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bororugcarpetwarehouse · 8 months

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Navigating the World of Carpets and Rugs: Unveiling Local Options Near You

Navigating the World of Carpets and Rugs

In the quest to transform our living spaces into havens of comfort and style, few elements play as crucial a role as carpets and rugs. These soft underfoot companions not only enhance the aesthetics of a room but also contribute to the overall ambiance and warmth. When it comes to finding the perfect carpet or rug, exploring local options can provide a unique and personalized shopping experience. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of carpet and rug stores near me, exploring their offerings, advantages, and how they cater to the diverse needs of the local community.

The Convenience of Local Stores:

One of the primary advantages of opting for local carpet and rug stores is the convenience they offer. Having a store nearby means you can easily visit, explore their offerings in person, and make informed decisions about the flooring that will grace your home. From viewing colors and textures to experiencing the feel of different materials, the tactile nature of carpet and rug shopping is best experienced firsthand.

Moreover, local stores often provide services beyond just selling products. They may offer professional installation, allowing you to seamlessly transition from selecting your favorite carpet or rug to enjoying it in your home. Additionally, local stores are likely to have a more intimate understanding of the local climate, helping you choose flooring that’s well-suited to your specific environment.

Exploring the Variety:

Local carpet and rug stores pride themselves on offering a diverse range of products to cater to the unique tastes and preferences of the community. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious Persian rug to add a touch of elegance or a contemporary carpet with bold patterns to make a statement, these stores often curate collections that reflect the diversity of local styles.

In addition to design variety, local stores typically carry carpets and rugs in different materials, allowing you to choose based on factors like comfort, durability, and maintenance. From the traditional warmth of wool to the resilience of synthetic fibers, the options are varied to accommodate your specific needs.

Personalized Service:

Local carpet and rug stores are not just about transactions; they thrive on building relationships with their customers. The personalized service offered by these establishments sets them apart from larger, impersonal retailers. Staff members in local stores often possess in-depth knowledge about the products they sell, helping customers make informed decisions.

Whether you’re a seasoned interior design enthusiast or a first-time home decorator, the staff in local stores is typically more than willing to assist you. They can provide guidance on factors like choosing the right size, selecting colors that complement your existing decor, and offering insights into maintenance practices to ensure the longevity of your chosen flooring.

Supporting the Local Economy:

Choosing to shop at local carpet and rug stores is not just a matter of convenience; it’s a conscious decision to support the local economy. These stores are often owned and operated by members of the community, and the money you spend with them directly contributes to the economic well-being of your neighbors and friends.

Moreover, supporting local businesses fosters a sense of community. Local stores are more likely to engage in community initiatives, contributing to the overall vibrancy and health of the neighborhood. By choosing to shop locally, you become an integral part of a broader ecosystem that values sustainability and community engagement.

Factors to Consider When Exploring Local Options:

Store Reputation:

Before venturing into a local carpet and rug store, it’s advisable to check their reputation. Online reviews, testimonials from previous customers, and recommendations from friends or neighbors can provide insights into the store’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Product Quality:

Assess the quality of the carpets and rugs on offer. Look for stores that prioritize high-quality materials and craftsmanship. Checking the labels or asking about the manufacturing process can provide valuable information about the durability and longevity of the products.

Variety and Styles:

Evaluate the variety of styles and designs available in the store. A good local carpet and rug store should cater to diverse tastes, offering options ranging from classic and traditional to modern and avant-garde. This variety ensures that you can find a flooring solution that aligns with your unique preferences.

Customer Service:

Pay attention to the level of customer service provided. Knowledgeable and friendly staff can make the shopping experience enjoyable and stress-free. A store with a team willing to answer your questions, offer advice, and assist in finding the perfect carpet or rug is likely to prioritize customer satisfaction.

Additional Services:

Inquire about additional services the store may offer. This could include professional installation, cleaning services, or customization options. Understanding the full range of services available ensures that your experience with the store is comprehensive and meets all your flooring needs.

Popular Trends in Local Carpet and Rug Stores:

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Options:

Local carpet and rug stores are increasingly embracing sustainable and eco-friendly flooring options. Customers are more conscious of environmental impact, and stores are responding by offering products made from recycled materials or sustainable fibers.

Customization Services:

Personalization is a growing trend in the industry, and local stores are no exception. Many of them now offer customization services, allowing customers to choose specific colors, patterns, and sizes to create a unique flooring solution tailored to their individual tastes and needs.

Artisan and Handcrafted Pieces:

Handcrafted and artisanal carpets and rugs are gaining popularity. Local stores, recognizing the appeal of unique, one-of-a-kind pieces, often collaborate with local artisans or source handcrafted items, adding a touch of exclusivity to their collections.

Bold Patterns and Colors:

Contemporary design trends featuring bold patterns and vibrant colors are reflected in the offerings of local carpet and rug stores. From geometric designs to abstract patterns, these bold choices are becoming focal points in modern interior design.

Conclusion:

Exploring carpet and rug stores near you offers a rich and personalized experience that goes beyond mere transactions. These local establishments become partners in enhancing your living space, offering a variety of options, personalized service, and a connection to the community. As you embark on the journey of selecting the perfect carpet or rug, consider the convenience, variety, and personal touch that local stores provide, ultimately contributing to the unique character and comfort of your home.

#carpet #rug #rug store #carpet store

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bestpriceonarearugs · 1 year

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Where to Buy Rug Online

The right rug can make a big impact in your home. But finding the perfect rug that matches your style and budget can be a challenge. Thankfully, there are plenty of online stores where you can buy the best rugs for your space.

Some of these places will sell you area rugs for cheap that you can only find on their site, while others will have a great selection of modern, designer-inspired pieces that are sure to please. The following are some of the top online rugs retailers to shop at for your next floor covering.

Wayfair

This is a huge site that offers tons of different options for your home decor needs. It also has a large selection of rugs, and most of them are extremely affordable. They even have a great return policy for any rugs that don't meet your expectations!

World Market

The buyers at this e-commerce store scour the globe for all kinds of goods, and you'll be able to get your hands on a wide variety of rugs from around the world. These include traditional Persian rugs, hand-knotted rugs and Moroccan-style rugs. Check out this website at https://www.britannica.com/technology/floor-covering or more info about rugs.

Revival Rugs

The co-founders of this direct-to-consumer rug company specialize in one-of-a-kind handmade rugs from around the world. Their curated collection of vintage rugs are thoroughly inspected before they're listed on their site, so you can be confident that you'll get your money's worth when you purchase them.

Beni

These chic, conscientious rugs are made to order by Berber weavers in Morocco's Atlas Mountains, using traditional processes and techniques to create long-lasting creations that blend classic with modern design. They also offer a customizable rug option that lets you choose your own size and design.

Target

The largest retailer of home and garden products, Target carries an impressive array of rugs from various brands. They offer a large selection of colors and patterns, and their website makes it easy to filter your options by material, size, pattern, color and room.

Arro Home

This Australian rug retailer specializes in a blend of bohemian and colorful styles that can complement any style of room. They also have a number of patterns that draw inspiration from aboriginal art.

Rifle Paper Co

If you're looking for a unique area rug that's both beautiful and functional, Rifle Paper Co is the place to shop. Their collection of floral-inspired rugs, with a mix of vintage-inspired designs, are guaranteed to please. Know where to buy area rug near me today!

Parachute

Unlike some of the other retailers on this list, Parachute is a rug seller that focuses on offering high-quality materials at affordable prices. Their neutral colors and soft tones will appeal to those looking for a more subtle option that's also machine-washable and durable.

Crate & Barrel

If your tastes lean more towards the minimalist side, Crate & Barrel has a lot of gorgeous options that are both comfortable and stylish. They're made from wool, sisal or hand-woven and come in a variety of shades.

Urban Outfitters

If you're a teen or a recent college graduate, Urban Outfitters has some trendy and inexpensive rugs that are sure to fit your needs. You can find many different styles and sizes, including runners, accent rugs and larger 8x10 rugs.

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prioritycarpetcleaningmd · 2 years

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The Best Shopping Malls Near Baltimore, MD

There are plenty of things to do in Baltimore, but sometimes it can be hard to get out of the city. Fortunately, there are plenty of shopping malls near Baltimore that make it easy to get your retail therapy on without ever having to leave town. Here's our guide to the best places to shop near this historic city!

White Marsh Mall

White Marsh Mall is located at 8300 Honeygo Blvd., in White Marsh, Maryland. The mall is open from 10 a.m to 9 p.m Monday through Saturday, and from 11 a.m to 6 p.m on Sunday.

The mall features over 150 stores including Macy's, JC Penney, Lord & Taylor and Sears as well as restaurants like Buffalo Wild Wings and Red Robin Gourmet Burgers & Brews among others. There are also several movie theaters within the mall that show first-run movies for $9 per ticket most days of the week (theaters may vary based on location). Additionally there are special events throughout the year including an annual holiday shopping event called Santa Crawl where children can visit Santa Claus at various locations throughout the mall during one night only - usually around Thanksgiving time each year!

Mondawmin Mall

Mondawmin Mall is located in Baltimore and has over 150 stores. It has a Forever 21, H&M and Zara that you can shop at. Some other stores include: Apple Store, Bath & Body Works, DSW Shoes and more!

The food court has options such as Chick-fil-A and Five Guys Burgers & Fries.

The Rotunda

The Rotunda is a mall located in Station North, Maryland. It's one of the oldest malls in this area, having been opened in 1967. The Rotunda was originally built by developer David Cordish and designed by architect Charles Luckman (who also designed Thrill Hill Amusement Park).

The Rotunda has undergone several renovations since its opening day: first in 1987 when they added more retailers and restaurants; then again in 2002 when they expanded their food court; and most recently during 2015-2016 when they renovated their exterior facade to make it more modern looking.

Hunt Valley Mall

Hunt Valley Mall is located in Hunt Valley, Maryland. It's just 20 minutes from downtown Baltimore and 15 minutes from BWI Airport. The mall has over 100 stores, including Macy's and Nordstrom Rack (which is great if you're looking for deals). There are also plenty of restaurants to choose from including Cheesecake Factory and PF Chang's China Bistro. Parking is free unless you want valet service at which point it costs $6 per hour or $10 all day on weekdays; weekends cost $8 per hour or $15 all day with valet service available as well.

The mall employs over 1,000 people full-time with more than 2 million visitors each year!

Downtown Columbia

The Mall in Columbia (Mall) is a large shopping mall located in Howard County, Maryland. The Mall is the largest enclosed shopping center in the state of Maryland and features over 250 stores including anchor tenants Macy's, Sears and JCPenney as well as an IMAX theater. The mall contains three levels with over 1 million square feet of retail space on each level.

The second largest enclosed shopping center in Washington DC is Gallery Place/Chinatown Metro Station which has over 500 shops including Target & Nordstrom Rack stores on its lower level; L'Enfant Plaza Metro Station has more than 400 shops including Bloomingdale's & Macy's department stores on its lower level; Pentagon City Metro Station has over 300 shops including Lord & Taylor department store plus several other smaller national retailers like Urban Outfitters & Banana Republic Kids Clothing Store etcetera - if you're looking for something specific don't forget about these great malls!

We hope you enjoyed our list of the best shopping malls near Baltimore, MD. If you have any questions or comments, please don't hesitate to reach out!

Carpet cleaning services in Baltimore Maryland. We provide same day carpet cleaning near me services and emergency rug cleaning in metropolitan Baltimore area. At Priority Carpet Cleaning, we take pride in our service. Our professionalism shines through with every job we do.

Priority Carpet Cleaning 5109 York Rd, Baltimore, MD 21212, United States 410-210-4580 https://prioritycarpetcleaningmd.com/ https://www.google.com/maps?cid=18107752741343949986

#carpet cleaning baltimore #steam cleaning baltimore #carpet cleaning #carpet cleaning near me

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maxdirect · 2 years

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Discount flooring direct

Since 1981, as a family owned and operated business, FloorMax has been serving customers nationwide with discount flooring. Located in Dalton, GA, known as “the Flooring Capital of the World”, FloorMax offers its customers discounted pricing on all your flooring needs including; hardwood, laminate, tile, carpet, resilient, luxury vinyl tile and plank, area rugs & more.

Discount flooring = saving you money!

At FloorMax we offer exceptional savings on name brand flooring from manufacturers like:

Mohawk

Columbia

Idus Parquet

Congoleum

Lexmark

Mullican

Somerset

Dream Weaver

FloorMax Direct offers discounted prices on America’s most sought after flooring products like:

Hand-scraped, pre-finished hardwoods

Fashionable and durable laminates

Timeless glass, ceramic and porcelain tiles

Resilient sheet vinyls

Luxury vinyl tile and planks

Luxurious carpets

CORETEC waterproof flooring

FloorMax offers savings of up to 70% off retail and big box stores. We proudly serve customers nationwide, like the greater Atlanta, GA, greater Chattanooga, TN, greater Birmingham, AL, greater Nashville, TN, and greater Orlando, FL areas with our showroom and warehouse located conveniently in Dalton GA, “The Flooring Capital of the World”. We ship nationwide!

When you have decided which flooring option works best for you and you are ready to make your purchase, you can pay by cash, check, money order or credit card including Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. We also offer financing. So stop by our Dalton, GA showroom or give us a call for your next flooring project and discover our discount flooring options.

Your flooring consultant is your own personal flooring expert

FloorMax Flooring consultants know shopping for flooring can be a daunting process. We continually aspire to make our customers shopping experience as easy and non stressful as possible. Whether you visit our showroom and warehouse located in Dalton, GA, or you shop with us online, our flooring consultants are ready to assist. When you call or stop in and visit our showroom, you will be assigned your very own personal flooring consultant. You can call your flooring consultant and ask questions. Your flooring expert is happy to answer your questions and help guide you through the entire process from purchase to installation.

Flooring consultants ship free samples anywhere in the country

Not sure about which flooring to choose? Don’t worry we’ve got you covered. Discuss options with your personal flooring expert, they will be happy to send you out product samples including:

Carpet

Laminate

Wood

Tile

Luxury vinyl tile and plank

Not only do we serve the greater Atlanta, GA, greater Chattanooga, TN, greater Birmingham, AL, greater Nashville, TN, greater Orlando, FL, …we will ship you samples and even your flooring purchase anywhere nationwide!

For more details on our products and services, please feel free to visit us at: waterproof flooring, cheap flooring GA, cheap vinyl flooring GA, discount flooring near me & cheap flooring near me.

Please feel free to visit us at: https://www.floormaxdirect.com/

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hollowaystorage · 2 years

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Make Space for Festive Fun with the Best Self Storage in Inner West!

The festive season is just around the corner, and you may find your space becoming more and more chaotic as the days goes by. The decorations and gifts can make it challenging for you to host your family and friends. Thus, we think it’s a great time to get the best self-storage in the Inner West, especially if you live in a small home. It can help you organise your home, declutter it, provide a suitable space to hide your kids’ presents and make enough room for the guests to stay.

So, if you want to minimise the holiday disruption, continue reading and discover why short-term storage is a clever way to achieve that goal.

Prepare Your Home For Festivities With A Top Inner West Self Storage!

If you search for self-storage near me in Sydney, you can see that modern self-storage services are a lot of flexibility. Whether you need it for a short or a long time, there is a storage solution suited for you. Professionals will deliver you a storage unit to pack and load all your belongings and then transfer them to their safe storage houses. Mobile storage facilities have especially made self-storage more convenient than ever. So, if you are struggling with the hectic and messy chores of the upcoming holidays, below are a few reasons to consider a self-storage solution.

1. Declutter for your guests

If you have a spare room that you don’t use, you most likely filled it with trash by now. You may think it can't accommodate your parents or children for the holidays. However, you can improvise by putting excess furniture or junk in a rented space for storage. It will let you clear out those years of trash buildup, so your guests don’t have to look for other places to stay. Also, it will allow you to finally declutter the area, use the room for storing your guests’ belongings and avoid tripping over furniture.

2. Entertainment Space

Festivities offer us the perfect opportunity to get together with our family. However, if you have a large family, gathering them in a single room can be a challenge. Perhaps, you can put the unused tables, shelves and desks in top-notch self-storage in the Inner West. You can pick them up at any time you need after the celebrations. This way, none of your relatives have to sit on the kids’ chairs.

3. Storing Decorations

Holding your Christmas decorations after the celebrations can be a hassle if you live in a smaller apartment. Many get two trees, box after box of adornments, reindeer cut-outs and fairy lights for their festivities. These things will only make your space cramped up. So, consider getting a cheap storage solution in the Inner West to keep the lighting and other decorations safe and free of moisture and dust.

4. Secure Your Valuables

When you have a crowd at your home, enjoying themselves to the fullest, there is a good chance that your favourite vase or rug may not survive the night. Broken glasses, drinks spilt on carpets, and missing showpieces are typical occurrences of having a party at home. Hence, if you have any valuables you want to protect, locking them away in powered storage units is a good idea.

5. For Commercial Purposes

Are you a retailer? Are you looking for a secure place to store your Christmas stock? Then a mobile self-storage unit will be perfect for you. You can use it to store all your festive products, whether they are for online retailing or offline retailing. It’s an excellent way to keep your products without disrupting the organisation of your primary warehouse.

Final Thoughts

So, are you ready to invest in high-quality self-storage in the Inner West? Remember to choose a storage solution with proper security measures, such as CCTV facilities. Also, ensure they can keep your things safe from environmental havoc and other external issues.

#self storage inner west

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animationgreys · 2 years

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Many of the Morgan body PDF literature files are listed below. Let us design your truck body around your specific needs- whether they be interior cargo control, special access side doors, temperature control, or special loading/ unloading requirements. If these Fastrak programs do not meet the specifications you require, we can assist in customizing Morgan truck bodies to meet your transportation requirements. 2014 Reading Adapts To New Markets With the new euro-style van market hitting the US strong, Reading adapts its successful Aluminum Classic Service Van (CSV) to work with the new Ford Transit and. Please refer to the Morgan website for the wide variety of specifications available in these programs. The Reading Group purchases America’s Body Company (ABC), which expands its truck body offering to include hauler, dump and landscape bodies. The Morgan Fastrak ordering program through Morgan distributors produces dry freight van bodies in 7 days and refrigerated van bodies in 21 days. STAHL has a variety of service bodies to meet your needs. Our line of truck bodies includes standard and medium-duty service/utility bodies that provide heavy-duty performance wherever the job takes you. When you submit your used truck part request, you will receive offers from our network of dealers with the most competitive prices.Morgan has available two quick build Fastrak programs that minimize your lead time in waiting for delivery of a new truck body. Since 1946, STAHL Scott Fetzer Company has been manufacturing durable, rugged truck bodies that provide years of dependable service. Find a store near you or shop online for car, truck, and SUV replacement parts.

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rugsaustralia · 8 months

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The Hottest Trends in Hall Runner Rugs for Modern Homes

Hallways often get overlooked in the home décor process, but they deserve some love too! A well-chosen hall runner rug can elevate your entryway, corridor, or staircase from functional to fabulous.

Here are the hottest trends in hall runner rugs for modern home in 2024, sure to add a touch of personality and style to your space:

Bold and Beautiful

Color pop

Ditch the beige and embrace vibrant hues! Jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red make a statement, while mustard yellow and terracotta add warmth.

Graphic geometry

Playful geometric patterns like stripes, chevrons, and terrazzo are perfect for adding visual interest. Opt for contrasting color for extra impact.

Texture Tales

Layered luxury

Combine a plush under-rug with a thinner patterned runner on the top for a layered look and a delightful feeling underfoot.

Natural Woven Wonders

Embrace the beauty of natural materials like jute, sisal, and wool for a touch of rustic charm and a sensory experience.

Sustainable savvy

Eco-friendly fibers

Choose runners made from recycled materials or sustainably sourced fibers like bamboo or hemp for an eco-conscious touch.

Vintage vibe

Upcycled or vintage runners add a unique character and story to your hallway. Look for one of a kind patterns and color.

Practical Style

PerformanceFabrics

Opt for stain-resistant and easy to clean fabrics, especially if you have pets or kids. Look for materials like nylon or polypropylene.

Runner grips

Ensure safety and prevent slip with a non-slip rug pad underneath your runner.

Are you Ready to shop? Visit to All Modern Rugs store in Australia to find the best hall runner rugs trends! With a wide variety of styles, colors, and materials, you are sure to find the perfect runner to step up your modern home’s style.

#best hall runner rugs store #modern rugs collection #outdoor rugs Australia #order natural rugs in melbourne #best rugs retailers near me #online rugs store Australia

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insufferablelust · 4 years

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blurb/one shot about reid coming home after prison and the team wants you to go home with him to his apartment to comfort him because you guys are good friends. he starts to talk about how lonely he was and how much he missed talking and laughing with you but also how much he dreamt of touching/fucking you while he was there. spencer is a very hard dom and rough considering he hasn’t touched anybody in months.

Warning : Smut! with some name calling, and dom!Spencer x Sub! Reader.

When you received the news that Spencer has been released from that god awful prison, you jumped at the first look of him entering the bullpen with JJ after the whole Cat ordeal. You hugged him like you would hug a boyfriend, but you didn’t care, you haven’t seen him in so long— he refused to let you visit him on prison because he can’t bear the thought of how the others would watch you and Spencer’s blood boiled at the thought.

Its how you two has always been together, since you joined the team after Emily depart to interpol, you have always been close to Spencer— from the outside, it would look like you two were too close, but neither of you really cared. It would be naive of course, if you lie and say you don’t love him— because you do, as a best friend and so much more. But you knew, how difficult relationships could get for him so you never tried to pry more than you were given even if you had to watch him break down after Maeve, and the stories that follows.

Morgan teased you about it before he left, saying how you should make your move now rather than later— only Morgan knows how much love you have for Spencer (and Morgan is also the only person who knows how much love Spencer have for you) but you shrugged and laughed it off, swallowing down the bitter pill of reality that he would never look at you more than just a friend— a very close caring friend that kissed multiple times because they were drunk, yeah that’s it, right?

Wrong.

It’s been a few weeks since Spencer’s release and the whole Mr.Scratch mess. You were just quietly enjoying your mandatory break with red wine on your hand and flashes of imagination that accompanied your thoughts. You sighed as you take a look at your phone to see a message from Penelope.

Garcia, P ❤️

Hey princess! how about you, me, em, JJ, and Tara go out to shop tonight? maybe we could catch up too? i miss you aaalll soo much.

You smiled at the sweet message, quickly typing a ‘yes i’ll be there, your majesty. and i miss you too.” It wasn’t that difficult of a choice, seeing as you weren’t doing anything anyways, and you sure as hell could buy some more things just for the sake of retail therapy.

You quickly changed into a comfy dress that stops just below your knee, with a vintage belt around your hips and a cute burgundy cropped cardigan to keep you warm. You were zipping your bag when you heard it, heard the pretty loud bangs on your door that had you startled. To say that you were a bit paranoid was an understatement, as you approached the door with a gun prepared on your hands— you squinted at the peephole to see if you should open your doors or not, to your absolute childish-crush surprise— it was Spencer, a very disheveled looking Spencer standing in front of your door.

As soon as you sees him, you placed your gun away safely tucked on your cabinet before opening the door and let him in. He was dressed somewhat nicely, shirt tucked underneath his pants with his signature dark blue cardigan, his hair was a mess, and the bags below his eyes indicated that he’s in fact not doing well— though you figured as much.

“Spence, are you okay? you look tired.” You mumbled carefully, as you sat down beside him on your couch, his eyes wouldn’t even look at you but rather taken a keen interest on the floor of your apartment.

“Oh..are you going on a date?” He asks timidly, his voice shaky and on edge as his gazed turned to your bag and then your clothes.

“What? No, no no! Pen asked me out on a shopping night with the girls so i was just about to go.” You laughed, and you swore you heard his loud sigh of relieve when you said that, but you’re convinced that your mind is telling tricks to you.

“Well um i can go.. if you’re—“ You cut him off instantly just as he about to stand, you grabbed his wrist tightly to pull him back down and shake your head, smilling softly, “No.. Please, i can shop another time— you came all the way here so stay okay?” You begged him, eyes desperately trying to lock with his.

“Okay... okay, Y/N.” He sniffled, eyes finally met yours— you were shocked to see they were brimmed with raw fresh tears, falling slowly down his cheeks— you didn’t say anything else, just immediately tucking him against your sides so his head was laid on top of your heart and your fingers on his hair.

“Oh it’s okay, shh it’s okay— you’re okay, i’m here just let it out..” You cooed, holding him tightly as he sobbed onto your chest.

“Got your pretty dress all wet..” He mumbled as you both were laying down on top of the soft rug near your fireplace on the floor, your cheeks warmed at the sound of his voice, “It doesn’t matter, it’s not that your teardrops are made of paint anyways.”

You both laughed at your answer, laying on each other’s side, eyes locked. You brushed your fingertips across his cheeks, feeling his breath shuddered, “Spencer..” You whispered softly.

“Hm?”

“What happened?” His eyes fluttered shut as he drew in a sharp breath, your fingers were calm and soothing on his skin. “You’ll hate me..” He suddenly whispered, voice shot and it nearly made you cry.

“No, no i won’t. Hey look at me, there you go.. Spencer.. you know i’ll always support you no matter what, and i’ll never judge you of any decision you made because i know you, okay? and i trust you.” You emphasized each word, as your nose brushed against each other— you could care less at the thoughts of breaking regulations now.

“I know Y/N, it’s not that.. it’s just..” He moved back a bit, before intertwining your hand in his and kissed the knuckles, “I missed feeling happy.. missed being.. being able to help.. to talk freely... to sleep without nightmares.. to just—“ His voice trembled as fresh stream of tears threatening to fall upon his skin, you were quick to held his hand tighter so he knows you’re there with him— that you’re real.

“To have a control over my life, over something.. everything is out of place, Y/N... I-I can’t live like this.” You could see it in his eyes, just how much he wanted to feel the control again— to make his own decisions without having the trauma of being drugged by a female serial killer or catched by the police.

“And.. and i can’t stop thinking about..” He stopped as he bit his lip, under the soft glow of the crackling fore— you could see just how pink his cheeks get as he stared at you still, his palm is now pressed against your cheeks, “About what, spencer?” You whispered, feeling overwhelmed already by the warmth of him pressing against you so closely, your heart thrummed against your ribcage like a drum going off on it’s own.

“You... you— one of the only thing that kept me alive.. alive on— you, you i can’t get you out of my mind. I don’t like it..” His lips were practically brushing against yours as you widen your eyes, letting a pained, “Oh..” Left your lip as you came to a realization at what he’s referring to, but before you could get out of his grasp— he cut you off,

“I don’t like it because i can’t do a damn thing about it, Y/N. I don’t like it because i can’t touch you whenever i want, I don’t like it because.. because i’m so used to having things so certain.. all my life, all i want to believe in was numbers, and— and science but the only thing that makes sense right now in my life.. is you.” He craddled your jaw so gently as your forehead pressed against each other.

The room grew quiet after that, just heavy breathing, and both of you savoring the moment, the warmth of each other’s skin. You could hear a pin drop, but the only thing that you heard was his heartbeat that beats at the same pace as yours— fast, and full of desire, pent up desire for each other. His leg tangled itself onto yours as he inch his lips closer so they were practically grazing against each other, before he kissed you softly, softly yet so rough.. Rough as in he was savoring you, indulging in your taste.

The kiss lit you on fire, your skin burned against him as you whimpered softly at the pace of his kiss, it was rushed— yet full of desire, desire to claim each other.. to control you, and if you said you didn’t want it then that would be a lie. Here you are, sober and bright, with his tongue shoved deep inside your mouth, battling dominance— as you submitted to him, letting him to own that control.

When both of your lungs ran out of air, you whined against him, to which he pulled back and pant. Both of you tried to catch your breath, but your whole body is burning with fire— that fire is insatiable, the desire for him is insatiable.

“You said... you need control... let me be your canvas.” You whispered as you put your hands above your head and bit your lip nervously.

The silence returned as he watched you, stared at you, with so much adoration, shock, and lust.. it took him a bit of time to respond to your declaration, his hand wrapped itself on your neck, just held it there with a bit of pressure before whispering, “I’m not going to go easy on you.. are you sure you want this?”

You only smiled, and bat your eyelash at him, whispering, “Don’t hold back, Reid.”

Your back was arched in an angle you never knew you could reached, your hips constantly bucking up as your wrist tugged against the belt that tied them up tightly. Here you were, body as nude as day, with your hands tight together on top of your head, your panties shoved deep inside your mouth and the love of your life— the new version of him, has been between your legs for hours now, sucking the poor swollen clit of your cunt, bringing you to orgasm after orgasm that your eyes was wet with tears.

He hummed softly as he felt you clenched around his tongue, and tasting the way you ache and gushed onto his taste buds— groaning at the sweetness. He pressed a soft electrifying kiss on top of your clit that sent you to a sobbing mess before crawling up and pull the panties from your mouth and smile so softly yet so condescendingly.

“Oh princess.. Look at you, your make up is ruined.. look like such a mindless thing,” He taunted, causing you to buck your hips instantly, which earned a chuckle from him, “I didn’t know you would be this much of a depraved desperate whiny little girl, Y/N. I should’ve claimed you sooner.” You were screaming inside your head, telling him yes-yes you should but it’s okay.. i don’t mind now, just please— but the only thing that came out of your sinful bitten raw lips was a small “I’ve always been yours.”

He sees red instantly, hands clamping down your neck, as he pressed his forehead against yours, feeling an overwhelming sense of power— control he’s been craving, and oh how kind were you, the light of his life to serve that control on a silver platter for him— silly thing you are.. of course he’s going to take you in every way possible.

“That’s right you are, keep that in mind, bunny. Try not to scream too loud yeah? hate to bother your neighbor right? how will i explain? that my baby just can’t take it when she get fucked til she goes mindless?”

Just as you were about to answer, his cock pushed past your tight entrance, so suddenly and deep that you yelled, yelled with pure pleasure of being stretched— burning with pleasure, “Oh! Spencer!” Your eyes rolled back to your skull, as he groaned, “Fuck— you’re so fucking tight angel, oh there’s a good little slut for me.”

At that, he began to thrust into you, so fast yet so deep, your lips wrapped itself around his thumb as he fuck the sanity out of you, feeling the overwhelming amount of raw pleasure— and love at the same time.

“Mmm! take me! oh god so deep, so— fuck!” You moaned after he pulled his thumb back, cultching your wrists together as the head of his cock hit that spot— the spot that has you seeing stars. He smiled as he keeps on working his thrusts “Yeah? yeah right there baby?”

“Y-Oh! yes, please please” Your whines were half coherent, but neither of you cared, nor complained, the only thing in your minds right now is to indulge in this burning fire of a pleasure, to relinquished control.

“Good girl, so fucking tight for me Y/N— god i love you..” He said it— said it, as his thrust became sloppier, yet somewhat deeper, his face were on your neck— biting a huge amount of marks, marks that’ll make sure everyone knows you’re his.

“I love you! i loveyou! god i—“ You were cut off as his other hand reach down to rub your clit fast, sending you into a spasm fit, back arched, nipples against his sweaty chest and the walls of your cunt clenched around his cock so tightly that it brings him to the very edge.

“Cum baby, cum for me, good- fucking girl do it.” He whispered, walls breaking down as he hold himself back as you cum, cum so hard around his cock that you were silent— only letting a very high pitched chants of his names, which brought him to his own release, coating— painting your walls with his cum, claiming you inside and out.

You both tried to catch your breath as he tried to pull out, in which you whined, “No.. wanna— wanna— ugh please?” Your glassy eyes were looking at him with such a pure adoration, pure submission, that he softly smiled and propped your both to your side with his softening cock still nestled deep inside your cunt.

You sighed as he unclasp his belt, bringing your wrist down to kiss them one by one. “I love you.. i do, i truly do Y/N.” He whispered, eyes looking at yours as you smiled widely, nodding and lightly sniffling.

“Hey.. dont cry, shh shh come here baby, hey hey.. are we taking turns to cry now?” He chuckled against your hair as he pulled you close, embraced you in his arm which you giggled at and pushed his chest a bit, before nuzzling your noses together,

“I’ve always loved you, Spencer Reid, and i always will.”

——

Oh my god!!! i know its not like the actual req, i changed it up a bit i hope whoever you are, you won’t mind!! anyways, thank you so much for requesting i love you! and thank you everyone for reading.

I’m gettting through my reqs right now, so if you requested in the past few weeks, expect them to be out soon! I love you all, blurb and tag list is always open. ❤️

#insufferableblurb #spencer reid smut #criminal minds smut #spencer reid blurb #spencer reid fluff #spencer x reader #dom!spencer

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scapegrace74-blog · 3 years

Text

Ginger Snap, Chapter 5

A/N Know what this fic needs? More Geillis. No really, I think you guys are going to like where I’m going with this. Just bear with me. Only one more chapter to go after this one, plus an epilogue. Thanks for coming on the journey with me! With due credit to Sia, this chapter’s title is Fire, Meet Gasoline.

Previous chapters are best enjoyed on my AO3 page, because I have a bad habit of going back and editing them after they’ve been posted.

Geillis Duncan drove much the way she approached life, which was to say without much regard for rules and at white-knuckle speed. I gripped her Range Rover’s leather cushion and swallowed any exclamations of dismay as we ricocheted through Edinburgh’s late afternoon traffic. When we finally slid into an underground parking spot and emerged into the bustling festivity of the Princes Street Christmas Market, I felt the tension of imminent disaster abandon my shoulders.

“Where to first, then?” Geillis asked, looking far too animated by the prospect of accompanying someone while they did their Christmas shopping.

Geillis and I had kept in touch and met for coffee a few times over the past months. When I explained that I wouldn’t be taking any more cooking classes at Ginger Snap because Jamie was giving me at-home lessons, her reaction was a moonbeam grin.

“Look at ye, wee vixen! I ne’er wouldha thought ye had it in ya, Claire. Tho I canna say as I blame ye.”

No matter how much I protested that I was together with Frank and that my relationship with Jamie was purely professional, she refused to believe me. The ongoing absence of a ring from my left hand didn’t help.

“Now,” Geillis exclaimed once we’d taken in the sights and sounds of the market, “let’s have a keek at yer list. Where should we start?”

I pulled out my phone and opened the Notes app. As she read, my friend’s nose wrinkled in confusion.

“Trouser socks, shoe stays, Moleskine notebook, Rive Gauche... who are ye shopping for, yer grandparents?”

“No,” I protested. “The first three are for Frank. The perfume is for me.”

When I explained that Frank had made a list of the items he would like to give me for Christmas, Geillis grew incensed.

“Ye mean he has ye doin’ his gift buying fer him? Tha’s the least romantic thing I’ve e’er heard. Do ye even like Rive Gauche, Claire? And dinna lie tae me, fer I can read yer feelings all o’er yer face.”

Truthfully, I didn’t much care for the flowery scent. My personal taste ran more towards woodsy or herbaceous aromas. But it was Frank’s favourite, and it pleased me to please him. Or it had. I was beginning to wonder when it would be my turn to please myself.

“Right,” Geillis interrupted my thoughts. “Marks and Sparks will do jes fine for yer wee granny list. And then you and I are going shopping fer yer real gift.”

Geillis was a force to be reckoned with in a retail environment. She navigated like a guided missile from one department to the next. Twenty minutes later, we were back on the pavement, which glistened with the colourful reflections of decorations strung above.

“Your car is the other way,” I explained as Geillis turned left.

“Aye, tis, but our destination is right o’er here. House of Fraser. See? Tis practically calling yer name, Claire.”

Inside the venerable old building was an astonishing multi-tiered arcade reaching over five stories to a massive skylit ceiling. The central space was dominated by a fifteen metre-high Christmas tree (a Fraser fir, of course) and every archway of every arcade was dripping with lights. The impression was like stepping into a Fabergé egg.

Geillis dragged me, slack-jawed, towards the ladies’ wear section. Circling the racks like a hawk on the wind, she eyed my body, sizing me up quite literally, then thrust several pieces into my hands.

“Geillis,” I hissed, wary of the sales staff hovering nearby, no doubt smelling an excessive commission in the offing. “I don’t need a new outfit. And I certainly don’t need,” I shook the garments in question, “something like this.�� Wherever would I wear it?”

“Well, fer starters, ye’d wear it tae dinner t’night. I dinna wish tae offend ye, Claire, but I canna in good conscience allow ye tae set foot in the Timberyard dressed fer a job interview as a primary school teacher.”

With that she shoved me in the direction of the changing rooms. Deciding to humour her, I was unbuttoning my top when two lacy bits of nothing came flying over the door.

“Start wi’ these. And dinna think I willna notice if ye’re no’ wearing them!”

I stripped down to my panties, bemusedly wondering how she knew my exact bra size.

Upon seeing me exit the dressing room in her choice of clothing, Geillis let out a squeal of delight. She insisted I rip out the tags and leave the store wearing my new outfit, declaring it was her Christmas gift to me.

I felt tremendously self-conscious as we walked towards the restaurant. The aubergine velvet jeans clung to my legs in an unfamiliar way and the black turtleneck, while technically not revealing, hinted at kink with its many heavy zippers and fastenings. Together with my unruly hair, unstraightened for once, I felt like another woman entirely. I didn’t recognize her, but I felt like she might be someone I’d like to get to know.

The Timberyard was a modern restaurant in a rugged old warehouse, not far from the farmer’s market I’d visited with Jamie. We were joined there by several of Geillis’ friends, and we ate, drank and laughed until my sides were sore.

As I wobbled to the loo, I noticed the bartender following me with an appreciative gaze. It had been a long time since a man had looked at me that way, and it gave me a guilty thrill.

We left the restaurant just before midnight. I pulled Geillis into an impulsive hug.

“Wha’ was that for, hen?” she asked.

“Nothing. Everything. Just, thank you for being you, Geil.”

“Och, tis my pleasure, lass. I only want tae see ye happy. Now, what do ye say to a digestif?”

After only a slight protest on my part, the two of us piled into an Uber. Our destination was another restaurant, this time in a converted whisky warehouse by the harbour in Leith. It was well past last sitting, but when I mentioned this to Geillis she explained away my concern.

“I ken the owner, who’s also the chef. Tis a popular spot fer locals in the restaurant scene tae meet after they close up fer a few drinks afore heading home tae their beds.”

Inside, the walls were rough stone, supported in places by industrial metal beams. The kitchen was open to the main dining area, and I grinned as I thought of Frank’s strong opinion on the matter. Near the back of the room, lit by dim naked bulbs and the glow from several open fireplaces, was a huge square table surrounded by nearly twenty chairs upholstered in bright yellow plaid. Around the table was gathered a motley assortment of men and women, all talking and laughing and sipping on a variety of drinks. And in their midst, his copper hair shining in the firelight, sat Jamie.

A shout went up from the table as Geillis approached. I hung back, tugging at the hem of my new turtleneck as though I could stretch it to cover my arse. Besides Jamie, I recognized Jenny, Angus and Murtagh, but I only had eyes for the big ginger chef. He sat at one corner, probably in deference to his long legs which were stretched out before him, wrapped in black denim. A black leather jacket hung over the chair behind him. He looked dangerous. It was a very good look for him.

Dragging me by the elbow, Geillis nudged and bumped Angus to one side despite his vulgar protests, then practically pushed me down into the chair directly next to the chef. With a smug smile of satisfaction, she then retired to the opposite side of the table.

I looked anywhere but directly at Jamie, but I could feel his butane eyes on me. I was certain he would scorch right through my outer layers and down to where Geillis’ choice in lingerie burned against my tender skin. The noise from the rest of the table faded away.

“Ye look bonnie t’night, Arsonist.” His voice was low and gruff and it sent a quickening through my veins.

“Thank you, Jamie. It was Geillis’ Christmas gift to me, and I feel, well... let’s just say it isn’t my usual look.”

“It suits ye, I think.” He reached out and lightly touched the silver tab of a zipper that ended near my wrist, setting it swinging. I swallowed and looked frantically around. Several open bottles of liquor stood nearby. Grabbing the nearest one, I poured myself a generous serving and knocked it back, all in one go. I tried to steady my breathing.

“Look, Jamie...”

Just then a blond man in chef’s whites called to Jamie from across the table. An exchange involving a lot of Scottish cursing and an off-colour reference to someone’s lobster pot ensued. I tried to convince myself I needed to leave. It was late, I was half-drunk, and whatever I intended to say to Jamie should definitely wait for another moment. Maybe never.

A hand on my thigh broke my preoccupation.

“Sorry, Arsonist, ye were sayin’ something?”

I wet my lips, frantically trying to recall anything but the feeling of Jamie’s strong fingers, stroking me through the velvet of my jeans.

“I...”

At that moment, the woman on Jamie’s far side broke into song. The rest of the table cheered and clapped along, and it was impossible to hear anything except the concussive pounding of my heart against my eardrums.

Jamie grabbed my clammy hand.

“Come wi’ me,” he instructed, grabbing our outerwear and pulling me towards the door. Geillis watched our departure with all the excitement of a child on Christmas morning.

Outside the air was dense and cold, a briny slap after the stuffy warmth of the restaurant. Jamie obviously had a destination in mind, and we walked hand-in-hand along the cobbled streets for several minutes before finally emerging at the port. A jetty struck out into the inky sea, and it was there that we ended up. Besides a few gulls and the winking of a nearby lighthouse, we were all alone. The sodium street lights caught Jamie’s curls and made them burn.

“Forgive me, Arsonist. I couldna hear myself think in there. Tho, come tae think of it, tis no’ much better now.” Rather than release me, as he spoke Jamie stroked my hand, running calloused fingers over each vein and every knuckle. I don’t think he even realized he was doing it, but it stole every thought from my head.

“No ring,” he remarked, stroking the finger in question.

“No,” I whispered in response.

And then it burst out of me, like a tidal wave of feeling that I never saw coming. I told him everything. My childhood roaming the globe with my uncle, pre-occupied and rootless, dreaming of stability. Meeting Frank at Harvard, and realizing that he represented all the things that my life to date had lacked: structure, security, a solid foundation, a home. And how it took moving to Scotland and coming into contact with a group of near-strangers to make me realize that the price I had paid for that stability was higher than I’d ever imagined. I’d given up my dream of becoming a doctor. I’d become so lost in Frank’s vision of who I should be that I’d almost lost sight of who I actually was.

By the time the flood of words left me, I was in Jamie’s arms, crying into his leather jacket. He hushed me with quiet murmurs and languorous stroking of my hair, as one would a child who has woken from a nightmare.

I stepped out of his embrace and rubbed my sleeve across my face. I must have looked an absolute mess, but he still watched me with those earnest, patient eyes.

“I’m sorry,” I began, “I don’t know what...”

“Claire,” he interrupted. I’d never before realized just how many consonants were in my given name. “Ye dinna need tae apologize tae me. But ye may want tae consider an apology tae yerself.” At my raised eyebrow, he continued.

“I’m no’ the kind of man tae tell another what they should and shouldna do. But ye strike me as someone who’s made decisions fer the right reasons, yet ended up in the wrong place.” Here he paused, as though carefully weighing his words. “There’s no sin in changin’ yer mind, Arsonist. Tis very well tae be hungry, so long as ye ken what ye hunger for.”

“And what do you hunger for, James Fraser?” The provocative words had left my lips before I had the chance to censor them. His answer came in the form of a blistering look that left no doubt as to its meaning. Then he gathered himself, banking the fire I’d unconsciously ignited.

“Many things. Regular, ordinary things, mostly. My family’s health and happiness. A faster bike. My own restaurant.”

“Like Tom’s there?” I asked, gesturing towards the harbour.

“Och, Tom is a braw chef, and worthy o’ every accolade tha’s been showered upon him. But the hospitality scene in Edinburgh is cut-throat, an’ suitable locations cost a fortune. Nah, Jenny and I want tae buy back our childhood home in the Highlands. Tis called Lallybroch, and when our Da passed, our Mam sold it tae her brother. We’d turn it inta a country inn, wi’ Jenny running the lodging side o’ things and I the dining. Tha’s the dream anyway,” he ended with a shrug.

I rested my hand on his forearm. “That sounds like a wonderful plan, Jamie.”

Before he could reply, an enormous yawn burst from my lungs.

“Time tae get ye home tae yer bed, Arsonist,” Jamie grinned. “Come, I’ll give ye a ride.”

“Wait, haven’t you been drinking?” I inquired as we walked back down the jetty.

“Three years sober,” he explained with no hint of embarrassment. “I went somewhere pretty dark after my Mam died, an’ it took a near-fatal crash tae scare me straight.” His eyes squinted in a poor approximation of a wink as he added, “Besides, there are better ways tae chase a rush than in the bottom of a bottle.”

“Such as?” I asked brazenly.

Which was how I found myself on the back on a black motorcycle, my arms twined around Jamie’s waist. Rather than take me directly home, he steered us north, following the coast. It was very late, with hardly another vehicle about. We merged onto the motorway, and Jamie picked up speed. My thighs tightened around his lean hips, the vibration of the motor beneath us shivering up my spine. As we emerged beneath the hastate lights of the Queensferry Bridge, I stretched my arms wide, icy air ripping against the sleeves of my jacket. I laughed, although no-one could hear me. I yelled, and only the wind yelled back. I was flying.

***

It was nearly dawn when Jamie pulled up in front of my flat. My legs thrummed, my eyes were dry with fatigue, and my heart ached, but I felt better than I could ever remember. I handed Jamie back his spare helmet and shook out my curls. He watched me in that half-sleepy, half-vigilant way of his that I now recognized as desire.

“I don’t know what I could ever say to thank you, Jamie.”

“Ye needn’t say anything at all, Arsonist. Nae matter what ye decide, it has been my very great honour tae get tae know you.”

Without another word, he kick-started the engine and drove off into the early morning mist.

“Goodbye,” I whispered to his vanishing shadow.

***

The lamp above the couch was lit, and Frank lay still beneath its glow. I realized he had fallen asleep waiting for me to come home. Instead of regret, what I felt in that moment was pity.

The sound of my jacket being unzipped woke him. He blinked in confusion and then in shock.

“I’m very sorry if you were worried,” I began.

“Worried? Do you have any idea what time it is? My God, Claire, I don’t know what to make of you these days. You’ve never behaved irresponsibly before, and now you’re out at all hours and you’re wearing,” he gestured wildly with his hand at my new outfit which I had, quite honestly, forgotten I was wearing. “And your hair, Claire!” he finished, as though the manic state of my curls was definitive evidence of my fall from grace. Despite my exhaustion, I stood tall.

“Frank, we need to talk.”

#my writing #outlander #ginger snap

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probably-writing-x · 4 years

Text

Cursed.

Valerio x Reader

Request from anon: Hey can you write something about being Lu’s best friend and falling in love with Valerio! Thank youuuu

Gif is not my own

My requests are open❤️

“Lu that looks just like the dress you bought last week,” You laugh, watching as she twirls in the fitting rooms of the next designer shop.

“No it’s not!” She defends proudly, “This is a different brand.”

“What’s all of this retail therapy anyway?” You frown, “More stuff going on with Guzmán?”

She glares at you, “Shopping does not always have to mean something bad has happened.”

“Yes it does,” You smirk, “It’s either you didn’t do as well as Nadia in the test, Guzmán has pissed you off...”

“Okay, I get the picture,” She rolls her eyes, turning around in the dress once again, “Valerio is coming back today.”

“Valerio? As in your brother Valerio?”

“Half brother.”

“So I’ll finally get to meet the infamous man,” You ponder, “What’s so bad about that?”

“You don’t know Valerio,” She sighs, “Screw it, I’m getting the dress.”

- - - - - -

“I’m just saying, you shouldn’t need to prove anything to Guzmán!” You exclaim, stumbling once again with the bags of clothes that Lu had bought home with her.

It always went this way, she’d buy loads and end up returning at least half.

As you stumble through the door, an unfamiliar presence is already occupying the lounge. They have a distinctive mop of dark curls flailing across to top their tall, slim figure. And you know only one name that could match such appearance:

“Valerio.”

He spins around to reveal a chiseled, sharp face and a wide grin, “Lu! It’s been too long!”

Within a second, he’s over to sweep her from her feet, grin never faltering.

“Put me down!” Lu elbows his ribs and he drops her to the floor once again.

His smile only drops a little when he glances in your direction. You watch as he looks you up and down like he’s analysing every piece. He seemed intriguing already even though you hated yourself for admitting it. He was handsome but in a rugged way, not as clean cut as a parent-approved boy should be.

“Who’s your friend?” Valerio asks, side-glancing toward you.

“This is (Y/n), don’t get any ideas,” Lu scoffs, “And don’t mess up the house too much.”

With that, she’s walking off upstairs and you know that she expects you to follow. Instead, you find yourself returning to the uncertain smirk that Valerio was shooting your way.

“Shouldn’t you follow her?” He cocks a brow, tilting his head a little like he’d investigating you even more.

You smirk and go towards the stairs to go up to Lu’s bedroom.

“(Y/n),” Valerio repeats, though you know he’s not saying it to call for you, “I don’t think a name could ever be good enough for an appearance like that.”

And just like that, he makes that appearance severely blush.

- - - - - -

“Look, sir, I know I’m late but only by a few hours,” You defend, setting down your work onto the table in front of the professor.

You’d had an assignment due and had been, what seemed like, the only one in the class who didn’t get it in before the deadline.

“It was due two days ago, (Y/n),” Your teacher points out, lifting up the paper and flicking through.

“Technicalities,” You roll your eyes, “I still did the damn work, and it doesn’t count for anything anywa-“

“It counts towards the reference I give you, and maybe this attitude will count too,” Your teacher states coldly, “You’re the worst in the class (Y/n) and if that doesn’t improve, there will be consequences.”

You sigh and pick up your things to walk out, stopping abruptly when you see Valerio leaning back against the wall just beside the open door to the classroom.

“What are you doing?” You question, probably slightly too harsh but only because you already felt stressed enough. Given what Lu had told you, the last thing that anybody needed when they were stressed was Valerio.

In his hand, he overturns an encased paper, titled adequately with the assignment that you’d just handed in. He smirks a little before beginning to reply to you, “Just making sure you’re not the worst in the class.”

With that, the paper is tossed into the bin beside him and he pushes off from the wall, winking in your direction before continuing on his path down the empty corridor. You look between the bin and his disappearing figure, wanting nothing more than to follow after him.

- - - - - -

You start seeing Valerio more and more, being Lu’s best friend meant that you spent a lot of time at her house - especially when she was in the midst of trouble with Guzmán. Every time, you’d see Valerio and make slight eye contact with him from across the room. One very memorable time, he came passing through the kitchen after finishing a shower. His hair was holding tight onto the dripping water and his body managed to glimmer just slightly as he strolled past. You kept your head down and prayed that Lu didn’t notice your reaction.

Tonight, everyone was heading to the club and you found yourself nervous at the prospect of seeing Valerio outside of your normal settings. Was this really happening? Were you really starting to have a crush on your best friends (half) brother?

“(Y/n)!” It’s Guzmán that calls you as he makes his way over to the bar, “Have you seen Lu?”

You shake your head ‘no’, “She’ll be here soon. But I thought you two were over, anyway.”

He scoffs, “You only ever hear her side of things.”

“Normally because you’re not around for long enough to tell me your side.”

He smirks a little, “Touché.”

The two of you, despite how stressful his relsrionship with Lu was, could actually be good friends. You’d known him for years and, deep down, you knew they weren’t meant for each other. That didn’t make him a bad person.

“I’ve heard Valerio’s been asking about you,” Guzmán comments, leaning against the bar beside you, “Are you really going there?”

You roll your eyes, “Can you stay out of my business for just like a minute, please? Nothings happening with me and Valerio.”

Guzmán chuckles a little, “(Y/n)... just be careful. Not even because of him. But because of-“

“Lu. I know.”

He nudges your arm, “Glad to know we’re on the same page - trying to keep out of Lu’s bad books.”

“Oh, honey, you were in them a long time ago,” With that, you hop up out of your chair and make your way across the club to greet her as she walks in.

Valerio follows behind her, dressed in a low hanging white vest and a bold print open shirt. You found yourself trailing the lines of the chains around his neck, all the way up to where they met behind his jaw.

“Hello darling,” Lu beams, “Sorry we’re a bit late.”

She glares at Valerio and rolls her eyes, met by him shooting her a bright smile.

“It’s not my fault,” He shrugs, “My clock must’ve been wrong.”

“I need a drink!” Lu exclaims, grabbing your hand as she pulls you toward the bar.

You find yourself stumbling to catch up, eyes locked on her brother who was yet to take his eyes away from you.

- - - - - -

It’s later into the night when you dismiss yourself to head to the bathroom to freshen up. Lu and Guzmán were currently bickering about something so you’d taken the opportunity to leave them distracted for a little while. It’s not long before you’re interrupted.

“You know...” The voice is recognisable as you glance up to see Valerio now stood in the doorway, “You really shouldn’t have worn that tonight.”

“And why is that, Valerio?” You smirk a little, eying him through the reflection of the mirror.

He has one arm rested high on the wall beside him as he goes to respond, “Because you know Lu would kill me for going anywhere near you.”

You set your purse down onto the countertop and turn around to him, crossing your arms over your chest.

“And who says the option is there?”

He laughs gently, stepping forward and closing the door behind him, “You’re not the best at hiding things, darling.”

You roll your eyes as he steps closer to you, carrying with him all of the confidence that he’d made you weak enough to lose.

“Who says Lu needs to know, hmm?” He’s close to you now, hands trailing up your sides from the hem of your dress to the waist, “Would it be so bad?”

You swallow the lump in your throat, “Probably worse.”

He smiles lightly as his nose bumps against yours, “All the more reason to do it.”

And just like that, everyone else is forgotten. Instead, Valerio’s lips are on yours and his hands are everywhere and you find yourself melting into every single part of him.

- - - - - -

After that night, you’d assumed the worst from Valerio. You’d guessed that he’d get his high and then move on to the next. But it didn’t seem that way. Definitely not. He’d text you from class and drag you down the corridor until the two of you were away from prying eyes. He’d invite you round late when Lu was out with Guzmán so that he’d have just a few hours with you before she came home. It was secretive, mysterious, exciting. And you found yourself feeling more than just the temporary high of it all. You’d be laying in bed with his arm wrapped around you and it genuinely felt like you could feel something more than just attraction. Beyond all of his wild, carefree exterior? Valerio had a heart, and a heart that was easy to fall in love with. And that’s where you found yourself slipping onto the verge of doing.

You were at Lu’s trying to help her revise for an upcoming test that she needed the highest marks in when you first saw him. He had that glimmer in his eye of mischief as he started texting you from across the room. You and Lu were sat in the dining room and he was just in your line of sight - sprawled across one of the couches in the lounge.

Your phone started buzzing every thirty seconds until you finally apologised to Lu and told her that it was your Mum on the phone, quickly getting up and hurrying out of the room whilst she was neck deep in revision.

Valerio grins as he sees you, pulling himself up from the couch and following quickly behind your retreating figure.

“Who knew you could be so sly?” He smirks, lips hot against your ear as he leans down behind you.

It all feels far too open, she was literally in the room right across from you.

You turn quickly and grab the front of his shirt, pulling him in with you as you lock the door behind - you’d managed to find your way to the guest room.

“It’s impossible,” Valerio mutters between kissing you, “You’re sat right there and I have to pretend like I don’t know you... like I don’t know every inch of you.”

You scoff at him and stop his hands at your waist, “Not too low, mister, I need to be back out there in a few minutes.”

“Then I’ll take a few minutes,” He smirks, lips moving to kiss just below your ear and down to your jawline.

“Valerio, seriously,” You have to fight with yourself when you decide to push him away, “She’ll kill me if she finds out we’ve been doing this.”

He sighs and gives up on his attempt, “Maybe it’s time that she does know.”

“Do you know her at all?”

“Yeah, but I know you too,” His hands fall low on your hips once again, “And I know that this is getting to be more than it was at that night at the club.”

You knew you’d been feeling the same but hearing him say it just put a whole new meaning to that feeling.

“She has to be understanding of that, right?” Valerio shrugs, “And if not, it’s been good knowing you darling.”

“Don’t say that,” You roll your eyes, “But she’s my best friend, I can’t lie to her anymore.”

“Okay, then, we’ll tell her,” Valerio nods, dipping his head to bury in your neck once again.

“You’re impossible,” You laugh, pushing against him until his head lifts up to meet his lips with yours once again.

- - - - - -

When you step outside, your heart sinks at the sight you’d been dreading. Lu is stood on the opposite side of the lounge, arms folded and a deadly stare across her eyes.

“Next time you want to fuck my best friend,” She begins, focused only on Valerio, “Make sure you don’t leave evidence behind.”

She lifts up her hand that is grasping his phone, waving it in his direction.

“Lu, I can explain...” You begin, hopeful that she’d at least be understanding.

“Is that all this is? Just you two fucking?”

It’s Valerio that interjects, “No, it’s not like that.” He settles an arm around your waist and you silently wish for him to not make anything worse, “It’s definitely not that, not anymore.”

She looks between the two of you, once, twice, three times before speaking again.

“Don’t break her heart, Valerio.”

With that, she throws the phone in his direction and shoots you a gentle smile before walking back through to the dining room.

“Now didn’t I tell you it would be easy?” Valerio grins, sauntering in front of you with open arms.

“You heard her,” You shrug proudly, “Dont break my heart, love.”

With that, you press a kiss to his cheek and follow in the direction that she’d just gone - hoping you wouldn’t be met with a worse reaction now that he wasn’t there.

“I would never,” Valerio mutters under his breath, saying the words only to himself as he flops back down onto the couch - unmoving grin plastered across his lips.

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networthzero · 4 years

Text

Let the Job Hunt Begin

Question: Where to look for jobs right outside of University?

Hello My Dear Readers,

Job hunting close to Post-Grad is partly terrifying. I have student loans, credit card debt, and the fear of hating my life if I choose a job that makes me unhappy is all too real. This is why I am starting the hunt seven months early. What is the process and how do we get educated on how to find a job that will pay more than a retail position, while also making these cruel years of education worth it? This shouldn’t be a tall order except that Universities promise you high paying careers, and then often fail to deliver the bridge to make this easier. In my case, I have internship experience under different fields, but nothing much to do with Human Resources yet. I don’t have many connections in this field at all, and Networking is proven to be a big push in the right direction. Now what?

My short-term goal is to find myself a part time job until I graduate in order to get away from working at a grocery store. My body can’t take the heavy lifting for 8 hours a day without a break… so much for being part of a Union. After graduating, I want to find myself a full time position that has a consistent schedule and has all of the ‘real world’ job benefits. Human resources is an interesting field for me, so I want to start there. That being said, a ‘real world’ job can be the wrong choice for a lot of people. There are many ways to make an income and the biggest mistake you can do is stick to only a W-2. Like in investing, the idea is to diversify your income and create multiple streams. If Covid-19 has taught us anything, it is that the rug could be pulled from under you in a matter of weeks. Having a good savings is no longer enough to ensure a secure future. Stay tuned to the next blog post because I will be talking about the work I am doing to create my multiple income sources.

So on to the question asked. Where do we look for job openings and what to look for before applying?

A quick Google search will most likely send you to websites like Indeed or even Glassdoor. Companies pay sites like these to add their job listings in order to find candidates, and they are completely free for job searchers. You may however come across positions that are regulated by a Staffing Company. A Staffing Company is a bit like a match maker. They too are paid by companies, except they do all the leg work in order to find you; the candidate. A Staffing Company sometimes is associated with poor job candidates who are late for work, put in minimal effort, and are only there for the paycheck. For your sake, don’t use Ryan from The Office as a reference here. A Staffing company can save you time and is wonderful for both temporary and full time positions. I am currently working with a company like this at the moment and plan to let you all know about my experience in the near future.

Post-Grad internships are also a way to get your foot in the door. Start by figuring out what field you want to go into. I want to work for a software or tech company so I first search for a list of companies under this industry in my town. Then I take the time to look into each of the top companies and see if they offer Summer Internships. Starting this process in the Fall or Winter is best, as many companies begin their search for interns and begin posting their job posts during this time.

Remember to also look at the pay rate and location. Take this from an experienced driver, the closer the office location to your home, the less stress you will have over time. I am aware that there are internships that do not pay in the medical field. I personally am extremely against this. It should be illegal! Do not get a job or internship just for the experience if there is no pay. Your time is worth more than you realize.

Wishing you all the best this Sunday,

Gergana

#job junting #University #Post Grad #Finance #Job Market #Apply for Jobs #Business #Personal finance #business school #wealth #money #savings #bugdet #education #retirement #retire early #F.I.R.E #fire

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soocouldbemyonlystar · 6 years

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The Arrangement Pt6

.Genre: Angst/Fluff/Future Smut

Length: 5.5k

Paring: Kyungsoo x oc

First Previous Pt6 Next

The best thing about being a director at Ganghan was the office on the upper floors. Jae-Eun's office was only three floors from the top of the massive building that was the hub for Ganghan's many business interests, plus several residential floors, and several high-end retail stores. It was a floor below Kyungsoo's office, and it housed advertising and marketing, and below her was Sehun and his fashion department. The first thing she had noticed about her office, was that the huge windows had a sill that was big enough for her to sit on. This was her favorite place in this building. When she was stressed she could sit on the window sill and look over the expanse of the city, feel as if she were on top of the world.

Today, it was her only solace. After tapping her pen repeatedly on her desk for an hour, pacing trenches into the rug for another two, she was now curled into the corner of the window, tracing raindrops with her finger as they hit and rolled down. What she would give to be one of those little raindrops. Out there, falling freely. Jae-Eun was a person who loved the rain, the sound of it hitting the roof, the earthy smell that comes just before. Normally, it would be cleansing for her. But today she was too heavy for even the rain to help.

It had been two weeks. Two weeks after realizing she had messed up everything, then she royally screws up everything. Now she waited for the man she loved to return to the man she hated, waited for the disgust in his eyes, the sneer on those lovely lips. It was her own fault. She should have learned to keep her mouth shut after the director's dinner. But she couldn't, and she probably just lost him a bid on a property he had been working for months to secure. Kyungsoo would be angry, but she had known how important it was to him and she could see the seller losing interest. So, she pushed, insisted, telling the man all the great things that were planned for the property. When the meeting was over, Kyungsoo and the seller retired to his office to talk, and her husband didn't look very happy.

The thought made her sick. Kyungsoo being unhappy first, then being angry at her second. He had worked so hard for this. His father had been pushing for the purchase since before he retired. When she saw the man losing interest, all she could think about was the disappointment Kyungsoo would feel. It was something Jae-Eun would do anything to prevent, so she stood, and she told the man what Ganghan had planned for the property. She had worked close enough with Kyungsoo and the team for the project over the last few weeks to know the vision they saw for it.

Close, despite the fact she'd wanted distance from Kyungsoo and these new feelings. Jae-Eun hadn't prepared for this. Hating him had been so easy in the beginning. He was moody and insulting. Somehow Kyungsoo knew just what to say to hit her where it hurts. This wasn't always easy to handle, but she could deal with it. Jae-Eun had worked hard to become a confident, accomplished woman, she could take his insults and support him because that was the deal she made.

Loving him was something different, his anger and abuse were eclipsed by his warmth and dedication. Not that she had forgiven him, not entirely. She was still apprehensive, but he was trying and in doing so he'd made himself a part of her. It was foreign, falling so completely, being more concerned about him than what could happen to herself.

It wasn't her first time being in love. Nate had been wonderful and supportive, but they knew it was futile in the end. He wouldn't leave the States, and she always knew she would go back home. They had loved furiously, making the most of the time they had together. With Kyungsoo, there was a constant low burn in her chest, when she thought of him, which was frequently. It was hard for her to think of in terms of words. Art, colors; that made sense to her.

When she watched him work, Kyungsoo was her Wanderer Above the Sea of Fog, she was drawn to the lone figure who stood out over everything. When he was near, close enough to touch, he was her Impression Sunrise, a mixture of warmth and calm. But when he smiled at her, Kyungsoo became her Starry Night, the swirl of light, color and racing heartbeats. He inspired her.

Jae-Eun faked her way through dinner with his parents that day, giving more attention to his mother and especially his father. Everything considered she did feel guilty for missing their visits over the last few weeks.

Monday, she had lunch with Chanyeol. His bright eyes and infectious smile made her feel a little better.

"What's got you so anxious, Jae? That's the fifth packet of sugar you've put in your coffee." Chanyeol prompted.

"I messed up, Yeollie. I don't know what to do?"

He leaned across the table, placing a hand over hers to stop yet another packet of sugar. "You know you can tell me anything. I'll do whatever I can to help you figure it out."

Jae-Eun looked up from her coffee to his eyes. "I'm in-love with him. Like an idiot, I fell for him."

"Kyungsoo?" Chanyeol asked, dumbfounded.

She forced the lump past her throat and nodded.

Chanyeol's smile widened even further, "That's great, Jae! I knew it was just a matter of time."

"It's not great. It's a disaster."

Chanyeol leaned back in his seat, crossing his arms and giving her a suspicious eye. "Why is that?"

"The deal was partners, maybe even friends, but mostly business partners. Feelings were never supposed to enter in the picture. I can't tell him. Everything was going well, and I've made it… just… shit! It's shit, Yeol." The words spewed from her.

Chanyeol was quiet as she melted down, then threw his head back and roared in amusement.

"You're laughing at me?"

His eyes pressed tightly shut and he held his hand up to hide his enormous smile. "Yes," he hefted, "Only you would think this is a disaster, Jae."

"How can I watch him be in-love with someone else."

Chanyeol stopped laughing. He looked away then, his tongue darting out to press against the corner of his lips, a habit Jae-Eun noticed, he did when he was worried or pissed. He knew it was true. Just like her, Chanyeol pictured years ahead, with Jae-Eun being a dutiful wife as Kyungsoo focused his attention on a woman who chose to be with someone else.

"Kyungsoo doesn't love that woman, he's just too scared to move on." Chanyeol insisted. "Just give him time. I meant what I said at the wedding."

Jae-Eun raised an eyebrow, "That you wished it was a dream so that you could find me yourself."

She hated for any of the guys to be upset. Chanyeol's smile made her happy. That glint in his eyes lit up the darkness. Jae-Eun needed his light right now. It worked, the sound of his laughter floating across the table, his smile radiating that light.

"Yes, that, but also when I said that you and Kyungsoo would make each other happy. He needs you, he's just too stubborn to see it right now."

"Maybe I should just leave."

"What," Chanyeol jumped forward in his seat. "If you love him why would you leave?"

"How can I stay with him? I can't tell him the truth, I couldn't put that on him. He said he would never have feelings for me, I accepted that, but I know that he cares. Kyungsoo's going to feel responsible for me and it will make him miserable."

"Or it could make him happy." Chanyeol countered.

"Stop being so optimistic!" Jae-Eun scolded him.

Chanyeol flashed her that smile again, the one that almost made her feel like everything would work out. "You're in-love Jae. Enjoy it. Kyungsoo cares about you, and that's a start. He hasn't cared about shit since she came back. We are starting to see the old Kyungsoo. You did that, not her."

"But I'll never be her, and that is who he loves." Jae-Eun murmured. She hated being jealous, the fact that she wished she had whatever it was that made Kyungsoo love Mi-Sun so deeply, made her angry with herself.

"It's one of the best parts about you," Chanyeol teased, "You're good for him. I really do think he's starting to see that."

He had asked her how it happened, with how Kyungsoo had treated her, how did she fall for him. Jae-Eun had thought about it for a long time after that morning. Lying in his arms while he was asleep, and her world felt like it was falling out from under her. The answer was simple. She fell for the man he was with his friends, his family, not who he was with her. Jae-Eun always made him angry, but with his family, he was loving and kind.

Chanyeol wouldn’t let her take credit for making him bitter and angry. "That is what Mi-Sun did, not you."

Jae-Eun rested her head against the cold glass and looked down at the tiny people with umbrellas, walking along or running out of the rain. What she wouldn't give to run away right now. It wasn't in her to run, but God she wanted to.

Jae-Eun was jarred from her thoughts as the phone on her desk rang. Too late to run now. She sighed as she stepped down from the sill and accepted her fate.

"Lee Jae-Eun," she answered.

"Madam Do, the CEO would like to see you in his office now." Secretary Yoon announced.

Jae-Eun didn't even respond. She returned the receiver, smoothed out her lavender, sleeveless jumpsuit she'd picked out just for the day, and started towards her doom. The one-floor elevator ride seemed like twenty floors, up and down making her stomach turn. After one floor the ding made Jae-Eun jump.

She shook her head as she stepped off and made her way down past Secretary Yoon's desk. "Did he sound like he was in a good mood?"

Secretary Yoon glanced up at her, without a word, telling Jae everything she needed to know, Kyungsoo was hard to read.

She continued around and knocked on his door gently, almost hoping he wouldn't hear.

"Come in," came from the other side. Jae-Eun couldn't tell if it was stern or angry, or if it was just plain Soo. She opened the door slowly and slid in, locking the door behind her. Jae-Eun had learned her lesson the last time Mi-Sun had walked in without notice.

She stood near the door waiting to be acknowledged. Here, he was her boss after all, but after several minutes of silence, as he skimmed back and forth through papers, Jae-Eun became even more nervous.

"CEO Do…" She started but he stopped her.

"Take a seat," Kyungsoo said firmly.

Again, Jae-Eun couldn't tell if it was just his normal self or if he was angry, he was giving no sign.

The longer she waited, and the tension in her stomach built, the angrier she became.

"Can I at least apologize, Kyungsoo?"

He held up a finger to shush her.

Fire built in her chest. She was not going to be shushed by a finger, not by her boss, not by her husband. Jae-Eun had done her best and she deserved more than what he gave her. Love or not he couldn't treat her like this.

She stood quietly, making her way to his desk, he seemed unaware as he pushed his glasses back up the bridge of his nose and scanned another paper. Jae-Eun didn't care what was on those papers, she didn't care that he was mad. His disrespect for his wife lost him any right he had to be angry with her.

Knowing the photo on his desk was of their wedding, she quickly slammed it down on the stack of papers. She could feel the glass crack below the frame.

Kyungsoo jumped back throwing his hands up and standing from his desk chair. "Lee Jae-Eun, what are you doing?"

"I don't care what I did, I don't care if you lost the bid because of me, I don't care how angry you are, I have let you disrespect me before, but it will not happen again. I deserve more than to be shushed by a finger. I have waited hours, terrified that I lost you this bid and the first thing you do is revert to that same jerk because things didn't go your way. I won't have it anymore. I won't let you take everything out on me." Jae had to blurt it all out before she lost the nerve and started to cry, "now you will allow me to apologize for making a scene, as well-meaning as it was, you will ignore me as usual for several days, then you will get over it. Cause I won't do this any longer."

Kyungsoo stared at her dumbfounded. He looked as if he didn't know what she was talking about.

"Jae," he started quietly, "we won the bid."

"We… we what?"

"You got us the bid, the CEO loved your presentation of our vision, I was going through the last of the paperwork. Why are you so riled up? I just needed to finish up a couple of pages on the contract." He asked, hands still up in the air.

"I didn't lose you the bid? He looked so disinterested, I couldn't stop myself. And I couldn't tell if you were angry."

"No, babe, you won us the bid." A smile spread across his lips as he came around his desk.

Jae-Eun backed away, sitting on a meeting chair before she lost her balance, "Oh god, I'm actually going crazy. I'm losing it. I was so sure you were going to be angry with me. I don't want to go back to the way we were."

Kyungsoo knelt in front of her, placing his warm hands on her shoulders. "We are not going back to that, I promise. I will never do that to you again."

His hands rubbed warm trails down her chilled arms, "I did this. I've made you self-conscious. I've made you question yourself. I can't apologize enough for how I treated you. But don't ever let anyone make you feel that you don't know what you are doing. You are brilliant, and you knew exactly what he needed to hear to get us that property."

Jae-Eun didn't know what to say, she was still trying to process the words.

"Especially me, don't let me make you feel like you are less than you are. You have to keep putting me in my place. That's your duty as my wife. You got it?"

Jae-Eun nodded, but she was dazed and in disbelief.

"We really got the bid?" She asked again.

He smiled again as he shook his head. "Yeah," he said as he pulled her to her feet and wrapped his arms around her, "Cause my wife is a genius."

Kyungsoo lifted her off her feet and swung her around. She squealed as reality set in and the room spun. He pressed his lips to her quickly.

"Let's celebrate," he said as he lowered her to her feet, "We can call everyone and have a huge dinner. We can celebrate how incredible my wife is."

His smile was infectious. She forgot the last two hours of agony looking at his smile, genuine happiness. Jae-Eun nodded again. She would agree to almost anything as long as it kept that smile on his face. Part of her hated it, that desire to make him happy, for them to be happy together. The other part longed for it.

Lost in her thoughts, she didn't notice the mood had changed. Kyungsoo's arms held her tightly, though she was sound on the floor. He looked unsure of himself, nervous, glancing around the lines of her face, into her eyes. She blinked into the moment, lifting her head at just the right angle to let him know it was okay.

Her lips parted as he brushed his against them. He inhaled deeply before he molded his lips to hers. Kyungsoo rarely kissed her and when he did it was a quick peck, tasteful enough for public, not too intimate.

This was not one of those kisses. His hands came to her face as his tongue lightly tested. Jae-Eun wrapped her arms around his neck giving him the confidence he needed. He took her mouth without restraint, Jae-Eun matching him motion for motion. She wasn't sure how she went from the deepest chasm of devastation to the heights of his kisses, but Jae-Eun found herself breathing in the thin air and getting high on it.

Kyungsoo growled as she nipped at his lower lip.

"Jae," his voice was deeper, rougher than normal.

"Mmm," She mumbled as she pressed her lips to his again.

Kyungsoo lowered his forehead against hers, "I don't know what to do with you. Sometimes I want to wrap my hands around your neck and sometimes…"

He didn't finish, the timbre of his voice, his breathlessness told her everything. Jae-Eun didn't want to move, she wanted to stay like this with him and she was too happy to be angry about it.

“I know how you feel.” She blushed

After a deep breath, Kyungsoo leaned back and smiled at her, "You should head home. I'll have Secretary Yoon call everyone for us. I'll clean this up and finish my paperwork. Should only be about forty-five minutes."

"Are you sure, I should pick up the glass I broke?"

"No, I don't want you to mess with the glass, just have Driver Hwang take you home. I'll be there soon." He gave her one last light, kiss then entwined his fingers with hers as he walked her to the office door. He sent her out, "I'll be right behind you."

"Okay," Jae said dreamily.

As she walked to the elevator, she heard Kyungsoo tell Secretary Yoon to call the guys.

She drifted down to her floor, floated to her office for her things and soared down to the main floor to where Driver Hwang was waiting with an open door.

"Madam Do, the CEO sent the car for you." He said.

Driver Hwang was a sweet old man who had three kids, six grandkids and his wife had died five years ago. He had been the driver for most of Kyungsoo's life. Jae-Eun loved talking to the man when it was just her in the car, but it would take too long for him to drop her off and come back for Kyungsoo.

"Driver Hwang, don't worry about me, I'll take a cab tonight. The CEO should be down in a little while."

"But, Madam," He started.

"The two of you are too sweet to me, but please wait for the CEO. He's had a long day and needs a comfortable drive home." She insisted.

Driver Hwang nodded and Jae-Eun headed to the curb to flag down a cab. It took seconds before she was settled in, address given, and her thoughts were back on Kyungsoo. She had been so sure he would be angry that she made herself miserable. This was nothing like being in-love before. Every emotion she felt with him or because of him was intense.

Her mind was constantly filled with moments of him when he made her smile or laugh. She hadn't lied to Chanyeol, part of her still thought it would be better to leave than to burden Kyungsoo with her feelings. She wasn't stupid, she knew he wanted her, but desire and love were two very different things and he hadn't given her any indication his feelings had progressed any further than their friendship.

But today must have meant something right?

Ugh, she didn't want to question things anymore. She just wanted to spend some time with their friends and forget her complications for just one night.

A familiar tone rang from her bag. Excitement ran through her as she pulled the phone from her purse, "Hey!"

Kyungsoo

"She's a stubborn woman isn't she, Mr. Hwang?" Kyungsoo asked his driver when he saw his car was still in the drive.

"Yes, sir. That she is. The Madam wanted to be sure you had a comfortable drive home after a hard day at work." The driver told him.

"Yes, she would. I knew it was futile to send her the car." Kyungsoo said as he stepped in and Driver Hwang closed the door behind him.

Kyungsoo nerves worked in overtime on the ride home. It had been an exciting day, acquiring the beach property his father had wanted. Watching Jae secure that property for them. She had been amazing, knowing all the right things to say. Kyungsoo hadn't even been mad when she broke their wedding photo on top of the contract.

But that was not where his nerves were. Jae's gift was complete. Tonight, after dinner, he would give it to her. It had taken months to complete given the fact that they could only work on it while she was away from the house. He had pulled her into the deal for the beach property to keep her away from the house as long as he could. It worked well in that the project had gotten done on time and that she was able to help secure the property.

Kyungsoo couldn't even take credit for it. And surprisingly he was okay with that.

Jae deserved a gift bigger than he could give her, but he hoped this one would make her as happy as she made him.

He hadn't been thrilled about that realization when he had woken up the night they fell asleep together in her room. He'd wanted to run then, with her asleep so soundly in his arms. But by the time he had fallen back to sleep, Kyungsoo had decided he liked where they were. Jae made him want to be happy again. He wasn't going to be scared, he wouldn't let Mi-Sun continue to have that power.

His drive was lined with cars. All of his friends would be there, he knew. He would wait until they were all gone before he gave Jae her gift. Before he told her, she made him happy.

He walked into a mountain a laughter and bright voices. Faces he knew and loved, a couple he didn't know yet.

"Kyungsoo, congrats man," Sehun shouted over the group when he saw him. "I heard you got the bid."

He smiled at the claps on the back and congrats, "I didn't do anything. Jae saved us, we would have lost it if it wasn't for her."

Jongin gave him a lofty hug, "Where is Noona, I haven't seen her in months? Is she coming in behind you?"

Kyungsoo's eyebrows furrowed, "What do you mean, she should have been here an hour ago."

Jongin shook his head, "I haven't seen her."

Sehun stood, "I haven't seen her, and I've been here for about thirty minutes."

"Well maybe she came in and went to get washed up and changed, I'll go check on her."

Kyungsoo walked to her room confident he would find her there. No answer at the door had him walking in. She was not in her room, nor the bathroom. Both looked untouched. Kyungsoo hunted down Na-Ri.

"Have you seen the Madam?" He asked her.

"No, sir, I assumed she would be home with you when your friends started to arrive." She explained.

Kyungsoo pulled out his phone and pressed her number. When it went straight to voicemail Kyungsoo panicked.

After confirming again, that none of the guys had seen her, Kyungsoo called security to get the videos.

The second-hour Kyungsoo called the security at Ganghan, which only produced the video of her getting in the cab, but not the cab number. He then ordered all the addition of several cameras to catch the different angles in the front of the building. A call to her parents came back empty-handed, as did the call to his.

By the third hour, Kyungsoo had called the police. Who, in his opinion, were worthless.

"Is there anyone you can think that would want revenge on you or your wife, Mr. Do?" asked the dirty unshaven detective.

He sighed, "I'm the CEO of a major conglomerate, there is always someone pissed at me. But not anyone that I can think of at the moment."

Even the guys, who had all stayed, seemed annoyed with the typical line of questioning. Then the dreaded line of stupidity.

"Would your wife have a reason to leave?"

"What do you mean by that?" Kyungsoo knew, he just wanted to make the detective say it.

He coughed, "Have there been any disagreements at home that would make her want to leave."

Kyungsoo gritted his teeth, "No, things are fine at home. She wouldn't just leave."

They left with a "We'll keep an eye out for her, if she doesn't return by morning we will file a missing person report, blah, blah, blah!”

Worthless.

Chanyeol stood at the door as the detectives left. "Why did you lie to the detectives?" He asked as the door closed.

"What are you talking about Chanyeol," he asked as he walked back into the drawing room.

"You lied to the detective's cause when I talked to her two weeks ago she sure had a reason to leave." He blurted as he followed Kyungsoo into the room.

"What are you talking about. Everything is fine with us. She wouldn't do this to me. Not on purpose." Kyungsoo shook his head. Why would he say something like this?

"Admit it, Kyungsoo. We all care about Jae, we all want to see that she's okay, but some of us are little more aware of the situation than the others." Chanyeol just had to remind him.

"Park Chanyeol." Jun Myeon warned him.

"No, I think we need to know the truth to figure this out." Chanyeol pressed.

Kyungsoo dropped to his chair, rubbing a hand over his face. This was the last thing he needed to worry about right now. He was tired of the secret. Damn their judgment, he just wanted his wife home.

"What is he talking about, Soo?" Jongin asked.

Kyungsoo sighed. "Jae and I didn't meet and fall in love, our parents arranged it."

There was silence in the room. Everyone knew how he and Jongin had vowed to never accept an arrangement from their parents.

"Kyungsoo, you lied?" Jongin asked.

"It's complicated, and it's not going to get my wife back."

"Tell them everything, tell them how she has a room on the opposite side of the house. Or how she called me crying because you two had fought. Tell me she doesn't have a reason to leave." Chanyeol pushed.

Chatter erupted through the room.

"Fine, Chanyeol, you want me to tell everyone that Mi-Sun told me she was pregnant the week before I met and agreed to marry Jae-Eun. Fine, there that is. Do you want me to tell them that I told her I would never care for her and she accepted that anyways? She accepted me anyways. You want me to tell them that I took all my frustrations out on her, fine, I was an ass." Kyungsoo snapped.

"So, what happened this time," Chanyeol demanded.

"Working out the details of the property we just acquired took longer than I expected. We only got it because she knew what to say and do. But she thought I was angry because she pushed into it. She was just there because she was a director, she wasn't expected to present anything. Then we went straight to my office to work everything out and when I called her to my office I was finishing up the paperwork and she was mad at me. She misunderstood my silence. But we worked it out before she left. We planned a celebration and she was happy when she left." Kyungsoo muttered.

"You weren't mad at her?" Jun Myeon asked.

"God, no, we haven't fought since before dad's heart attack. Everything has been good between us since then. She knew what to do. I couldn't have made it through without her, so we talked it out and everything has been great. She's great."

Chanyeol stared at him with concern in his eyes. "You've fallen for her, haven't you?"

"I don't know, Yeol, I just know I need her back." Kyungsoo sighed.

Baekhyun chimed in, "This seems like a really crappy plot line in a really shitty book."

At the fifth hour, it took four guys; Chanyeol, Jongin, Minseok, and Jongdae to keep Kyungsoo from leaving to find her. Chanyeol, Jongdae, and Minnie decided to check her favorite spots, just to see if anyone had seen her or knew where she had gone.

After six hours, Jongin demanded Kyungsoo get some rest.

"You have been up for almost twenty-four hours, you need some rest. We will all take turns by the phone and we'll wake you if anything changes."

"Jongin, I can't sleep, not until she is home." Kyungsoo was past the point of exhaustion and he knew it. But how could he sleep when she could be out there hurt or worse.

Was Chanyeol right? Did she just leave him?

"We will start calling hospitals, okay. Just lay down and rest and if we get a hit or hear anything we will let you know."

Kyungsoo reluctantly agreed, laying out on the couch and the guys moved in lounge chairs and the couch from the family room. Some of the couples took bedrooms, but he refused to go to his own.

He lay, wishing he were out there looking for her. That's where he needed to be. Not stuck here in this damn house where she was everywhere but nowhere. He had gotten so used to her in the last year or so that he hadn't even thought about her not being here. What would he do if she weren't there? If she left him, or worse. The thought had him sick at his stomach. He listened as Baek and Jongin called around to the hospitals for recent patients with no I.D. and after a good forty-five minutes of it, he was lulled into a restless sleep.

And he dreamed, of waking early in the morning with the sun-bathing her sleeping form in light, the heat making her cheeks glow pink, her peachy lips slightly parted as she sighed. The moment he realized he had feelings for her. More than he thought he could. After he had told her he never would, there they were. He hadn't wanted to move from where they lay. He didn't want to let her go that morning. She was a precious thing to him now. The first true feelings since Mi-Sun. He was sure he would always care for Mi-Sun but now he knew he could be happy without her and that was because of Jae.

When he woke against his will, into a shitty reality, Chanyeol was awake by the phones. The guys were spread across the room, three couple took bedrooms.

"How long was I out?" He sat up, rubbing the sleep and frustration from his face.

Chanyeol looked exhausted and sick. "About six hours man. It's been more than twelve since she went missing."

Kyungsoo sighed, running his hand through his hair, this couldn’t be the reality, it was a damned nightmare. "Give me the phone I'll call her in as a missing person."

Chanyeol handed the phone to Kyungsoo. As-soon-as it hit his hand the screen lit up with her name flashing at him. Kyungsoo’s stomach dropped as he fumbled to answer the phone.

"Jae are you there?"

"Kyungsoo?"

It was loud on her end, busy. "Where are you? Are you okay?"

"Yeah, I'm fine. I'm in L.A. my phone died before I could call you."

"Did you say L.A., I can barely hear you." Relief washed over him at the sound of her voice.

The guys started waking up, looking to him for answers.

"I'm near a highway, it's kind of loud."

"I was just about to file a missing person report on you, why are you in L.A.?" The reason didn't really matter to him, just that she was okay, and he would see her again.

"I got a call… he was… and she needs…"

Kyungsoo could barely make out some of the words, he was about to tell her when her voice got louder.

"Hey… What the hell are you doing?"

"Jae, what's going on."

"Get the hell off of her…you piece of crap."

A scream broke through the noise and Kyungsoo jumped, "Jae, Lee Jae-Eun!"

He could hear a scuffle, another loud scream, then the phone went dead.

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