#cypress interview questions

[rahulshettyacade]

[akshaysharma12]

4 cypress interview questions

[armandaughter]

Interview With the Vampire + Perfumes

i posted about wanting to make this and people were also curious, so here it is :) i absolutely have no qualifications to be making this. i just love perfumes and iwtv and wanted to combine em!! lmk ur thoughts <3 fyi this gets pretty long-winded and analysis heavy at times

louis de pointe du lac (new orleans/paris eras)

very slow world in my mind. i think he'd gravitate to the warm spice of it and the hints of whiskey. this also smells a bit like incense, which i think is fitting for him. louis' religious upbringing will always inform how i approach him. but this scent also reminds me of the clubs in new orleans, cigars and rich drinks, and that transfers over to him exploring new sides of himself in paris with photography and engaging with art and cafe scenes. i question the inclusion of the balsamic top note, it's actually much more tea-aligned! this is also quite masculine to me, which makes sense as, particularly in nola, he had to be a little overly masculine-- older brother, man of the house after the death of his father, business owner, and a black business owner in an extremely racist setting. i like this for him, i'd even go as far as to say maybe it's not quite masculine enough.

runner-ups: full incense by montale, nothing but sea and sky by une nuit nomade (this one is very bergamont heavy, which i also think he'd like) foreshadow by curatrix (this one is in my rotation rn and i am almost out because i use it SO much. musk, tobacco, incense, cypress)

louis de pointe du lac (dubai)

this one isn't similar to the above at all, but i think it sort of stays in line with what we know of louis in dubai. it's a very fresh scent, with residual fruity and cedar/fig accords snuck in there that are more noticeable with longer wear. this feels performative like most of dubai, put-together and appealing to the senses but deceptive at the end of the day. i think it's still something louis genuinely likes, but i see him, when he's happy, wearing something a bit more explicitly sweet-spicy, less wood-spicy. this is an amalgamation of the above scent and other sweeter, floral accords he'd drift to, but not quite leaning into it the way i suspect he'd be were he actually healed, had he actually confronted his past in full and emerged content with his circumstances.

runner-ups: of true minds by liis (this is inspired by shakespeare's sonnet 116, also smells like sooo complex. floral spicy with a bit of suede) angel dust by fugazzi (cashmere, pepper, bergamont)

lestat de lioncourt

i actually took so long to decide for lestat. after consulting @operahouses (thank you for enduring my lengthy perfume character analysis) i'm happy w this. it's very very floral, mostly rose, with jasmine and iris too. there's also the underlying patchouli and according to what i read, a sort of rosewater wine-y feel about it. walks the line of intense and mysterious with an elegant softness that feels very true to lestat coming off of paris and finding his footing (and the love of his life) in new orleans.

runner-ups: l'olympia music hall by histoires de parfums (floral, also the name is very lestat in the vampire lestat to me) baccarat rouge 540 by maison francis kurkdjian

rockstar lestat

this is zoologist, which literally makes perfumes off of animal scents. i think that is so fucking cool. anyway-- this is a very bold scent that takes the sweetness of the initial perfume i shared and expands upon it with some really interesting notes. there's passionfruit, leather, teakwood, and incense. (INCENSE, which i think he'd intentionally wear for the nostalgia it could potentially evoke in louis!!) but, overall, a very impressive and borderline questionable miasma of smells. because of this, it's startlingly unique. verrrry memorable, which is kind of the desired experience of a rockstar trying to get his ex-husband back.

runner-ups: triumph of bacchus by argos (this one has such an insanely diverse array of accords i feel only he could pull off) do not disturb by vilhelm parfumerie (this leans into femininity a bunch, which i am down for with lestat. also has some questionable accords but again i think this era welcomes that)

armand

so i'm not even going to pretend i'm not projecting with my first choice for him because i am-- press gurwitz 0.3 is soooo criminally underrated. it's got the knockout combo of the cinnamon and vanilla but when the smoky spice of it hits... it HITS! it also isn't overly sweet at all. the vanilla subdues the sweet notes and leaves sort of a smoky yet clean spiciness over time. i think also the idea of him wearing a gourmand scent has a lot of interesting character connotations in it-- wanting to be desired, wanting to be almost edible, to attract that sort of temptation. if not a gourmand, i can see him preferring fresh, clean, sharp scents-- hence the choices for him as rashid.

runner-ups: milk by commodity (amber, firewood, tonka bean; ultimately the marshmallow accord felt a bittttt out of line for him but this scent is GOOD. a pinch sharp but in a way that's striking rather than obtrusive) female christ by 19-69 (eucalyptus, woody, with cashmere and cinnamon at the base notes, emerging the longer the scent is worn)

armand as rashid

this one has a lot going on but i NEED you to stay with me and hear me out. first of all-- there's notes of pineapple here, which i feel are soooo good given the 'honey and pineapple' exchange. there's also a lot of sweetness here and while the 'honey' part isn't explicit, i feel like it's still reminiscent of it. also, who's to say rashidmand doesn't wear honey body oil with this? wouldn't put that past him. otherwise, this is also pretty floral, fresh, and long-lasting. my one flaw is it is intense, especially for his playing as rashid. my defense here is this: he's already gone with the slutty shirts and the speaking out of turn, so a memorable scent doesn't seem suddenly too far, at least not to me. also, the bottom notes like the vanilla stabilize the intensity. for the first hour or two after application, i'm sure this lingers in a room (which is what he'd want) but as it fades, you'd have to be in closer proximity to notice it.

runner-ups: honey & crocus by jo malone london (this is the honeyed scent that could replace the pineapple one, with traces of saffron and lavender included too which go nicely) fleur de délice by reminiscence (VERY herbal and fresh)

daniel molloy (1973)

ok i am pretty sure i'm not the first to say this but he's SO jazz club. to me. this on top of probably perpetually smelling like cigarettes. and i've heard it's more masculine-leaning, with the rum, spice, and tobacco staying on the longest. i think in devil's minion canon armand would also be all over this like a bloodhound. not much else to say aside from boozy and kinda sexy. the kind of thing you'd wear to go out and score drugs or a fatal vampire encounter.

runner-ups: none! i stand by this one. possibly book by commodity, which uses cedar and sandalwood to come shockingly close to putting your nose in a book. also accomplishes a sort of smokiness.

daniel molloy

this is kind of like if jazz club matured a bit. from what i read (i haven't smelled this one) it's very leathery and dry with a slight sweetness at the end. it has some pine and dates in the list of accords, which works for me too. it is also a bit sensual and i think daniel would wear this in dubai to see louis for the first time since '73. not too intense, which i think he'd prefer. @operahouses suggested a new car smell and i STRONGLY agree.

runner-ups: ombré leather (2018) by tom ford (this went too herbal for me to attribute to him, but i still think leather is good for him)

claudia in new orleans

getting into headcanon territory. this scent is sweet, light, and rosy. i'm imagining this is a gift from lestat before things soured. also something to wear before she branched out and developed her own preferences. i personally think this one is a bit strong and just a tad like a bath, but then again it's very clean and satisfying when the initial scent sits for a little. the sugarcane there brings it together too. this would also contribute to the infantilization both louis and lestat force upon her, the shared--whether explicit or implicit- idea that she's theirs, only the 'girl' part of daughter and too young and naive to be the 'woman.' i feel like she'd grow to hate this smell eventually the same way she grew to resent what lestat and new orleans meant for her.

runner-ups: rose of no man's land by byredo (i didn't think the spices fit, but could be that's a stepping stone for her)

claudia (paris)

i haven't tried this scent but i do love curatrix. so i think in a similar way to daniel's progression this is an older, sultry, woody-sweet rendition of what a younger claudia would enjoy. knowing curatrix, it's probably a bit intense, but for a woman duelling with the reality she will not ever be properly seen as a woman, i think it's very fitting! the cloves and tobacco lend age to it while the honey and vanilla sweeten it up a bit, dries down into a suggestion of ginger. i think the name would attract her as well. claudia owns being a vampire-- she loves it, wants so badly to be loved by the coven for loving vampirism, so the idea of fatale is definitely something she would gravitate to in my mind.

runner-ups: hypnotic poison by dior (similar wood themes with a bit of floral and fruitiness mixed in, but mostly, the bottle is cute) carmilla by immortal perfumes (the name, naturally-- also has a blood accord!! was my first choice until i remembered fatale exists)

madeline

gets a classic. i wore this for years before i started to present less feminine. it's clean, floral, sweet, a bit powdery, and stays on forever. not too overwhelming but def alluring. one of thee ultimate femme lesbian choices to me!

runner-ups: immortelle by chloé (still white floral with some tonka snuck in. i like the name for her a lot!)

santiago

i really have nothing to say other than this scent doesn't get very good reviews and it kind of pisses me off and that's perfect for him. def wears way too much of this and it pisses off everyone in the coven. the HEIGHT of gay man who is about to infuriate you.

okay i had a lot of fun doing this. so if anybody else matched my freak ab this i would LOVE to do more.

[thoughtportal]

During the first 10 minutes of John Mulaney’s interview for Rolling Stone’s “Last Word” column — where pop-culture icons reflect on their work, success, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way — he holds forth on the following topics: Eurovision, the campy, annual global pop-song contest; the Songwriters Hall of Fame; and the memoir of Jimmy Webb, the songwriter-composer behind “Wichita Lineman” and “MacArthur Park.”  

“Please feel free to include literally anything we discussed,” Mulaney says before we jump into the real interview questions, “because it’ll be far more interesting than anything about my career.”

Mulaney’s restless brain ricochets seamlessly between the highbrow and lowbrow. He’s hardly short on confidence, yet even when he says, “I’ve always been so famous in my own head,” you can see the wheels turning on how that remark might be misperceived. 

But being both a cultural omnivore and a frank truth-teller have served him well. Over the past 15-plus years, his star has risen steadily to the point that he now dominates every medium he enters, from voiceover movie work to TV appearances to his own specials and, as of last year, late-night. His Netflix talk-variety show, John Mulaney Presents: Everybody’s in L.A., was a six-episode absurdist experiment that blended wildly disparate guests, musical acts, pre-taped bits, and esoteric performances (“Why is Waingro from Heat doing standup?”). It was intended to be a one-off as part of the streamer’s semi-annual Netflix Is a Joke festival. But it was such a sensation, they invited him to keep it going. 

With Wednesday’s release of Everybody’s Live With John Mulaney, the comedian expands on the show’s initial premise, with Michael Keaton, Joan Baez, Fred Armisen, Cypress Hill, and personal finance columnist Jessica Roy joining him for the first episode. Here, some words of wisdom from the host himself, delivered live from Los Angeles, by Zoom.

Editor’s picks

What are the most important rules that you live by? Never plan more than three months in the future. “Live by,” not “work by.” Don’t eat crackers or anything like that in bed. Even if you keep the plate right under your chin, they end up at your feet. And an easy one, but: Nobody knows nothin’. 

No one’s an expert. [We have a] complete inability to ever discuss scenarios that actually will happen, and we are often on the wrong thread. 

Give me a real-life example of that. One of my first agents, Hugh Fitzpatrick, we had this call in 2005 [about how] ABC was hearing pitches from comedians that were 23 years old for mini-pilot ideas. I asked him, “What types of shows do they want?” And he paused and said, “Oh, they want hits.” And that really stuck with me, like, “Oh, right, they just want whatever would work, and they want the thing that no one else would do that seems like it won’t work, but then works.” 

The “horse being loose in a hospital” joke was about President [Trump], but it’s more of a joke about [how] we’re not good at predicting anything. Seven minutes before 9/11, we were all looking for Chandra Levy. We’re just not really on it, and we’ve never been on it. I guess there were these psychics back in the day who would make their New Year’s predictions and some of them would come true. But that’s probably not true, either.

Did any psychics in 2019 predict Covid? This is what I will be Googling after this interview. I was told that Sylvia Browne, the woman who was, on the regular, unmasked on Montel as being not psychic…

She’d tell parents of missing children if they were alive or dead and be completely wrong. Oh, yeah, I think that was her bread and butter. I don’t know why I’m saying to a major publication that she predicted Covid way earlier.

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Who are your heroes?  [SNL music producer] Hal Willner. Hal was a total completist. Any interest of Hal’s, he researched to the nth degree. He chased down every lead in a large project of knowledge that involves ventriloquists, John Cassavetes movies and TV shows, Nelson Riddle and Captain Beefheart albums, and obscure comics. Just this catholic knowledge of stuff that can only be described as “stuff Hal was into.” He liked so many things so much … He cared about a lot of stuff a lot, and people that are really into what they do really inspire me. 

What is the best advice you’ve ever received?  My dad told me if you’re on the phone with someone in a business conversation and you don’t like what they’re saying or how they’re countering, just say nothing. Silence makes people crazy. They’ll pause waiting for you to talk; you won’t. Then they’ll continue to talk. And then they’ll go, “Are you still there?” And you’ll go, “Uh huh.” And then they’ll start talking again. And he goes, “They’ll probably walk back everything they said or meet you at the terms you wanted, or they might even go above what you wanted, because they’re so uncomfortable.”

Have you ever tried that in your career? [Smiles.] Yeah.

Has it worked? [Smiles.] Yeah.

What’s the worst advice?  I won’t name them but [in 2015], an extremely powerful person in Hollywood was telling me that I have to always own all my IP, which is not possible. And the guy’s looking at me and goes, “I know people who are famous and not rich, and they’re miserable. And I know people who are rich and not famous …” and I, John Mulaney, say, “And they’re happy.” And he goes, “No, they’re miserable.” And he looks at me and goes, “You need both. You need to be rich and famous.” It was like a parody of meeting this person. I was like, “Is this a cut scene from The Devil’s Advocate?” 

You were fairly famous at this point.  Not enough for this guy.

What advice do you wish you could give 2008 John Mulaney who’s auditioning for SNL and working on his first special?  As soon as you’re ready to leave Saturday Night Live, stay one more year. I wish I had. I didn’t realize that when you feel burnt out is not the moment to make a decision like that. In terms of other stuff, there were obviously a lot of twists and turns [in my life] after 2008-9, but I don’t know if the advice would’ve stuck. It wasn’t really an “advice would’ve solved that” situation. [Laughs.]I did get a lot of encouragement on various other problems.

What do you wish someone would have told you about being a celebrity growing up? I would have said to my child self, “It’s exactly like you picture it.” And I would have said to my 20-year-old self, “It’s exactly like you picture it.”

Why do you say that? [Pauses.] I hope this doesn’t come off badly, but I’ve always been so famous in my own head [laughs] that I don’t think my younger self would have been fazed at all. I just kinda was always a famous comedian in my head. The amount of times as a little kid I would interview myself — I was always, no matter at what stage, for some reason, processing the highs and lows of it.

Have you always been comfortable with fame? I’m a little embarrassed to say yes. I was always comfortable. It’s a little like living in a small town. “Hey John, how you doing?” “Hey, John.”

What comedians move you the most? There’s a Moth story with Taylor Negron talking about getting a pet monkey when he was a kid. And I watch it a lot for stage presence. He has the mic in the stand the whole time, and I’ve been doing that more lately. I just like his whole vibe in it. That story really touches me.

I really feel for this kid who wants a monkey, and then his uncle Ishmael finds a monkey that fell off the truck for Circus Vargas and he brings the monkey home, and the monkey would shit in people’s purses and make love to them.

What are the best and worst parts of success?  The best part is easy: It’s what you think. The audacious headline you dreamed up in your head once is actually written. And it just feels good. The worst part is your instincts were rewarded, but your instincts aren’t always right. I guess the lesson could be, “Everything I think of is good” [laughs]. It breeds a total confusion. I don’t walk away going, “I’m great at doing that.” I go, “How did he” — meaning me, one month in the past — “nail that?” And then I go, “I just kept doing whatever I wanted. But that can’t be it.” 

In your career, you’ve never rested on your laurels. What drives that?  A bored John Mulaney is a dangerous thing. It’s more the curiosity of it and a very childish, “But I already did that.” Not always the most prudent motivation. My son says that, actually — “We already did that.” “I thought maybe you’d want to go back.” “No, we already went there. Find another indoor gymnasium.” 

Do you get impostor syndrome?  No. Listen, one of my problems is not that I don’t feel really at home doing entertainment. I have other problems.

Your son, Malcolm, is three. Has fatherhood impacted your work? That’s a constant thought of “will I talk about this onstage?” But when my son was born — I have no distance from the relationship. I’ve talked about him onstage, but in a limited way. I have no take on him. I’m Hal Willner and he’s an R. Crumb comic. It’s total. There’s just no distance. I’m totally absorbed. He’s my guy.  

At your first post-rehab show at New York’s City Winery in 2021, you told the audience, “You’re the longest, most intimate relationship of my life.” People applauded before you added, “That’s not a good thing.” How does it feel when a disconnect like that happens? I should have learned that most times when you mention the audience, they will applaud. [Laughs.] It’s a thing I learned the very first time I emceed at a club. Like, any reference to them, they will applaud. It’s that, “Saturday night, people are wild tonight. I don’t need to tell you that in Youngstown, though.” And they’re like, “Yeah!” You could say, “I’m so sick and so addicted to your praise.” And just by saying “you” and pointing…

Did that moment strike you as odd? I thought it was funny. It’s actually the perfect reaction. The only thing I would regret is [when I said] that’s not a good thing. Why editorialize?

You’re on a group text with Jimmy Kimmel and Nick Kroll about the band Kiss. What comes up the most? It’s mainly the [Gene Simmons Vault] Experience, which was something Gene was pushing for a while where you could go be amongst Kiss merchandise. When Nick and I were on Celebrity Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, I memorized a bunch of Gene Simmons quotes and I used them throughout the segment. There’s [also] a thread of me, Bill Hader, Fred Armisen, and Jimmy Kimmel that’s all about Van Halen and David Lee Roth and Alex and Eddie [Van Halen]. Interviews with Alex and Eddie about David is the platonic ideal. 

Are you a fan of Kiss and Van Halen? How seriously or ironically are we treating this? Granted, [Kiss] have this body of work, but it’s always interesting to me, the people who got into anything like that for any reason other than enjoying the music. That’s certainly not Alex and Eddie [Van Halen]. I like Van Halen a lot, and I like Diamond Dave’s bluegrass album of covers [2006’s Strummin’ With the Devil]. I’m embarrassed to say, it’s kind of in my shuffle. 

Billy Joel once said, “I met more girls by playing the piano and not trying to have a clever pickup line. And I realized the power of this stuff.”  That is very surprising. I would have thought he was like a piano prodigy who knew jazz and classical and rejected it for rock. That’s knowing nothing about him. If I were to pull that out of my hat, that would be my diagnosis.

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Will Everybody’s Live With John Mulaney be similar to Everybody’s in L.A.? I don’t know. It was this six-night pop-up show tied to a festival, and it was really fun to try. I felt like a lot of instinctual things worked out. I’m very committed to diving into irrelevance, never being relevant. This ties into a few things: recklessness, overplanning, and taking calls. A lot of stuff we did in the first six, we’ll continue.

The overriding sentiment seems to be that it was a show that shouldn’t have worked, but did.  Yeah. [Pauses.] Except that everything that shouldn’t work always does.

[82mitsu]

{18Trip} The 18 Questions Corner - Isotake Akuta

This is a translation for the 18 questions interview uploaded on the official Youtube channel. I suggest to read this translation alongside it!

Note: P stands for "Player", this series has a voiced male & female character for the player. The interviews are conducted by the male player in this case.

TL note:

Asu-kou (あす高) is a high school, the full name is Hama Asunaro High School, shortened to Asu High. Asunaro is a tree smaller than the Japanese hinoki cypress. The name comes from 「明日は檜のようになろう」 which literally translates to: Tommorrow it will become like a hinoki cypress (asu wa hinoki no youni narou). It bears an essence of the wish for growth.

P: 18 questions for the Tourism Ward Mayors! We look forward to your cooperation!

Akuta: Gimme all ya got!

What’s your name?

Isotake Akuta!

How old are you?

I’m a 16 year old full of life♪

Tell us about your occupation!

I’m a 2nd year at Asu High, the chief of the Macrocosmic Milky Way Miracle Solid Movie Club!

What’s the first thing you do when waking up in the morning?

Opening the curtains, putting on my bandana, washing my face

Anything you’re particular about with lunch?

Yummy stuff that’s quick to eat & cheap does the job!

What pops up in your mind when it comes to “evening”?

Downtown! I’ve been getting dinner from there since like forever, they even give me stuff like curry buns ‘cuz of it.  

What’s your routine before bed?

Popping some popcorn and being seated for kino!

Where do you start with washing your body?

Hmmn…. um… like, the bottom of my feet?

What’s essential when leaving for a trip?

Camera’s a no-brainer!

What do you check before traveling somewhere?

I search for spots with a superb view, or any place I can use for a shoot. 

What’s your favorite method of transportation for traveling? 

Bike or just walking. Narrow alleys are worth seeing too!

What’s one item you’d bring to a deserted island?

Camera again, duh~

Please give us some fanservice! 

Ahem!  ✧・ﾟ: *A pleasure you have you here, I'll show ya an unforgettable trip.*:・ﾟ✧ …How was that!? 

Who’s someone you’d lean on for support? 

Aaah~ Kiroku and Nanaki often take care of visuals and sound for me.

Who would you swap bodies with for a day?

Hmm~ Oh! Morning Squad’s Renga-san! 

What would you want to do as them?

I’ll stroll out in town without sunglasses… and rizz up the ladies! My rizz level will be so off the charts that the cops gotta intervene! 

Pass on a message to your roommates!

What’s on the menu for today’s movie night? 

Tell us from the heart, what’s a “journey” to you? 

Getting treated with some good grub and feeling like you’re the world’s main character for a moment? 

P: Thank you, those were all 18 questions!

Akuta: Think we gotta shoot for 100 more questions if you really want to get my appeal!

Akuta: I’m HAMA’s 5th Ward Mayor, Isotake Akuta. I’m the man who’ll become the best movie director in the whole universe! Ah, maybe I’m already there?

[beyondthegame]

hi mila my cy loving ass is once again sliding in your inbox sjdjakdk can i please ask for "All these people think love's for show but I would die for you in secret" + cypress? thank you hehe 🩷

"The whole point of me being retired is so I don't have to go to these events."

Cypress has adjusted their necklace multiple times, the same with the thin rings on their fingers. You're sure they're about to lean down and check whether there's a speck of dust on their shoes before you place a gentle hand on their shoulder.

"That is not why you retired," you utter with a laugh.

"Fine, but this isn't something I miss about being a player."

"Aren't you the one who booked this limousine for us to come here?"

Cypress snorts. "Well, sure," they murmur, "but I booked it for you," they say with ease as the limousine comes to a stop. "And now you have me in formal attire."

You smile. "Formal attire that you look great in."

The corner of Cypress's lips threaten to turn upwards as their eyes quickly scan you over you. "That kind of flattery doesn't work on me."

You huff. "We're a couple, it has to work on you at some point."

A light chuckle escapes them as they open the limo door and offer you their hand. Cypress steps out and they're immediately met by the flash of cameras. You take hold of their hand and step out too, and suddenly the camera flashes double.

The two of you are the ones they want to see at this award show, that's evident.

Cypress loops an arm around your waist, they turn their body towards you, as though they're acting like your shield. "Your flattery has worked on me. You're the only person who could get me to come to one of these things."

—

It's like a red carpet event. Cypress has been by your side the whole time. Their arm around your waist, their hand holding yours, your pinkies linked together—some kind of physical connection to each other.

The event hasn't been terrible. Cypress is usually itching to leave as soon as they step on the carpet, their thoughts drifting to being in much calmer environment.

But with you it isn't all that bad for them. Even when microphones are being pushed in your faces.

"Away from your football on the pitch, the two of you are one of the world's most famous couples," an interviewer says, light shining in their eyes as they dig for a good story. "Together you're an unstoppable force."

The interviewer turns to Cypress specifically, hoping to force an answer out of them. "Inter City's season gone superbly considering they won a trophy. You must be proud of your partner."

Cypress laces their fingers with your own, glancing over at you for a brief moment. "I'm proud of them no matter what," they say without hesitation.

The interviewer arches a brow. "I can quote you on that?"

"Obviously," Cypress says. "The media can paint it how they like but they mean everything to me," they add, referring to you before they give your hand a squeeze three times—a signal you give one another when you're in public when one of you feel ready to leave.

You manage to come up with an excuse, a polite one that allows you to leave and continue along until the two of you get to a quiet stretch of the carpet.

There aren't too many people around this area, and the ones that are around are ones you know. You take Cypress's hand and pull them to stand in front of you.

"You okay?" they question.

You nod your head before smirking. "I mean everything to you, huh?" Your hand cups their cheek and your thumb brushes over the heart-shaped birthmark by their jaw.

Cypress rolls their eyes. A lopsided grin is visible on their lips before they go to peck the pad of your thumb.

"Shut up," Cypress mumbles. "You know I'd do anything for you. I'd give you the world if I could."

[japanesedoramaandanimelover91]

Aiba Masaki in a new advert for "Aqura Home". Aiba-san relieves the tension of the child actors by playing with their hands. While filming the commercial, Aiba-san was friendly with the stars and staff, making them feel at ease. In between takes, he tried to relieve the tension of the child actors by playing with his hands. On the other hand, when it was time to film, he turned into a sharp and enthusiastic staff member. The scene showed Aiba-san's professional side as he switched from one job to another and also showed his kindness. The scene in the meeting room included lines that only a flashy employee, played by Aiba-san, is capable of. In the scene in the meeting room where he states: "I'm going to build a building using nothing but wood!" he says: "Do you want to do it or not?" When this was cut, he and his fellow filmmakers were positive and couldn't help but smile. Aiba-san smiles with a birthday cake customised by "Aqura Group". It was Aiba-san's birthday on 24 December, the day after information about the commercial was released. After filming the commercial, Aiba-san's birthday was celebrated with a cake decorated with biscuits from the "Aqura Group" headquarters building and an official "Aqura Home" character. "That's the headquarters! The level of reproduction is amazing!" marvelled Aiba-san. "It's a pity to eat it! Thank you!" The filming ended without incident. Interview with Masaki Aiba. Question:-What were your impressions of filming this commercial? Aiba:-We filmed in Japan's first eight-storey wooden building, which is the headquarters of the "Aqura Group", and the delicious smell of cypress trees prompted us to shoot right away! Question:-Would you like to live in a city where wooden houses are common? 💚 Of course! I've heard that wooden construction has a positive effect on reducing CO2 emissions and is carbon neutral. It seems to me that living and working in such a wooden space would be progressive and sustainable. In such a forest-like space, it might even be more soothing to have music with birdsong playing in the background! (Laughs.) Question:-The commercial impressed with Aiba-san's uncompromising statement about his passionate dream, but is there something you're more passionate about than anyone else these days? 💚 I love NBA basketball and i watch a lot of games. I can also watch games on an app, so i put on my headphones and cheer on the road. Question:- At the beginning of the commercial, there was a scene where Aiba-san was telling the kids, "Don't give up!" Looking back to 2024, please tell us about the episodes where you said, "I didn't give up!" 💚 It's work! (Laughs) Like today, every day i focused on what i need to do now rather than in the past or future. I do my best to cherish every day and not regret anything! Question:-What are your aspirations or challenges that you would like to achieve in 2025 without giving up? Aiba:-I would like to challenge myself to do something i have never done before, like wooden architecture "Aqura Group" and become the one and only! I'm going to do my best! (Laughs.) The commercial will be broadcast from the first of January next year.

[sohmiya]

Nikka! I’m crying and banging my head against the wall at how talented you are when it comes to songwriting because I could neverr have the skill set 😫 however I do have angst & Evren lyrics for you <3 (they’re shit though so don’t perceive me!!)

Less angsty to start with—after Second Coming and Evren meet and become friends, I see him happily name-dropping them in their new song (I’d like to think the song is just a fun vibe, it’s currently title-less though):

More angsty! Evren going to the studio at like 3am after that ��breakup’ argument with Max, and he’s hurt and pissed off.

I imagine he called Cypress on the way there because ✨rant about the girl you love to your best friend✨ and Ev’s all like “Cy, you’re awake!” “I’m more worried that you are” “it’s cute you’re concerned about me, I’m driving to the studio anyway” “why…? Evren, wait, are you still hung up over Maxine? you can come over and we can chat, my siblings are asleep” and Cypress is genuinely upset and concerned bc he’s seen Evren heartbroken before “Cy, as much as I’d love that, I do need to let some frustrations out”

He calls his band and FaceTime’s them whilst he’s at the studio too—and they all pretty much know about Max and him—but also that when any of them call each other at stupid o’clock it means that there’s a song idea brewing.

Obvs had to name the song after their ship name:

I imagine when he performs this on stage that the fans sing back the bits that are in italics.

And when he has to go on talk shows and social media and promote the song, the question he gets every single time is “who’s the pretty red head?”, and he’ll just genuinely smirk and come up with witty answers like “well, listening to the song won’t be fun if I tell you”

And when nice interviewers ask how he’s doing I imagine him saying, “oh, yeah, I’m okay now. it happened, I wrote a successful song about it, and the good things I said about her are true and that won’t change”

But also him being nervous af to contact Maxine bc she could absolutely hate the song and he’d be ready to apologise for the argument in the first place, but he’d text after a few days like ‘hey, are we good? x’ and then like another one an hour later like ‘by any chance, do you know if your ex hates me??’

MILA SHUT UPPPPP OH MY GOD

no wait cause after the second coming name drop i can imagine max hitting evren up as soon as she hears the song and tease him like “if you wanted to collab all you had to was ask” NDJSJSKSKSK and the tennis references mhm i think he did it for me 😌🥂

and oh my god the cypress cameo 🥹 my favorite boys talking about love problems 🥹 no cause you don’t understand. i love ev’s friendship with everyone but his bond with cy just sits SOOOO right with me. it’s like cy acts like a big brother to him and evren acts like a cool uncle to the mini de veras <3

“i could never have the skill set” NOT YOU LYING TO MY FACE AS IF THE LYRICS OF SOMEWHERE THIS WORKS DONT FUCKING SLAP ?????????

knows i’m better than her ex, ain’t even talkin bout the sex

like after every ride we weren’t fucking high and she hits me with “we should be friends”

SHADE HER EVREN!!!!!! SPEAK YOUR TRUTH!!!!!! HDJSSKKSSJ PLS IM GOING INSANE OVER THESE LINES ACTUALLY

and the miracles verse….. “prayed to lady jesus in church”……… i just know your pen was on fire like i’m not kidding i wish i wrote that verse i’m gonna steal your brain

and the “calm during our storms” he really said OUR 😭😭😭😭😭😭

evren acevedo if things also don’t work out with miko i’m single and ready to mingle

But also him being nervous af to contact Maxine bc she could absolutely hate the song and he’d be ready to apologise for the argument in the first place, but he’d text after a few days like ‘hey, are we good? x’

i don’t think maxine could be pissed at him calling her out at the “we should be friends” line even if she tried like. she’d be impressed tbh 😭😭😭😭 like she would reply with a spotify screenshot with stw on repeat then she’d quote that line in the first verse to him and go “YOU DID NOT” NDNSMSKS but before evren could think she was serious she’d send another text “JK YES WE’RE GOOD EVREN THIS IS SOOOO GOOD” and considering the emotional weight of the argument that inspired the song, maxine 100% would stop herself from making a joke about how he “prayed to lady jesus in church” because she definitely had him kneeling a few times 🫢 sdhdjskkaks

‘by any chance, do you know if your ex hates me??’

HE’S SOOOOO 😭😭😭 the contrast between the wild ace and evren is so funny yet so endearing to me he’s such a cutie pie <333

max would say something like “idk and idc. i like you- *backspacebackspacebackspacebackspace* “idk and idc”

[hiringjournal]

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When You Hire Test Automation Developers

In the modern software development space, automated testing plays a pivotal role. It speeds up the release cycles, enhances product quality, and reduces the risk of bugs reaching the production phase. That’s why several tech companies are now considering hiring software engineers with this skill as a part of their core development team.

But to hire for this role can’t always be straightforward. It’s easy to make mistakes, especially when you are under the pressure to move fast. In this article we will uncover the 5 common pitfalls that you need to avoid when building your automation team.

How to Build a Reliable QA Team Without Slowing Down Development

Prioritizing tools over skills

Many hiring managers neglect to assess a candidate's fundamental problem-solving skills in favour of focussing too much on particular automation technologies, such as Selenium, Cypress, or Appium.

Yes, tool experience matters. However, competent test automation engineers ought to be flexible enough to operate with various frameworks. Instead of just marking off tool names, pay attention to how they create reusable test cases, plan test strategies, and troubleshoot problems.

Skipping real-world test scenarios

General coding questions or theoretical-only technical interviews frequently fall short. You want someone who can handle edge cases in actual apps and think critically when you hire test automation engineers.

Provide real-world examples from your product rather than generic code problems. Find out how they would go about testing an API under load, a complicated form, or a payment gateway. This gives insight into how they’ll perform on the job.

Ignoring communication and collaboration power

There is no siloed approach to test automation. QA analysts, product managers, and developers collaborate closely with automation engineers. However, a lot of hiring teams ignore soft talents.

Seek out applicants who can articulate their strategy in detail, pose insightful queries, and offer helpful criticism. Working across functional boundaries is just as important in software businesses as developing a flawless test script.

Hiring without a clear plan of action

Hiring someone too soon or with ambiguous expectations is one of the biggest blunders businesses make. Determine your true needs before bringing someone on board: Are you starting from scratch? Making the switch to automated testing from manual testing? Adding to an already-existing framework?

Finding the proper person for the job—not simply someone with the right title—is made easier when you have a roadmap. Working with an IT staffing service can help if you're pressed for time or don't know where to begin. They can connect you with applicants who share your project objectives and technical requirements.

Overlooking code quality and maintenance 

Good automation isn't just about writing scripts that pass. It involves creating dependable, readable, and maintainable test code. Ask test automation engineers how they handle flaky tests, how frequently they refactor test suites, and how they deal with CI/CD pipeline issues when you recruit them. Long-term maintainability should be a criterion for hiring.

Closing Words

Your team can benefit greatly from hiring a test automation engineer, but only if you do it correctly. By avoiding these typical blunders, you can be sure that the person you hire will be able to assist your larger development objectives and improve your QA process.

Take the time to hire with purpose, whether you want to do it internally or through an IT staffing agency. Not only do the top test automation engineers create scripts, but they also instill trust in your product. And that trust is invaluable in the fast-paced tech companies of today.

[georgemaries]

Which is the Best QA Automation Training Institute?

Introduction

Quality Assurance (QA) automation is a critical skill for professionals in the software industry. With increasing demand for efficient software testing, the need for QA testing online training has surged. Choosing the right QA automation training institute is crucial for mastering Software quality assurance training. In this guide, we will explore what makes a QA automation course effective, compare key factors in selecting an institute, and help you find the best online QA testing training provider.

Understanding QA Automation Training

What is QA Automation?

QA automation refers to the process of using automated tools and scripts to test software applications. Instead of relying on manual testing, automation improves speed, accuracy, and test coverage. QA automation helps organizations deploy software faster while ensuring that products meet high standards of functionality and performance.

Importance of Software Quality Assurance Training

Enhanced Career Opportunities: QA automation skills are in high demand across industries, making it a lucrative career choice.

Increased Efficiency: Automated testing reduces manual effort, accelerating software development cycles and reducing time-to-market.

Better Test Coverage: Automation enables extensive testing, ensuring robust and error-free software applications.

Industry Recognition: Employers prefer candidates with QA automation certifications from reputed institutes, making certified professionals more competitive in the job market.

Scalability: Automated testing allows companies to scale their testing efforts efficiently, accommodating the needs of complex and large-scale applications.

What to Look for in a QA Automation Course?

1. Comprehensive Curriculum

A well-structured QA automation course should cover:

Basic to Advanced Concepts: Understanding the fundamentals of software testing, test automation frameworks, and scripting languages such as Python, Java, and JavaScript.

Industry-Standard Tools: Training on Selenium, TOSCA, JUnit, TestNG, Appium, Cypress, and Postman.

Hands-on Experience: Practical projects and real-world applications with step-by-step guidance.

CI/CD Integration: Knowledge of Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) and how QA automation integrates into DevOps workflows.

API Testing: Covering REST API and SOAP UI testing to ensure backend reliability.

Performance Testing: Basics of JMeter and LoadRunner to analyze system performance under various conditions.

2. Hands-On Learning Approach

An effective software quality assurance training program should provide:

Live Instructor-Led Sessions: Interactive classes where students can ask questions in real-time.

Real-World Projects: Exposure to industry-relevant case studies that simulate actual workplace scenarios.

Assignments & Mock Tests: Regular practice tests and assignments to reinforce learning.

Capstone Project: Application of learned skills in a final project that mimics real-world testing challenges.

Debugging and Troubleshooting: Training in debugging failed automation scripts and resolving issues efficiently.

3. Flexibility and Accessibility

The best QA automation courses should offer:

Self-Paced or Live Online Classes: Options to choose between recorded video lessons and interactive live sessions.

24/7 Learning Support: Availability of mentors and instructors to resolve doubts.

Lifetime Access to Course Material: Ensuring continuous learning beyond the training period.

Cloud-Based Labs: Hands-on experience through cloud environments for running automation scripts.

4. Expert Trainers

Industry Experience: Trainers should have real-world experience working in QA automation roles.

Certifications & Credentials: Look for trainers with recognized certifications in Selenium, ISTQB, and Agile Testing.

Student Support & Mentorship: Personalized guidance on career paths, resume building, and interview preparation.

5. Certification and Job Assistance

A recognized QA testing online training provider should offer:

Industry-Recognized Certification: Enhances resume credibility and boosts employability.

Resume Building & Mock Interviews: Training on how to craft a compelling resume and prepare for job interviews.

Job Placement Assistance: Helping students connect with recruiters and hiring companies.

Comparison of Top QA Automation Training Institutes

H2K Infosys (Recommended Choice)

Comprehensive Training: Covers manual testing, Selenium, Java, and DevOps integration with detailed, real-world projects.

Hands-on Experience: Live projects and industry-relevant applications ensure practical knowledge.

Expert Trainers: Instructors with industry expertise and recognized certifications in QA automation.

Job Assistance: Resume-building sessions, interview guidance, and job placement support.

Flexible Learning: Both live online training and self-paced courses for convenience.

H2K Infosys is a reputable choice for those seeking software quality assurance training with real-world applicability.

Other Considerations for QA Training Institutes

Cost vs. Value: Compare pricing with course features, ensuring the best return on investment.

Student Reviews & Testimonials: Read past student feedback to gauge the effectiveness of training.

Demo Sessions: Attend free trial classes to assess the teaching methodology before enrolling.

Updated Course Material: Ensure that the curriculum is aligned with the latest industry trends and best practices.

How to Choose the Right QA Automation Course?

Step 1: Identify Your Goals

Are you a beginner looking to enter the QA field?

Are you an experienced tester looking to enhance automation skills?

Do you need a certification to boost job prospects?

Step 2: Research Course Offerings

Compare curricula, learning formats, and cost-effectiveness.

Check for hands-on project experience and real-world case studies.

Step 3: Check Student Reviews

Read feedback from previous learners about course effectiveness.

Look at job placement success rates of past students.

Step 4: Enroll and Start Learning

Join live classes or access recorded sessions.

Engage in hands-on projects and practical assignments.

Seek guidance from mentors and peers for a better learning experience.

Real-World Applications of QA Automation Training

QA automation is widely used across multiple industries. Here’s how learning QA automation can help:

E-commerce: Automating website and mobile app testing for smooth user experiences.

Healthcare: Ensuring medical software complies with industry regulations.

Banking & Finance: Enhancing security through automated functional and performance testing.

Retail & Logistics: Improving supply chain management by automating software testing processes.

Telecom & Networking: Ensuring seamless connectivity and software reliability.

A strong foundation in QA automation ensures career growth, job stability, and better earning potential.

Key Takeaways

QA Automation Training is Essential: Industry demand for skilled QA professionals is high.

Choose a Reputable Institute: Look for structured courses with hands-on learning opportunities.

H2K Infosys Offers a Strong Program: A great option with real-world projects, job assistance, and flexible learning formats.

Flexible Learning Options Matter: Ensure courses offer live training, recorded sessions, and mentor support.

Certification Adds Value: A recognized certification in QA automation can significantly improve job prospects.

Conclusion

Selecting the right QA automation training institute can shape your career. Enroll in a comprehensive QA automation course today and boost your professional growth. Start your journey in QA automation and secure a rewarding career in software testing!

[alicevgcna]

Open Your Future: Top CNA Classes in Orange County for 2023

Unlock Your⁢ Future: Top CNA Classes in orange County for 2023

Are you looking to kick-start your career in the healthcare sector? Becoming⁣ a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) is⁢ an excellent stepping stone. In this article, we’ll guide you through the top CNA‍ classes ‍in Orange County for⁣ 2023 ⁤and provide valuable insights on how ‍to navigate your journey. ⁣Weather you’re a high school ⁤graduate or seeking a ‌career change, this ⁣complete ‌guide⁢ will help you ⁢unlock⁤ your‍ future in nursing.

What is a CNA?

A Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) plays a critical role in the healthcare ⁣system, providing essential⁢ support to patients and medical staff. They assist with daily living activities,monitor patients’ health,and offer⁣ basic care,making ‍them a vital link in the healthcare ⁣chain.

Benefits of Becoming ‍a CNA

High Demand: With ‍an aging population,⁣ the need ‌for CNAs is ​growing rapidly.

Fast⁤ Training: CNA programs can be completed in a matter of weeks,​ allowing ⁤you ⁢to enter the workforce sooner.

Versatility: Many CNA positions offer flexible working hours, accommodating different schedules.

Career⁢ Advancement: Starting as a CNA ⁢can open doors⁣ to further career opportunities⁣ in nursing and healthcare.

Personal ‌Fulfillment: helping others leads​ to a rewarding and meaningful career.

top ‌CNA⁤ Classes in Orange County‌ for 2023

Here, we’ve compiled a list‍ of some of the top⁢ CNA classes in Orange County to ⁣help you⁢ find the right program for⁢ your needs:

School​ Name

Duration

Location

Contact

Orange Coast College

6‌ weeks

Costa Mesa

(714) 432-0202

Irvine Valley College

8 weeks

Irvine

(949) ​451-5100

Platt College

4 weeks

Streamwood

(888)​ 203-1308

Stanbridge University

5 weeks

irvine

(949) 222-1991

Cypress College

6 weeks

Cypress

(714) 484-7000

How to ‌Choose ⁣the Right CNA Program

When choosing the right CNA class ‌for you, consider the following:

accreditation: Ensure​ the program is accredited by a recognized body.

Curriculum: Look⁢ for a curriculum that covers⁤ both theory and practical skills.

Location: Choose a location that is convenient​ for you.

Cost: ⁤Compare tuition costs and see if financial aid⁢ options⁤ are available.

Reviews: Read reviews from past students to gauge the​ quality of the‌ program.

Tips for Succeeding in Your CNA Class

Here are several practical ⁣tips to​ help you succeed in your CNA ‌training:

Stay Organized: Keep track of your assignments and​ deadlines.

Participate Actively: ⁣engage in ‍class discussions and ask questions.

Practice Skills: Spend time practicing hands-on skills as much as⁣ possible.

Network: Build ​connections with instructors ​and fellow students, ⁣which can help in job placement.

Prepare for the Exam: Familiarize yourself with the CNAs’ licensure exam content.

First-Hand Experience: Insights‍ from a CNA⁢ Graduate

To give ‍you a better ⁤idea of what to expect, here is ‌a brief interview with Emily,⁤ a⁣ recent CNA graduate from Orange‍ Coast College:

Q: What did you enjoy⁤ moast about ‌your⁤ CNA training?

‌ ⁢ A: I loved the hands-on training! The instructors were incredibly supportive, ‌and I⁢ felt truly prepared for my clinicals.

Q: How did your CNA⁣ training impact your⁢ career?

⁢ ​ A:‍ It opened many doors for me. since graduating, ​I’ve​ already secured a job at a local hospital!

Conclusion

Becoming a Certified Nursing Assistant in Orange County is ‍an ⁢excellent prospect to elevate your ⁤career in the healthcare field. With ​a variety of top-notch CNA⁤ classes to choose⁢ from in 2023, you are one step closer to making a⁣ notable impact on people’s‌ lives. Remember to evaluate your⁤ options thoroughly and prepare yourself for success as you embark on this rewarding journey.

https://cnaclassesonline.net/open-your-future-top-cna-classes-in-orange-county-for-2023/

[rahulshettyacade]

[uday9kumar]

Cypress Online Training Course |  Cypress Training

Visualpath providing Cypress Online Training Course with complete real time based Training by Real Time Experts with free Cypress Interview Questions and Recorded Videos. Enroll Now for FREE DEMO.

[joealwyndaily]

I know I'm boring, I'm sorry about that, but I don't really know English and I can only understand what Joe says if I transcribe his interviews, so please can you guys do that with his video for GQ and the interviews with Alison? 😭

Don't worry, it's not a problem! 💛 Here is his GQ 10 Essential Items:

Hi GQ, I’m Joe Alwyn and these are my 10 essentials.

Let’s start the essentials the way I start in the morning, which is with coffee. This is the starring French press of the day. You put the coffee in, you put your hot water in, you plunge it down and you drink it straight from this. With a little bit of milk. I'm really not a coffee snob to be honest I don't have like a place I go to get coffee. I just basically drink it and inject into my veins. Coffee.

So, my next essential item is, drum roll, a camera, obviously. This is a Leica camera, a Leica Q. I first saw one of these on the set of The Favorite and Yorgos Lanthimos who was the director of The Favorite would carry one of these around everywhere he goes and take the most beautiful behind the scenes photos. I'll take it on set sometimes, or take it out and about, throw on a shoot or with a group of friends. I’ve always been pretty interested in photography, really I just wanted to copy Yorgos.

 My next essential item is a piece of clothing. This is my lucky jacket, and I was actually given it for my 21st birthday. It’s lucky because I wore it when I went to America for the first time, to New York for an audition, which was my first audition, and I got the part. I was lucky enough to get the part, which was a film called Billy Lynn's long Halftime Walk. When I went over there, I turned 24 I think and I didn't know anyone, and my family sent me some flowers I think to the hotel I was staying in and so I found the other day, pressed in here like a card from the flower company and a card from my family. Nostalgic memories.

My next essential items, lighters. I like collecting old lighters and the ones that I brought here today are made by Dunhill. They’re just like old-ish, beautiful well-made objects. Got a few in silver, there’s one in gold. You'd think I would be a smoker but I actually am not really a smoker, however, if you're at a party and you need a cigarette lighter, I’m your guy. They got my initials on, there you are, just in case I forget.

 Alright my next essential item is a book. This is the book I'm reading at the moment, Sally Rooney's Beautiful World, Where Are You. That’s a fair question. Sally Rooney is an Irish author who has two books before this, Normal People and Conversations with Friends, which is a show that comes out mid-May 2022. Very long sentences, I’m looking for a short sentence here. ‘She looked up at him quickly and he met her eyes.’ There's a lot of humanity in her writing, I like the way that we can identify with her characters, and I also think she's really funny as a writer.

My next essential item on this lovely list is my watch. I never used to really wear one but I do now. And I have this classical automatic Patek Philippe which is really lovely, really beautifully made. It was actually made in 1991 which is the same year that I was born so it's been ticking for as long as me. In a world of screens and computers it’s just nice to have something like that on your wrist.

My next essential item is a scented candle. I have a bunch of them at home and they’re nice things to take around with you, if you're moving around a lot, and in your hotel room or in a new space or a new place. This particular one is made by Loewe. This particular one is called Cypress Balls. If you do like your in-laws maybe Cypress Balls by Loewe. If you don't like them just get them some tealights, how's that for a pitch?

 My next item is another piece of clothing, not old and not so sentimental. It's a pair of track suits that Stella McCartney makes. I really like her clothes and I like her as a person as well and she makes eco-friendly clothes. There, you know, a pair of everyday track suits, you can wear all the time, they’re just comfy and they’re great. Everyone should have them.

The next item is my bike. It's got a couple of wheels, couple of breaks and a nice little seat. Particularly in London yeah I tend to walk or take the tube or the bus anyway, so a bike is a nice way of getting around, a bit of exercise. I wanted like a road bike that was relatively lightweight and would get me from a to b. Which so far, it’s done. I’m not sure it’s like built for wheelies, and I would probably fall off, so we’ll leave showing the wheelie till next time.

My next item on my list is, the suspense, is a painting. It’s a painting by a Cornish painter called Richard Cook. It was a gift when I was 18. He does mainly landscapes of Cornwall, it’s just a place that I've been going all my life, since I was a kid, on kind of family holidays. Everyone packing into the car with dogs and David Bowie or The Beatles on tape. Being in the car for hours and hours and hours, finally getting to Cornwall and jumping into the sea and it being freezing cold but also great. This picture at the moment is on the mantel piece, at home, above the fire.

Thank you for watching, these with my 10 essential items.

[jasperswh0re]

Savior [Raylan Givens x reader]

Part four! Sorry this is so late. Also sorry it’s kinda short. Gender neutral reader as always :D also I finally realized a good ending to this series, there might be only a few more parts left

Summary: Raylan finds out why you’re in Kentucky. And it seems that you’re the calm before the storm.

Word count: 1,446

Warnings: Alludes to sexy times but its skipped over (i dont write smut, sorry)

part three

---

You were forced into protection by the U.S. Marshall service the morning after the attack. Raylan didn’t give you much of a choice. The unanswered question still lingered in the air. 

You never answered him. You’ve been dead silent since the night before. It was starting to give him a headache. Actually, maybe that was the hangover.

Raylan was pacing around his workspace, waiting for your interview with his coworkers to end. He didn’t have the opportunity to sit in on the interview since Art said it was a conflict of interest.

Eventually, Rachel and Tim left the conference room simultaneously. You stayed in your seat while thinking over everything. Raylan wanted to go and comfort you but he needed answers.

The look in his eyes was enough for Rachel to skip past him, throwing some excuse to grab a coffee. Tim attempted to do the same but Raylan placed a hand on his coworker’s chest and stopped him in his place.

“Why are they here?” Tim remained silent. “Tim-” He said slowly, keeping his eyes on the ground- “If I don’t know why they’re here... Then I can’t help them. Any information you give me can save their life.”

The deputy looked to the side and sighed, “They’re in Kentucky because of some sort of family thing.”

“Family thing?”

Tim met his friend’s eyes, “They’re distantly related to the Crowder’s. They suspect that Bo Crowder is after them.”

Raylan was frozen where he stood. His eyes flickered to you in the conference room. The rim of his hat barely hid his deadly glance. 

You were messing with a dent on the table. You could feel his stare. All you wanted to do was melt away forever.

“Alright,” Raylan held his composure. “I’m taking them out of town.”

“Art knew you would say that. I’m coming with you.”

The majority of the car ride was silent and Tim could feel the tension in the air. As he sat in the passenger’s seat, his eyes would dart between you and Raylan.

You were comfortable in the backseat. Tim was kind enough to get you coffee from the office, as crappy as it was. As usual, you were unnervingly calm.

Raylan tapped his fingers against the steering wheel, biting down on his lower lip. Everything he wanted to let out he held in for as long as he could.

The two marshalls came to the conclusion that it would be best if you stayed at Raylan’s motel. Your room was next door and easy access for both of them. But the three of you stayed in Raylan’s room for the time being. You still never spoke.

“Well, I’m gonna turn in,” Tim stood. “Raylan, are you taking the bed or will you be a gracious host?”

Raylan threw a playful glare at his coworker and gestured towards the bed. You stood from your seat across from him.

“I’ll walk you back to your room,” Raylan stood up quicker than any bullet shot from his gun. You held up a hand to stop him but he followed anyway.

“Goodnight, Raylan,” You said, facing the doorway and clutching the knob. Raylan flipped you around by the shoulder, keeping you against the wooden frame.

“What is the matter with you?”

“Excuse me?” You stared at him with a certain harshness. His brown eyes were desperate.

“You’re- ...You’re insane! You’re completely insane, (Y/n),” Raylan whined. “Someone is after you and you’re sitting like a duck. A duck waiting to be shot.”

“I am not a duck, Raylan.”

“You know that’s not the point,” He stuck his finger at you.

"Then what is the point?”

Raylan’s voice went up in volume. “The point is that you’re not afraid!” 

“Why should I be?” You matched his voice.

“Because you could die!” Raylan lifted his hands as if he was about to cup your face but didn’t. His large hands dropped while he stared at the floor, trying to wipe the stress off of his face. 

“The fact is you nearly died,” He talked slowly. “...And with your lack of a response to the situation... I am inclined to believe that you’re not bothered by that fact.”

It took a while for you to respond.

“I’m not.”

“Why?” He whined. “Why in the world are you okay with that?”

You looked away from his face, afraid of what you could say when staring into his eyes. “I’m not okay with it. It’s just... complicated.”

“Try me.”

You looked back at him after a moment passed. It dawned on you that he hadn’t stopped staring at you in the past thirty-six hours. Like you would vanish at any second.

The Kentucky breeze flew by your figures. A cool comparison to the heat your bodies shared. 

Raylan was so worried. You hated to see him like this. If he knew the truth, would it make everything better or worse?

You drew a long sigh and pushed Raylan onto the outdoor furniture on the porch. His hard gaze remained.

“Assuming you know I’m related to the Crowder’s,” You began. “Only distantly... But not distant enough.”

“I’m aware of the Crowders,” Raylan said. “I didn’t know you were from Harlan.”

“I’m not,” You said. “Not really. My parents had me in Louisiana, but when I was three I moved to Kentucky. In another small town not far from Harlan... We visited often.”

You scratched your forearm, suddenly nervous. Raylan had never seen you like this. You continued.

“Long story short, my parents got involved in the drug business that Bo Crowder was in charge of. They never repaid their debts and...” You could feel yourself tearing up. “Now they’re gone. They had someone sent up to Oregon to off them... Honestly, the Crowder’s have been tormenting my life since.”

You didn’t dare look him in the eye as he placed a comforting hand on your back. 

“I figured I would just get it over with... I have no money to spare so-”

“So you just offer yourself up... Like- like... Some sort of sacrifice?” Raylan stared at you wildly.

“I have nothing to lose, Raylan,” You met his furious eyes. “I have nothing left in my life. The only family I had left in the world is gone.”

All Raylan could do was stare at you. He watched as silent tears trickled down your cheeks. He inched towards your figure and inclined his head to place a subtle kiss on your cheek, where the tear streaks ran.

You looked at him dumbfounded and found yourself unable to speak. Raylan gently kissed your other cheek, then continued to do this until his lips met yours. They were hesitant. Gentle. You leaned into his body, finally allowing him in. 

Your hands lifted to his cheeks. You could feel the stubble on his skin as you inhaled his scent. He tasted like whiskey but smelled like Cypress. 

Somewhere along the lines of this, you found yourself pressed against the cushiony duvet of your motel bed. Raylan’s large hands trailed all over your body as you did your best to rip off his extra clothing. 

By the end of the night, you both were cozied under the covers. Raylan’s grasp on you was tight. With one arm under and another over your torso, his head rested comfortably on your own, you stayed in a spooning position. Neither of you spoke for a long time but remained awake.

“I’m here,” Raylan finally said.

You hummed in response, too tired to speak. 

“You said everyone was gone... Well... I’m here,” His southern drawl was deep and full of compassion. 

“Raylan...”

“No, no... You had your time to speak,” He said. “...You know... I’ve been running around this damned state for weeks. Hell of a lot longer before you came along.”

You stayed silent.

“And I get it. I know how easy it is to give up. I don’t love it here, not as much as the next person,” He chuckled. “But laying eyes on you, that day we met... Life felt a little different in Kentucky. I found myself involuntarily looking for you... How weird is that?”

You gave a tiny laugh, holding Raylan’s hand against your beating heart. “Kinda weird...”

He sighed, “Then I saw you in that bar again. For a split second, it was like I could breathe. It was like I was drowning and you were the breath of fresh air.”

Taking in Raylan’s words, you didn’t say a thing. You slowly kissed his fingertips before falling into a deep sleep. When your breathing steadied, Raylan nestled his face into the crook of your neck. He slept peacefully for the first time in weeks. 

[merelygifted]

With an FBI art crime investigation now underway, things just keep looking worse for Orlando Museum of Art’s ‘Heroes and Monsters’ exhibit | Arts Stories + Interviews | Orlando | Orlando Weekly

...   Friends of Basquiat and fellow artists made dubious remarks after seeing the exhibition catalog, while Basquiat's family remained silent on the matter — though they later unveiled their own retrospective, King Pleasure, in April at the Starrett-Lehigh Building in New York City. "When I saw the images I knew they were fake," said an artist and close friend of Basquiat to OW on condition of anonymity, "but no one asked me that."

Orlando Weekly even received a tip in the weeks leading up to the exhibit opening that questions were being asked about the provenance of the pieces. Our tipster claimed that a gag order had been handed down to staff by museum higher-ups — a claim OMA director Dr. Aaron De Groft has strenuously denied, though sources speaking on the condition of anonymity to OW have said otherwise — and that computers had been seized from the museum by the FBI.

Casting further doubt are the identities of the owners of these works: Michael William Force and John Leo Mangan III. It was originally claimed by De Groft that the owners wanted to remain anonymous due to the enormous (purported) value of the artwork. The reveal isn't a pretty one, as both men have years' worth of shady dealings between them, dating back to the 1970s — with jail time to show for it. The third co-owner is trial attorney Pierce O'Donnell (who counts Force and Mangan among his clients).  ...

...  Force and Mangan have been involved in a number of shady dealings — stock manipulation, drug trafficking, predatory loan relief scams, numerous real estate and art forgery schemes — establishing a consistent pattern of questionable endeavor that has gone undeterred to this day. The question can reasonably be asked then, is Heroes and Monsters any different?  ...

...   Based on the patterns of most of the individuals involved any, if not all, documents of proof and authenticity are in serious question. And the same goes for the involvement of leading Basquiat authorities in this exhibit. Based on sources who spoke to OW on the condition of anonymity, two of the foremost authorities on the works of Basquiat, Diego Cortez and Jordana Moore Saggese, Ph.D., had little to do with Heroes & Monsters, and their inclusion in exhibition materials is misrepresented. (Cortez served on the authentication committee of the estate of Jean-Michel Basquiat until it ceased operation in 2012, and Prof. Saggese is an art historian and acknowledged expert on Basquiat's works.)

An interview with Saggese included in the exhibition catalog is said to have never taken place and to be a complete fabrication. Interestingly, it does not appear in the catalog's table of contents. Saggese's involvement was misrepresented to the extent that the New York Times printed a correction on March 2 noting that the February article originally described her input incorrectly as attributing some of the 25 works to Basquiat, when in actuality she was unable to attribute nine of the paintings to him, with nothing more on the matter.

Saggese has not directly responded to anything in regards to Heroes & Monsters, while Cortez passed away in late 2021. However, Saggese's legal representatives, Cypress LLP, reached out to OW to express their concerns in regards to our own follow-up article ("Questions and doubts overshadow Orlando Museum of Art's Basquiat show 'Heroes and Monsters,'" Feb. 16), stating, "Dr. Saggese did not definitively attribute a single work to Basquiat."  ...