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[fanfictionismyaddiction]

Toto Wolff with wife reader. Doing a hot lap together with him driving. (You choose which circuit) Thanks!! :)(

Hold on tight

Word count: 1.1k

Pairing: Toto Wolff x wife!reader

Summary: Toto and Y/N Wolff’s Nürburgring hot lap showcases Y/N’s hilarious reactions to Toto’s driving, with Jack adding his adorable excitement.

Because I thought it was very similar to the other Fics I’ve written I made this one in to part four of the social media Toto Wolff x wife!reader fic series

Part one: Unscripted Moments

Part two: A guide to modern slang

Part three: Getting It Right (and Wrong)

________________________________________________________

The sun was shining brightly over the Nürburgring, casting a golden glow on the iconic circuit as you and Toto prepared for yet another video, the third in a series that had quickly become a fan-favorite. The sleek Mercedes-AMG GT gleamed behind you, the anticipation of what was to come buzzing in the air.

Standing side by side, you and Toto exchanged playful glances as the camera crew set up. This wasn’t your first rodeo; the first video had been a fun “This or That” challenge, where you’d both revealed surprising things about each other. The second video had tested your knowledge of Gen Z slang, which had led to a lot of laughs—and a few hilarious misinterpretations on Toto’s part. But this time, things were about to get a lot more intense.

As the camera began to roll, you and Toto turned to face it, ready to introduce what was sure to be a wild ride.

“Hello, everyone!” Toto greeted the camera with his signature grin. “Welcome back! For those of you who’ve been following along, you’ll know that we’ve done a couple of fun videos already—first, a ‘This or That’ challenge, and then we tried to guess some Gen Z slang. Both were… let’s say, very educational,” he added with a wink in your direction.

You chuckled, nodding in agreement. “Educational is one word for it. I think we both learned that Toto is definitely not up-to-date with the latest slang.”

Toto laughed, shaking his head. “True. But today, we’re doing something completely different. And a bit more in my territory. We’re here at the Nürburgring, and we’re about to do a hot lap in this beautiful Mercedes-AMG GT.”

You turned to the camera with a slightly nervous smile. “Which means I’m going to be the terrified passenger, holding on for dear life, while this guy here,” you nudged Toto, “drives like a madman.”

Toto put his arm around your waist, grinning widely. “She says madman, I say skilled professional.”

“Tomato, tomato,” you replied with a smirk, earning a chuckle from the camera crew.

One of the cameramen stepped forward, asking, “So, Y/N, on a scale of 1 to 10, how nervous are you?”

You didn’t hesitate. “Eleven. Definitely an eleven.”

The cameraman then turned to Toto. “And how excited are you?”

Toto grinned, his eyes lighting up with excitement. “A solid twelve. I’ve been looking forward to this.”

You rolled your eyes playfully at the camera. “Well, there you have it. I’m nervous, he’s excited, and we’re about to take off. Wish me luck!”

Toto opened the passenger door for you with a teasing flourish. “Your chariot awaits, madame.”

You took a deep breath and slid into the seat, glancing up at him with a mix of affection and exasperation. “Just remember, we’re doing this for the fans. And don’t forget—I’m holding on to whatever I can if you scare me.”

Toto chuckled as he settled into the driver’s seat. “I’ll try to keep it interesting. Ready?”

“Not really,” you admitted, your voice a mix of nerves and excitement as you buckled your seatbelt.

With that, Toto started the engine, and the car roared to life. He shot you a quick grin before hitting the accelerator, and the Nürburgring immediately became a blur around you. The speed and intensity of the hot lap were unlike anything you’d ever experienced before, and as the car whipped through sharp turns, you instinctively reached out, gripping Toto’s arm.

“Toto, langsam!” you yelled, slipping into German as the adrenaline took over. “Du bist wahnsinnig! Scheiße!” ("Toto, slow down! You're insane! Shit!")

Toto only laughed, clearly enjoying himself. “Liebling, bitte,” ("Darling, please,") he replied with mock seriousness, the grin on his face widening as he expertly navigated another sharp corner. “This is just getting started!”

“Fucking hell,” you muttered in English, switching between the languages as the car sped through another tight curve. “I’m holding on to you whether you like it or not!”

As the car took a particularly steep turn, you instinctively grabbed onto Toto’s leg, holding on for dear life. “Verdammt, Toto! Du bist verrückt!” ("Damn it, Toto! You're crazy!")

Toto glanced down at your hand on his leg and shot you a teasing look. “Oh, holding onto my leg now? Didn’t know you were so eager, Schatz.”

Despite the fear coursing through you, you managed a glare. “Not the time for jokes!”

He just laughed again, thoroughly enjoying your flustered state. “You know, there are other times when I wouldn’t mind you holding onto me like that…”

“Toto!” you exclaimed, your face flushing as the car finally began to slow down, signaling the end of the lap.

Toto brought the car to a smooth stop in the pit lane, turning to you with a wide grin. “Well, that was fun, wasn’t it?”

You took a deep breath, trying to steady your racing heart. “Fun is relative. I think I just aged ten years.”

As you both got out of the car, the camera crew was still filming, capturing every moment. One of the cameramen walked over, grinning. “That was amazing! The fans are going to love this. You two are hilarious together.”

Toto chuckled, clearly pleased. “She’s the best co-driver I could ask for.”

Before you could respond, you heard the sound of little footsteps running towards you. Jack came charging over, his face lighting up when he saw you.

“Mommy!” Jack called out, reaching up for you as he ran to your side.

You bent down, scooping him up into your arms, feeling a wave of relief and joy as you held him close. “Hey, sweetheart,” you murmured, pressing a kiss to his hair. “Did you have fun watching?”

Jack nodded eagerly, his eyes wide with wonder. “You were so fast, Mommy! Like a race car driver!”

Toto walked over, wrapping an arm around your waist and giving Jack a playful ruffle of his hair. “Your mom was very brave, wasn’t she, Jack?”

Jack nodded again, looking up at you with wide, admiring eyes. “Yeah! But why were you holding onto Daddy’s leg?”

You couldn’t help but laugh, your face flushing as you glanced at Toto, who was grinning mischievously. “Well, Daddy was driving really fast, and it was a little scary.”

Toto leaned in close, his voice low and teasing as he whispered just for you to hear, “I didn’t mind it at all, you holding onto me like that… Maybe we could try that again later?”

You blushed, swatting at him playfully. “Behave yourself.”

He chuckled, pressing a kiss to your cheek. “Can’t promise that, Schatz.”

Jack giggled, oblivious to the teasing between his parents. “Can I come with you next time, Daddy?”

Toto smiled, his hand gently squeezing Jack’s. “Maybe when you’re a little older, buddy. For now, let’s keep your mom safe from my driving.”

You laughed, leaning into Toto as you held Jack close. “Yes, let’s do that.”

[sorryimananti-romantic]

The Leaders | Chapter X

"maybe a place where light and darkness meet, the choice between truth and lies is mine."

masterlist

ot8!ateez x f!reader, mafia au

chapter warnings: drinking, smoking, illegal businesses, mentions of war/military, drugs, gangs and corruption, mentions of assassination, you finally have a clue on the real threat, romance with san, winter as bodyguard, mingi and woo are the teasers now-

chapter wc: 10.3k

chapter synopsis: you and hongjoong go to the president son’s residence to discuss the recent findings about secretary oh’s involvement. you learn some secrets about strictland, president lee and president han’s roles, and the rv spies. with your trust placed in each other, lady kim shares something with hongjoong that leads him to go to maddox and co. with seonghwa to trace the source of your ring without your knowledge. as per president son’s request, winter becomes your bodyguard and accompanies you to the warehouse where you prepare to deal with the clients in a true ‘leader’ fashion.

prev chapter recap: the crescents are being investigated and trade is temporarily shut down with the investors dubious of their involvement with the company. you collaborate with jaehyun to keep an eye on the tide at edenary and learn that inspector gong has been looking into you. seonghwa admits the possibility of a mole. apart from work, he also expresses his woes of failing to be a gentleman to you though you assure him that you are loved. your first date with wooyoung is successful but not free of worry and towards the end, you both go to wooyoung’s home to discuss work where you are joined by hongjoong and jongho. hongjoong muses that its time to stop acting like refined gentlemen and show the world that they are a gang. you learn from jaebeom that madame tiffany is involved with the elites who wish to trigger a regional war to test the strictland nuclear weapons and you confront hongjoong and seonghwa. you go to the bar to vent with yeosang and san and find a mysterious note in your purse after you leave. the identity of the last anonymous funder gets exposed and the crescents gather to plan ahead since it’s obvious that the crescents are deliberately being targeted because of silver light. yunho invites you to his place for the night and you get intimate.

“Oh, to be rich and own a farm where I can grow all my favourite flowers,” you sighed wistfully as you zoomed past the numerous farmhouses with luxurious mansions that bordered the expressway to Sector 2. 

The farmhouses were a staple of Sector 2. The residents of these sectors mostly owned acres of lands and had lavish living spaces surrounded by lawns or farms. The descendants of the royal family still dwelled in this sector along with some politicians and business owners who preferred the slow-paced life of Sector 2 over the occasionally suffocating Edenary air.

“I can make that happen,” Hongjoong declared almost casually, inspecting his nails and adjusting the cuffs of his shirt. You passed him a tired glance, meeting eyes with Taeyong in the rearview mirror who anticipated your response.

“Let’s save the company first, eh, Captain? You can shower me with luxuries later.”

Taeyong made no effort to conceal the laughter that erupted from his mouth at your comment and Hongjoong, who was sitting behind the driver’s seat, kicked under the seat in warning. Taeyong resorted to low snickering. 

Hongjoong glared at you next. “It’s not that bad���”

“I know,” you placed your hand over his. “I’m just teasing you. Relax.”

Hongjoong took a deep breath, managing a weak smile. You smiled back, brushing dust off the lapel of his black coat and continued, “I always imagine myself with a big house or mansion, planting my own flowers and harvest. When I’m old and tired of this life, though.”

Hongjoong smiled. “When I’m ready to settle, I’d like to buy a mansion with big lawns too. I’d like for all of us to live together, let the business run itself. I imagine someone is married, and someone has kids. Another has too many pets. We all go hunting when the weather calls for it, or go fishing on one of the islands.”

“Sounds lovely,” you said, warmth bubbling in your chest at the thought.

“Seems impossible, for now, but I would like for a day to come when I do not have to watch my back.”

“Ah, the Captain’s feeling sentimental today,” Taeyong shook his head. “Rest up. We have a solid 20 minutes ahead.” 

Hongjoong closed his eyes and found your hand again, clasping it in his. You squeezed it gently, going back to admiring the scenery. 

It was a big day today. You were on your way to the Son Mansion in Sector 2 where ex-president Son and his wife resided. Hongjoong had sent a letter right after the weapons funder was exposed and President Son’s reply was positive. He invited him to his residence. The three of you made sure to leave the sector discreetly, making sure that you didn’t have eyes on you.

However… you felt restless and exposed. The note that you found in your purse the other day when you learned that Madame Tiffany was involved with the Strictland business was making you paranoid because it was proof that someone was watching you and had perhaps planned one step ahead.

Meet President Son, the note said. You’ll find something you are not looking for, but something you have been and will be looking for.

Right after you received the note, the weapons funder was exposed and Hongjoong had to request President Son for a meeting. That’s when you asked him for the favour– to let you accompany him. You told him that you were not sure why but you had a feeling that you needed to go and meet President Son. He didn't probe and accepted your request.

You reached the heart of the sector at a bounded society that serves as a secure place for the elites. The area had tight security which was a given since this place was a home to some of the retired military officials as well. You passed through each checkpoint slowly– the guards seemed to have been alerted that you were President Son’s guests and as soon as you entered the residential area, an officer accompanied you to the ex-president’s mansion.

Taeyong parked the car outside and you gathered your belongings– and your wits– before getting out, clutching your black fur coat tighter when the icy wind hit you. You linked your arm with Hongjoong’s before following the guard inside, the heels of your boot clacking on the paved path that bisected the lawn. You took a quick look around– different trees and big plants with some camellias grew along the boundary of the house. There were remnants of snow on the grass from the storm in the early morning.  

A middle-aged butler welcomed you inside, guiding you to the study. The study felt and looked warm with its book-lined walls and ruby rugs, multiple lamps lit around the space.  A tall man stood poking at the wood in the fireplace while humming a tune to himself, unaware of your presence.

The butler knocked to alert the arrival of the guests but the man did not move until he was done fixing the wood, hanging the poker back in its stand before turning and smiling at the sight of you both.

Ex-president Son Seokku. The man who reigned over Eden for two whole presidential terms, which made a whole decade. The man who did not let Eden lose when the war began and stood against Eden’s own army to make the Treaty of the Eight Hills happen, resulting in the end of the war. He stood tall but somewhat weary, the corner of his eyes creasing as he smiled. He was dressed very casually in a plain beige button-down and matching trouser, moving with a sort of grace that comes with a high position such as his.

Hongjoong saluted first and the man saluted back before shaking hands with you both.

“President. It’s an honour to be in your presence,” Hongjoong said, introducing you as his partner and you shared Hongjoong’s sentiment. 

“I’m president no more,” he reminded you both, motioning you to take your seats in the other corner of the study and you settled down on the plush maroon sofa. 

“You’ll always be referred to as the president,” Hongjoong said and the man shrugged, probably used to hearing that term. The three of you exchanged pleasantries while you were served tea, scones and biscuits. You got to hear some war stories before the topic naturally steered towards why Hongjoong requested for a meeting and more importantly, why was President Son eager to meet him. 

“I heard you’re in quite a pinch,” the man said, somewhat amused. “Edenary Station is not going to hold back if it’s the navy and the army backing them.”

“Nothing we can’t handle,” Hongjoong said confidently, sipping his tea and President Son nodded enthusiastically. A knock sounded on the door and Lady Kim Jiwon entered with a meek smile sent in her husband’s direction. 

“Hope I’m not late– the cats would not let me go.”

“That’s alright,” you smiled warmly, shaking her hand. She shook Hongjoong’s hand as well before sitting next to her husband, straightening her black skirt before crossing her legs.

“You’re right on time,” President Son affectionately squeezed her shoulder. “I was just asking Hongjoong here about how he’s handling the Edenary Station case.”

“Well, I hope,” she said casually. “I heard something more interesting, though.”

She passed a meaningful look at Hongjoong who got the cue. 

“Of course you know all about how we deal with weapons in the underground networks. Yet…” Hongjoong fixed his gaze on the ex-president. “Yet you do nothing about it.”

“Like I said,” President Son smiled slyly. “I’m not in a position of power anymore.”

“That’s not true,” Hongjoong smiled back. “You still control much of the political tide. You can’t be a man of no power after having ruled Eden for a solid decade, Sir.”

President Son chuckled darkly. “If I had a semblance of the power I had in my prime days, Major, the weapons channel would not exist.”

The room filled with silence at the implication of his words and the president decided that you all had joked around enough. He leaned in, rubbing his hands and shaking his head before beginning.

“The man that was arrested, Oh Jungse– President Han’s secretary. He was funding your weapons project, if you haven’t found out already.”

“We learned about that, but there’s not a whisper of it in the streets,” Hongjoong said.

“He is but a middleman. Someone else is your source. Have you figured that out yet?”

“It must be you,” you started and the couple regarded you with a curious look. “If there’s anyone who will not approve of the current presidency and how it functions regarding defence, it can only be a previous president or someone of a similar status.”

For a moment, you wondered if you had said the wrong thing but President Son nodded sombrely. “That’s right. It is no secret that I do not approve of the current defence status, but that is not why I was funding your project. I have other reasons.”

“Must be regarding Strictland, then,” Hongjoong commented and watched them shift uncomfortably. “Luna here… Are you aware of her identity?”

“Secretary Park Byung Eun’s allegedly illegitimate daughter,” Lady Kim said, her gaze sticking on the pearl ring you wore. Did she recognise the family ring? 

Your father had given you this ring some time before you left for Wonderland, saying that it was a keepsake of your mother’s and you were not to lose it under any circumstances. If she recognised the ring, was she also aware of your mother’s identity?

“Allegedly?” Hongjoong repeated, looking at you and finding the colour drained from your face.

“Allegedly,” Lady Kim confirmed. “I personally wouldn’t believe a word that comes out of that man’s mouth.”

“Well… Luna is my source regarding my knowledge on Strictland. She can be trusted,” Hongjoong said as if bringing you here was not a display of his trust in you enough. “You must be aware of the Strictland’s nuclear operation.”

“Major Sung visited Eden for a reason,” President Son sighed. “Do you know why the Strictland’s governor meets with the current president so often?”

Hongjoong shook his head, saying that he was not sure and explaining that all he knew was that Secretary Park was involved, as well as a number of elites including Madame Tiffany who they had signed on the silver light project with. President Son was aware of that deal and commended Hongjoong’s drive to get silver light passed as a medicinal drug.

“It’s going to be a war with the elites. Silver light is their ambrosia. They would never give it up and will crush anyone who gets in their way. Seems like they have already begun– stopping your trade and now putting a halt to your weapon’s project. Are you sure you can handle what’s next, Major Kim Hongjoong?”

“You know us, President,” Hongjoong straightened his back. “We are survivors and we will always rebuild no matter how much we lose.”

“And your loyalty lies with Eden?”

“With my home and my people, first and foremost,” Hongjoong announced. 

“Then you’ve come to the right place,” President Son nodded. “I will pull some strings and make your trade resume, even though I personally do not approve of it. However… it’s the only thing I can do for you right now to keep your organisation functioning.”

You and Hongjoong thanked the president and the man took a deep breath.

“Secretary Park is not your real enemy. He is but the right hand man of the person who’s leading the Strictland operation right now, wearing the cloak of an angel to hide his devil horns. Your real enemy is President Lee Jinwook– he is behind the Strictland operation.”

“That can’t be,” you muttered, finding Hongjoong just as shocked as you. Sure, you both had entertained the idea that President Lee could be the mastermind behind this, but to hear it directly still felt like a big blow.

“It’s not just that,” Lady Kim began. “And I’m only revealing this to you because we have tested your loyalties and found you to be our ally rather than the enemy– the RV spies answer to us among many others and have confirmed that the Crescents can be trusted.”

“It would be an honour,” Hongjoong said.

“President Han’s assassination– something about it never sat right with me,” she began. “You must feel that too, right?” She asked and you nodded, wholly agreeing. “It’s not just the way that she was assassinated but how Lee Jinwook reacted afterwards– censoring the media and shutting down all investigations on Hyojoo’s death. He said that he wanted to investigate it privately and we understood, but we were Hyojoo’s closest friends and he never shared any details with us. It was clear that he was basically cutting ties with us.”

“And we had an argument about it, hence the bad blood between us now, which is no secret,” President Son added. “We tried to investigate Hyojoo’s death but he always found out and sent a message– and it got ugly from there. We reached out to the RV spies who informed us that maybe we should shift our focus elsewhere first.”

Lady Kim exhaled. “There was too much going on at that time. The elections were right around the corner and the people were scared. Any detectives who tried to get leads for us got demoted or fired. The office employees started resigning. In hindsight, it looks like President Lee knew that he was going to win and purged the office, starting with a clean slate.”

“But he… he always goes on about how he wants to honour his wife and continue her legacy. He built that hospital in her memory,” you said but you knew your argument sounded weak now.

“Got him those pity votes, didn’t it?” President Son smiled almost sadly. “Built a hospital but won’t let silver light launch as a medicinal drug and plans to put patients in that hospital when he makes the Strictland operation public.”

“How did he get so much power?” Hongjoong mused, settling in resignation now that things seemed out of his control.

“I suspect that when President Han began her reign, Lee Jinwook stuck close and made connections with all sorts of people. His background is not special but he’s got a scheming mind, that one. He was quick to mingle, especially with the wrong type of people. Hyojoo had no idea what was going on but I think she started suspecting something when her term was about to conclude and Jinwook stopped pretending to not like the spotlight.”

“Do you think President Lee has got something to do with President Han’s death?” You asked and the room started feeling cold as the couple thought about it.

“Something, definitely,” President Son announced and you and Hongjoong exhaled, not realising you both had been holding your breaths for the answer. “How much he’s involved, I’m not sure. He’s very clean and we’ve got nothing to support whatever we just told you. It’s all about trust now.”

“It is,” you agreed. “I’ve got nothing to support whatever information I gave to Hongjoong either– I had more than a clue about what was going on with Strictland, but I wasn’t aware of President Lee’s involvement. It’s just about trust. Thank you for placing your trust in us and confirming our suspicions. And for giving us more.”

President Son concluded the meeting and Lady Kim asked if she could have a word with you while Hongjoong and President Son shared some technical details. You followed Lady Kim outside to the veranda which gave a beautiful view of the lawn. You started with small talk about the beautiful mansion.

“How did you get out of that house?” Lady Kim asked. “Secretary Park isn’t the kind of person who would have let you go if you’re really his illegitimate daughter. He would have kept you a secret.”

“Well, he did disown me and changed my surname to Jeon before shipping me to Wonderland in 1963,” you told her and she nodded. “I only came back because I asserted that I was no longer tied to him.”

“I think that someone wanted you to come back. The RV spies protect you– do you know why?”

“No,” you narrowed your eyes just a fraction. “Do you know why?”

“Not yet,” she smiled knowingly. “But I have my suspicions.”

“And what would they be?” 

Lady Kim only smiled in response to your frustration. You fiddled with your ring out of nervousness and she noticed that.

“That’s a lovely ring,” she commented. “Where did you get it?”

“It’s a family ring. From my mother, apparently,” you said with a broken laugh. “Not that I know who it belongs to. My father, Secretary Park, gave me this ring when the war ended to congratulate me for making it back alive– I served as a medical assistant. This is the only reminder I have of what was once my home.”

Lady Kim gently took your hand, to your surprise, and inspected the ring– a golden band that twisted into a knot with a small pearl in the middle. 

“Someone I know had the same ring. She lost it, though, which is odd because I had never seen her without it.”

“When did she lose it?” You asked, heart thumping wildly and Lady Kim looked at you, eyes full of secrets.

“Not sure,” she said. You nodded, willing yourself to calm down. “That’s a Maddox ring. Someone only of a high status could own such a ring. Your mother must be someone of high status– I would expect nothing less of Secretary Park.”

You shrugged and she let go of your hand. You glanced at the woman.

“Were you very close with President Han?”

Lady Kim looked surprised to hear the question but she smiled. “She was Seokku’s best friend, and after I married him, she became the closest thing I had to a sister.”

“I had the honour of meeting her once– a short little encounter, but it always stuck with me,” you found yourself recalling the party at Park Mansion in 1963– the same party Assemblyman Kim remembered you from. That was right before your father sent you to Wonderland.

“She was a lovely woman,” you continued. “She found me hiding in the balcony and we made small talk. She noticed my ring too– I guess you people have an eye for these things,” you said, chuckling lightly. “She told me that I felt familiar for some reason and she found herself opening up to me. It wasn’t a long conversation that we had, but she found herself telling me how sometimes, she feels as if she’s just a piece of chess in someone’s game and that the life she is living is a lie.”

“She said that?” Lady Kim frowned in surprise, though understanding started to wash on her features. 

“I obviously didn’t think much of it– I didn’t know her personally. I just said something dumb like how I feel the same, and that no matter how trapped you are, you should always be in control of your own life, at least.”

“Ah…” Lady Kim started to laugh, tears prickling the corner of her eyes. “That’s where she heard that, huh?”

“What?”

“She started saying that a lot after she became the president. She said a kid told her these wise words. It sort of became her mantra, and…”

Lady Kim paused. You could see that she was holding back from saying something so you didn’t probe. Right then, President Son and Hongjoong joined you both. They asked you to give them a moment of privacy, suggesting you explore their lawns before they would come to say their farewell. 

While you walked with Hongjoong along the cement path that led to the front of the Son Mansion, Hongjoong noticed a wistful smile on your face. He supposed you had a good conversation with Lady Kim– his conversation with President Son had ended on a rather heavy note. You caught Hongjoong watching you.

“What’s making you smile like that, love?”

Your smile deepened. “I once told Seonghwa about the only conversation I had with President Han– right before she got elected as the president in 1963. The same party where Assemblyman Kim remembers me from.”

“The party was hosted at Park Mansion to celebrate the debut of Lee Jinwook in politics,” Hongjoong said and you confirmed with a nod. “You met President Han there?”

“I was actually hiding when she found me on the balcony. We had a little conversation– she complimented my ring and made small talk, told me that I strangely felt familiar to her, and… she shared some of her worries. She said she felt like she was being manipulated and had no control over her life.”

Hongjoong took a deep breath. He was so confused right now, especially with what President Son had privately told him. 

“I told her that she should at least have control over her own life, no matter how trapped she is. Lady Kim just told me that my words stuck with President Han and after she won the elections, it became a mantra for her.”

“You tend to leave a mark wherever you go,” Hongjoong took your hand, squeezing it. “That’s just how you are.”

“It’s kind of funny, because what she said also became a mantra for me that I repeat when I find myself in a dark place.”

“And what’s that?” Hongjoong asked.

“That there is light even in the darkest of places,” you grinned. “Such simple words, right? Somehow, at that time… I really needed to hear it.”

“Looks like she needed to hear those words too,” Hongjoong grinned back. 

President Son and Lady Kim joined you at the front of their residence, sharing some gifts for you both to take back– some high quality tobacco for Hongjoong and imported chocolates for you, as well as wine for Taeyong. You thanked them and Lady Kim hugged you in farewell, saying that she enjoyed your company and would like to meet you again- preferably under better circumstances. 

You got inside the car first, the couple having a quick conversation with Hongjoong which looked serious, seeing how Hongjoong glanced at you reflexively, looking surprised. He nodded earnestly before getting inside the car. 

It was starting to get dark now. You let a few moments pass, admiring the golden hour and how the fields lit under the sun before you turned your attention to Hongjoong and asked him about the contents of his conversation with President Son. 

Hongjoong looked at you for a moment too long before speaking. “Would you be surprised to hear that the Sirens answer to him?”

Your mouth formed an O shape and he chuckled. “If you told me after I processed the conversation we had with President Son today, I wouldn't be surprised. But right now… I admit that I am.”

“He’s going to have one of the leaders of the Siren come in contact with us. They can share the gritty details on how to take our new target down.”

“Sounds like a plan,” you said, hope starting to bloom inside your chest.

“Also… you’re getting yourself a bodyguard and a car.”

“Now?” You frowned. “Secretary Park isn’t going to attack me now. What’s the deal?”

“You are a Crescent– a Leader. Now that things are going to get messier, you must have someone by your side when you go out.”

“You don’t take Taeyong everywhere, do you?” You asked and Taeyong groaned.

“If he starts taking me everywhere now, I’m blaming you, Luna.”

“You don’t have to take them everywhere,” Hongjoong shrugged. “But it’s an order.”

“Might I suggest Doyoung for the job?” Taeyong said. “He’s been inactive ever since Yuta replaced him when he got injured.”

“So Doyoung must be Seonghwa’s old bodyguard?” You asked.

“President Son made his own suggestion,” Hongjoong revealed and you raised a brow. That meant… President Son ordered Hongjoong to get you a bodyguard?

“Why would he suggest a bodyguard for me?” You asked.

“What can I say? He likes you,” Hongjoong shrugged dismissively, not meeting your eyes.

“Kim Hongjoong,” you called. “Tell me the truth. Right now.”

Taeyong whistled at how you bossed the boss around. Hongjoong shot you a glare. “He thinks we can use you to rile Secretary Park up. If Secretary Park messes up, that affects President Lee. It’s time we get back at them, right?”

“That’s… smart,” you folded your arms defensively. “Who did he suggest?”

“Let me have a little meeting with them first before I tell you,” he requested and you agreed, the two of you starting to unpack the conversation and make sense of what happened today.

When you reached back at the Crescent Office, Yunho called for your help and you immediately went inside his office room to assist him. Outside, Hongjoong watched your figure disappear for a long time before going to his office room, finding Seonghwa inside. 

“Ah, you’re back,” Seonghwa looked up from his reports. “How did it go?”

“Better than expected. We have an ally.”

“That’s great news,” Seonghwa put down the reports, stretching lightly. “What do you look so gloomy for then?”

“Say… you have a good eye when it comes to recognising jewels and the likes, right?” Hongjoong asked. Seonghwa frowned in confusion but nodded.

“We should make a trip to Maddox and Co. soon,” the Captain said, rubbing his chin in thought. “We’re going to look into Luna’s ring.”

“The pearl ring?” Seonghwa asked and Hongjoong nodded. “Why?”

“Lady Kim asked me to look into it. She said that Luna claims that it’s a family ring from her mother’s side, but such a ring can only belong to a high class family, and there aren’t many high class families in Eden, right?”

Seonghwa thought about it for a few moments. “Her mother… might be alive?”

“It’s not even about that– she’s probably dead, otherwise she might have reached out at some point… right?” Hongjoong pondered.

“If her mother had an affair with a married man… maybe not, Joong. I’m more surprised Secretary Park took the risk of raising his illegitimate child when he cares so much about his reputation. They could have sent her to the orphanage and she would have never found out about both her parents.”

“Right?” Hongjoong sank down on the couch. “It’s weird how he raised her, Seonghwa. Made sure she had an education, taught her all about business– why? If he cares about his reputation so much, he wouldn’t have gone through all these measures. And I really don’t think that it’s because he has a soft spot for her when he’s been trying to kill her lately.”

“Yeah, it definitely does not add up, I’ve had this thought too,” Seonghwa agreed. “But… does Luna wish to find out her mother’s identity?”

“I don’t know,” Hongjoong admitted. “You know her better than I do.”

“But you know her in ways that I don’t,” Seonghwa remarked. “I don’t know, she never mentioned anything about her mother to me. Should I ask her if she wants to look into it with us?”

“And give her false hope? If this is a dead end, she’ll be distracted. I think once we have a lead, we can ask her if she wants to find out about her mother and share what we have from there.”

“Well, you may not know her as much as I do, but even you know that she would be mad to learn we looked into this without her permission.”

“I’m aware, but Seonghwa…” Hongjoong looked distraught, sharing the last bit President Son and Lady Kim told him in private. 

Seonghwa’s face paled when he heard that, eyes widening as the gravity of the situation started to sink in. 

“Lady Kim hinted something to Luna, but she’s clueless right now, and it’s better if she remains so until we have a solid lead,” Hongjoong said in a low voice and Seonghwa agreed.

“The RV spies must be protecting her because of this, right?” Seonghwa wondered, deep in thought.

“And that’s why President Son suggested we have one of the RV spies as Luna’s bodyguard. Set up a meeting with Winter– I think she’ll make a good fit. She’s already been watching Luna anyway. Yeosang found her at the Bar the other day.”

“Winter… I think she’s been watching Luna since she lived in Edenary. Luna mentioned that she looked familiar.”

“Well then,” Hongjoong clapped in conclusion. “It’ll be a match made in the underworld.”

It took a few days for Edenary Station to finally drop the case of the illegal shipment to Mist Island, settling on a heavy fine and a few restrictions on the trade limit. Seonghwa went to Edenary to sign on it, returning with his form the most relaxed you had seen in a while. He also brought news that Secretary Oh was released, though he was not in the best condition. With President Son being unable to intervene personally, Secretary Oh went into hiding, presumably. 

Hongjoong was half sure that President Son would have employed some guards to protect Secretary Oh. If Secretary Oh really was once loyal to President Han, and now a means for President Son to fund the underground weapons project, that surely meant that President Son would ensure his safety. So that was sorted as well.

Yunho and Jongho left for Edenary right after Seonghwa came back– it was Hongjoong’s idea that perhaps, they should start spreading word about Strictland around. If the public started to talk about President Lee and other politician’s potential involvement in Strictland’s status and how it could trigger a regional war, no amount of censorship would work to shut the civilians and quell the chaos that would follow. 

And for that reason, you all prepared to get into contact with the Sirens Rebel Party, waiting for President Son to send his men for a meeting– their goal was ultimately to stop the annexation and occupation of Strictland, and if they were aware about the active nuclear operations in Strictland, they were probably enraged and there would be no stopping them. 

You decided to keep the rumours related to President Lee and his possible interest in Strictland’s occupation to yourself, for now. If false, things would end at media censorship and restrictions imposed on the Rebel Party, but if this statement held some truth…

You needed to find out just what kind of a sadist President Lee really was. Only then you would be able to predict his next moves. For now, you were conscious of the suspicion that he was somehow involved in his wife President Han’s death. If he really was, that would prove to be a very grave matter because he had used his wife’s name to excel in his career in more ways than imaginable. 

Furthermore, you had learned about President Lee being the real mastermind behind Secretary Park and his business methods. That meant that President Lee had bribed quite a few people to make his way to the top. If President Lee was pushing in the favour of Strictland’s nuclear operation, he could possibly be a member of the ‘elites’ and there was a high chance that he was acquainted with Tiffany and might have used her to keep the silver light project from launching.

But first, you needed to confirm how involved Tiffany was– had she been the one to tip the navy about the illegal trade being carried out by the Crescents, and the one who had Secretary Oh, the anonymous weapons funder, arrested? All to stop the launch of silver light, after making the deal? 

The question remained. Why would she shake hands on the deal with the Crescents on the silver light project if she did not want the world– the common man– to find out about that drug? 

In any case, Tiffany was informed that the project was on hold when the illegal shipment was caught, and Hongjoong decided to not update her about the resumption of the business– you needed to find out how involved Tiffany was with the Strictland nuclear operation and President Lee. 

San and Yeosang had safely finished transporting most of their silver light batch to the other warehouse owned by MX Pharmaceuticals, located at the border of Sector 2. This was the warehouse where they used to produce drugs back in their gang days but the site had been shut for years after. They still had loyal staff and workers who were willing to cooperate in full secrecy and work alongside the Crescent’s own staff. So the duo ensured the workers got along and the production began smoothly. 

San returned to the Crescent Bar in the afternoon where you were waiting for him in the office, ready for the last meeting you would be holding in the main city before moving to the warehouse. He entered the office and took off his outerwear, hanging it on the knob before turning to you. You greeted him with a smile and he returned it with a peck to your cheek.

“You’re ready?”

“They’re arriving any minute now,” you told him. “I’m ready.”

Your client today was one of the anonymous funders who was in town and had agreed to meet, wanting to go through the terms of their deal with the Crescents, now that their identity was exposed– the youngest son of one of the old conglomerate families, owner of multiple businesses but best known for their construction businesses. Seonghwa was sure that they wouldn’t need much convincing. They would probably continue to fund the weapons project as long as they made sure their identity would remain hidden.

“It’s going to be a short meeting, so don’t fret too much,” San smiled reassuringly at you when he spotted you twiddling with the ends of your sleeves. “We’ll be fine.”

“I’m just worried if they will back out of this deal. We’ll suffer a huge loss–”

“And losses happen in every business,” San reminded you, cupping your face. “That’s normal.”

You nodded, managing a small smile to show him that you understood. He smiled back, leaning in for a quick kiss.

But it looked like you needed that, the way your fingers curled around his shirt and kept him close, so San continued to kiss your lips in slow, soft movements until you pulled away with a happy sigh, grinning at how he lingered and was unable to open his eyes for a moment.

“Would you like another?” You teased and San chuckled, shaking his head in amusement. 

“I would like another, but…” San trailed. As if on cue, a knock sounded on the door, indicating the arrival of your guests. San cocked his head in that direction and you pouted. Unable to resist, he kissed the pout off with a promise of more before the two of you exited the office and moved to Room no. 1. 

As expected, the meeting passed by in a breeze. The client agreed to continue with the old terms, strengthening their anonymity and addressing some rumours about silver light. You and San took that opportunity to hint on the sinister stirrings regarding Strictland, which piqued their interest. After a few drinks, the client left and a knock sounded on the door right after

When the door opened and San caught a glimpse of the new guest, he straightened and asked them to come in. You turned in your seat, your mouth parting in surprise to see the familiar face of who had to be one of the RV spies that Seonghwa had told you about.

The woman seemed to be around your age, clad in a short black robe with a hood over a cropped top and a black trouser. If the outfit choice wasn’t odd, the striking silver hair that framed her face rather beautifully caught your attention. 

“I don’t suppose you’ve met formally,” San began, urging the guest to take a seat and she did after bowing in greeting. “This is Winter. You might have heard of her.”

“Ah, yes,” you nodded. So this was the woman who had been present at the bar during your last meeting with Yeosang and San. The familiarity of this woman, however, was not because of the recent glimpses you caught. You were pretty sure you had come across this woman in Edenary too.

“Well… this is her. Your bodyguard,” San announced.

“So you’re no longer protecting me from the shadows, huh?” You addressed Winter directly, her lips curling into a small smile. 

Of course you found out. San shifted in his seat. “Are you okay with this arrangement, Luna?”

“Yeah, I’m good,” you assured, extending your hand and Winter shook it. “I hope we get along.”

“Yeah, so, Winter can of course be trusted,” San began, eyeing the spy who had now taken off her hood, ruffling her short hair. He seemed to be sceptical of her. “She will be accompanying you when you move to the warehouse. It’s preferable if you take her along with you everywhere unless you have a private matter to attend to. Also… she won’t be reporting to us so you don’t have to worry about that.”

You nodded slowly. “Who do you report to, then?”

“My only job is to keep you safe, Miss,” Winter announced. “There is usually no reporting done… from my side. I just have to make sure you’re in no physical harm.”

From her side. That meant that there were other spies keeping watch over you. 

“Can you report to me, though? If I send you on errands or something?” 

“Definitely,” she agreed.

“And can you tell me why are you RV spies watching and protecting me? Is it because I know something that I shouldn’t?”

“I’m afraid I cannot tell you that… yet,” Winter added and you looked at San in frustration who shrugged, equally irked. 

“No point probing,” San sighed, turning his attention towards you. “There is also a car waiting for you outside. It’s yours to use, however you please. You’ll need it.”

“Ah,” you recalled Seonghwa talking about arranging some transport for you. “I thought it was understood that I only need it to commute for now–”

“Think of it as a company car if that’s what eases your mind,” San grinned. “But really… it’s yours. You can’t be a Leader and not own a car.”

Hongjoong’s words. You narrowed your eyes at San but gave in. 

San got up with a grunt. “Well, I’ll leave you two to familiarise yourself with each other. I’ll be in the office in the meanwhile.”

With that, he left with a reassuring squeeze to your shoulder while you folded your arms and looked at the woman in front of you who mirrored your position.

“Any terms that I should know?” You asked. “Because it looks like we’re not going to be talking much.”

“Well…” Winter shrugged as if that was a debatable statement. “Since you know that I’m an RV spy, it’s better if you don’t ask anything about the spies or related to them because you won’t be getting many answers.”

“Of course,” you understood.

“I have plenty of information that I can share with you, so I can be considered an informant too, if you’re willing. I, however, cannot tell you something you already don’t have an idea about.”

“What does that mean?”

“We know about your silver light business and whatever happened, for instance,” she said and you whistled– never did you think you would be talking about that secret project so casually with someone. “You can ask me what I know regarding that matter, but I can only tell you as much as I’m allowed to.”

“And how much are you allowed to tell me?”

Winter smirked. “Just enough.”

You smirked back in understanding though you tried to subdue the frustration bubbling inside your chest. “How lovely. Are you required to accompany me everywhere?”

“Well,” Winter took a deep breath. “I’ve been ordered to keep an eye on you anyway, so. It’s up to you– when you want the world to know that you’re under protection, I will be right by your side. And when you don’t… I will be watching over you anyway.”

“How reassuring,” you poured her a drink and then she returned that favour. You shared a toast before drinking, the liquid tasting awfully bitter on your tongue today. 

“Can you tell me how long you have been watching over me?”

Your request was not pleading or probing this time. It was simply resignation to what was. To the unknown. Winter considered that, probably going over the pros and cons of revealing that information to you.

And the pros seemed to have outweighed the cons this time. “Ever since you came back from Wonderland and Secretary Park could not watch you anymore.”

Your eyes narrowed slightly at the mention of your father. Did she mean that your father hired her? That would not make sense because the Crescents would not have allowed her to be your bodyguard then. 

“Hearing that answer has made me more confused than I already was,” you sighed in defeat. “When you can elaborate on that, let me know.”

“I’ve given you more than I intended in that answer. It’s up to you, how you interpret it,” Winter said, getting up. “I’ll be outside then.”

You sat dejected, staring holes into your now empty glass. No matter how much you tried making sense of that one sentence, you could not come to terms with what it was threatening to imply so you got up and went towards the office with heavy steps, finding San inside seated on the couch, apparently waiting for you.

You passed him a tight-lipped smile before joining him there. He put his arm around your shoulder in an attempt to cheer you up, grinning at how sulky you could get when you didn’t have your way.

“She’ll warm up to you,” San assured and your pout deepened.

“She’s called Winter for a reason. I don’t think she will.”

“That’s a very bad joke,” San laughed, making you break into a smile as well. “She has already warmed up to you. I’ve caught her watching over you even when she did not need to.”

“Work habits die hard,” you retorted but decided to keep that in mind. Maybe this spy had a soft spot for you. That could work to your advantage.

San shook his head and gazed at you, half amused. His expressions changed into adoration as he tucked your hair behind your ears. “You’re leaving for the warehouse tomorrow morning, right?”

You hummed in response. San tilted your face with the pad of his thumb on your chin, capturing your lips in a slow kiss, lingering. “The boys will take care of you. You don’t have to worry about anything.”

“I know,” you assured him with a smile. “Wooyoung and Mingi make nice company.”

“That’s true,” San said, his gaze stuck like glue to your lips and you leaned forward.

The tips of your noses brushed, making him suck his breath as if this was his first time. He pecked your lips before pulling away to look at you in the eyes. You let his loving gaze wash over you like the warm rays of the sun, basking in his sweet touches and kisses, sharing grins. 

It was amazing what a simple kiss with San could make you feel like. The soft plush of his lips were welcomed on yours, your lips moving in tandem with your tongues poking in between, allowing for some open-mouthed kisses. You leaned further into his body, his hands leaving a burning but welcoming sensation on your skin, as if the delicious energy coursing through you was not enough. 

However, there was also a sense of solace that came with being in his arms. He was slow and relaxed with his movements, hands holding you steady and flush to him, exploring the curves and edges of your body without any innuendo, and you appreciated that. He was always so, so patient with you, letting you hold the reins while also reminding you of what was next with every step you took.

Since it felt like being home in his arms, you talked about your recent endeavours while he talked about his in the privacy of the cosy office room. You took your sweet time, poking at each other teasingly and exchanging affirmations and reassurances. San talked about how hectic it had been with the transfer of the silver light  project to the new warehouse and you eagerly listened to whatever complaints he had. And when you both were done and it was time for you to get back to your duties, you hugged him long and good. Even though you would be seeing him every other day, you would miss sharing moments like these where you could be in his arms leisurely.

When you exited the bar, you almost didn’t catch Winter leaning against the window in the shadows. You made an impressed face as she emerged from the shadows and joined your side.

“To the office we go,” you announced in a singsong voice and Winter bowed almost mockingly before walking beside you, just one step behind you at all times.

Your shadow, now finally at its rightful place.

While it was nice to be back at the warehouse, hanging out with the girls during break (or whenever you got overwhelmed by the amount of testosterone around you), you kind of missed the quiet life back at the Crescent Office– or even the bar.

The warehouse was still busy with its usual manufacturing, though the weapons assembling was slower now, giving some of the employees a much needed break. Umji, one of the engineers and Yerin, the lead designer, were your new company. The women tend to stick together in this rowdy workplace, often seeking quiet spots to share drinks, smoke or gossip. Some of the female employees were making the most of their days off, gone to visit family or friends. That left the three of you along with Winter, and boy, were they giving Winter a hard time.

While they did not know the identity of the spy, the girls were hellbent on cracking Winter’s front, aiming to have her join you all when you drank or chatted. Winter usually sat close by, opting to sip on her own flask which contained some mysterious drink she refused to reveal the name of. You were half-sure that Winter was enjoying the attention and was purposely pretending to not care about what you girls talked about.

You asked her one night if all that acting about being just ‘a bodyguard’ and staying on her toes was tiring and she responded with how being alert, even in her sleep, was ingrained in every fiber of herself now. It was muscle memory, a subconscious habit. You wondered what sort of training she had received to reach that point.

Mingi and Wooyoung, along with the rest of the boys in the warehouse, made sure that you were comfortable and cared for at all times, apart from all the teasing and playing around. You had accompanied them to one meeting so far, staying back and observing while they did the talking, just to get a hang of how you were supposed to handle these meetings in case the investors of the weapons project wanted to back out. You were scheduled for another meeting tonight and this time, you were ready to present yourself as one of the Crescents– as a Leader.

“Our client tonight is Mr. Ju Seok Tae,” Wooyoung said, reading through his file and passing it on to you. You skimmed through the two-pages report on him, your brows raising in mild shock as you made the connection. Wooyoung smirked in answer. “This should be easy.”

“‘Mr. Ju Jihoon’s cousin’,” you stated his family background out loud. “Ju Jihoon of Eden News, right?”

Mingi confirmed with a nod. “Co-partner of Jang of Eden News. Do you think that Ju Jihoon is aware that his cousin is funding the weapons project?”

“I think he’s aware…” Wooyoung scratched his chin in thought. “I think it comes down to whether he is quiet because he’s in favour of this, or because he’s holding this as leverage over his cousin.”

“Only one way to find out, I suppose,” you shrugged. “Do we need this investor or is he disposable?”

“Won’t hurt to have him stay,” Mingi considered, looking at Wooyoung for confirmation who nodded.

“He makes a hefty donation every few months, but even if he leaves, we can manage,” Wooyoung said with a light wince, making you chuckle.

“We can make him stay,” you assured. “We need everyone we can keep on our side. Especially now when everyone seems to be after us.”

“That’s true,” Wooyoung scoffed. “I talked to Jongho last night. He says that the people in Edenary have become wary of having any sort of connection with us.”

“I trust that Jongho and Yunho are doing a good job spreading word about Secretary Park and President Lee’s connection with Strictland,” you took a deep breath. “That’s the only thing keeping me from screaming in frustration these days, I can’t lie.”

Mingi laughed. “You can still scream. With how loud these machines are in here, no one is going to hear you.”

“That’s true,” Wooyoung clapped. “Scream your lungs out, baby.”

You genuinely considered for a moment. “Can I?”

“I must admit I wished to hear your screams in another setting, but…” Wooyoung shrugged as if it couldn’t be helped, and Mingi choked on his breath, stifling a cough. Once you realised what he meant, your mouth fell open and you grabbed a cushion from the sofa you were sitting on and chucked it across the room to where Wooyoung sat. He laughed loudly as he caught the cushion.

“Jung Wooyoung!” 

“Just like that,” he winked, making you shake your head. 

“You’re saying that man,” Mingi began, “when it’s usually you screaming like a bi-”

The cushion got thrown across once again, this time fiercer and hitting home– Mingi’s head. Mingi grinned and you shook your head, stifling a smile. 

It had barely been a week in the warehouse, but you were getting used to how different this duo was compared to the rest. You supposed their work environment allowed them to be relaxed and almost candid with their mischief. Still, when need be, the duo was authoritative and rough. They were truly a force to be reckoned with, and you liked how they handled things.

With fists, if words didn’t work. Plain and simple.

“I know what we need to do,” you interrupted the little banter that Mingi and Wooyoung had going on. “If Ju Seok Tae thinks about backing out, we need to threaten to expose the Ju family for funding the underground weapons channel. Do you realise how bad this sounds?”

“Especially because President Lee has been on good terms with Eden News, considering how he befriended the co-owners at the time of his wife’s death and censored all relevant news heavily,” Wooyoung shook his head in disappointment. “Do you think we should be direct with this threat now?”

“Now or never,” Mingi’s lips curled in a tight smile. “It’s time we stop pretending to be a sophisticated organisation and show them that we’re just a gang in the end, unafraid to expose the Ju family, no matter the consequences. If our weapons project suffers a loss, the Ju family must join us in our mourning. Let’s see them censor that.”

You were pleasantly surprised to hear those words come out of Mingi’s mouth, and when Wooyoung responded with an excited ‘hell yeah’, Mingi bit his lips and nodded, clapping Wooyoung’s hand loudly, making you shake your head. 

“Can I make the threats this time?” You asked, raising the file of your client, displaying Ju Seok Tae’s picture. “I think he looks like someone who can’t take a threat from a woman.”

Mingi laughed, wholly agreeing while Wooyoung’s eyes glinted in mischief. 

“You just want a taste of that thrill, don’t you?” Wooyoung scoffed. “The thrill of being the one in power.”

“I mean… I am a Leader now, aren’t I?” You shrugged. “Gotta exercise that power before it starts getting rusty.”

“That’s my girl,” Wooyoung clapped in agreement, a knock sounding on the door. One of the employees was asking Wooyoung and Mingi to check on the latest batch of metal. Wooyoung got up and kissed your cheek on the way out, Mingi following suit and ruffling your hair, spotting the same annoyed pout he did whenever he messed with you and correcting it with a kiss to your head.

Leaving you with flaming cheeks that you had to cool down with the back of your hands, smiling to yourself. They really did not let you think about any of the other boys at all, always keeping you busy, Wooyoung was downright smothering you in kisses and hugs any chance that he got. However, his was laced with a certain flirtiness reserved only for you. 

As for Mingi… he seemed to be following suit, though he was more mindful of your personal space and resorted to casual teasing as opposed to affectionate flirting. While Wooyoung had made it his life’s mission to break you (not that you were complaining), Mingi seemed to be the one grounding you. It reminded you just a little bit of Seonghwa.

You stifled another smile and shut your eyes, soaking in the silence of the office room before it would get loud again.

It hadn’t been long since Hongjoong stepped into the famous jewellery shop of Eden– Maddox and Co., known to be a genuine brand of the finest diamonds in the entire continent. 

As someone who admired their craftsmanship, Hongjoong and Seonghwa were both loyal customers. Their oldest branch was here in Sector 1 and all of Eden had done their utmost best to protect the family and their business during the war. It was why Maddox and Co. made sure that the favour was returned, contributing huge amounts of their earnings to help rebuild Eden and support its citizens. 

Stepping through the guarded gates, Hongjoong tried to quell the nervousness that was making him queasy now, but to no end. Perhaps, he was more jittery than Seonghwa too– Seonghwa definitely appeared more put-together, dressed in black leather with his freshly dyed platinum hair slicked back. Hongjoong was dressed in his usual fit but everything seemed to be going wrong today– the mud on his boots from when he accidentally stepped into a puddle of leftover water from the rain last night, the loose thread near his sleeve that he wanted to trim but kept forgetting, among a bunch of other elements that contributed to his somewhat sour mood.

Plus, the bitter taste in his mouth, knowing that he was looking into your family background without your knowledge. It felt like an act of betrayal, even though it was very necessary. 

When Seonghwa’s fingers brushed his, Hongjoong looked up to find him sharing the sentiment. With a squeeze to his hand, Hongjoong begrudgingly took the lead and walked through the glass door, entering the pristine ivory building that was the showroom of the shop, displaying some items from their latest collection with some old, classic designs. When one of the employees recognised them, she signalled the receptionist who made a call. 

Moments later, Lee Sunmi appeared from another room, lighting up at the sight of the two. While they were regular and valued customers, Sunmi was well-acquainted with them both and she welcomed them with a warm smile, accompanying them inside her office. 

“Back for another design already?” Sunmi asked, making Seonghwa smile as he recalled how Hongjoong suddenly had the urge to get you a cuff bracelet when he decided that you were meant to be a Leader and stand right beside him. 

Hongjoong shook his head, his smile not quite meeting his eyes. He took a seat and took a deep breath. 

“I trust you’ve been well?” He asked and Sunmi nodded. “How’s business?”

“Booming, as always, but you’ve got me anxious now. Enough with the formalities. Is something wrong?”

“Well, I’m gonna be straightforward then,” Hongjoong began. “There is a certain pearl ring designed by Maddox and Co., and I need to see who purchased it. Seonghwa can explain what the ring looks like, but can you do this for us?”

“Our customers’ privacy matters to us. Are you aware of the weight of what you’re asking?” Sunmi frowned, finding the request unexpected. 

“It’s important– I’m here because Lady Kim said that you could help.”

“Who does the ring belong to right now?” Sunmi asked after a moment.

“Luna. You must remember seeing her at the party,” Seonghwa answered. “She was wearing the cuff bracelet that you designed for Hongjoong not too long ago.”

“Ah, right,” Sunmi nodded, swiping her long black hair back. After a moment, she recalled and nodded. “I had a brief conversation with her.”

“Yeah, so she is the current owner of the ring, but it belongs to her mother. Only… she does not know who her mother is.”

“And her father?”

“Secretary Park Byung Eun,” Hongjoong revealed and Sunmi whistled in surprise. “Although… we’re starting to doubt that now.”

“And does poor Luna know that you both are looking into her parents?” 

Seonghwa and Hongjoong looked guilty, which was all the answer Sunmi needed. “Can you at least assure me that this is for her good? No one gets harmed?”

“Absolutely,” Hongjoong declared. “We only want to have something to tell her when we reveal that we looked into her. I don’t want to give her false hope, and I don’t want her to worry about this right now. Lady Kim planted the seeds of doubt in me, so I’m only doing what I do best. Finding answers.”

Sunmi nodded in all seriousness, asking Seonghwa to explain the design to her. Seonghwa started sketching and describing while Hongjoong watched the two intently, on his toes. 

“Are you sure this is the design?” Sunmi asked when Seonghwa was done, and he nodded.

“As close as it can get. It’s not a very complicated design,” he said.

“I think I’ve seen this design in one of the books, hold on,” she said, moving to the shelf and spending a few minutes checking them until she brought back two, asking Seonghwa to have a look. Seonghwa spotted the exact design, showing it to Hongjoong who confirmed it.

“Exactly this ring,” Seonghwa slid the book to Sunmi who had a deep frown on her face. 

“That’s strange– you see the receipts attached with the designs?” She scrolled through the pages and the duo nodded. Every design had a few receipts attached, indicating the transaction. “There’s no receipt attached to your ring’s design.”

“Which means?”

“All these designs made it into this book because they are custom-made– designed for one or few people,” Sunmi answered, looking at Hongjoong. “The fact that the design is here without any record of its purchase is strange, because every design on every page on every book on this shelf has a receipt attached.”

“So where is the receipt for this ring?” 

“Can’t be a coincidence,” Seonghwa looked at Hongjoong and then at Sunmi, the both of them nodding. “The ring belongs to some mysterious owner whose identity no one knows. And then you’re saying that there are no records of who bought this ring?”

“Seems like it,” Sunmi slumped back in resignation.

“Is there any other way of finding out?” Hongjoong asked. 

Sunmi thought for a few moments. “The archives, or my grandfather’s journals. This ring was made in 1939 and my grandfather was the sole designer back then. He must have some record of it– another cash receipt or an account of it somewhere.”

“So it’s going to take a while, I presume?” Hongjoong asked.

“Definitely,” Sunmi said with a sorry smile. “My grandfather is no more so I’ll have to visit his residence in Edenary or check the warehouse. But I’ll get to it as soon as possible–”

“Take your time, but make sure no one else learns about this,” Hongjoong requested and she nodded earnestly. “It must be an influential family from Edenary, so that’s your search pool.”

“Got it,” Sunmi took a deep breath. “I must tell you that If the receipt is gone from here, that means that either my grandfather did not want anyone to find out who this ring belongs to, or there has been a security breach without our knowledge. A grave matter, so rest assured not a soul will know about this.”

“Thank you,” Hongjoong placed his hand over his heart as he got up, bowing in gratitude. “We owe you one.”

“Nonsense,” Sunmi waved her hand in dismissal. “You’ve done so much for us. My father still talks about you very fondly.”

After exchanging a few pleasantries, the duo left the shop, standing outside and watching the building with wistful expressions. Hongjoong caught Seonghwa staring at him and he shook his head.

“Everything about this feels sinister, I tell you,” Hongjoong dug out his pipe from his coat pocket for a much-needed smoke. “Can we make the RV spies talk about this matter?”

“What are the chances that they were not the ones who hid the receipt?” Seonghwa mused. “If it’s a security breach and not Sunmi’s grandfather’s own doing, I’d say that only our lovely spies are capable of doing this without anyone’s knowledge.”

“Fuck,” Hongjoong spat. “And now one of them is Luna’s bodyguard.”

“Let’s lay low,” Seonghwa placed his hand on Hongjoong’s shoulder. “The truth will come out when it’s time.”

next chapter

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[lxndonorris]

racing surprise for Lando - Lando Norris (SFS24)

fem!reader x Lando Norris Theme: Smut (you've been warned) in the midst of pre-season testing, Mclaren invited you to surprise Lando x word count: 2710+ taglist: @game-set-canet another edition to the suit fitting saga 2024 (SFS24). Quite similar but I hope you like the added twist. Oh and I needed that picture so dont blame me. Next one will hopefully be este, and if you have any request, for SFS24, testing or simply something else, dont be shy and hit me up!

The air crackles with anticipation as the new season of Formula 1 looms on the horizon, heralding a fresh chapter in Lando Norris's illustrious career as a professional racing driver. With the promise of new gear, a state-of-the-art racing suit, a meticulously crafted helmet, and a gleaming Mclaren race car awaiting him, excitement pulses through his veins like the roar of an engine.

Amidst the flurry of activity in the Mclaren garage, you stand, a silent observer disguised as one of the team members. Dressed in the team's iconic orange shirt, dark pants, a cap, and sporting a headset, you blend seamlessly into the backdrop, your heart aflutter with anticipation as you await Lando's arrival.

He initially invited you himself to join him here, but you had to decline. Unbeknownst to him, his team has already reached out to you, preparing a surprise for your boyfriend. 

And then, like a whirlwind of energy and charisma, he enters the scene. Clad in his new racing suit, adorned with sponsor logos, he cuts a stroking figure. The fabric hugs his form in all the right places, accentuating his athletic build with precision and care. His curly locks framed his face, adding a touch of boyish charm to his rugged allure.

As Lando moves through the garage, his presence commands attention. There is confidence in his stride, a swagger in his step that speaks volumes about his self-assurance. He greets everyone with a warm smile and a handshake; his enthusiasm infectious. There is a genuine camaraderie between them, a sense of unity forged by their shared passion for racing.

With the assistance of two friendly mechanics who shield you from view, you watch as Lando prepares for his testing session. The air is thick with excitement and tension, a tangible buzz of anticipation that electrifies the atmosphere. The scent of his cologne lingers in the air, a subtle reminder of his proximity that sends shivers down your spine.

Each step Lando takes seems to echo purpose, his eyes alight with a belnd of determination and curiosity.

You watch from your vantage point, hidden in plain sight among the team members. As a conversation turns to the upcoming training session, Lando's demeanor shifts slightly. A curious, shy smile played on his lips as he listens closely. With a hand on his hip, he leans in slightly, his posture relaxed yet attentive.

There is a quiet determination in his gaze, a hunger to extract every ounce of potential from the testing session. He understands the importance of these moments, recognizing them as opportunities to fine-tune his skills and familiarize himself with the nuances of the new car.

You can't help but admire the way the fabric hugs his body tightly, emphasizing the curves of his backside and the strength of his arms. His movements are fluid and purposeful, each gesture imbued with quiet confidence.

With each glance, your eyes trace the lines of his suit, lingering on the subtle details that hint at the layers beneath. You know that beneath the sleek exterior lies a network of tight undergarments—fireproofs designed to protect him.

This knowledge adds an extra layer of allure to his already magnetic presence, heightening the intensity of your admiration.

As the conversation draws to a close, Lando offers a grateful nod to his mechanics. With a sense of purpose, he turns his attention toward the track, eager to put their plans into action and unleash the full extent of his talents.

With practiced ease, Lando slips into the remaining racing gear—his gloves and a tight balaclava—each movement deliberate and precise. The helmet, adorned with beautiful colors and logos, completes his ensemble, its glossy surface reflecting the glow of excitement in his eyes.

With a playful twirl, he settles into the driver's seat, his grin widening as he prepares to start testing. With a loud roar, the engine comes to life, and slowly but steadily, he makes his way out of the garage. Your stomach tightens in a mixture of anticipation and pride.

Through the crackle of the radio, his voice rings out, a symphony of exhilaration as he tackles each corner with precision and finesse. You listen intently, your heart swelling with joy as he pushes the limits of his Mclaren. You know he is so happy to be back, and you can actually see him smiling when you close your eyes. His voice is a little rougher, yet it carries his joy and passion through the radio.

Once his session is over, he returns to the garage. As Lando emerges from the cockpit of his Mclaren, he lets out a jubilant cheer with a triumphant flex of his arms. Shaking your head, you can't believe him actually doing that. Licking your lips, you still can't tear your eyes away from his arse, filling his suit fully.

The testing had been a success, and he surpassed all expectations. Running a hand across his chest, he can't help but revel in the rush of adrenaline that still courses through his veins. The fabric of his racing suit clings to him, damp with sweat from the intensity of the session—a sensational sight that you missed during the winter break.

In one swift movement, he reaches up to remove his helmet and balaclava, revealing a mop of tousled curls and a flushed complexion beneath. His lips part slightly with a satsified smirk, a hint of mischief dancing in his eyes as he licks his lips, sending shivers down your spine. He looks so happy and excited, and you smile seeing him like that.

As he moves through the garage, shaking hands with his team members, he can't contain his joy. His tongue darts out playfully, a gesture of exuberance that shows his satisfaction with the achievements so far.

Lando chats with a few mechanics for a while, and you can tell the residual excitement from the testing session continues to surge through his veins, pulsating with every beat of his heart. He keeps stroking his chest, touching his arms, and subconsciously, he touches himself through his suit—just barely, yet it catches your attention. 

It is as if the adrenaline of the track has infused his very being, filling him with an exhilarating energy that seems to amplify with each passing moment.

Entranced by his every move, the sound of his voice, and his cologne's scent still hovering all around you, you miss the opportunity to reveal yourself—Lando has already left for his private quarters.

Leaving your headset and cap behind, you rush after him and spot him strolling through the paddock. Unable to tear your eyes away from him, captivated by the effortless grace with which he moved, you follow him. Every step seems to exude confidence, joy, and self-confidence.

As he runs a hand through his messy curls, you can't help but notice the way his hair fell in disarray, framing his face in a way that is both endearing and alluring. There is a rawness to his appearance—a sense of vulnerability—that makes your heart flutter in your chest.

And then, as if sensing your gaze, he runs a hand across his chest, a subtle gesture that speaks volumes about the excitement still running through his body. You can almost feel the electric energy radiating off him, a tangible reminder of the thrill of driving an F1 car.

In this moment, you are struck by the sheer magnetism of his presence, even though you're just looking at his beautiful back. And as he disappears into his quarters, leaving you to ponder the whirlwind of emitions he had stirred within you, you can't help but feel a sense of awe and admiration.

As you knock on his door, a nervous anticipation grips you, your heart pounding with uncertainty—how is he going to react?

"Coming." Lando's voice echoes through the door before it swings open, revealing your boyfriend standing right in front of you. With an almost shocked expression, your breath catches in your throat.

"Y/N?" He asks, and in an instant, his entire face lit up with a radiant smile that reaches his eyes, filling you with warmth and joy. 

"Hi." You smile shyly, your face flushing with heat. 

Without hesitation, he pulls you into a tight embrace, his arms enveloping you closely. You melt into him, running your hands across his firm back.

"What are you doing here?" Lando smiles, separating himself just enough for his face to be mere inches away from yours. He places a hand on your cheek, tracing your skin with his fingertips.

"Surprising you." You motion for a few Mclaren team members to film the two of you from afar. 

Both of you turn your heads and wave toward the camera. 

"They offered to get me here; we just needed a few clips for their channel." You shrug, and he nods in agreement and curiousity.

"This is great," he leans into you, kissing you gently. You lock eyes with him for what feels like an eternity.

The film crew gives you a thumbs up, telling you that it's now time for some alone time. 

As Lando welcomes you into his private quarters, a rush of excitement surges through you, mingling with the lingering traces of adrenaline from his testing session. Your gaze is drawn irresistibly to the contours of his chest, the fabric of his racing suit accentuating every curve and sinew.

He meets your gaze with a knowing smile, a spark of amusement dancing in his eyes as he senses the admiration and desire in your gaze. There is confidence in his demeanor, a quiet assurance that speaks of his comfort in his own skin.

"So, how was I?" With a playful grin, he steps closer, closing the distance between you until the warmth of his presence envelops you.

"Amazing." You lift your chin slightly, meeting his confidence with your own. "And you look the part too." Smirking, you lick your lips.

Without a word, he takes your hand and guides it to the fabric of his suit, allowing you to feel the sleek material beneath your fingertips.

"I know how much you like this on me," Lando breathes, locking his eyes with your own. However, you're unable to withstand his burning gaze and lower your eyes, following the movements of your hands instead.

As your hand traces the lines of his chest and arms, you can't help but marvel at the strength and resilience that lie beneath the surface. The fabric is cool to the touch, yet it seems to hum with the energy of the track, a tangible reminder of the passion and dedication that fuel his every movement.

"This feels so good." You breathe deeply while you keep stroking his chest, feeling his biceps, and watch his chest move with every breath he takes, eliciting a low rumble of pleasure deep down his throat.

"Fuck," Lando can't hold back a low moan, his hand now following yours closely, his body yearning for so much more. He leans his head back, embracing both of your hands now on his chest.

You know how much he loves to be teased, touched, and stroked. Effortlessly, you push all of his buttons and his most sensitive spots—his nipples, pecs, arms, and most importantly, his member filling his suit.

"Good." You whisper, leaning in to him, tracing the outlines of his stubble just above his lips. A shiver races down your spine, the rough texture of his beard contrasting with the softness of your touch. There is something undeniably alluring about the way his beard frames his lips, adding a touch of raw sensuality to his appearance. 

With each passing moment, the desire to feel the roughness of his stubble against your skin grows stronger—a primal urge that threatens to consume you completely. You lean in, brushing your lips against his in a tender caress. The sensation of his beard against your skin sends waves of pleasure coursing through your body.

With your hand on his crotch, he moans softly against your lips. Lost in the heat of the moment, you surrender yourself to the heady rush of emotions. Your lips meet in a fervent kiss, craving his delicious taste.

"Y/N." Lando murmurs, his hands now steady on your waist, holding you close.

"Care to give me a show?" You bite his lower lip teasingly, causing him to chuckle. "I want to see all of you in that." Tugging at the zipper of his racing suit, you stroke him firmer, encouraging him to show off.

"Of course." He giggles, and you settle onto the sofa, anticipation tingling in the air, thick with the electricity of the moment. With a mischievous glint in his eyes, Lando takes center stage, spreading your legs to make some space. His movements are fluid and confident as he begins his private show.

With each flex of his muscles, his form seems to come alive, the contours of his body highlighted by the sleek fabric of his racing suit. He lets you feel his muscles tense, letting out more guttural growls.

"Very good." You smile, and with a playful smirk dancing on his lips, he turns around, giving you a tantalizing glimpse of his firm back and arse. He bends to show off his butt even more, much to your amusement. 

And then, with a sudden burst of energy, he begins to dance, his movements a mesmerizing combination of grace and athleticism. His hips sway to an invisible rhythm, and his body moves with a natural ease that shows off his innate charisma and confidence.

As he twirls and turns, the fabric of his suit seems to come alive as well, clinging to his form as he moves with effortless grace. With a slow and deliberate motion, he reaches for the zipper, his fingers tracing the line with teasing slowness.

As Lando slowly unzips his suit, his eyes never leave yours; their intensity like a flame igniting the air between you. His gaze is electric, a silnt invitation that sends shivers down your entire back. Hidden beneath his beautiful eyes lies hunger—a raw desire that mirrors the heat pulsating through your veins.

With each inch of fabric that melts away, inch by inch, he reveals the tight garments—a glimpse of the tight fireproofs. Easily, he slips out of the upper half of his suit, giving you a good look at his chest. His defined muscles barely conceiled, he flexes again, straining the fabric even more. 

Lando closes the distance between you until you feel the warmth of his body radiating against your skin. His gaze is never wavering, pulling you so much closer.

"Fuck." You reach for his chest, tracing the tangible outlines of his abs, as he licks his lips. With the sleeves of his suit dangling down his waist, he stands before you, his form outlined against the soft glow of the room, a vision of strength and sensuality that takes your breath away.

In that moment, as you drink in the sight of him, you know you want him. 

You motion for him to sit down right next to you, and right away, you lean in, kissing him passionately.

Lando embraces your body against his, and at the same time, your hand slips underneath his suit. His skin is warm and tight; all of the tension is showing its effect on his body.

"Mhmmm." He purrs into your mouth, one of his hands firmly on his length, bulging against his clothes.

In one swift motion, you manage to get into his pants and pull his member out of his clothes, causing him to moan in agreement.

"That would be so good, Y/N." Fully aware of what you're about to do, you keep kissing him while simultaneously running your hand up and down his length.

With every breath he takes, Lando lets out guttural groans before leaning his head back against the sofa cushions.

Looking into his eyes, you bend down and take him into your mouth. 

"That's what I meant." He swallows hard, running a hand through your hair.

Together, you easily catch up to each other's rhythm, moving as one. His husky, rough voice echoes through your mind as more and more drops of his taste cover your tongue. 

Then, his body gets stiff and rigid, and he holds his breath before letting go of all this tension, pressure, and desire. It feels so good. Letting out a long, breathless moan, he relaxes quickly, leaning back even more. You let go of him, licking your lips to savor the taste.

Lando fondles with himself for a while while you catch your breath.

"This was so good." You sigh deeply before a chuckle leaves your wet lips. He smirks, leans in, and kisses you.

"Thank you for being here." Lando rubs his nose against yours gently.

[rhaeverie]

Out of Snow, Out of Mind – ksm

‣ pairing: kim seungmin x reader

‣ genre: fluff, frenemies to lovers?

‣ wc: 2.8k

‣ summary: After cursing the city and their poor excuse of cleaning the streets, you eventually swallow your pride and call your friends to help you free your car from the snow. And out of all the people that could have come, it really had to be Seungmin…

‣ warnings: nothing really!!, reader has poor knowledge of car care, mistletoe cliche, thts about it?, half-assed proofreading

‣ an: it's the literal way I was supposed to post this in January but my life said fuk u and your hobbies so just pretend this isn't like 2 months late thank you,, please enjoy!

Series Masterlist

You’re tired and you wanna go home.

That’s it.

You’ve been awake since six in the morning to get ready and get to school and now, just shy of five in the afternoon, almost twelve damn hours of using up your energy, you were ready to head home and take the nap you’ve been craving the entire day.

It really did not help that the sun was already setting. It already feels like it’s late in the evening when really, this was the time that most people would be returning home from work. It shouldn’t feel like it was an hour past dinner, but of course, winter meant shorter days and longer nights.

The cold weather causes a shiver to run up your back as you stiffly make your way down the neighbourhood near the university. 

Anything to not pay the overpriced parking, you always remind yourself. Besides, the parking wasn’t too far from the campus grounds. It was just far enough for you to tolerate the weather. 

You hadn’t realized that your face had been moulded into a scowl until you finally spotted your car parked and nestled against the curb. Muscle memory allows you to unlock the vehicle from the keys in your pocket before you carefully step off the sidewalk to get into your car. 

A sigh of relief leaves your mouth in the form of condensation, the interior of the car cold from sitting there all day, though it wasn’t as cold as you thought—probably from the works of the sun. You immediately start your engine, plug in your phone, and turn the heat up toward the windows so they can defrost.

The last playlist you had playing starts playing over the hum of the engine and you let yourself sit back and wait until the car was warm enough for you to actually move. It gave you time to recollect yourself, thoughts only occupied by the nap you’ve been wanting to take once you finally get home and then the essay you had to half-assedly begin because it was due in a week or so. 

The second you stop shivering, you sit up in the driver’s seat and huff, mentally preparing yourself for the careful drive home. 

That is… if you can even get out of your parking spot. 

You test the gas again, gently pressing your toe against the pedal to make sure that you weren’t just being a dumbass and stepping on the brakes. But when you audibly hear your wheels struggling to dig your car out of its place, you feel your heart drop to the pit of your stomach. 

Fuck, just try again, haha, maybe it’s just… a little bit stuck! 

You let out a nervous chuckle and then you try again… and again… and again… 

And no matter what you tried—backing up and accelerating forward, angling your wheels in different directions, hell, you even tried climbing onto the curb for some traction—nothing worked.

You step once more on the gas, “Oh, c’mon Nimby please just go, please!” (Yes, your car was named Nimby. It comes from the word cumulonimbus because it was white like a cloud).

You were stuck. 

And from the looks of it, the road around you was practically empty, there was no one around who could help you. 

“Shit.” 

You hit the steering wheel and decide to get out to see if you could scope out what you could do to get out. 

The cold air hits you once again and all you want to do is jump back into your car where it was toasty and cozy. Yet, the desire to be an independent adult and figure out what the hell was going on keeps you outside.

You inspect the outside of your vehicle, waddling around it like you were protecting territory, and surely enough you spot the very reason why the car wasn’t budging at all. 

Your front left tire was flat. Or at least it looked flat. 

“You better be fucking kidding me,” you mutter. You check on the tire, using the tip of your boot to press against the rubber.

Yeah, it was flat. So now you were both stuck and you had a flat tire. 

And you had no fucking idea how to get out of both problems. 

The first person you think of calling was Chan, simply because you knew that that man had knowledge for practically anything. And if anyone could get help you get out of shit, it would be him. 

You dial his number, and slide back into your car, letting out a sigh as the persistent heat greets you again. The phone rings several times before diverting to Chan's voicemail. You decide to end the call.

Okay, so Chan wasn’t an option. 

You huff and scroll through your contacts, right down to the Ms because your next option was Minho. 

The phone rings once… twice…

“What’s up?”

“Are you busy right now?” You’re chewing on your bottom lip and your other hand is playing with the ripped-up receipts in your pocket. 

“I’m at the vet for Soonie’s checkup,” Minho replies, “Why?”

“Um… car trouble? I was wondering if you could help me out.” You hated the feeling of asking for help. It felt as though you were begging for money despite knowing your friends never minded helping out. 

“I mean… I can but I just got to the vet’s so it could take a while.” At the other end of the line, you can hear the voice of a woman and Minho replies with Soonie’s name. 

You frown. Surely, you could wait for an hour at most, but you really didn’t want to. He could be the last resort if none of your other friends could offer help. 

You hum, “I’ll call the others first and if none can’t, then I’ll just text you?” 

“Of course, Y/N,” he says through the phone, “I’m sorry I can’t come sooner.” “You don’t need to apologize,” you frown, “You didn’t do anything wrong… I’ll talk to you later. I’ll ask the others.”

Minho makes a sound of acknowledgement before you both hang up. 

At least now you have an option. 

You scroll through your contacts, hitting up every friend you think might know a thing or two about cars, hoping one of them can swoop in at the last minute to rescue you. And from what you’re understanding, this was the worst time to get your car stuck. 

Changbin and Hyunjin were out on some outing, Yeji was stuck doing group work with Lia, Felix was sick, and Jisung wasn’t answering. 

Now you’re down to two final options.

In this situation, you knew Seungmin was a better option than Jeongin, simply because you were well aware that the man had better car knowledge between the two. But were you that desperate to ask Kim Seungmin for help? When Jeongin was still a pending option?

Your thumb hovers over Seungmin’s name and your heart starts to beat erratically simply by the sight of his name. 

No, you weren’t that desperate, but a small part of you wanted to see him again just because you needed to confront him about the Christmas party a few weeks ago. Besides, you’re sure you weren’t the only one itching to talk about it. 

⋆⁺₊❅⋆ ⁺₊❆⋆

“Kiss! Kiss!” 

The feeling of your heart falling to the pit of your stomach was absolutely sickening—especially when you had specifically told Jisung to keep you and Seungmin out of his shenanigans. But when Jisung had clues clear as glass that indicated your blooming feelings on the boy you claimed to ‘strongly dislike’, he knew he had to take action.

You hate the way the voices practically echo, bouncing from one wall to another. All eyes were on the two of you, Jisung standing further back as he held the mistletoe high above and between you and Seungmin. And you couldn’t do anything but stare at Seungmin in pure shock.

“Don’t be killjoys!” Someone hollered from the back. 

You gulped and blinked at Seungmin, “A… a peck wouldn’t hurt?”

The expression on Seungmin’s face was unreadable, features flat except for the way his mouth was slightly parted, “It wouldn’t…”

⋆⁺₊❅⋆ ⁺₊❆⋆

You cringe at the memory. 

Not because it was disgusting… but because you were the first one who had suggested going through with the kiss… you were the one who leaned in first… and you enjoyed it. 

Worst part of all was the fact it’s been almost three weeks since the kiss and you’ve been thinking about it ever since. 

You shake your head, consciously scrolling away from the S’s in your contacts and back up to the J’s, not even hesitating to tap on Jeongin’s name.

“Hey, Y/N!”

You let out a sigh of relief, greeting the boy back with half his energy before you go on to explain your situation. “And you’re practically my last resort!”

Jeongin’s end of the line is silent because he knows that you know he sucks with all things cars. Then he speaks up, “Have you called Seungmin Hyung?” 

“...No.” It’s funny because you know what Jeongin is implying. 

He sighs, “Send me your location.” 

You thank him and quickly follow his request, making a side note to yourself to give Jeongin the tightest hug when he arrives. It was honestly so heartwarming knowing that he was willing to help despite his limited car knowledge. 

As expected, you think. 

You feel your stress begin to ease, a newfound sense of optimism washing over you as you settle in your heated seat. For the first time today, you finally get to relax, drowning yourself in your music as you wait for Jeongin to arrive.

You’re later pulled out of your thoughts the second you see a car turn onto the road you’ve been sitting on for the last twenty minutes. The way it slowly inches closer causes you to perk up, sitting up straighter in your seat just so you can watch it approach you through the rearview mirror. 

Then, it parks right behind you. 

“Hm?” The inner ends of your brows almost touch when you realize that the car is not Jeongin’s. No, you couldn’t name his exact car model, but you knew his car was a dark blue. This car, however, was sleek black, looking like it had just run through the car wash even though the streets were covered in dirty, slush-like snow. 

Your eyesight fails you when you squint to figure out who this is, ocular muscles trying their absolute best to focus on the face of the car’s owner. And then…

“What the fuck?” 

You hastily open your car door and get out, the owner doing the same, “What are you doing here?” 

Seungmin is planted behind his opened car door, using it as a barrier between the two of you. His flat expression doesn’t budge, “You needed help.” 

Your heart is pounding simply because you weren’t mentally prepared to actually see Seungmin right now. If Jeongin had warned you that he was going to be sending him, you would have at least run lines in your head of what you could be saying to him. 

“Not from you,” you shake your head, “Where’s Jeongin? You can go.”

Seungmin takes a step back and shuts his door, “Just show me what you need help with.” The tone in his voice was considerably serious and you know that no matter what you did, he wasn’t going to leave you without his help. 

The air is a tinge bit awkward when you both stand there before you finally choose to reply, turning around without bothering to wave him over. You kick at the nuisance of a tire and explain your situation for the millionth time today. And when you look up at him, Seungmin’s already looking back at you. 

“Did you get all that?” you ask.

He nods and quietly squats down to inspect the tire. Then, after a while, he lets out a huh before standing up to open your door. You’re not entirely sure what he’s doing, but you let him do whatever he needs. 

Seungmin says something to you over his shoulder but you don’t catch it. He pulls himself out from inside and then stands stiffly in front of you, “Did you pump the tires when it said low tire pressure?” 

Your eyes widened, “No…?”

He puffs his cheeks, “That explains it.” 

Your brows fall closer together and your lips tighten, “You came to help me and you’re choosing to be mean to me?”

Seungmin brushes past you, heading straight for his car, and for a moment, you fear he's about to leave. You hesitate to stop him, mainly because you don’t want him to leave. Sure, he’s offering you help, but you haven’t seen him since the party. 

But as he reaches his car's trunk instead of the driver's seat, a wave of relief washes over you. He pulls out a metal box, a rubber coil poking out like a tail. 

“You should’ve pumped the tires while it was warning you,” Seungmin says quietly, twisting off the cap of your tire. He forcefully pushes the air compressor’s hose onto the valve stem and then flicks the machine on, “It leads to flat tires.” You watch as you visibly see your tire inflate, the front end of your car rising along with it. 

“Get in the car and slowly press on the gas.” Seungmin flicks the machine back off and pulls the hose off, twisting the cap back onto the stem, “I’ll push.”

The third time Seungmin walks straight past you, it dawns on you that he is avoiding eye contact, keeping his gaze at your feet or at his toes. 

There was no way he wasn’t. No one could go that long conversing with someone without making eye contact. 

“Are you sure you can do it on your own?” Your hand’s already hovering over the door handle. 

He nods, eyes flickering toward you before he redirects them to the back end of your car, “You wanna go home, don’t you?”

Then you pause. 

“I do,” you answer and then swallow the spit that’s been pooling in your mouth, “But—”

“You’re wasting gas, you know,” he interrupts.

 “Let me speak,” You groan, air visibly leaving your mouth. “Are we going to talk about the kiss?”

“There’s nothing about it that we need to talk about,” Seungmin mutters. His Adam's apple bobs up and down, “Now, hurry up.”

“What do you mean?” Your brows furrow, “What are you implying?”

“I mean you only did it to please everyone, right?” He shrugs, “It didn’t mean anything, right?” 

“What makes you say that?” Seungmin was pissing you off. He can’t be speaking cryptically and consciously choosing not to explain himself. 

“I don’t know,” Seungmin mumbles, “Can you just get in the car so we can get out of here?”

You clench your jaw, frustration bubbling inside you like a pot ready to boil over. Why the hell did Seungmin choose to help you out if he had no intentions of confrontation? "No, Seungmin, I can't just ignore this," you retorted, your voice firm. "We kissed, and pretending like it didn't mean anything isn't going to make this… this whatever it is go away."

Seungmin’s shoulders tense and his gaze flickers to his feet. "Look, I don't want to have this conversation right now," he says, his tone bordering on exasperation. "Can we please just deal with the car and talk about this later?"

“Did that kiss mean anything to you, yes or no?” you say bluntly. Your hand drops to your side and you fix your eyes on him.

Seungmin's gaze holds yours for a long moment, his expression unreadable as he processes your question. The tension between you crackles in the air, the weight of the moment heavy on both of you.

Finally, after what feels like an eternity, Seungmin lets out a slow breath, keeping the muscles in his face as still as possible. He attempts to keep his expressions at bay. "Yes," he says softly, his voice barely above a whisper but clear as day. "Yes, it meant something to me."

The words hang between you, and the silence that follows is filled with possibility and uncertainty. You feel your heart race in your chest, a rush of emotion flooding through you at his admission. And although you had mentally prepared yourself for either answer, imagining the answer was far different from actually hearing the words. 

"I like you, Y/N," Seungmin continues, his gaze unwavering as he meets your eyes. "More than I thought I did."

The confession sends a shiver down your spine, a surge of warmth spreading through you at his words. For a moment, neither of you speak, the weight of his confession hanging on a thin thread between the two of you.

Then, slowly, almost hesitantly, you reach out and take his hand in yours, the touch sending a jolt of electricity through you. And softly, you tell the boy the thing you’ve been keeping to yourself for months. 

"I like you too, Seungmin.”

taglist: @tytrackfebreze @hoonieji @niinjo @dinonuguaegi @ariadores @reignessance

an: 11/12 im almost there

[nareshkumartech]

How Canadian ID Requirements Differ for Citizens and Newcomers

In Canada, proper identification is essential for accessing government services, applying for jobs, opening bank accounts, and, of course, getting a driver’s license. However, the ID requirements differ significantly between Canadian citizens and newcomers, including permanent residents, refugees, and temporary visa holders. Understanding these differences is important to avoid delays and ensure a smooth transition into Canadian life. Let's dive into how the requirements vary and what you need to prepare.

1. Standard ID Requirements for Canadian Citizens

For Canadian citizens, obtaining or renewing a government-issued ID, such as a driver’s license, is a relatively straightforward process. Typically, they need to present:

A valid Canadian birth certificate or a Canadian passport.

Proof of residency in the province or territory (such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or official government correspondence).

A secondary piece of ID, which could be a health card, Social Insurance Number (SIN) card, or another photo ID.

Proof of name change if applicable (e.g., marriage certificate or legal name change document).

Canadian citizens usually do not have to present immigration documents. Their proof of citizenship is sufficient to meet both identity and residency requirements when applying for a driver’s license or other services.

2. ID Requirements for Newcomers to Canada

For newcomers — including permanent residents, work permit holders, students, and refugees — the process is a bit more involved. Newcomers must provide documents that establish both identity and legal status in Canada. These documents often include:

A valid Permanent Resident (PR) card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) document.

A valid visa or work/study permit (for temporary residents).

Passport from the country of origin (used in combination with Canadian-issued documents).

Proof of residency in the province (similar to citizens — a lease, utility bill, etc.).

In some provinces, an additional letter confirming eligibility to remain in Canada for a specified period may be required.

Importantly, newcomers often must show that their immigration status allows them to stay in Canada for a certain length of time (usually over six months) before they can qualify for services like provincial health insurance or a full driver’s license.

3. Temporary vs. Full Licenses

Newcomers may initially be issued a temporary license while they fulfill further residency requirements or complete necessary testing (such as vision or knowledge tests). Depending on their experience abroad, they may also have to undergo a graduated licensing program, even if they previously held a driver’s license in another country.

Canadian citizens renewing or upgrading their licenses typically face fewer restrictions unless they have been out of the country for extended periods.

4. Proof of Residency Is Essential

For both groups, proving residency within the province is key. A bank statement, rental agreement, or recent utility bill with your name and address is usually sufficient. However, some provinces, like Ontario and Quebec, have a specific list of acceptable documents, so it’s important to verify local requirements before applying.

Understanding the ID requirements for Canadian citizens versus newcomers can help streamline your application for services like a driver’s license. Each province may have slight variations, so it’s always best to check the most up-to-date information. For a full guide on Canadian driver’s licenses, ID requirements, and practice tests, visit LicensePrep.ca — your trusted resource for navigating the licensing process with confidence.

[adamantvoyagerrune]

How Graduated Licensing Helps Improve Road Safety in Canada

Canada has a Graduated Licensing System (GLS) that helps new drivers develop the skills they need for safe driving over time. This system, designed to reduce the risks associated with novice drivers, is a key factor in enhancing road safety across the country. Here’s how graduated licensing works and how it contributes to safer roads.

What is Graduated Licensing?

Graduated licensing is a two or three-stage process that gradually allows new drivers to gain more driving privileges as they accumulate experience and demonstrate responsibility behind the wheel. The stages are as follows:

G1/G2 or Class 7 (Beginner's Permit):

The first stage involves a written knowledge test and a vision test.

Drivers must have a fully licensed driver with at least four years of experience in the passenger seat.

No alcohol (zero tolerance) is allowed in the bloodstream.

G2 or Class 5 (Intermediate Stage):

After holding a G1 or Class 7 for a minimum of 8–12 months, drivers can take a road test.

Drivers gain more freedom (can drive alone) but still face night driving and highway restrictions.

Zero blood alcohol content (BAC) is enforced, and the number of demerit points before suspension is lower.

Full License (Class 5 or G):

Once drivers have held their G2 or Class 5 for at least 12–24 months, they can take a final road test.

After passing the test, they can drive unrestricted, including night driving and on highways.

Why Graduated Licensing Improves Road Safety

1. Reducing Risk for New Drivers

Novice drivers are the most likely to be involved in accidents, especially young drivers under 25.

GLS reduces this risk by limiting their exposure to high-risk situations (like highway driving) and gradually increasing their driving privileges as they gain more experience.

2. Building Skills Gradually

The G1 stage is designed for drivers to focus on developing basic driving skills in low-risk environments (like local streets).

In the G2 or Class 5 stage, drivers gain exposure to more challenging conditions like night driving and higher-speed roads, giving them time to adapt and refine their skills before fully independent driving.

3. Limits Distractions and Risky Behaviors

The restrictions in the G1/G2 stage help minimize distractions:

No driving with passengers in the G1 stage.

Nighttime driving restrictions for G2 drivers help reduce risk by limiting driving during times when fatigue or impairment is more common.

4. Zero Tolerance for Alcohol

Zero tolerance for alcohol is enforced for beginner drivers (G1, G2, and even some intermediate stages).

This significantly reduces the risk of alcohol-related accidents, especially among young and inexperienced drivers who might be more likely to engage in risky behaviors like drinking and driving.

5. Increased Focus on Safe Driving Habits

The gradual process encourages new drivers to develop safe driving habits, such as:

Adapting to changing weather conditions (like snow or rain).

Proper lane changes and safe following distances.

Avoiding distractions such as texting while driving.

6. Lower Collision Rates

Studies show that the Graduated Licensing System significantly reduces collision rates among new drivers.

In Ontario, the introduction of GLS led to a 30% reduction in collisions among young drivers.

A similar reduction in accidents has been observed in other provinces with a graduated system.

7. Better Preparation for Real-Life Driving Conditions

Graduated licensing allows new drivers to practice in real-world conditions before taking on the responsibility of full, unrestricted driving. It emphasizes building up confidence and expertise for high-risk driving situations such as:

Heavy traffic.

Highway driving.

Adverse weather conditions. Guide your teen's journey with help from licenseprep.ca.

[aktechworld]

Preparing Newcomers for Licensing Success in Canada

Introduction:

For immigrants and international students arriving in Canada, navigating the driver licensing process can be overwhelming. In 2025, Canadian provinces are improving clarity, offering cultural support, and expanding translation services to help newcomers become safe, legal drivers.

Key Points:

Multilingual Test Support: Written knowledge tests are now available in over 12 languages across most provinces. licenseprep.ca offers free practice tests in multiple languages, helping new Canadians feel more confident and prepared.

Foreign License Exchange Programs Expanded: More countries, including the Philippines, Nigeria, and Brazil, are now part of reciprocal agreements allowing license exchanges or shorter GDL timelines. Newcomers can verify eligibility and apply using guides on licenseprep.ca.

GDL Fast-Track for Experienced Drivers: Foreign drivers with 3+ years of clean experience can now skip the beginner permit phase in several provinces. Applicants must provide translated and verified documents to qualify.

Cultural Driving Workshops: Orientation workshops now address differences in signage, rules, and road culture (e.g., 4-way stops, school bus protocols). These are often run by immigrant settlement agencies and listed through official prep networks.

Newcomer License Subsidy Funds: Funding programs now help cover test fees, training costs, and translation services for low-income newcomers—especially women and refugees.

Multilingual Test Support: Written knowledge tests are now available in over 12 languages across most provinces. licenseprep.ca offers free practice tests in multiple languages, helping new Canadians feel more confident and prepared.

Foreign License Exchange Programs Expanded: More countries, including the Philippines, Nigeria, and Brazil, are now part of reciprocal agreements allowing license exchanges or shorter GDL timelines. Newcomers can verify eligibility and apply using guides on licenseprep.ca.

GDL Fast-Track for Experienced Drivers: Foreign drivers with 3+ years of clean experience can now skip the beginner permit phase in several provinces. Applicants must provide translated and verified documents to qualify.

Cultural Driving Workshops: Orientation workshops now address differences in signage, rules, and road culture. These are often run by immigrant settlement agencies and listed through official prep networks.

Newcomer License Subsidy Funds: Funding programs now help cover test fees, training costs, and translation services for low-income newcomers—especially women and refugees.

[hiteshrivani]

The History of Driving Tests: How They've Evolved Over Time

The driving test has become a rite of passage for millions worldwide, symbolizing both freedom and responsibility. But this was not always the case. The history of driving tests reveals how our views on road safety, training, and licensing have changed dramatically over the past century.

1. Early Days: Driving Without Testing When cars first appeared in the When cars first appeared in the late 1800s and early 1900s, there were no formal tests or licenses required. Driving was a novelty, and most roads were shared with horse-drawn carriages. As the number of cars grew—and so did accidents—governments realized regulation was needed.

2. The First Official Driving Test The world The world's first mandatory driving test was introduced in France in 1893. Germany followed in 1903, requiring drivers to demonstrate mechanical knowledge and basic driving skills. In North America, Massachusetts and Missouri were the first US states to require licenses (in 1903), but without a driving test.

3. Testing Becomes Widespread It wasn't until the 1930s that driving tests became standardized in many places. In the UK, the first compulsory driving test was introduced in 1935. Canada began implementing mandatory tests around the same time, as traffic volumes increased and road safety became a national concern.

4. How the Test Evolved Over Time Early tests focused on basic skills like steering, starting, and stopping. Over time, they evolved to include parallel parking, merging, understanding signage, and eventually hazard perception. Written theory tests were introduced to ensure drivers understood traffic laws—not just vehicle operation.

5. Introduction of Graduated Licensing Systems By the late 20th century, many regions introduced a graduated licensing system. This includes stages like learner's permits, intermediate licenses, and full privileges. These changes aimed to reduce crashes among new drivers by introducing experience-based progression.

6. The Role of Technology in Modern Testing Today's driving tests often include computerized theory exams, simulators, and dashcams to record on-road performance. Some jurisdictions even allow booking and tracking progress online. These technologies help standardize testing and reduce human bias.

7. A Continued Focus on Safety and Skill While the format and requirements of driving tests continue to evolve, their purpose remains the same: ensuring that new drivers possess the knowledge, judgment, and physical skills to navigate modern roadways safely and responsibly.

Understanding the history behind the driving test helps us appreciate how far we've come—and why it's so important to keep improving. For resources and support in preparing for your own test, visit licenseprep.ca .

Tags: #DrivingTestHistory #GraduatedLicensing #RoadSafety #DriverEducation #LicensePrep #licenseprep

[embarkdrivingschool]

How to Find the Best Car Driving Lesson Near Me for Beginners

Searching for the best Car Driving Lesson Near Me is essential for learners willing to kick start their driving experience. Here is how you can go about it to make sure you get the right driving school and instructor.

Visit us for more details: https://www.embarkdrivingschool.au/how-to-find-the-best-car-driving-lesson-near-me-for-beginners/

[bharatpatel1061]

How to Prepare for a Class 5 License in Alberta

Content: In Alberta, the Class 5 license allows you to drive most standard vehicles, from cars to light trucks. To get it, you’ll first need to pass a Class 7 knowledge test, then a road test after 12 months with a learner’s license.

The road test includes parallel parking, lane changes, stop sign etiquette, and safe merging. You’ll also be tested on how you handle real traffic situations.

Studying Alberta’s Driver’s Guide and practicing regularly is essential. But most learners benefit from taking mock tests that mirror the real questions and conditions.

licenseprep.ca offers Alberta-specific resources including mock knowledge tests, visual aids, and examiner-style road test advice.

Get familiar with test routes and practice mock exams on licenseprep.ca to reduce anxiety and increase your chance of passing.

[exdrivingexaminers]

Driving Lessons Scarborough: Your Path to Safe and Confident Driving

If you’re looking to become a skilled and confident driver, finding the right Driving lessons Scarborough program is crucial. Whether you’re a new driver or someone looking to brush up on your skills, professional instruction can make all the difference.

At Ex Driving Examiners, you’ll find experienced instructors who know exactly what it takes to help you succeed. Their personalized approach ensures that every student gains the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to pass their road test and drive safely for life.

Choosing expert Driving lessons Scarborough not only prepares you for the exam but also sets the foundation for a lifetime of safe driving habits. Start your journey with trusted professionals today!

[livefastdriveyoung]

I did not track testing today, I had real world things going on, but here are a couple of quick thoughts with one Disclaimer:

I know that testing is not racing accurate. I know. I promise I know. I am not saying these things based on that, I am saying this based on data points and just general knowledge. I am by no means an expert.

Anyway:

I think the whole point of these practice sessions for Ferrari was to demonstrate that they are not just a legacy team, they are going to be competitive, whatever that looks like

Max does not care. Testing day one demonstrated that he could do whatever he needs to close the gap. GP and Adrian looked thrilled, and you can't tell me that you weren't mentally preparing when the RB literally sounded like a spaceship preparing to launch.

Mercedes is doing... something. George finishing second today with Lewis in 3rd yesterday is a good indicator. Both have taken a P12 throughout practice. Whether or not the car is going to be consistent will be something we have to wait and see.

Stake/Sauber has done something right. Zhou is in P3. I said it yesterday and I'll say it again, both the team and their drivers have stuff to prove. Stake has to prove that they are competitive If they want a driver like Carlos Sainz. Both Valtteri and Zhou have to prove they should be the one keeping their seat.

Williams is better too. We knew that when they went from 10 to 7 in the Constructors last year. Logan finished P11 both days, Alex took P6 today. The car floor is concerning but I wonder if it means they want to work out the last few flaws in their model before the new regs, because James Vowles has said these two seasons are testing seasons.

Yeah that's that. Next up; Bahrain!!

[secularbakedgoods]

History repeats, tragedy, farce, etc.

This is a crosspost of my newsletter! If you’d like to get posts like this direct to your inbox or RSS reader, you can subscribe here.

The UK government has announced their intention to introduce new immigration restrictions, cribbing turns of phrase from Enoch Powell in the process. I'm not going to get into the details of my visa situation but the practical upshot of this is that, for me, permanent settlement in the UK has gone from an imminently-attainable goal to a very small carrot at the end of a very long stick.

As I was talking to a friend in a similar situation, they asked, "Why do we even bother trying to stay in a country that clearly doesn't want us?"

I still don't have an answer to that.

Podcast Appearance: I Will Fight You

In the latest episode of I Will Fight You, we discuss the movie Holes and make a lot of gay noises over Sigourney Weaver.

You can listen to the episode here, or wherever podcasts are found.

New on Ko-fi: "Moriarty & Moran Contribute to Community Welfare," Chapter 4

Sebastian looked at him from beneath drooping eyelids. “You warned me this job had risks.” “This was not supposed to be one of the risks!” The room was too small; Jay couldn’t get enough air. There was a tight sensation in his chest. Sebastian’s uninjured arm snaked out, hooking the back of Jay’s neck to reel him in close until their foreheads touched. “I’ve put myself in front of bullets before,” he murmured, low and soothing. “They always told me it was for the good of the country.” His thumb stroked the hinge of Jay’s jaw. “I think I like it better when it’s for you.”

Chapter 4 of "Moriarty & Moran Contribute to Community Welfare" is is now available to read on the new Casefile of Jay Moriarty website! If you don't want to read the story in serialized form and would prefer to get it all at once, you can also buy the entire novelette as an ebook.

This Week's Links

OnlyFans Creators Say This Agency Trapped Them In Exploitative Contracts And Published Nudes Without Consent

Trying to survive as gig workers in a pandemic and locked into contracts they couldn’t get out of, clients and former workers said they faced a dilemma they hadn’t prepared for: tolerate conditions they didn’t know they’d signed up for, or face threats and retaliation ranging from losing their job to getting sued by the company.

Murdered CEO owed “substantial amount of money” to driver who killed him, records show

According to ABC 7, Suclea was a long-time truck driver for ATG, and Koteski had recently told him that ATG “was going bankrupt.” Koteski also “owed a substantial amount of money to Suclea,” but “was unable to pay him.” ... There are no records of ATG Truckload formally filing for bankruptcy.

Elizabeth Holmes' partner raises millions for new biotech testing startup

The partner of Theranos founder Elizabeth Holmes has raised millions of dollars for an artificial intelligence startup hoping to introduce a product that can be used in medical testing and other settings, according to two sources with direct knowledge of the endeavor who could not speak publicly because the company has not yet officially launched. The company is called Haemanthus, which is Greek for "blood flower."

---

Incidentally, the UK's new immigration rules carve out exceptions for "AI leaders." So the next Elizabeth Holmes is more welcome in this country than I am.

-K

[patelharshal]

How Technology Is Changing the Driver’s License Process in Canada: 2025 Update

In the ever-evolving world of technology, the process of obtaining a driver's license in Canada is undergoing significant transformation. From online study tools to AI-assisted road tests, advancements in technology are reshaping how new drivers prepare for, take, and even manage their driver’s licenses. Whether you're a new resident, a teenager, or an experienced driver upgrading your license, understanding these technological changes is crucial. This blog explores the key developments in the licensing process and how technology is making it easier, more efficient, and even safer to get your driver’s license in 2025.

1. Online Study Tools and Test Preparation

One of the most notable changes in the licensing process in Canada is the availability of online study resources. In 2025, many provinces have embraced digital tools to help drivers prepare for the written knowledge test. Websites like licenseprep.ca provide online practice tests, detailed study guides, and interactive content that covers everything from road signs to traffic laws.

Gone are the days when you had to rely solely on paper handbooks. With the convenience of online platforms, you can access study materials anytime, anywhere. These resources often feature real-time feedback, allowing you to track your progress and pinpoint areas that need improvement. The digital approach not only makes studying more flexible but also ensures that you are up to date with the latest traffic laws and regulations.

2. Digital Driver’s License (eDL)

In several Canadian provinces, the digital driver’s license (eDL) has become a reality. Ontario and British Columbia have already rolled out this innovative service, where drivers can access their license through a mobile app. The eDL allows users to store a digital version of their license securely on their smartphones.

The eDL is accepted as an official form of ID and can be used for everything from purchasing alcohol to showing your license to law enforcement. In the future, we can expect more provinces to adopt this technology, providing greater convenience and security for Canadian drivers. This shift also reduces the risk of losing your physical card and eliminates the need to carry a bulky wallet.

3. AI-Assisted Road Tests

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is starting to play a role in Canada’s road test evaluations. AI-assisted driving tests are being piloted in some provinces, where in-car sensors and cameras track your performance during the road test. These systems can monitor things like your speed, lane positioning, and the quality of your braking, providing examiners with objective data to supplement their judgment.

While AI is not yet fully replacing human examiners, it’s enhancing the overall assessment process. By using AI, the road test becomes more precise, ensuring that every driver is evaluated fairly based on their skills and abilities. In the long term, AI-assisted evaluations could help reduce human error and improve safety on the road.

4. Virtual Reality (VR) Driving Simulators

In an effort to improve driving education, some driving schools are now incorporating virtual reality (VR) simulators into their training programs. These simulators replicate real-world driving scenarios, allowing students to practice their skills in a controlled environment before getting behind the wheel. They can practice everything from parallel parking to handling adverse weather conditions without the risk.

While VR training isn’t mandatory, it offers valuable benefits, particularly for new drivers who are nervous or lack experience in specific driving situations. It’s a safe and effective way to build confidence and become comfortable with a variety of driving scenarios that might be hard to replicate in a regular driving school setting.

5. Online Knowledge Tests and Faster Licensing

In some provinces, you can now take the written knowledge test online. This is especially beneficial for people who might not have access to a local service center or who prefer the convenience of studying and testing from home. By offering online tests, provinces can reduce wait times and make the licensing process more accessible.

Moreover, some provinces are streamlining the process of upgrading your license. For example, in Ontario, the G1 license can now be upgraded to G2 after only 8 months if you complete an accredited driver education program. This shorter waiting period allows new drivers to gain more experience on the road and work towards their full G license faster.

6. Automated and Digital Driver’s Education

Canada’s driver education programs have also adapted to technology by offering more automated and digital learning options. Many driving schools now provide online courses that allow students to complete theoretical lessons at their own pace. These programs often include interactive quizzes, video tutorials, and real-world simulations to help students learn road safety and driving laws.

The convenience of online driver’s education has made it easier for people with busy schedules to complete their courses. These programs also enable instructors to track students' progress digitally, ensuring that they have mastered the required knowledge before moving on to practical training.

7. The Future of Driver’s Licenses in Canada

Looking ahead, it’s clear that technology will continue to play a significant role in shaping the future of driving in Canada. From autonomous vehicles to smart roads that communicate with cars, the world of driving is rapidly changing. The driver’s license process will likely evolve to accommodate these new technologies, and we may see more digital tools, AI-driven tests, and even the introduction of self-driving car licenses in the future.

Additionally, with climate change being a key focus of Canadian policy, future licenses may also include environmental considerations. For instance, drivers could be required to take courses on eco-friendly driving techniques, or there may be new policies that encourage the adoption of electric vehicles.

Navigating the 2025 Driver’s License Process:

Stay Up-to-Date: Technology is advancing rapidly, so keep an eye on new developments related to licensing procedures in your province.

Leverage Online Resources: Use online study tools like licenseprep.ca to ensure you’re prepared for both written and practical tests.

Consider Driver Education Programs: While online learning is helpful, consider enrolling in a driving school for hands-on experience and confidence-building.

Get Comfortable with Digital Licensing: Learn about the digital driver’s license option in your province for added convenience and security.

Prepare for the Future: Be ready for possible changes in driver’s licensing laws, especially as autonomous vehicles and green technologies become more integrated into Canadian roads.

Learn the Rules with licenseprep.ca Driving laws may differ from what you're used to. Use licenseprep.ca to study road signs, local rules, and prepare for your tests confidently.

[nareshkumartech]

How to Exchange a Foreign Driving License for a Canadian One

Moving to Canada and wondering how to drive legally? You may be able to exchange your foreign license for a Canadian driver’s license, depending on your country of origin.

To check your eligibility and get province-specific instructions, visit licenseprep.ca—a helpful resource for international drivers preparing to get licensed in Canada.

Here’s the general process:

Check Eligibility – Canada has agreements with several countries for direct exchange.

Gather Documents – Usually includes your current license, ID, proof of driving experience, and translations if needed.

Take a Knowledge Test or Road Test (if required) – Not all countries are exempt.

Pay Fees and Submit Application – Fees vary by province.

This process helps you avoid starting from scratch as a learner.Start this process as soon as you arrive. Your license must be valid and not expired. You may be asked for a driving history letter from your home country.