#Trolley Bag Organizer

[tallinsales]

[kotoku]

ꜱᴜɴᴅᴀʏ ᴀɴᴅ ᴀᴠᴇɴᴛᴜʀɪɴᴇ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴀ ᴛᴇᴇɴ! ʀᴇᴀᴅᴇʀ

pairings - sunday & teen! reader / aventurine & teen! reader

content - reader is gender-neutral/not a lot of angst/mainly fluff/sibling or family dynamics/ kind of a found family fic (?)

warnings - none

⋘ ʟᴏᴀᴅɪɴɢ... ⋙

↻ I imagine Sunday meeting you as a bellhop working alongside Misha, another bellhop, who welcomes distant travelers to Penacony  

↺ If you’re a bit clumsy like Misha and accidentally spill some luggage after tripping over a hill in the rug, he’d stumble across your defeated form scattering to pick up the fallen belongings 

↺ He’d offer his assistance in organizing the fallen trolley, assessing if you had gotten hurt when you had tripped

↻ Because Sunday’s many responsibilities are to ensure people are following the rules and regulations during their stay in Penacony, he’d come across you on multiple occasions in the hotel lobby

↺ It seems like you were a fairly new worker, asking your coworkers about certain things and needing some guidance with doing things

↺ However, for the most part, you were an inquisitive and hard worker, Sunday noted

↻ One day, he would find you wandering Golden Hour, looking around at the shops curiously while holding a couple of bags

↺ He had conversed with you a couple of times, having small chats during breaks before the two of you had to return to your duties

↺ Sunday had decided to say hi, asking if you were enjoying some of the few renovations done to the dreamscape

↻ At first, you were startled at his sudden appearance, confused about why he approached you

↺ You would then answer his question, stating that you were enjoying some of the shops that had just opened up since it was your day off

↺ Sunday would give you a recommendation, a place that had recently been buzzing with customers as their food selection was one of the best Golden Hour had to offer

↺ Excitedly, you’d thank him for the tip and bid farewell to him, watching him fade in the distance

↻ When you and Sunday had gotten closer together, he’d kinda adopt you as a younger sibling

↻ On the days the both of you weren’t busy, he’d take you to see some of the events that are happening in Penacony (or different locations that he thinks you would like)

↺ Spending his time with you reminded him of the time he used to spend with Robin when the two of them were younger

↺ Watching you bubble with excitement when you saw something you liked, asking him if it was a good idea to get it reminded him of old times 

↻ One time, you jokingly call him old which made him reevaluate his life a bit (did he really seem that old??)

↺ You grew a bit worried when he didn’t respond, watching him hold his chin in deep thought (he snapped out of it after you shook him a bit)

↻ Sunday would take on the role of an older brother to you, fretting whenever you got injured while working and spoiling you rotten with trinkets he had found

↻ He would feel bad whenever he has to turn you down when he’s busy, promising to find a time when he is free from work to accompany you on what you’ve planned 

↺ If it was a limited-time event, he’d feel especially bad, planning to treat you to something to make up for the lost time (you tell him not to worry but he insists)

↻ Something that became routine for the both of you would be tea time (or going out to a restaurant)

↺ During these sessions, you and Sunday would talk about your week/day, basically spending the time talking and sometimes even gossiping about some of the rumors heard around Penacony

↺ You were careful about rumors that concerned The Family, not wanting to upset Sunday, so you mainly focused on small gossip circling around work

↻ Something that interested you about Sunday was his wings, and when the two of you hung out more, you asked him about them

↺ He explained to you about Halovians and the experiences he had with them (how he had to clean them, take care of them, etc…)

↺ If the two of you are closer enough, he’d allow you to touch them, chuckling as you gaped at them in amazement and wonder

↻ Sometimes when one of you is overworked and exhausted, the other would give a light scolding and have them rest on a nearby lounge chair, giving them a moment of rest 

↺ Sunday would offer you to rest on him, providing you his coat as a blanket and humming you to sleep 

↺ You would lead Sunday to his room, making sure he was resting comfortably after you brewed some tea for him (you’d softly close the door and resume your duties after making sure he was actually sleeping)

------

“I will be fine, _____. You do not need to worry about my well-being.” Sunday was seated on his couch in his lounge clothes, arms crossed as he watched you pour water into a kettle. 

Huffing, you turned on the heat and let the water boil, scavenging his cupboards for his tea packets. He couldn’t help but sigh when you ignored his protests, opting to lean against the couch and listen as you worked.

“You haven’t been getting much sleep for the past few days. I know that it’s been busy with the Charmony Festival in full swing, but you need to take care of yourself too, Sunday.” Setting down the finished cup of tea in front of him, you took a seat on a different chair next to him. 

Sunday blew on his tea, the smoke wafting away as he took a sip of the chamomile tea you brewed for him. 

There was a small silence between the both of you. You were fiddling with some of the accessories of your uniform, eyes cast towards the wooden coffee table. On the other hand, Sunday held his cup of tea with both of his hands, feeling the heat of the cup fade to a nice warmth. 

When Sunday had finished his tea, he set it down on the coffee table and relaxed into the soft material of the couch.

“I understand that you are concerned, _____. I promise to take better care of myself but know I will be fine.” Sunday assured you and your worries, opening his eyes to glance at you. You didn’t meet his eyes until you heard him get up from his spot on the couch, feeling a lightweight being put on your head. 

His hand lightly ruffles your hair, moving back to his side. “To ease your worries, I will be going to bed now.” 

You blinked at him before shaking your head. “Thanks, now get to bed old man.” “

I’m not that old, _____...” “Old man.” “Sigh…”

------

↻ Aventurine would meet you when you’ve just joined the IPC, becoming your superior and having you run errands or finish up paperwork 

↻ You, being the dedicated worker you are, would spend countless nights finishing projects and studying

↺ You would be so engrossed in reading something that you would accidentally bump into Aventurine from behind, stumbling back with your book falling to the floor 

↺ Massaging your temples, you would see a hand outstretched to you as an offer to help you up (which you graciously took)

↻ When you think back to that time when Aventurine helped you pick yourself up, along with your book, you flush in embarrassment and lightly berate yourself for not watching your surroundings

↻ Working with Aventurine had its perks and flaws, the perks being the pay and the flaws being the tasks and having someone so unpredictable as your boss

↺ You could never tell when Aventurine was joking or not (you found it hard to understand him so you just nodded along to the things he said)

↻ After a few months of working under him, the two of you started bonding over various things

↺ Although you were too young to gamble, you learned a couple tricks that Aventurine had when playing different card games with others (you also learned a few cheat hacks Aventurine does but we won’t talk about that)

↻ Aventurine was able to watch you slowly come out of your shell, becoming more talkative and friendly with him and your coworkers

↺ When he noticed your change in behavior, he was taken aback but was happy to embrace this newfound side of yours (he feels like a dad watching their child make friends)

↻ There is a hint of favoritism that Aventurine has with you, choosing to dote on you by purchasing various souvenirs and trinkets he gathered on his trips (they reminded him of you)

↺ A keychain? Consider it purchased. A snack basket? He already has it on hand. Aventurine spends his money like it’s nothing, especially when it comes to his kid (despite you being a teen, he still calls you ‘kid’ much to your dismay)

↻ Aventurine would definitely gossip with you about work, etc…

↻ Honestly, in a more modern (?) setting, he’d be that proud soccer mom who takes photos of his kid and boasts to the other soccer moms

↺ “You see that little rascal up there? That’s my kid!”

↻ At first, seeing you get along with Aventurine was a surprise to many, even Aventurine himself

↺ He didn’t really have friends, or at least, someone he could freely talk to about anything and everything

↺ He doesn’t really open up to you about his past until later, and even then, he tries not to be too descriptive as he doesn’t want to make you feel bad (but you still do)

↻ When you open up to Aventurine about your struggles, why you joined the IPC, etc.… he’ll see himself a bit in you, making him feel protective of you and this ultimately brings the both of you closer together

↻ Thinking about this dynamic the two of you share, Aventurine wonders if he would make for a good parent, despite the infamous reputation Sigonians have

↺ You’d notice him going quiet here and there as he looks like he’s deep in thought, waiting patiently for him to snap out of it, you’d watch as he resumes the conversation like nothing had happened

↻ If there is a chance you guys get to visit a planet together, especially if it is one that he is familiar with, he’ll give you a tour and take you to some of his favorite spots

↺ If it is one he isn’t familiar with, the two of you would look like lost children who are wandering around looking at popular spots

↻ Honestly, if you had the chance to meet Topaz, she wouldn’t understand how you can tolerate Aventurine’s behavior

↺ Nonetheless, Topaz is happy that her coworker has a connection with someone, finding the small family dynamic adorable (she’d never admit that to Aventurine)

↻ Of course, Aventurine would definitely tease you because you’re younger than him, acting like the annoying big brother he is

↺ “Huh!? Where did my chips go!? Aventurine!” “What~? Don’t look at me, I didn’t touch them.” “You’re such a liar! You have crumbs on your face! What– is that my drink that you’re holding!?” “...No..?” 

↻ Despite everything, you still enjoy spending time with your unexpected friend (and newfound family member)

------

“_____! Look at what I’ve brought~.” Aventurine sang, plopping a huge gift basket on top of your desk. The papers that were stacked fluttered a little, some falling around you onto the ground. 

You were startled at the unexpected gift, looking at all the luxurious gifts and snacks that were neatly displayed in a beautifully woven basket. The red and gold ribbon tying the clear bag at the top finished it nicely, giving it a clean yet expensive look. 

“Aventurine!? Just how much did you buy this for??” You gaped, examining the interior although the lightning made it a bit difficult to see. You could recognize a few items, all being pricey and popular on its original planet. 

“Bah! Don’t worry about it. I couldn’t help but get it since it included some of the things you were talking about before.” The way he was so casual about getting something expensive threw you off, but then again, this was Aventurine. Deciding to shake off the shock, you gave him a grateful smile. 

“Thank you, Aventurine.” “Don’t mention it, kid.” “I’m not a kid, Aventurine! If anything, you act more like one than me!” “Pff, good joke. Now get back to work, kid.” “Ugh.”

------

⋘ ᴄᴏᴍᴘʟᴇᴛᴇ! ⋙

note - hope you guys enjoy this! i had fun writing this lol. there was actually two separate requests for an aventurine and sunday with a teen! reader, so i decided to write them together.

[waywardsou2]

Logan x Trans!MaleReader

Reblogged from my writing blog

Summary: Being a mutant was hard enough as it is, but being on trans on top of that. Well, you might as well be cursed. Luckily Logan has your back when it counts the most.

Word Count: 2.1k

Tags: misgendering, dysphoria, transphobia, comforting, fluff, slurs

You were in charge of the supply run for the school this week. It was always strange carrying around Charles’ credit card, over the years he had been able to invest in stocks- knowing when they would dip and rise, he had amassed money from government funding and social projects, as well as working many jobs over the decades he has been alive so he had more than enough money to provide for all of the children at his school, but still the sum baffled you.

But if it meant that the school could stay stocked and at the highest capacity to care for the children, and the teachers living in the school then you didn’t think on it too hard.

You went about grabbing what you needed by the handful and stocking your trolley. Even grabbing a few extra things for you and Logan. Any time you had been on shift to go for the supply run you made sure to grab some extra snacks for Logan and you to keep in your room. You grabbed a bag of Skittles for yourself and some Recess cups for Logan (you had no idea how he could stand eating those).

As you were grabbing some breakfast cereals to stock the cabinet with you overheard a group of people whispering behind you. You turned and out of the corner of you eye saw them pointing at you as they continued to talk

“Why does she look like that? She looks like some cringe teenager?”

“Who does she think she’s fooling with that hair cut?”

“She was probably in prison and is growing it out”

Their voices were hushed but sounded like thunderclaps in your ears

She

She

She

You dropped the box of cereal you were holding, it made a skittering sound as it crunched on the floor. Your heart rate increased as their words reverberated around your mind, your chest tightening and not from your binder. Why today?

“Young miss? You dropped this” A middle-aged lady come into your view as you stared at the box on the floor, its bright logo staring you in the face. It’s mascot smiling gleefully. Her hand came into view as she picked up the box and handed it back to you. Trying to snap your self out of your downwards spiral you smiled sheepishly at her but the smile didn’t meet your eyes.

“Thank you” you took the box and shoved it into your cart. She smiled back at you and continued with her own shopping

The group from before were now snickering at you, before you could grab the last box you needed and head to the checkout the tallest boy in the group threw a packet of biscuits at you and said “Hey tranny, shouldn’t you be in the circus or something?”

The whole group laughed but you just stared. You turned around to face them, glaring them down with as much hate you could muster. All of it was controlled like a grenade ready to explode, the blast steadily building with each second passing as the chemical reaction grew inside the chamber.

Right now, it was anger, bubbling and building but never exploding. All the rage being pent up as you walked towards the checkout. Your feet felt heavy, your footsteps echoing more than last time as you stomped down the isles. Your heart beat fiercely but you looked on blankly, your eyes seeing but not processing what was in front of you. You just wanted to get out of here and get home. Go back to the school and hide away.

Deep down you just wanted to be seen. Being a mutant was hard enough as it was, having to keep a secret from the world and everyone who would ever know you outside of the school. And now, no matter how hard you tried the world still didn’t see you how you were. As a young boy, just like any other human.

But you weren’t, you weren’t and you would never be. Because society decided to define you based on your internal organs and bone structure. Just thinking about it made you irritated. That notion occupied your thoughts quite often and it angered you, all this hate and bigotry towards a group of people because they were simply different. Why did everyone else get to decide your fate? Why did they get to decide who you were and who you were supposed to be? It was bullshit.

As you drove back to the school you anger leaked out. It showed in the whites of your knuckles as you gripped the steering wheel. In the crease at the top of your nose in between your two brows. In the speedometer on your car screaming higher and higher as you broke the speed limit two times over, your foot flat to the floor on the pedal.

As you pulled into the gravel driveway the car screeched to a stop as you cut the ignition and yanked of your seat belt, opening the door with more force than necessary and slamming it shut with equal strength.

You began grabbing bags out of the trunk and bringing them to the kitchen. Leaving them with a few of the kids who smiled and thanked you as they began unpacking the bags you placed on the bench. Their smiles were genuine and warm as they helped you put the items away. You went back for the last bag and as you shut the boot and took a step away from your car you turned and came face to face with Logan. Almost bumping directly into him. You jumped and almost dropped the bag

“Jesus Logan, we need to get you a bell or something”

He chuckled but looked playfully disgusted by the idea.

“I’m not a cat” he laughs at you

“Well you already have the ears and the claws” you say pointing at the curls in his hair.

He laughs and gives you a punch in the arm as he reaches forward to take the bag from your hand. But you don’t let him take it. Usually you would have let him help you but today you didn’t.

It was stupid really, the reason you held onto he bag. The masculine clique of being strong and being able to provide had entered your mind on the way home, all the overcompensating masculine cliques imaginable had played out in your mind as you tried to combat the dysphoria that was consuming your brain.

He tilted his head at you when you pulled away from him but he didn’t press you any further. He walked along side you as you took the last of the groceries to the kitchen and put them away with the help of the few kids that were still unpacking the bags. You moved through the kitchen in a whir, putting things in their place at record time and then depositing the bags back into your car before walking back inside.

Now with nothing to do you felt to wired, to unoccupied. You didn’t want to talk about what was on your mind. You were to mad about. But slowly that anger began to dissolve. The feeling hollowing out your chest, taking up space and crushing your organs.

You had managed to evade Logan in your flurry around the kitchen, not that you meant to but you just weren’t thinking. Your mind was so full but blank. Like TV screen playing static. Numbly you walked to your shared room with Logan, you pulled off your shirt and looked at yourself in the mirror with your binder on. There was a slight pudge out the arm holes from the extra weight your binder couldn’t hold. You didn’t get it. You looked like a boy, like any other man you might have seen on the street. So how did they know? How were you still being misgendered? The thought made you angry again and you glared at yourself in the mirror, getting mad at your own face for betraying you. You pulled your binder up over your head. But because you hadn’t been careful to pull up from the arms first it got stuck, with your arms caught at an awkward angle

You tried to grab at the binder but couldn’t pull it up and over your head. You heard a knock on the door, and you ducked out of view, turning around so that your back faced the door as Logan’s voice accompanied the previous knocking. “Hey, you good?”

You sigh frustratedly, how was this the third time this week you had been caught like this “No…I’m stuck, again”

The door opened and clicked shut quickly as you heard Logan walk up behind you.

“Trying to get it off, or back on?”

You contemplated telling him you were putting it back on, but you had been wearing it for 6 hours already and you ribs were hurting, you knew you were pushing your limits. You sighed and told him to help you take it off.

Gently he grabbed onto the fabric and pulled it over your head, making sure to keep his hands away from your skin as much as possible as he freed you from your predicament.

You snatched your hoodie off the end of your bed and pulled it back on. Adjusting it so your body underneath was hidden, and your curved figure became blocked out and flatter.

He looked at you as you adjusted you hoodie with a sad and now knowing smile on his face.

“What happened” he asked softly

You stopped fussing with your shirt and you looked at him. All the anger from before was completely gone, and instead, the was replaced with the sting of sadness and the feeling of tears welling up behind your eyes.

You bit the inside of your cheek hoping that it would deter the tears in your eyes, but it didn’t. You didn’t know how to explain it, you didn’t want to say it to him. You felt pathic and you were embarrassed, but your heart ached.

It shouldn’t have bothered you but it did, and you didn’t know how to tell him

“Why don’t they see me” you couldn’t explain what had happened but you didn’t need to. He got the gist of it.

He pulled you forward into him softly, holding you against him and locking his arms around your back. Keeping you pressed closed to his chest. Your head resting right over his heart. The organ beating rhythmically and acting as a metronome that was grounding you.

The sound of his life brought you calmly back to earth, bringing you here into the moment, pulling you out of the hole you had been spiralling down. His deep long breaths added to the grounding atmosphere that he had created between the two of you. Those negative feelings were slowly fading away from you, the same way that mud and filth dripped down your fingers as you washed your hands clean of it.

It fell away from you and left you feeling clearer, lighter and calmer.

You closed your eyes and breathed deeply following the rhythm he set naturally and took it in, leaving behind the past hour and reveling in the comfort of this moment. Appreciating every moment you could take with him, basking in the glow that radiated from him whenever the two of you were together.

And in this moment, everything faded away except the two of you. And all of that pain and anger and fear melted away.

He placed a kiss on the strands of your hair and then rested his chin on your head.

“You will always be one of the strongest, most capable men I’ve ever met. And anyone who doesn’t see that is a joke”

You pulled away so you could look at him, and your eyes softened, you could see the pure unbridled love in his face as he looked at you. He cupped your face and pulled you in for a kiss, and that last bit of negativity slipped away from you.

Who cared about what other thoughts of you, they didn’t know you and they didn’t matter. Logan knew you, and he loved you however you were. He would never let you forget that because when he had met you at Charles’ school there was no doubt in his mind that you were the most beautiful man he had ever seen.

And that feeling never changed, each time he saw you no matter what state you were in or what you were wearing, each and every time, you would always be beautiful.

It didn’t matter what your body looked like under your clothes; it didn’t matter what society said you were supposed to be. All that you were, in its truest form, was more than he could have ever asked for in a partner. It didn’t matter to him that you were transgender because you were you. And that was enough for him, he hoped one day that you would be enough for you too.

This one goes out to all of my trans brothers out there, keep fighting boys. You've made it this far you can keep going!

And once again, I take requests. If you would like a one shot like this one or any of my other works then send me an ask!

[insomniac4000]

Dad!George- George Clarkey

1933 Words

You had no idea why you were nervous to tell George you were pregnant, you knew he wasn’t going to get angry or run away. Starting a family was something you two had talked about starting a family a couple of times bit it was a in a year or two dream but obviously mother nature had other ideas. The second you showed him the test which had the words pregnant, 2-3 weeks on it father mode was well and truly activated.

“Are you serious?” He smiled, tears pricking his eyes as he held the bit of plastic so delicately afraid it, along with his dreams would shatter at any moment.

“It says it all there,” you responded your voice shaky, it was going to be a big change but with George by your side you were sure the pair of you could face it. You giggled as George swept you up in your arms lifting you in the air.

“I’M GOING TO BE A DAD!! “ He shouted before putting your down, suddenly his face crumpled and you looked on it him confused.

“Wait a sec, eww you’ve pissed on this!” George cried handing the stick back to you, you shook her head but gave a laugh.

“Things are about to get a whole load more disgusting babe,” you told him admiring the test one more time before putting it in your bedside drawer for safe keeping.

Your pregnancy was okay, nothing too out of the ordinary the usual fatigue and morning sickness at the beginning, George held your hair back, bought the only food you could stomach and threw away the foods that made you ill. He held you as you napped, picked up a lot of the housework and cooking when you were too tired to do so. He rearranged shoots to go to every scan and every doctor’s appointment even though you told him it wasn’t necessary. As your baby and therefore belly grew George couldn’t take his hands off you, waiting for that special moment he could feel the baby kick.

He wasn’t one for gender reveals and neither were you so you both just decided to find out privately during your scan and told people as they asked. The minute the technician told him that you were having a girl George swore he could feel his heart grow, a girl, HIS girl, his little girl that he would love, protect and cherish forever.

He read every baby name, every pregnancy, birth and baby book, swore a ton as he put together the furniture for the nursery, not understanding why you needed the special comfy rocking chair in there but he did it because you wanted it and boy when the baby came was he glad of the comfort from it at three in the morning.

Speaking of the baby coming, George often joked with his friends, on tiktok or on his podcast that you would go into labour somewhere funny it would become big thing and it ended up being right.

“No not the yellow ones they make me nauseous the red ones please,” you told him as your scratched your belly. You were close to the end and starting to feel sick again but this time it was because all of your organs were squished up and you had little room for food, and a very small squished bladder.

“Eurgh I think I need to wee again, does this shop have a bathroom?” You asked looking behind you. The pair of you were food shopping for what you hoped would be the last time, your due date was actually the previous day so you hadn’t planned beyond that. The freezer was full of meals you had prepped but you wanted to keep those for when the baby was born, so here you were buying another weeks shopping hoping it would all be over soon.

“By the front I think,” George replied monotonously placing the red peppers in the trolley, you took one step forward bit stopped abruptly when you felt a POP and soon enough you felt water trickling down your legs.

“GEORGE!” You said panicking holding onto your belly, you hadn’t felt any contractions so it couldn’t be your waters, but it felt too much to be anything else.

“What? Oh someone spilt something? It’s fine just wipe your feet in the toilet,” George replied looking back at the shelf and picking up the bag of spinach.

“Yes George, I spilt something, it came out of me,” you replied before exhaling as you grabbed your belly, finally feeling a small bit of pain.

“Didn’t make it to the bathroom in time?” George looked and burst out laughing until he saw your discomfort and another small cup of liquid came down your leg.

“Not quite,” you managed to reply and George’s eyes widened.

“Holy fucking shit is it happening?” Now he started to panic briefly but he very quickly calmed himself down, he needed to be calm, he needed to be there for you.

“I think so,” you replied, your hands now shaking.

“Okay where’s your phone? Let’s get out of here and ring the hospital. Your bags in the car right?” George asked already knowing the answer, it had been sitting in the boot for two weeks. He held his hand out and you grabbed it gently waddling down the aisle holding your belly like the baby was about to come out any second although you knew it was impossible.

“OLIVER COME HERE!” An angry voice called out, the pair of you looked behind you just in time to see a boy about four running down the aisle, slipping over the puddle you had just made. Your fiancé couldn’t help but burst into laughter as you gently elbowed him getting him to stop.

“We should probably tell a staff member about that,” George sniggered above the wailing.

When you got to the hospital the labour was long, fourteen hours and forty seven minutes to be exact, but George was there every step of the way, holding your hand, mopping your brow, giving you words of encouragement and passing you water when you asked for it. Eventually your daughter, Evelyn Heather Clarke made her way into the world and of course George was there to cut the cord.

“Shh, I’ve got her go back to sleep,” George whispered to you when the little cry you could only describe as a mini velociraptor came from the bassinette next to your bed.

“Unless you can start producing milk from your tits George you should probably hand her to me,” you replied with a yawn. The nights were sleepless and long for both of you as George insisted on waking up too even if he couldn’t feed there were things he could do like burp and settle Evie afterwards and make sure you were fed and hydrated. He did feel a little sad and left out those early weeks and months as breastfeeding meant you took on a lot of the childcare and he wanted the day that Evie reached out to him needing comfort in the same way she did to you but it didn’t take long.

“Who’s the most precious girl in the world?” George smiled to the now five month old babe who giggled in delight at her daddy. George didn’t know it was possible but every day he woke up and saw that smile he fell in love with Evie even more. The pink clad girl giggled again as her dad lifted her out of her car seat and embraced her, before walking into the flat. It was a daddy daughter play date day with Chris and his daughter and although Astrid Dixon was older by a year she was absolutely obsessed with her “cousin.”

“IYA!” A small high pitched voice welcomed George and Evie into the flat, “BABY!” Astrid squealed again with excitement, shoving the donkey stuffed toy she was holding into Evie’s face. George didn’t want to wish Evie’s life away but he couldn’t wait until she started, walking and talking, he was always trying very hard to make sure her first word was dad, and it absolutely was. George couldn’t stop gloating for weeks after that.

When Evie was almost three, his little lad came along, Rueben Gray. Now while Evie was a smiley, no fuss child Rueben was an absolute ball of chaos and George wouldn’t have it any other way.

“Stop worrying, it’ll be fine,” George tried to soothe you as you stood there head in hand, suitcases were lying on your bed. You were off on a family holiday to Disneyland Paris, George wanted to go to Florida but you insisted on doing Paris first as the kids were still young and to do a trial to see if you could cope before doing a longer journey, especially with a three year old and a five year old. The other reason you were nervous was because you were late, you had the tests in the bathroom ready to take and were going to surprise him while on holiday.

“It’s just not knowing how they’re going to handle the flight, especially Reuben he’s a fidget at the best of times,” you sighed.

“I will keep him occupied the whole time, don’t worry.” He kissed you gently on the temple before placing the cases on the floor so the pair of you could get into bed.

“Now, take the tests I saw in the bathroom and tell me if our family is complete,”

“Wait.. what.. how?”

“I saw them! Looked on the calendar and put two and two together, please don’t tell me I’ve made five?” George asked his eyes so full of cope. He wanted another child for a while, but since Reuben was energetic you wanted to wait until Evie was in school so things would be slightly easier.

“Yes, don’t get too excited just in case I’m just late.”

“You’re not. I have a great feeling about this, come on what are we waiting for!” George giddily ran to the bathroom and you couldn’t help but laugh now realising where your kids got it from.

The test was positive, the family was completed by another girl, Ophelia Grace.

“Right kids, breakfast is ready,” George shouted and waited for all the pitter patter of feet to come into the kitchen which they eventually did. Reuben was holding Ophelia’s hand, George carefully lifted the eighteen months old toddler into her highchair while making sure now four year old Reuben could get into his chair and keeping the other eye on now six year old Evie. George started pouring the juice and on hearing the click clack of your shoes in the kitchen he handed you your coffee thermos. This has been your routine since you returned to work part time six months ago and George had the routine nailed down to a tee. It worked well for the two of you, he looked after the kids when you worked for three days a week and the other four days he split between filming and having family time.

Be good for daddy, Evie have a good day at school darling, see you all later,” you announced kissing everyone in turn before making your way to work.

George set about his tasks effortlessly, it was like he was born to be a dad, of course he wasn’t and learned along the way but he really was the best. How was it fair that he was better looking one and the better parent?

I'm not really happy with but eh what are you going to do, it'll be up for now

[wanderingsimsfinds]

Decorating a house/lot with clutter is probably one of my favorite parts of building. This list has everything from books, to art supplies, to rugs, to clothing, to more practical clutter. 

WanderingSims Fave CC - Clutter

1 - Lulu265 - Classic 1 Tile Sheer Curtain (TSR)

2 - Lulu265 - Classic 2 Tile Sheer Curtain (TSR)

3 - Lulu265  - Classic 3 Tile Sheer Curtain (TSR)

4 - TheNumbersWoman - Ikea Pac Uggdal Bedroom Sheers (TSR)

5 - you-lust - szabolon Papers Wall Clutter

6 - SketchbookPixels - SIMPLY MXIMS Woli House Board

7 - wondymoon - Terbium Key Holder (TSR)

8, 11 - Kale House - 4t3 MXIMS IKEA Kubbis Wall Hook & Ferm Living Frame Pinboard

9 - Mutske - Hallway Leon Umbrella Stand (TSR)

10 - Simstiful - Backpack

12 - Julietsimscc - 4t3 Leosims Keys Rack Smaller

13, 16 - MOONSims3 - Vans Authentic Pro A MXIMS & Vans SK8 HI B MXIMS

14 - Lies-and-Crooked-Sims - Pixicat Converses 01

15 - Simstiful - Decor Dirty Shoes

17 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 heurrs Nielstrup Dresser

18 - cyclonesue - Air Conditioning Unit (TSR)

19, 33 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 novvvas Desierto Bedroom (Buddha & Books)

20 - ArtVitalex - Yuma Triple Shelf (TSR)

21 - Milla - Acne Pansy Beanie Hat

22 - johziii - Wooden Desk Shelf Empty

23 - SimplyStyling - Jope Living 5 Books

24, 39 - SimplyStyling - Jope Living 4 Side Board & Basket

25 - MarcusSims91 - Kalico Blanket Throw Ladder (TSR)

26 - SimplyStyling - Jope Living 1 Books

27-32 - Taultvec - Slox Hasare Books 1-6 Standing

34 - you-lust - Lisennymphy Buddha

35, 46, 54 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 Syboulette Pride Set (Wall Flag, Hat, Bag)

36-38, 47, 49, 53 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 Simbishy Cute Stationary Set Part 3 (Felt Pen Wall Array, Highlighter Wall Array, Marker Wall Array, Marker Array, Highlighter Array, Drawer Closed)

40-41 - Simstiful - Sketchbook & Notebook

42-45 - Milla - Luna Books 1-4

48, 50 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 Simbishy Cute Stationary Set Part 2 (Felt Pen Array & Highlighter Array)

51, 55 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 pqSim4 Study Space (Organizer & Trolley)

52 - you-lust - BillyJean Brush Holder

56 - Simstiful - Canvas Art

57 - SweetMarie222 - BS Mila Watercolor Milla Version (TSR)

58 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 Soloriya Art Studio Acrylic Paint Tubes

59-62, 66, 68, 70 - you-lust - Imadako Set (Watercolour Box Open, Pencil Cup Water Colour Umesara, Crayon Box Open, Watercolour Brush Stand, Watercolour Pencil Box, Watercolour Palette)

63-65, 71 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 Soloriya Darina Set (Painting A, Painting B, Fabric with Brushes, Paint Tubes & Pencils)

67, 69 - Milla - Cassandre Pencil Cup 2 No Shininess & Stamp Version

72-74 - Pralinesims - Vintage Rugs 1-3 (TSR)

75 - Pralinesims - Soft Flokati (TSR)

76 - pseudodigs - Moroccan Rugs

77-79 - francythatsims - Neutral Rugs (2x3, 4x3, Runners)

80-83 - johziii - Rugs! Set 2x3 & 3x4 (Boho, Earthy, Monochrome, Vanilla)

84 - Martassimsbook - 4t3 Cowbuild Minotti Rug Collection (Swatch A 3x2 & 7x5)

85 - MarcusSims91 - Address Planter

86 - MarcusSims91 - Modern Address Numbers Bellrose

[reginaldqueribundus]

the year is 2048. a smiling young farmer in a power wheelchair sells me the biggest bag of muesli I've ever seen out of a market stall built from repurposed drone parts. he sees the toys in my reusable bag and insists on throwing in some homemade cat treats “on the house”. I get an email from the wind farm: they've deposited another $20 in my account for using up excess electricity outside peak hours, so I decide to splurge on some flavoured honey and boba tea. I tell the barista I feel like a billionaire today and she smiles politely and asks me what a “billionaire” is. I run into an old friend handing out free insulin packets and we spend some time catching up. I've got a new gig at the organ printing depot and she's on rotating job assignments with the Workers' Cooperative: this month is insulin distribution, last month was reprogramming robot dogs as automated planters for the pollinator farm, next month she'll be on a work crew converting the old football stadium into a greenhouse. She's been sleeping in the park (by choice, of course, the local housing co-op has tons of suites open) but the climate bureau is cloud seeding this weekend and we're expecting a lot of rain. I invite her to crash at my place. She smiles and says she would like that. Our trolley ride home is briefly halted by an impromptu pride parade and the sun is setting as we pass the ivy-covered sign advertising the golf course that once existed where my neighbourhood now stands. A friendly technician explains she's just finished replacing the faulty router on our block so we can use the public WiFi again. I start a fire in the fireplace and sort through some mail: a postcard from one of my exes in Hawaii installing carbon dioxide scrubbers that double as frog habitats, a flyer for a music recital at the rehab clinic, and a letter from International Blood Services declining my donation because they are fully stocked. I ask my Global Music Archive uplink to select a random decade, country and genre and it starts a playlist while the two of us snuggle together on the couch under a hand-knitted blanket and my cat makes biscuits on top. On TV, a newscaster says global temperatures are at their lowest point in the last 40 years. I flip channels to some standup comedian saying kids these days don't know how to conceal when they're high because there's no cops anymore. We laugh until the rain softly falling on the roof lulls us to sleep.

[baileys-3]

NEW CHAPTER ONLINE on AO3

Sneak Peak:

Genny is walking across the baseball field, lost in her thoughts and not paying much attention to her surroundings. She's thinking about tomorrow and all the things she needs to get done. But before that, she has to help Tim clean up his training equipment and then pick up Mat from her neighbors. It's a relief that she lives next door to an elderly couple who are always happy to look after Mat for a few hours. Being a single mom can be tough, but it's been that way since the last year of her marriage to Rob. Not that he was much help with the kids anyway, even when they were still together.

"Hey mum. Can Blake and I throw a few more balls?" Tyler startles her out of her thoughts.

"Yeah, sure." The two boys cheer and immediately start throwing balls at each other. Even now, after training, they still haven't had enough. Which is surprising, because Tim and Lucy chased the boys around the pitch so much that they were all dripping with sweat by the end. And yet, at the end of the training session, the boys were all happy and beaming. It seemed like they couldn't believe what they were capable of. Genny doesn't want to complain about Tyler's former coach, he had a rather cozy and familiar manner, not taking the job so seriously. It's not entirely his fault though, as he only took the job out of necessity, just like his predecessors apparently did. Tim and Lucy seem to be the first to have found an approach to the boys, if the parents' conversations in the stands are to be believed. And the two of them are an amazing combination. Tim, with all his expertise and the eye that you need to have as a coach. And Lucy, who has this likeable manner and simply knows how to deal with people. And apparently also with boys of this age. She even reckons that at least half the team have developed a little crush on Lucy. Judging by the giggles. And how they sometimes turned red in the face.

During training, something fascinating happened. Genny joined Lisa, Samantha, and Anne shortly after the start of training. She realized Tim would no longer need her. As time went on, more and more parents joined them, and a lively conversation about the two new coaches and the team ensued. The parents were enthusiastic, and Genny completely understood their excitement. She had seen many training sessions, but never one like this. Some parents even asked if the two coaches could continue, or if Genny could get them interested in doing so. Genny doesn't think the chances are high because both coaches have jobs that demand a lot of time and involve overtime. However, there's no harm in trying.

When she arrives to the sides where Tim and Lucy already started tidying up, Lucy is handing Tim a baseball bat, which he stows away in the front pocket of a bag. Genny kneels down next to the small trolley they are using to transport the equipment. She picks up the helmet lying next to the trolley and starts to help tidy up. Or rather, loading the equipment onto the small trailer.

She doesn't waste time; she gets straight to the point. There's no need to beat about the bush." I think you two should co-coach. You were great together. "

Tim's rebuff comes straight away: "Oh, no, no. I'm -- I'm ready to hand over the reins entirely."

She's not at all surprised. But Lucy chimes is right away, not letting Tim quit so fast. "Not a chance."

Genny decides that this is a wonderful opportunity to push the two of them a little. She is so curious and is almost certain that there is something going on between her brother and Lucy. It's all these little signs.

"No, but seriously. I saw today why you work so well together."

And indeed! Her brother starts stuttering. That never happens to him, except when Lucy is brought up, whether directly or indirectly." I-I ... It's just, uh ..."

So, Lucy immediately jumps in, as an attempt to save Tim from total self-destruction. "We spend so much time together on..." and immediately corrects herself. Which is totally suspicious. "... out on the job."

Tim can only contribute an "Mm-hmm." Genny has to be careful not to smile too obviously. Tim doesn't know where to look at all. She's hit the bull's eye. The confirmation of this comes when Lucy suddenly changes the subject entirely.

[coochiequeens]

'A woman who falls through the cracks is falling with her children'   

Away from threat of Islamist violence or floods, health risks for pregnant women in Nigeria's refugee camps remain high 

By Adie Vanessa Offiong, CNN Photographs by Taibat Ajiboye for CNN

Editor’s note: This story is part of As Equals, CNN's ongoing series on gender inequality. For information about how the series is funded and more, check out our FAQs.

Abuja, Nigeria (CNN)Aisha Aliyu is eight-months pregnant and sprawled out on a mat in front of her house with four of her children spread around her feet. Two-year-old Hauwa and five-year-old Abba are both crying and tugging at their mother's coffee-colored hijab. She, in response, rolls her eyes and clicks her tongue at them. She looks tired. 

The child Aliyu is carrying is her tenth. The last four were delivered in the Durumi Camp, a place in Nigeria's capital city, Abuja, that she and an estimated more than 3,000 other internally displaced people call home. 

In 2013, Aliyu fled her home in the village of Wala in Nigeria's northeastern Borno State to its capital, Maiduguri. She said her village was attacked and much of it burned down by armed Islamist group, Boko Haram. Two years later, the militant group attacked Maiduguri, forcing Aliyu to again migrate, this time travelling over 856km south to Abuja with her husband and five children.

The now 39-year-old saw having many children as a way of replacing her relatives killed by the insurgents, but reveals she was done after her last pregnancy in 2021 and began using contraceptives. However, she became pregnant again this year. 

Having already borne children in Durumi camp (one of 264 communities for internally dispaced people (IDPs) known to exist across Nigeria as of September 2021), Aliyu was fearful, knowing of the limited resources she would have access to. The farmer's wife had been unable to afford the food and medication she needed to stay healthy, and antenatal services were limited.   

Aisha with five of her children

The space initially set up as a birthing suite at the camp was rudimentary and barely hygienic, explains Liyatu Ayuba, appointed the camp 's Women's Leader by the site's Chairman when she arrived in 2014. She has since handled issues regarding health, food or children on behalf the IDPs.  

"It was a tent that we swept, and I would put a mat or wrapper on the floor for the women to lie down on to give birth," says Ayuba, who for much of the camp's history has been its only birth attendant. Many of the displaced women refer to her as Mama. 

 Ayuba says the tent was a shanty built with corrugated roofing sheets and a sandy floor. If gloves were available, the birth attendant used them and if not, she explains that she covered her hands with polythene bags and cut umbilical cords with a razor blade. 

"I gave birth to three of [my children] with Mama's help on a mat under the shelter," Aliyu tells CNN, referring to the birthing tent. "Mama cut the umbilical cord and bathed the baby."  

In 2019, a non-governmental organization set up the camp's health post where Aliyu's ninth child, Hauwa, was delivered in 2021. The post is a small clinic located inside a repurposed 20ft shipping container, where wooden boards partition the space to create a delivery suite which looks more like a storage space and just about holds a bed, a baby cot, a drip stand, a broken chair, a trolley and empty containers that should contain water. The other half is the consultation room with a table, two chairs, a bed, and a cupboard where medicines and devices are kept.    

Though basic, the clinic at least provides a consultation space that women previously had to make do without and Ayuba is proud to say the camp has not recorded any deaths among mothers or babies under her watch. 

The makeshift delivery room partitioned in the shipping container used as the camp's health post

'No 'special arrangement' for those who are pregnant in Nigeria's camps

Aliyu is one of many internally displaced women bearing children in Nigeria's camps, with some grounds not even housing a health post or shelter for birth, instead needing women to go into labour in their own shelters or that of their birth attendant. 

A 2021 PhD thesis by Fatima Mahmood Jibirilla at Walden University, states that women living in IDP camps in Nigeria "have a higher risk of maternal death than women living in their homes." The author cited a range of factors increasing the risk of maternal and neonatal deaths in these settings, including inadequate prenatal care services and limited family planning programs.  

"There are no special arrangements for pregnant women in IDP and refugee camps [in Nigeria]. There are poor antenatal services that are inadequate to detect and address likely pregnancy-related complications and other signs of poor pregnancy outcomes," the author writes. While there have been no maternal or infant deaths at Durumi on her watch, according to Ayuba, multiple doctors volunteering there and across camps in Abuja corroborated the concerns highlighted in the study to CNN.  

In a country that has long had among the highest maternal mortality rates in the world and has the third highest number of internally displaced people (IDPs) in Africa as of the end of 2022, according to the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC), the lack of adequate maternal healthcare provision in these camps is a significant concern, one of the doctors told CNN.

The 2022 IDMC figures also show that 4.5m Nigerians were classed as "internally displaced people" as a result of both conflict and natural disasters, with flooding outstripping protracted violence as the main source of displacement. 

The camp nurse, Isa Umar examines a pregnant woman during antenatal session

While there is no national breakdown of IDPs by sex or age, a 2023 report by the Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM) Sector says there are 1,575,741 women and children in the Nigerian states of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe alone, making up 74% of the 2,124,053 IDPs in those states. 

Nigeria's total IDP population relies largely on the graces of charitable organizations for its health care, Ayuba and the camp's nurse Isa Umar told CNN. 

'If it happens, I am dead.' The prohibitive costs of care   

Wednesdays are antenatal day in Durumi. When CNN visits, camp nurse Isa Umar, who himself was forced to leave his home due to the insurgency, is in the consultation room using a handheld ultrasound scanner to monitor a baby's growth and a fetoscope to monitor the heartbeat among the expectant mothers coming in. 

Umar measures each pregnant woman's stomach followed by her weight. After they've been seen, women compare notes while sitting on the clinic's veranda, discussing how any of the medicines Umar has prescribed will be paid for.   

The set up is far from adequate. Umar tells CNN: "We don't even have folic acid or anti-malarial medicine to give them. I have to write these for them to go and buy." Malaria is endemic in Nigeria and infections pose various risks during pregnancy, such as premature labour and miscarriage, and folic acid is recommended for those who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, to reduce the risk of certain birth defects. 

But for most of the 64 women recorded in the camp's birth register this year, these costs are prohibitive. Folic acid, for example, costs ₦3,000 ($3.74) for 100 tablets and Aliyu tells CNN she could not possibly have afforded that cost for the duration of her pregnancy. She says she's only been able to take this vital supplement when NGOs have donated them free of charge. Back home in Wala, her N100 ($0.11) hospital card had entitled her to free folic acid as well as other resources while pregnant. 

Getting clean water at the camp is also a challenge, Aliyu shares, explaining that it's a time-consuming, strenuous task requiring her to make several trips daily and is one she can no longer do in the final weeks of her pregnancy. Instead, she now pays for it to be delivered. At its cheapest, enough water to make the family's breakfast of pap (porridge made from ground corn) and other domestic chores for a month costs ₦24,000 ($28.43). Costs can rise by 25% on days when there is no electricity and a generator is needed to work the pumps, or when water sellers must go farther to fetch it.  

With Aisha almost full term, she is no longer able to go to fetch water and now has to pay up to N500 daily for it to be delivered to her home

There are also the costs of giving birth in Abuja that Aliyu didn't have back home.   

To immunize her babies at the camp, the mother of nine has to take them to the nearest government hospital where nurses have certain expectations that fall to the mother, she tells CNN. These include making sure the baby is wearing diapers and bringing various items including cotton wool and baby lotion, which would cost money Aliyu says she doesn't have.  

"In Borno, it was not compulsory to use [diapers] when going to the hospital. We just used our wrappers (a piece of fabric women tied around their waist). But here, the nurses insist that (the babies) must wear diapers and (we must) have an extra one in our bag," Aliyu says. Multiple mothers shared similar concerns with CNN. 

Dr Charles Nzelu, Head of Special Duties at Nigeria's Federal Ministry of Health tells CNN he believes health workers are simply acting in the overall interests of the baby and that a lack of medical skill, experience, and communication is resulting in a lack of understanding about the women living in the IDP camps. "When you come to me as a doctor, I will give you medical advice the way it's supposed to be," he explains. "When you are more experienced, you are flexible (with) the way you relate with patients." He adds that this government, which came into power in May, will work to address issues like these.

"I can't afford treatment. If it happens, I'm dead"Pregnant resident of Durumi Camp in Abuja, Aisha Aliyu

In the meantime, Aliyu says she is struggling to meet all her needs and those of her children. To afford what she can, Aliyu makes and sells wigs and traditional caps worn by men, earning on average ₦10,000 ($12.49) a month.

Money is not her only concern. Aliyu worries about catching malaria and about not being able to produce enough breastmilk because of the poor quality of her diet. Her family survives on staples such as pasta and maize in different forms. 

"I can't afford the treatment" for malaria, says Aliyu. "If it happens, I am dead."

Difficulty fulfilling promises

The National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) is responsible for Nigeria's growing number of displaced people. Its commissioner tells CNN that the organization, which was set up in 1989 and has a health budget of N250 million for 2024, has paid for midwives to visit IDP camps to assist in deliveries of babies as frequently as funds allow and has, in some instances, also paid off people's hospital bills. CNN was unable to verify this budget figure provided by the Commission which it said is not yet public.

However, some of the IDPs who have been in Durumi since the informal settlement formed in 2014, say that no midwives sent by the Commission have visited the camp during their time here and that in the past, it has been difficult to get it to fulfil promises they say the Commission made to the camp, such as furnishing the health post with an additional bed, scanning machine, gloves and other health equipment. 

CNN asked the NCFRMI about the services it provides to those in Durumi but did not receive a response prior to publication.

The nurse takes the weight of the pregnant women during antenatal

Within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), where Abuja is located, the Territory's Health and Environmental Services is responsible for all health matters including services provided to people in IDP camps, including reproductive care and sexual health services, such as birth control. Dr. Dolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary of the FCT Health and Environmental Services, tells CNN that IDP camps in the area have functional clinics supported by area council staff and partners from outside, explaining that they cannot build permanent structures because the camps are meant to be temporary. She adds her belief that "the issue with maternal care in such places is child spacing, not maternal mortality." Birth spacing helps to improve maternal health outcomes as becoming pregnant too soon after giving birth increases the risk of complications. Doctors CNN spoke to also highlighted this as a concern in the camps, and Nigeria more widely.

But many residents of the camp told CNN they had not heard of the FCT Health Services or seen them at the camp and explain that the provision of birth control is again handled by non-profits working in the camps. When Fasawe was informed of this by CNN, she said it was a wakeup call for her department to act promptly. This "has opened our eyes to the need to focus on them," Fasawe says. "We need to (conduct some) outreach asap."

Nigeria's Federal Ministry of Health oversees health for the country (including provisions provided by the Commission). In response to the concerns, the Ministry of Health's Nzelu tells CNN that maternal and child health is a very high priority for government but explains that the Ministry primarily provides policies and guidelines for states, local governments and government agencies to follow and does not typically intervene directly. He said: "As a government, we are still working to make sure that both the state and all these agencies of government that are charged with the direct implementation, do their best to make sure that those inhabitants of IDP camps are well taken care of."

A volunteer doctor brought his own kit to do blood tests at the Durumi camp

'A woman who falls through the cracks is falling with her children'   

African NGO, Pro Health International, has been sending volunteer medical professionals to provide free healthcare services for IDPs across Nigeria for over 12 years. They were last in Durumi in June and describe it as one of the most impoverished IDP camps within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), where Abuja is located. 

Pro Health International Founder and Executive Director Dr. Iko Ibanga shared that his team raised the issue of health challenges within IDP camps two years ago with the Minister of Health at the time, Dr. Osagie Ehanire. "We were told it would be looked into, but nothing was done," he says.

Ehanire did not directly respond to CNN about whether Pro Health International raised the issue of health challenges among internally displaced people with him, but the former health minister highlighted the NGO's work as a useful implementer of maternal health services in more recent years, and shared emergency response plans for IDPs that were put in place in the north-east of the country (where Boko Haram is most active) and go back to 2016. He tells CNN: "Women's Health services were prioritized and featured strongly in the programs designed to the needs of internally displaced women." This region does not include Abuja, however, where the Durumi camp is located.

Women at the Durumi IDP camp, sitting on the veranda of the makeshift health post

The 2023 health budget is ₦1.17 trillion ($2.2bn), which is a 42.6% increase since 2022 and the highest percent of the total budget allocated for health. But In Africa's largest economy, this is only 5.7% of the annual budget of ₦20.5 trillion, and is much lower than the 15% of annual budgets all African Union member nations, including Nigeria, pledged in 2001 to spend on "improvement of the health sector".    

According to the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, a health post, which is the most basic health care facility, should be able to cater to a population of 500 and have 34 items always available to serve that population. Durumi's health post serves more than 3000 people and has just 10 of these items: a waste bin, scissors, fetoscope, weighing scale, chair, tables, two beds, kidney dishes, and a cupboard, all provided by NGOs according to Ayuba and Umar who say they both manage the facility without a salary.

Nzelu shares that the Ministry of Health is currently conducting a health needs assessment in most of the IDP camps to learn what is and is not lacking to ensure adequate health care services. He tells CNN: "With the budget cycle currently on, it can inform some of the things we are able to get into the budget and hope that the National Assembly gives approval so that we can implement."

Pro-Health International's Ibanga is emphatic about the risks displaced people face during the perinatal period and beyond. "When [a woman] is ill, it affects everything tied to her and her children are the most important things tied to her," he says. "A woman who falls through the cracks is not falling by herself. She is falling with her children." 

This story was edited by Eliza Anyangwe and Meera Senthilingam

[chowtrolls]

Dia if you could invent your own version of the trolley problem, what would it be?

"That's a weird question.

Are you asking who I would put on either side? I'm not naturally inclined to hurt anybody. Anyone I would want to hurt is either dead or in space, so there's no point. I don't really want anyone to be dead. Logically, I could put like...Evil Bag Guy Villains on one side, Mondes on the other, and save Mondes because I'm the best kismesis ever. Save my lover, kill some bad dudes.

But is that really what you're asking? The trolley question is inherently flawed; it forces the person at the brakes to be at fault for a life when in reality those deaths fall upon the engineers and mechanics who failed to ensure the trolley was working right. Just as it falls upon the bystanders who didn't stop a stranger from tying people to the tracks. The question can be asked without being so...guilt-ridden. The question can also be asked in a different way, and result in a different answer.

With the trolley problem, one person is tied up on one side, and five on the other. You can pull the lever to save five and kill one, or you can do nothing and only kill one person.

Now, consider this: a surgeon has 5 patients all in need of organ transplants. Is it right for that surgeon to kill one person, just to save five?

When you value the masses over the lives of the few, you can easily forget how important each life can be. Every person on the street has a life, a past, a future- they have friends, family, loved ones, jobs, interests, passions, joys, favorite foods, plans for later this evening.

There's never a right or wrong answer with philosophy, which is why I hate it so much. At least being a paramedic, there's usually right and wrong answers.

.......I need to stop hanging out with Festur so much."

[plussizewritersworld]

“This town isn’t going to know what hit them.” Jerry said to Y/N.

“What exactly are we being hit with?” She asked.

“Formula One is being hosted here, a great sport.” Jerry was currently driving himself and Y/N to their town's City Hall to drop off banners and signs that she and he were working on for this sport.

“I still have no idea what you are talking about.” She told him.

“Racing Y/N, all those banners you have been slaving over for the past month are for the teams that are racing.” He said. He pulled into the parking lot of the building and put the truck in park. “I know you don’t get out much from that art studio but there is a huge track right down by Geller’s Mill and they get here tomorrow.”

“Yes I have noticed that Jerry thank you. I just didn’t think it was for something that is so called important.”

“It’s a televised sport Y/N…ESPN…your artwork is going to be seen around the world.” He explained. “Not only that but my hotel is hosting them…our businesses are going to blow up from this.” Y/N would be lying if she said that wasn’t cool. She has been working hard to advertise her shop and work but when living in a small town, you don’t get much publicity besides the internet.

“Well then, I guess we better show them how great our little home is.” She said and smiled.

The next day their small town went from quiet and peaceful, to large crowds coming in from all around the states so see this race. Y/N stood nervously beside Jerry as the two waited in the entrance of his hotel for these pro racers.

“Do you think the tie is too much?“ Jerry asked.

“You look very handsome Jerry…relax because you aren’t helping my nerves.” She told him. The two heard the sounds of voices starting to enter the hotel, the voices were brought to life when a large group of men entered.

“Welcome gentlemen!” Jerry greeted. “Any bags please sit on the trolleys and they will be taken to your rooms.”

“Thank you, this place is nice, very bed and breakfast like.” One man said, his accent was a thick Australian accent. “I’m Daniel Ricciardo.” He introduced shaking Jerry’s hand.

“Oh I know, big fan…big fan of all of you...I am Jerry.”

“I…I don’t know you so it’s nice to put a name to the face.” Y/N spoke. Daniel looked down at her, from the moment she locked eyes with him, she felt her knees want to buckle.

“There are a lot of names to remember…may I ask yours?“

“Y/N…Y/N L/N.”

“I will definitely remember that name.” He said and winked at her. “Oi Lando! Watch where you just toss my bags mate!” He shouted at the younger man.

“Please get settled, your room keys are here, labeled by names, if you have any needs or questions just call them at the front desk and I or someone else will be here to help.” Jerry explained. The large group all nodded and said their thank yous before finding their key and heading to their rooms.

“He is just a major flirt…the moment he opened his mouth I could tell.” Y/N said to Jerry as they organized his front desk.

“Oh you had those little doe eyes the moment he walked in.”

“There is nothing little about me Jerry, which is why he was flirting. It is easy to make a girl of my size swoon over you, which is what he wanted.”

“Where the hell did you hear that?” He asked.

“It’s just a fact…common knowledge. You wouldn’t know because you are too obsessed with Katherine Wills.”

“I’m going to marry that girl one day.” He said confidently.

“I know and I will help you do that.”

“That is why you are my best friend.”

That night when Jerry no longer needed Y/N’s help at the Hotel, she went to her art studio to do work on some commissions that needed to be completed soon. As she began to paint she began to wonder about her and Jerry’s conversation early that day. She meant by what she said, fat girls are easy to flirt with and if any girls were like her, they would give in to any attention that was given. All through high school she was single, never was asked on dates, went to prom with Jerry who she had known since Preschool, and just never caught anyones eye. She learned to be content with it. Now as an adult it did start bothering her, she sees everyone around her dating, getting engaged, or starting a family. She wanted that. She wanted the happy ending you see in a romance movie or read in a novel.

“It is drink-o-clock!“ She heard her front door of the studio open and her best friend's voice echoing, she set down her paintbrush and sighed.

“I am swamped Jerry.” She told him.

“You look like you came out of the swamps.” He teased referring to her clothes which were covered in paint, her hair in a messy bun. “Katy is going to be at the bar tonight, please come with me.” He begged. Y/N was a sucker when it came to Katherine and Jerry, both have clear feelings for each other, but both oblivious to it.

“I love hanging out with Katy so yes I will come.” She agreed. “Let me just lock up and we can go.”

The bar was the hang out for the young adults, with the town being so small, there wasn’t much to do. Jerry entered first and immediately went to order the two beers, Y/N saw Katy alone sitting at a table. She quickly went over and sat beside her.

“Oh Y/N thank goodness you are here.” Katy said to Y/N. “I was supposed to meet Kenny here but he bailed like usual.”

“Well…Jerry is here too…which here he comes.” Katy instantly grew red. Katy has been seeing Kenny Lewis on and off since freshman year in high school. He was the town football star that never made it.

“Ladies, I saw you didn’t have a drink so I got you one too.” Jerry told Katy, handing them both a beer.

“Oh thank you Jerry. Oh Y/N Mama was just askin, about you.” Katy said. “She heard from that man in California who wants you to send samples of your work.” Y/N’s eyes widened. She looked at Jerry in excitement.

“I owe your Mama the world!“ Y/N shouted.

“I think this calls for some shots.” Jerry said. The bar door opened and the room went silent for a moment. It was a couple of the racers, Daniel leading the group. Jerry waved them over and instantly Y/N sat down and went quiet. “We are just about to order celebration shots, y’all in?” Jerry asked the men.

“What are we celebrating?“ One asked.

“My girl over there.” Jerry said pointing at Y/N. All eyes were on her and she wanted to crawl below the table to just avoid the staring.

“Oh, I’m George Russell by the way, this is Max Verstappen, Daniel Ricciardo, and Lando Norris.” George’s accent made it clear he was from the UK. Jerry left to get the shots, leaving Y/N to have to do the talking, thankfully Katy was still there, and knew Y/N.

“I’m Katherine, I just told Y/N here that a man in California wants her to send some of her artwork to him.”

“You’re an artist?“ George asked.

“Trying to be. I own L-Little Wonders Studio.”Y/N answered.

“She also made those banners for your little race.” Katy added.

“You did those?” Daniel asked her, she looked at him and nodded her head. “They look amazing.”

“Thank you.” Y/N said.

“Shots for everyone!“ Jerry shouted, returning with a tray full of shots. “I know you two ladies aren’t a fan of whiskey so peach vodka it is.”

A couple hours later, a few more rounds of shots, and endless beers, Y/N was more than relaxed and more talkative. Daniel, Lando, Katy, and herself found themselves playing around a pool.

“I am terrible at this.” Y/N laughed trying to hit the white ball at the yellow stripe ball.

“It would help if you hit the right ball in.” Daniel laughed and moved her pool stick to aim and the fully colored red ball. “Should I be regretting my choice in picking you as a partner?“

“One hundred percent.” She laughed. “ But…I will try to win.” She lowered herself and aimed the stick, after a couple seconds she pushed the stick slightly and the white ball rolled straight past the red ball in which she was aiming for. She put her head down in defeat.

“I take it we win?” Katy asked.

“That’s a win for us!“ Lando shouted.

“Jerry, I won!“ Katy ran over to Jerry who was talking to Max and George.He wrapped his arm around her waist and smiled.

“Are they a thing?“ Daniel asked Y/N. In Y/N’s mind she instantly felt like Daniel wanted to make a move on Katy, which normally always happened.

“Um…I want to say yes. It’s that kind of situation where they both are madly in love with each other but neither one will make a move. Plus Katy still sees this guy from high school sometimes.” Y/N explained. Daniel nodded his head.

“What about you?” The question took her off guard, how was she supposed to say that she has always been single and never dated?

“There is nothing to really-work that keeps me too busy.” She lied, she picked up her beer and took a long gulp.

“With the Pool skills that you…I find that hard to believe.” He teased her. She shook her head and smiled.

“Not all of us are born athletes…are you excited for the race?” The two made their way to a table to sit down and chat.

“Always, it’s nice to have a couple days off before it though…that never happens.”

“I will be honest, I have never even heard of Formula One till I was told to make the banners.” She admitted. “I tried looking into it but nothing was making sense to me except for the fact that you drove around.”

“Oi yeah there is much more than that…but that’s okay it’s not your fault , I can teach you everything there is to know.”

“How kind of you -“

“Katy! The hell?“ Daniel and Y/N both looked towards the direction of the yelling.

“Oh boy.” Y/N got up and went over to Katy who was on the verge of tears. She took Katy away from the group and towards the bathroom to avoid Kenny but failed.

“You can’t be trusted to go out without guys just swarming your huh?!” Kenny shouted a few of his buddies with him. Katy turned around, her tears disappeared.

“It’s not like that…” When it came to Kenny, Katy always tried to justify him.

“Well I know they aren’t here to swarm Y/N.” Y/N looked down at the hurtful comment, his buddies laughing. “Is Jerry here trying to steal my girl?” Jerry stood up, ready to get rid of Kenny.

“We are just hanging out Kenny.” Jerry told him. “Clearly you are already drunk and should just go.”

“Let’s go Katy.” Kenny ordered. Katy was about to follow but Y/N gently took her hand stopping her.

“He’s drunk Katy, you are safer here.” Y/N told her.

“Take advice from the cow that’s real smart Katy, how about you tell her about what you say about her when she isn’t around?“ Y/N knew he was drunk and would say anything to get a rise out of them. “What about what Jerry boy here said?” Y/N looked at Jerry confused.

“Shut up Kenny.” Katy warned, which made Y/N think something really was said. Y/N let go of Katy and backed away.

“Did I miss something?” Y/N asked.

“God no, he’s being an ass like usual…Kenny go home.” Katy told him.

“Find better friends Y/N. These two seem to think you are holding them back.” Kenny told her, looking directly at Y/N. “What did you say exactly Jerry? You could have moved on but instead you're obligated to stay?“

“Jerry?” Y/N asked.

“He’s twisting the conversation up that we had, that's all.” Jerry confessed. “We just mentioned that with you being on your own and-“

“I never asked you for help, or to stay-for anything, from either of you.” She felt embarrassed. Everyone was witnessing this. “Um…I-I’m going to go.” She grabbed her belongings and rushed out of the bar, ignoring the calls from Jerry and Katy.

She went straight to her studio, her place of solitude. In the back she pulled out the pieces she was sending to the man in California. It made her think. Was this going to be her big break? Was she going to be able to leave this town and truly begin her career, or would it be another let down and she would have to start from square one again? She started to think about how she could have been holding Jerry back, even Katy. When her grandparents died a few years back she didn’t have anyone except them two, but she never asked them for anything, just their support in anything she did, like she did with them. She has always been able to pay her bills, work, and survive.

She heard the front door of the studio open and she quickly went out prepared to see Jerry and Katy. It wasn’t them, which hurt, instead it was Daniel. She was expecting to see him.

“Hope you don’t mind me stopping by.” He said.

“N…no of course not.” She replied. “Hi.”

“Hi-uh…felt bad with how things went down back there and no one was coming so I figured I would…see if you are alright.” She looked down and nodded her head.

“I’m okay, I’m sorry you guys had to be there for that. Definitely not something we would want you to remember our town for.”

“Don’t apologize. Everyone has something going on. We aren’t perfect either.” He began to walk around and look at the pieces hanging on the wall that she had made. She began to get nervous, she knew being an artist she should be used to everyone seeing her work, but she was also afraid of criticism.

“You shouldn’t have left because of me.” She told him.

“Nah, it got pretty awkward and I don’t really like tension like that…you got some really nice work.”

“Thank you.” She smiled.

“What are you sending to California?“ He asked.

“They are back here.” She led him to the back of her shop and presented her work, four canvas paintings she had been working on for a year, only the fourth one wasn’t complete. Each one represented a key person in her life. “The first one is my parents which are two foggy silhouettes because I never really knew them, the second is my grandparents represented as gold because they raised me, shaped me into who I am, and the third is Katy and Jerry who are blue because I find the color blue peaceful and I always find my peace when I’m with them.” She explained.

“The fourth?” He asked.

“Not done…I have been struggling with that one.” She admitted.

“Really amazing Y/N.” He told her. “Your look on people…I admire that.” She looked up at him, taking in his words, once again feeling like a high schooler with her first crush.

“I don’t want to take people in my life for granted. Time can be short and I know the way I left the bar made it seem like I was angry with Katy and Jerry…really I would never want to make them feel like I am preventing them from doing anything, just want what is best.”

“What about what’s best for you?”

“I always say leaving here would be best but really I think it’s just finding what makes me happy…which is art, no matter where I am.”

“Do you want to see the track?” He asked her.

“What?”

“Let’s go see the track.”

“Are we allowed to?”

“I don’t see why not.” He replied, Y/N did not like that answer.

He refused the answer No for answer, which ended Y/N up at the track. She was amazed by how big it really was. She had no idea how much work was actually put into building it. He led around what they called the paddock. She looked around amazed by the view, and when she saw his car, it was even more amazing.

“This car…it looks very complicated.” She looked inside.

“If you don’t know what you are doing, then yes it can be.”

“How long have you been racing?” She asked.

“Over ten years with Formula One…you really haven’t heard of us before?” He asked.

“I don’t watch sports, plus when I did hear about it, I thought what could be so cool about cars going around in a circle…like what’s that other one called?”

“NASCAR…wow you really just said that.” She quickly began to apologize, meaning to insult his career.

“I am so sorry, I really didn’t mean it like that-“

“It’s alright, I’ll let it slide this time.” He teased her. “I want to show you something.” He took her hand without warning and led her out of the paddock and towards what she heard Jerry mention a couple times, the podium. She nervously followed him up to where three winners would stand.

“My favorite spot to be.” He told her. “In the center, fans cheering, all eyes on you.” He helped her up to stand on the center one. She looked down at him and smiled.

“I wouldn’t be able to handle all the eyes on me.” She told him.

“How about just mine then?” Her face grew red with embarrassment , she quickly got down and looked at her feet. “Do compliments make you nervous?”

“You make me nervous.” She admitted, forcing herself to look up at him.

“Why?” He took a step closer to her, closing the gap between them. Her thoughts were clouded by his presence being so close to her, it wasn’t till he wrapped his arms around her waist to pull her closer that she realized what was happening. She quickly snapped to reality and placed her hands on his chest to stop him.

“I’m sorry…this-we should go.” She told him. He let her go and cleared his throat awkwardly.

“Y-yeah alright, it’s getting late.” She nodded her head in agreement.

What was she thinking? What was he thinking? Was he really going to kiss her? Would she have let him? She laid in her bed, unable to actually fall asleep, she needed advice, she needed to tell someone what happened, she needed her best friends. She reached for her phone and sent them a text in their group chat. Immediately she got an answer. She climbed out of bed and changed into sweat pants and a sweater to meet Jerry and Katy at her studio.

“What’s wrong?” Katy was there already waiting at the front door.

“I will explain inside when-“

“I came as quickly as I could.” It was Jerry running up to the girls. Y/N unlocked the studio door and the three of them went inside. “What is going on?“ Jerry added.

“I am really sorry it is late and considering what happened at the bar I didn’t even think you would come.” Y/N said. She reached into her small little fridge and pulled out three beers.

“I didn’t think you would have reached out to us…I am glad you did.” Katy said and smiled.

“I am too…something happened earlier today.” Jerry and Katy both remained silent, waiting for the story. “Daniel was here, he came after I left…and he ended up taking me to the race track.”

“You-him-you actually went?“ Jerry asked.

“We talked a lot, and then…I think he was going to kiss me.”

“Y/N! So he didn’t kiss you?” Katy asked excitedly.

“I stopped him. I got nervous and I had never kissed anyone before and I started to think of all these reasons why I did the right thing in not letting me kiss him.” Katy shook her head. “He could be just looking for a small fling while here, using me for who knows what-“

“Stop right there. Even if he was just looking for a fling…you should have just let him.” Katy told her.

“Remember what I told you Jerry?“ Jerry looked down sadly. “I fell right into that trap.”

“What trap?” Katy looked confused.

“She seems to think that girls of the bigger size are easy to flirt with because they accept any sort of attention-“

“Which I have come to terms with, but I won’t allow myself to let that happen…which I almost did…I could see myself falling hard for him but I also could see myself getting hurt.” Katy took Y/N’s hands into her own.

“My Mama always told me to take chances. Never miss any opportunities that could be given to you, even when it comes to relationships. You have this handsome man taking interest in you, don’t let something that could be the biggest adventure in your life slip away because of your own insecurities.” Katy looked over at Jerry, who was looking away, avoiding her gaze. She looked back at Y/N. “People enter our lives for a reason, it could be good, bad, forever, or just for a moment…but we still had them at one point.”

“I don't want to get hurt.” Y/N whispered.

“If that happens we will be right here to mend you up…they have two days till their race festivities begin .How about we show him what kind of fun we like to have.” Katy suggested. Y/N smiled and nodded her head.

“Jerry, would you like to go on a double date?” Katy asked him. He looked at her like a deer in headlights.

“S…sure, of course.”

“Then it’s settled, Jerry, when you see Daniel tomorrow morning I need you to set the plans and us ladies will meet you.”

“Oh I have to plan it?” Jerry asked. Katy looked at Y/N in annoyance. “I can…I just wanted to be sure.” Jerry quickly stuttered.

Y/N looked at herself in the mirror. Katy dressed her in a yellow sundress and white small heels. Daniel agreed to go out with them, she had no idea what Jerry had planned, he was probably just as nervous seeing as he was finally going on a date with Kathrine. Katy was the one driving, she was just in the dark but she didn’t show any sort of sign that she was nervous, Y/N wished she was like her. The confidence Katy had was something Y/N would admire.

“That man really is something.” Katy said as they pulled into the parking lot of the bowling alley.

“I think it’s a great idea, and when was the last time we actually went bowling?“ Y/N asked.

“Senior year of high school…Kenny ditched me.”

“And who was there to replace him?” Y/N asked, smiling. Katy looked at her.

“Why do you think I asked him to plan this Y/N? This is a real date for him and I too…I inspired myself as well last night with my speech.” Y/N shook her head and laughed. “You look very pretty by the way.” Katy added.

“So do you.”

The two girls entered the bowling alley and many memories of their younger days were instantly brought back. Now being adults they didn’t have time to really go out and have a night of fun that did not consist of just the bar. They went to the counter and got their shoes.

“Over here!” They heard Jerry shout, both girls looked and saw Jerry and Daniel already at a lane with a couple pictures of beer. Y/N grew extremely nervous the moment she saw Daniel. He looked really handsome with a big smile on his face. The two girls approached and greeted them both.

“We got the beers and the teams sorted out.” Jerry announced. “Katy and I, Y/N and Daniel.” Y/N nodded her head and sat down to put on her shoes. Daniel said beside her.

“I have seen your pool skills…how are your bowling skills?” He asked her. She leaned up from putting in her shoes.

“I am a pro at bowling…my record is seventy six…going to try and break the record and get at least one hundred.” She joked.

“Alright hot shot, let’s see if you can win us a game then.” She nodded her head and smiled. She was the first to go up and grabbed the lightest ball. She lined herself up in the lane and positioned herself. She moved her arm back with the ball, aimed, and released, straight into the gutter.

“That’s okay, just a warm up.” Daniel said, clapping. He got up and picked Jed another ball. “Try this ball.”

“It’s too heavy.” She told him.

“That’s a good thing though, trust me.” She took the ball with two hands and turned back around. “Here, try standing like this.” He placed his hands on her hips which she wanted to move away from him but she didn’t, she remained still. “It’s all about where your arm is when you release that ball.” He stood close against her, guiding her arm back. She felt his breath against her neck as we leaned down to her height. He had his hand placed on top of hers as they both released the ball, without him moving an inch they watched as the ball hit the pins, creating a strike. She turned around excitedly to him.

“Thank you.” She said to him, moving away from how close they were. He took notice and also moved away.

“Alright, watch the real pros do this.” Katy said getting up and getting a ball. Y/N sat down and poured herself a beer into her empty cup. Daniel sat beside her and took a gulp of his own.

As the night went on, Y/N felt herself relaxing more. She and Daniel didn’t talk much, but they were winning, thanks to him, eventually they did win.

“Oh Jerry…we have to get your game up.” Katy said, leaning her head on his shoulder.

“I’m sorry but who scored a one-eighty. It surely wasn’t you.” Jerry laughed. She gently smacked his arm. Y/N watched as her two best friends were enjoying their first date together, though was it really their first date? She took a sip of her beer and looked down at the floor.

“Did you have fun?” Daniel asked her.

“I did.” She replied, she felt like she didn’t have the words to say. She was getting nervous again.

“Can we go talk for a bit?” He asked her. “Maybe outside?” She wanted to say no, she wanted to forget what happened the other night, she wanted to just move on.

“S…sure.”

The two excused themselves and she followed him outside to where it was quiet and they were alone.

“I want to apologize for last night. If I made you uncomfortable or anything…that was never my intention.”

“N-no it wasn’t that. It’s hard to explain and even if I did…it wouldn’t really…I just-“

“Jerry told me. He told me not to say anything but I felt like-“

“What did he tell you?” She asked, interrupting him.

“Just about your insecurities and worries about what my intentions are toward you.” She looked down, wishing this conversation wasn’t happening. “I can see why you did what you did last night not letting me kiss you, but I wish it wasn’t because you think I am using you or anything.”

“What are your intentions?” She bluntly asked. “I have never put myself out there and I feel like if I did it would be for no reason…it can’t be because you like me. You don’t even know me…it’s not like this can really be anything if that’s even what you want.”

“I do like you which is why I want to get to know you, that’s what dating is.” He defended.

“You have traveled the world, seen and met so many different people. What about me is so different?”

“Why are you holding me to standards? You think because I am a pro athlete that I want to pursue supermodels…I don’t see the world like that. I am not some superficial guy.” She wasn’t sure why, but she felt like crying, she felt like she made a fool of herself, he could tell she was getting worked up. His face softened and he ran his fingers through his hair.

“I’m sorry.” She told him.

“Don’t apologize for the way that you feel. I completely understand, I just want you to see that one hundred percent honest and genuine.”

“I don’t want to get hurt.”

“I would never hurt someone like you, not intentionally, but that doesn’t mean I will hurt because I will do everything in my power to make sure that doesn’t happen.” She looked at him, seeing if he meant every word. “Let me treat you for the next few days like the way you should be treated…starting with another game of kicking their asses.” She smiled and nodded her head. He took her hand in his and led the way back inside. Y/N quickly stopped him when the two approached Jerry and Katy who were just about to kiss.

“We leave the kids alone for a few minutes and this happens.” Daniel announced, Jerry quickly pulled away from Katy, his face beat red.

“This is why I said they needed a chaperone Daniel.” Y/N added. “These kids these days just can’t keep it in their pants.” Y/N sat down and refilled her cup.

“I’m thinking of no phones for a week…grounded…extra chores.”

“Are you two done yet?” Katy asked, rolling her eyes.

“I’m sure I can think of a couple more.” Daniel joked and the four of them laughed.

The night ended better than Y/N expected. She was tired and ready to go home.

“I’m going to drive Katy’s car home, she is drunk and I would feel better knowing she got home.” Jerry told Daniel and Y/N. He helped a slightly drunk Katy to her feet and wrapped his arm around her waist to keep her steady.

“I don’t mind driving you home.” Daniel said to Y/N.

“Text me when you get her home.” Y/N told Jerry.

The drive home was quiet, she stared out the window till she heard the radio come on.

“I love this song.” He began to tap the steering wheel, a huge smile on his face. She looked at him, she couldn’t help but smile as well. “Tell me you know the words.” The song was Happier by Bastille, it was one of her favorite songs.

“I love it too, a top favorite actually.” He began to sing along with the song, looking over at her. “I won’t sing though.” She told him. He looked at the road and then back at her.

“Come on…I need a partner.” He pushed. She shook her head and laughed. “I know you want to, it’s bubbling inside.” She looked out the window and then back at him, she gave in and began to sing along with him. The two sang together till they reached her house. He put the truck in park and the two then we’re once again in silence.

“I had fun tonight…thanks for teaching me how to bowl.” Y/N broke the silence.

“Thank you for letting me…for giving me a chance.” She looked down and fiddled with her fingers.

“I am sorry for assuming anything about you. I was just scared…guys don’t take interest in me and when they do it is just for a joke.” She told him.

“I can assure you that I am not treating you or this as a joke. I really do like you.” He assured her, she looked at him and nodded her head. He got out of the car and then opened her door to help her out. She took his hand and the two walked to the front door of her house.

“Tomorrow we start our practices on the track…after that would you like to go get dinner?” He asked her.

“Yeah I would like that.” She answered, he leaned down and kissed her gently on the cheek. “Goodnight.” She whispered.

“Goodnight.” He smiled.

The days leading up to his main race flew by, but they spent every moment they could together. She got to know Daniel more and more, and the more she did, the more she was falling for him. All these concerns started to arise in her head. He was the day after the race. It wasn’t till she was standing in the paddocks with Jerry and Katy that it was really going to be ending soon. Even with all the commotion of the race, she felt like all she could hear was silence.

“This is so exciting…I have been dying to catch a race in person and now here we are, in the heart of it all.” Jerry said.

“Not my cup of tea.” Katy disagreed. “Though it beats sitting in the stands.” Daniel was already out on the track. The race was about to begin.

“Show more enthusiasm girl, your man is out there.” Katy joked nudging Y/N. Was he her man? We’re they a thing? Are they going to be a thing?

After the race Daniel ended up in sixth place, or what she recently learned P6. She was happy for him, and his team seemed to be as well. He exited his car and went straight to the paddock where he was greeted with cheers and congratulations. He found Y/N watching a screen that had all the stats and records of the race.

“Understanding it?” He asked, sneaking behind her, she shook her head and laughed.

“No but it is amusing to watch.” She turned to him. “Congratulations.”

“Thank you, not my best but not my worst either. Listen, the guys and I are going to do one last hooray at the bar tonight and I want you there.”

“Of course.”

The bar was filled with Formula One drivers, all drinking and enjoying the night. Y/N had a hard time even squeezing through the crowd till she felt someone grab her hand and pull her to a table. It was Daniel’s partner Lando.

“Daniel is getting drinks for the table now…have a seat.” Lando offered her. She tucked a loose strain of her behind her ear and sat down nervously.

“Congratulations on the race today.” She said.

“Thanks love, did you like watching?”

“I really did, it was fun.”

“Good thing I bought plenty…hello darling.” Daniel said approaching with a tag of beers, she smiled, blushing at his nickname for her.

“Thank you.” She said taking one. “Jerry and Katy are on their way now.” She told him.

“Sweet, I have to speak to that man anyways.” Daniel said, referring to Jerry. “Let’s drink up because it’s going to be a long flight tomorrow.” Daniel said, raising his beer. Y/N gently raised her beer, a sting of sadness struck her body. She wondered if he was just as sad, or was it just her? She took a small sip and looked around at everyone enjoying their night without any cares or worries, something was going to try to do.

“It really is that simple.” Y/N laughed as she watched Lando who was pretty buzzed draw a butterfly on a napkin.

“Why the hell is one wing smaller than the other?” The two laughed uncontrollably, both feeling the effects of the alcohol they have been drinking.

“He’s just a little special in his own way.”

“How about we him name is Daniel.” Then the two shared another laugh.

“Name who Daniel?” Daniel approached the two who were basically in their own little world while everyone else were conversing and drinking.

“Daniel…meet Daniel.” Lando handed him the napkin. “I haven’t autographed yet but it’s by me.” Daniel nodded his head, admiring his friend's drawing.

“It’s lovely mate…Y/N want to get a beer with me?” Y/N nodded her head and got up from the table. “I’ll bring you one Lando.” Lando waved the two off and began to wander around to find his other friends.

“Enjoying the night?” Daniel asked as they waited to be she,led by the bartender.

“Yeah…you?”

“I am.”

“Did Jerry and Katy come yet?” Y/N asked.

“They are somewhere around here…hey can we get two beers please and two fireball shots.” Y/N looked up at Daniel like he was crazy.

“I don’t drink fireball.” She told him.

“For me you will.” He told her. She looked down, taken back by his demanding tone. The bartender handed him the two beers and two shots. “Ready?” He asked giving her the shot glass. She took a deep breath then nodded her head. The two cheers then quickly she down the shot. She quickly chased down the burning sensation with her beer, holding back any faces to mask the taste.

“Awful.” She said and smiled.

“Warms you right up though.” He joked, she nodded her head agreeing. “Let's party then.” He took her hand and led her back towards the crowd.

The night was coming to an end and both Y/N and Daniel sobered up. She didn’t want to end the night being wasted and end up hung over the next morning.

“Can I show you something before you go back to the hotel?” Y/N asked Daniel.

“Sure, let’s head out.” Y/N and Daniel went back to her Studio. She had been working on her last piece to send to California and wanted to show him before he left. She was nervous about what his reaction would be but at the same time excited that she finally finished. She unlocked her studio door and led him inside, straight towards the back. She didn’t say a word, she waited, letting him see the painting.

“Y/N…this is amazing.” She looked at her creation. It was Daniel. Shades of yellow surrounding him. “When did you even have time-“

“I worked all day yesterday and last night.”

“Why did you pick me?” He asked.

“You are the person who showed me that it’s okay to want to venture out of your comfort zone, to trust, and take a risk. You always have this aura of positive vibes and that’s why I picked the color yellow. You brought out a person that I want to be and helped me to see that.” She explained. “Even if our story is a small chapter…it will help me to continue to the end.”

“It doesn’t have to be a small chapter.”

“You leave tomorrow-“

“That doesn’t mean we end…besides I have something for you.” He reached into pocket and pulled out his wallet. Inside his wallet and pulled out a folded piece of paper. He handed it to her and she began to unfold it. When she opened it and began to read it, she instantly looked at him.

“You want me…when?”

“In two weeks we will be in Texas. You, Jerry, and Katy will meet me there, after that you will come with me to England.”

“Daniel I can’t-“

“You can, and you will. You said it yourself…as long as you are doing art it doesn’t matter where you are. What better way to inspire yourself than exploring a whole new country.”

“My shop…”

“…will be taken care of by Jerry and Katy…anymore excuses you want to think of so I can shoot them down?” She looked at him, trying to figure out if this was real or not.

“You want me to travel with you?” She asked sincerely.

“When I saw you watching me…being there in the paddocks…made me feel happy knowing I had someone there.” She looked down, he gently lifted her chin with his fingers, forcing her to look at him. “I told you I like you.”

“And you won’t regret it?” He chuckled, shaking his head no. “Promise?” Without saying anything else he carefully leaned down, hovering his lips over hers. She closed her eyes, not stopping him this time. He closed the gap between them, pulling her close against him by wrapping his arms around her. She rested her hands on his chest and she leaned into his kiss. Every romance novel, song, and movie were right, this first kiss was a special moment and it was one she would never forget.

“I promise.” He whispered to her.

[gentlenekomata]

a petal of love, for you | event

devoted hearts starter ♡´･ᴗ･`♡

She has been nervous since the day before and she would certainly would be nervous as well even during the meeting: it was her first time participating in such gracious and beautiful event and since she received all the instructions from Prince Pelleas, she kind of felt a bit anxious if she wasn't able to do what she had to do, for making her mysterious partner recognize her as its ‘devoted heart’ person. Since time was running pretty fast and lunch was approaching in a blink of an eye, she decided to quickly put on her favourite dress: a very cute short sleeveless kimono with some pink decors, a big bow on the back as a final touch to this apparel, which was quite simple, yet delicate. Lastly, before exiting her room, she picked up with her a small purse full of colourful markers, in order to perfectly follow the instructions given by the charming prince of Daein.

Few minutes and she reached the place where their meetings have been organized, the delightful garden near the church, the one with several tables made of metal in white and at the centre of the zone, a small white gazebo with some trolleys of food and beverages, especially placed there for ‘The Petal Party of the Day of Devoted Hearts’, the thrilling event that Sakura and many others would be attending with a special someone matched with their preferences.

Quietly, the petite priestess walked through the many tables, until she found a position that was quite adapt for her and gently sat on the chair, already rummaging in her bag to find a cute colour to begin her drawing: she wasn’t quite sure at the beginning, but after a bit of thinking, she ended up drawing one of her favourite subjects – cherry flowers. In no time, she immersed herself completely in the making of the drawing and within few minutes, she finished the little piece of art, with a pleased expression on her face.

I really hope they’ll find me and this cute drawing, she thought to herself, now looking around with a small smile on her lips.

[globalnetworkingbarter]

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Why buy a Laptop Messenger bag ?

A good laptop messenger bag combines style, functionality, and protection for your device and belongings. Here are the key features to look for:

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Check out this listing I just added to my Poshmark closet: NWOT Brenthaven ProStyle ll-XF Shoulder Bag Case.