindroo. skm.stayingalive.in Hybrid work has redefined insider risk. Learn how CIOs and tech leaders can mitigate threats with smart frameworks and real leadership. Why securing the inside is now your outside priority. The rise of hybrid work models has redrawn the boundary lines of enterprise security. With people working fluidly across home offices,…

[hroutlook]

Hybrid-First Strategy in Action: Insights into the Execution of a Big 4 Consulting Firm’s Work Model

In contrast to the rigid directives seen in some corporate behemoths, EY adopts an intricate approach to navigating the future of work. Frank Giampietro, the Chief Well-being Officer at EY, provides insights into their distinctive “hybrid-first model.”

For more details please visit our website: https://www.hroutlook.com/2023/12/12/hybrid-first-strategy-in-action-insights-into-the-execution-of-a-big-4-consulting-firms-work-model/

[beurich]

42 Prozent der Unternehmen erhöhen Anzahl der Bürotage

In Deutschland zeigt sich ein klarer Trend zur Rückkehr ins Büro. Rund 42 Prozent der Unternehmen haben in den letzten 12 Monaten die Anzahl der Bürotage erhöht. Etwa die Hälfte der Unternehmen schreibt keine reinen Remote-Stellen aus. 42 % der Unternehmen haben in den letzten 12 Monaten die Anzahl der Bürotage erhöht. Fast ein Fünftel der Manager hätte nichts dagegen, Bezahlung und Beförderung…

[reasonsforhope]

Green energy is in its heyday. 

Renewable energy sources now account for 22% of the nation’s electricity, and solar has skyrocketed eight times over in the last decade. This spring in California, wind, water, and solar power energy sources exceeded expectations, accounting for an average of 61.5 percent of the state's electricity demand across 52 days. 

But green energy has a lithium problem. Lithium batteries control more than 90% of the global grid battery storage market. 

That’s not just cell phones, laptops, electric toothbrushes, and tools. Scooters, e-bikes, hybrids, and electric vehicles all rely on rechargeable lithium batteries to get going. 

Fortunately, this past week, Natron Energy launched its first-ever commercial-scale production of sodium-ion batteries in the U.S. 

“Sodium-ion batteries offer a unique alternative to lithium-ion, with higher power, faster recharge, longer lifecycle and a completely safe and stable chemistry,” said Colin Wessells — Natron Founder and Co-CEO — at the kick-off event in Michigan. 

The new sodium-ion batteries charge and discharge at rates 10 times faster than lithium-ion, with an estimated lifespan of 50,000 cycles.

Wessells said that using sodium as a primary mineral alternative eliminates industry-wide issues of worker negligence, geopolitical disruption, and the “questionable environmental impacts” inextricably linked to lithium mining. 

“The electrification of our economy is dependent on the development and production of new, innovative energy storage solutions,” Wessells said. 

Why are sodium batteries a better alternative to lithium?

The birth and death cycle of lithium is shadowed in environmental destruction. The process of extracting lithium pollutes the water, air, and soil, and when it’s eventually discarded, the flammable batteries are prone to bursting into flames and burning out in landfills. 

There’s also a human cost. Lithium-ion materials like cobalt and nickel are not only harder to source and procure, but their supply chains are also overwhelmingly attributed to hazardous working conditions and child labor law violations. 

Sodium, on the other hand, is estimated to be 1,000 times more abundant in the earth’s crust than lithium. 

“Unlike lithium, sodium can be produced from an abundant material: salt,” engineer Casey Crownhart wrote ​​in the MIT Technology Review. “Because the raw ingredients are cheap and widely available, there’s potential for sodium-ion batteries to be significantly less expensive than their lithium-ion counterparts if more companies start making more of them.”

What will these batteries be used for?

Right now, Natron has its focus set on AI models and data storage centers, which consume hefty amounts of energy. In 2023, the MIT Technology Review reported that one AI model can emit more than 626,00 pounds of carbon dioxide equivalent. 

“We expect our battery solutions will be used to power the explosive growth in data centers used for Artificial Intelligence,” said Wendell Brooks, co-CEO of Natron. 

“With the start of commercial-scale production here in Michigan, we are well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for efficient, safe, and reliable battery energy storage.”

The fast-charging energy alternative also has limitless potential on a consumer level, and Natron is eying telecommunications and EV fast-charging once it begins servicing AI data storage centers in June. 

On a larger scale, sodium-ion batteries could radically change the manufacturing and production sectors — from housing energy to lower electricity costs in warehouses, to charging backup stations and powering electric vehicles, trucks, forklifts, and so on. 

“I founded Natron because we saw climate change as the defining problem of our time,” Wessells said. “We believe batteries have a role to play.”

-via GoodGoodGood, May 3, 2024

--

Note: I wanted to make sure this was legit (scientifically and in general), and I'm happy to report that it really is! x, x, x, x

[hradminist]

With the pandemic drastically changing the way we work, it’s more important than ever to explore how remote and hybrid work models can lead to increased productivity.

This video will help you with tips and tricks for staying productive while working from home or in hybrid work environment. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, manager or employee, you’ll walk away with practical strategies to help you succeed in a post pandemic world.

Topics Covered :

1)Why do remote and hybrid work models are still active?

2)Benefits of remote and hybrid work models on productivity. 3)Challenges of remote and hybrid work models on productivity. 4)Support strategies for remote and hybrid workers.

[corrcdedcoffin]

dealers choice | jj maybank

request: jj x reader but he’s her dealer and they’re always flirting but this time it turns into something more ;)

summary: jj is a self proclaimed entrepreneur, and has a small circle of clientele; you amongst them. you, who he's been trying to make a move on for, well.. forever.

warnings: 18+, drugs (weed), alcohol, partying, illusions of smut (nothing happens), friends to lovers? sort of, jj swoons hard, kissing

note: this took its own route, i tried to stick to the request as much as possible but once i started i couldn't stop and this is the outcome.. sorry if it's not up to expectations i did my best :/ i also left it a bit open ended in case anyone wants a part 2!!

word count: 2.9k

JJ Maybank was very passionate about his 'small business'. After the gang opened up the surf shop, and Kie and Cleo really focused on the garden, JJ learned a thing or two himself, developing quite the green thumb.

When he wasn't at the shop, he was caring for and creating hybrids of his oh so precious devils lettuce. Customers of his would often come to the shop to purchase the extra goods, you included.

It wasn't like you were really friends with JJ and his friends, but you'd known them most of your life. You'd see them at the skate park, sometimes you'd surf with them, but mostly you'd hangout at parties. It was a weird spot between friends and acquaintances. And now, JJ was your regular dealer.

You and your friend had stopped at their shop for some board wax, where she was complaining it would have been a perfect day had she hadn't accidentally dropped her pre-rolls in the toilet that morning.

JJ overheard the conversation and couldn't help but chuckle, admitting it's happened to him before and offering for you to try one of his freshly rolled joints. Sure, it was out of his own stash, but he thought you were so pretty he just couldn't help himself. From then on, you were a loyal customer.

Mostly, you'd come into the shop like everyone else to make your purchase. After a while he'd given you his number, offering to deliver wherever you needed, free of charge.

Then you'd gone to his house a few times to pick up. It was usually pretty civil, a typical business interaction with some side conversation here and there about a party you'd seen each other at, or about how you got a modelling gig for a new surf wear brand.

He'd stalked the brands instagram page after that.

Eventually, the dynamic between you had started to shift. Conversations started lasting longer, he found himself cracking jokes left and right just to hear you laugh, his hands lingered against yours for longer than they probably should have, finding it more and more impossible to keep a distance between you. His late night thoughts were all about you, unable to stop himself from wrapping a hand around himself and fantasizing about you there with him, imagining you were the one touching him.

He felt disappointed when he didn't hear from you for a while. So much so, that John B noticed. He was like a puppy that had been kicked to the curb, sulking around making everyone else feel it's sorrow.

"She's probably just busy with work" he suggested, making JJ sigh.

John B had been discreetly watching the two of you at the shop and the house for a while. He noticed how JJ had more pep in his step when he knew you were coming by, and more so after seeing you. The constant flush in his cheeks was impossible to miss, even the others started to tease him relentlessly, calling him a pussy for not making a move.

It wasn't for lack of trying, though. JJ was always a smooth talker, especially when it came to girls. He was always confident, and never took rejection personally. But with you? His nerves always got the best of him, even if you never noticed. God, he hoped you didn't notice. Sometimes he'd stutter, and he always worried that you'd feel his clammy hands when making a deal.

The gang knew about his crush on you, since John B couldn't keep his mouth shut. It became a bet on how long it'd take JJ to make a move. Sarah and Kie agreeing it wouldn't take much longer, maybe a month. John B, Pope and Cleo thinking more like 6 based on his nerves and current rate of action.

Sarah had gotten home early one evening to get ready for a party at the Boneyard. Hearing a car pull up, she checked out the bedroom window to see who it was, and she couldn't help the way her jaw hung low when she saw you in the drivers seat reapplying lip gloss and fixing your hair before getting out.

She had always admired your fashion sense.

Sneaking downstairs, she stayed hidden in the kitchen while you and JJ were in the porch, and she couldn't help but eavesdrop.

"There's my favourite girl" JJ smirked at you, wrapping an arm around your shoulders in a side hug. You smiled wide, saying a soft "Hi, J" and silently praying your cheeks weren't so obviously as red as they felt. Were you really his favourite girl?

You took note of how good he smelled.

"I got your usual ready, and I... added a couple of things" he said as he pulled away from you, walking to the far end of the table and grabbing a bag.

There was your usual quarter in a small ziploc bag, neatly wrapped and tucked into a larger freezer bag that contained three pre-rolls (which he'd never done before, but after last time you'd admitted you were a shitty roller, he couldn't help himself), a pack of cherry flavoured papers (your favourite), a small rolling tray, a candy bar, and a charm bracelet from the shop.

Sarah's jaw was practically on the floor, she had to cover her mouth to muffle the gasp that she couldn't hold in.

"You didn't have to do this, JJ" you looked at him with adoration.

"I know, but I wanted to" he smiled, then cleared his throat. "I figured since you prefer joints but aren't confident rolling, I'd throw in a few for you. And then papers and a tray since you said you didn't have one, and I had an extra one." (That was a lie, Sarah was with him when he bought it).

"And the chocolate?" you asked, a teasing lilt to your voice.

"You said it was your favourite.. so.." JJ trailed off.

"What about this?" you held up the bracelet, inspecting it.

It was something new they added to the shop, build your own charm bracelet. Kiara had ordered a bunch of charms and some plain Italian bracelets so customers could add whichever ones they like.

The charms were cute, and all suited your personality quite well. There wasn't a single one on there that you didn't like.

"Uhm, I just saw it at the store and thought you might like it.. I can return it if--"

"No! No, it's really nice. I love it" you smiled sweetly at him, and he swore he could feel his heart turn to goo.

He stepped closer to you, taking the bracelet from your hand. "I jus' wanna make sure it fits" he spoke lowly, taking your left hand and sliding the bracelet on.

Your eyes stayed on his face as he focused on your wrist. He was moving slowly and softly, the way he turned the bracelet so it was upright gave you goosebumps. "What d'you think?"

You glanced down at your wrist, the charms seeming to sparkle in the setting sun. "S'perfect" you looked back to him, "Thank you".

The close proximity was hard to ignore. Sarah was hiding in the dark, chewing on her fingers and silently urging for him to kiss you.

You placed a soft kiss to his cheek, and he could feel his brain short circuit. "Gotta keep my favourite customer happy" he smiled lightly.

The two of you held eye contact for a moment longer before your phone ringing in your pocket scared you. It was your friend, and you smiled in apology to JJ before answering. He moved away and sat in a chair, facing you and the door, fidgeting with a lighter.

You told your friend you were just picking up and you'd be at their house soon, JJ pursed his lips. After hanging up you resealed your goody bag, then looked over to him.

"Are you going to the Boneyard tonight?" you asked.

He looked up at you, "Are you?" he countered.

You nodded, "My friend's making me."

"Then I'll be there" he nodded, and you couldn't help the flush that took over your cheeks once more.

"Okay, see you later then?"

"See you later" he smiled. You gave a small wave before leaving, hurrying to your car and heading to go pick up your friend. She'd have your head if you were any later than you already were.

JJ rubbed his hands across his face and groaned, cursing himself for being an idiot.

"You're not an idiot" Sarah pushed the porch door open. "A fool, maybe. But not an idiot."

JJ quickly pulled his hands away from his face. "How long have you been there?"

"Since she pulled up" Sarah shrugged.

"Oh my god!" he groaned again, leaning his head back on the chair. Embarrassed was an understatement.

Sarah took a deep breath, "You don't have to be embarrassed. What you did was really sweet!"

"It wasn't too much?"

She shook her head. "No, I think it was the perfect amount of romance. Boys don't really do stuff like that anymore. Besides, she likes you, so you don't have anything to worry about."

"How would you know?"

"Because, it's obvious. And I'm a girl, so I just do."

JJ scoffed at that. "Girls are very subtle with their flirting. It's all in the eyes, and the body language, not so much the words" she added.

JJ motioned for her to go on. He felt like an idiot having her explain this to him, but he'd never been so unsure of himself with a girl before. He was absolutely smitten over you, that he was sure of. But do you really like him?

It was easy to tell with other girls he didn't have actual feelings for.

"Well, does she smile at you at lot, does she make lots of eye contact, especially after someone tells a joke? Does she find ways to be close to you? How does she react when you get close to her, things like that."

There was silence between them as JJ thought on all previous interactions with you. All the boxes were checked off, even as he thought about moments ago when he put the bracelet on you. You got goosebumps, he heard a small hitch in your breath, but still he doubted himself.

"Look, she asked if you were going to the party tonight, obviously she wants to see you. So get off your ass and get ready!" Sarah started clapping in his ear.

The party was in full swing by the time JJ and his friends arrived. Immediately, he was searching for you. As if sensing his nerves, Sarah nudged his arm and pointed in your direction.

You were sitting around the fire with your friends, beer in hand, laughing at something.

"Go over there, say hi" Sarah smiled.

JJ shook his head. "Nuh-uh, no way, I need a couple beers first."

"Shotgun?" John B proposed with a devilish glint in his eye.

JJ nodded, missing how Sarah told John B to take him over by where you were sitting. The gang followed along without question, and by the time JJ realized where they were going, it was too late.

He tried not to look at you right away, but he found it difficult. Shaking his arms in an attempt to loosen up, he got ready to shotgun with Pope and John B. They downed three in a row, earning a small round of applause from the crowd. JJ immediately looked at you, his heart skipping when you were already smiling at him.

You gave a small wave, the bracelet he made you reflecting the firelight.

He held up a fresh beer and tipped it up in a cheers motion as a greeting, unable to hold back a smile when you did the same. You turned back to your friend when she whispered something to you before getting up and leaving.

JJ watched as you dug your feet in the sand and reached into your bag, pulling out one of the joints he gave you. You turned to him again, holding it up in offering.

He smiled, patting his friends on the back, "See ya later, boys" he said, giddiness evident in his voice.

They all watched as he sauntered over to you, unable to help the smiles on their faces. Cleo let out a cheer, John B and Pope following suit. JJ flipped them off, keeping his eyes on you as you laughed.

"Hi" he smiled as he sat next to you on the log.

"Hi" you smiled back. "Care to share?"

"Huh," he inspected the joint. "This is very nicely rolled. You do this yourself?" he teased.

"No, I know this guy, he seems pretty handy" you smirked, and he couldn't help but laugh.

"Well, maybe he'll show you sometime" JJ shrugged.

"I'd like that" you smiled at him.

Conversation flowed easily between you as you smoked. You both got a little more comfortable as the buzz began to flow through your veins, arms pressing against each other as you shared stories of idiotic things you've both done while high or drunk.

The jokes were never ending between you, and after a couple more drinks you let it slip that you thought he was handsome.

JJ couldn't help the smile that formed after that.

He stood up abruptly and held out his hand to you. "What?" you giggled.

"Come with me!"

You slipped your bag over your shoulder before taking his hand and standing up. He laced his fingers between yours and led you further down the beach. It was quieter, a small fire with a few people nearby and a different song playing. It was slower, made the moment feel more intimate than whatever shenanigans you were sure he was up to. Still, neither of you could ignore the harsh thumping in your chests.

To your surprise, there was no shenanigans. "Dance with me?" he asked, placing his free hand on your waist.

"You tryna romance me, Maybank?" you smirked, a playful glint in your eye.

"Depends. Is it working?" he asked, placing your hand on his shoulder before putting his other on your waist.

You had both hands clasped around the back of his neck now, allowing him to gently sway you as you pretended to think about your answer.

"Hmm, I think it might be" you smiled.

"Good, cause that's exactly what I'm trying to do."

You looked down as you giggled, and he took the opportunity to pull you just a little bit closer.

"Are you busy tomorrow?"

"Depends. What 'cha thinkin'?" you looked back up at him. Your faces were inches apart, you could feel his breath on your face. It was the closest you'd ever been, and yet somehow it still felt so far away.

"Well, I was hoping I could take you out. I know a nice little spot, really good for an evening picnic. What d'you think?"

You smiled, "I think.. It's a date."

JJ smiled, "Alright, cool. I'll pick you up at 7?"

"I'll be ready."

There was a moment of silence between you as you stared at each other, smiling like idiots, before he lifted you and spun you around quickly. The laugh that bubbled out of you would be on repeat in his mind forever.

JJ swallowed the lump of nerves that grew in his throat. Why was he so nervous? He asked you on a date and you agreed. The hard part was over, wasn't it? You were in his arms dancing with him, willingly. And god, you looked so beautiful, it was hard to focus.

And to make matters worse, you noticed. "You okay?"

He nodded, "Yeah, I'm good. Great, actually."

"Then why do you seem so nervous?"

Fuck.

"Cause I just.. I-You're really pretty, and I really want to kiss you" he huffed, cheeks going red, but he kept his eyes on yours. He needed you to know this was serious, more than just some fling to him.

"Then kiss me" you spoke quietly.

He pulled you closer, rubbing his nose on yours before closing the distance between you. You snaked a hand through his hair, scratching at his scalp as he slipped his tongue into your mouth. His left hand slid up your back, pulling you even closer as his right squeezed your hip.

You weren't sure how long you kissed for, but there were some cheers nearby, making you pull away and look. It was JJ's friends again, congratulating the two of you. JJ flipped them off once more, taking the hat from his head to shield you for some privacy as he kissed you again.

Much to his dismay, it only made them cheer harder, and neither of you could stop the laughs that escaped you.

With his hat still shielding you, he apologized for his friends, slightly raising his voice so they could hear him call them idiots, and that they ruined the moment.

You shook your head, "They didn't ruin it" you smiled, placing another kiss to his lips.

JJ couldn't stop smiling, taking a glance around the Boneyard and deciding he didn't want to be there anymore.

"Wanna get outta here?" he asked, leaning his forehead against yours.

You nodded, humming a soft mhm before he took hold of your hand once more, leading you away from the party and back towards town. The two of you walked down the streets hand in hand, twirling and dancing around, stealing kisses as much as you wanted until the sun started to come up.