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#senior friendly moving assistance
marketingmover · 3 months
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Family Life and Moving in Bell Gardens, California - Why Trust Professional Movers?
Moving to a new city can be both exciting and stressful, especially when considering a family relocation.... Here is what our team has to say about moving to Bell Gardens!
Introduction Moving to a new city can be both exciting and stressful, especially when considering a family relocation. Bell Gardens, California, offers a unique blend of suburban charm and urban conveniences, making it an attractive destination for families. Using a professional moving company like Marketing Movers can make the transition smooth and hassle-free. This article delves into the…
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journeyinorderusa · 8 months
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Website: https://www.journeyinorder.com
Address: Wheaton, Illinois, USA
Journey In Order specializes in professional organizing services, particularly catering to seniors and estate clearouts. Founded by Christie Klingl, the company offers empathy and compassion in its tailored approach. Key services include downsizing, staging homes for resale, assisting with long-distance moves, and providing senior move management. Their team, including Liz Pearson and Cassie Capp, focuses on no-judgement support, environmentally friendly practices, and extensive pre- and post-move assistance.
Yelp : https://www.yelp.com/biz/journey-in-order-wheaton
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ak319 · 28 days
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Yan Princess x fem reader
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(Warnings: Stalking, Possessive themes)
PART II ➺ PART I
(Kade's Pov):
Fuck everything.
"Kade, what is up with you mate? Huh? It was just a match. You didn't have to storm off like that!. What would they think of us, the seniors? That we are some sensitive babies who can't handle a single loss of a friendly match of rugger?" God, the urge to cut off her tongue right now. My temper has been everywhere since you hung up on me two days ago. And today due to less focus, we lost a rugby football match to a bunch of undergraduate freshmen. We lost. I lost. Now in the locker room, my friend Leah and others were disappointed at my behaviour. It made me more agitated since I had been playing Rugger since I was a high schooler and now I am doing my Master's degree back at Harvard. Leah and I go back to when we arrived here to do a Bachelor's in Economics. And now we are back after a year.
"At least say something, Princess." Oh so this is how it's going to be. That was the last straw. I threw away my shoulder pad and shoved Leah against the lockers immediately causing other teammates to come to pry me off her. We both held each other in a feral stare.
"WHAT DID YOU JUST SAY?! YOU DARE MOCK ME?! HUH?! DON'T FUCKING TELL ME WHAT TO DO! YOU HEAR ME! I LOST TO A BUNCH OF FUCKING NEWBIES AND I NEVER LOOSE! I ALWAYS WIN! I ALWAYS GET WHAT I WANT!" The outburst drew in a brief silence which I could tell was because of shock and confusion. This was the first time my self-control strayed.
"What the fuck is wrong with you Kade?! YOU HAVE OFFICIALLY LOST YOUR MARBLES!." She snapped back.
Before I could land a hit on her, I was pulled off from Leah by Ruth and this time I let go of Leah, both of us still in the guarded stance ready to break each other's jaw if the other one makes a move.
"STOP THIS! BOTH OF YOU! God, It was just a game! Forget about it! Don't make the matter worse by making it reach the dean's office. Get it? You fucktards?!" I let out a huff trying to get my temper in check.
"Never call me a Princess, Leah. You know better than that." Without sparing another glance to others, I just stormed out and went to my dorm slamming the door shut.
I let out a huff and some curses as I threw my duffle bag on the ground and flopped on my bed. I went towards my drawer and took out the burner phone I had brought few days ago and finally decided to use it.
I wanted to check if your number is still off. Which it is. 'God, this woman.' The rage that I feel right now is unreal and the fact that I am unintentionally angry at you makes me more angry. I don't want to be mad at you but the things you do just make me furious.
I took out my own phone and dialed the only person who can assist me at the moment.
Liam. He works in the intelligence. All the information I get about Deniz, is through him.
"Greetings, Kade. How may I be of service?" As formal as always.
"Mhm , yes, Liam. Sup. Um, kindly tell me about her. Any news?"
"Actually, I was just about to call you today but something came up early in the morning."
"It's alright, just spit it out already."
He cleared his throat before continuing. " I got a call from CAA at 10 a.m. today and got told that she had a flight to (your country/city), yesterday in the morning."
What the fuck could have made you--wait, did you go there because of me?
"A-and for how long is she gone for? Come on , tell me the details!"
"It was a one-way ticket and that's it. That's what I've got so far, your grace."
Lord have mercy.
I cut the call and gripped the edge of my bed as I sat and looked down at my feet contemplating. So she ran huh? Quiet cute to be honest.
I let out a tired chuckle and took my shirt off as I leaned against the headboard. Do you want to play like this? You think you can just sit on a plane and never come back.
My eyes wandered to the envelope on my study desk. It was from the palace, informing me about the field matter as if I didn’t already know. I couldn’t help but let another wave of laughter escape my lips. The forest isn’t, well, mine. Sure, I hunted there from time to time, but it’s not in my name. It was just a little game I played with Deniz, with Richard’s help, of course. He did a great job playing my advocate. And so did the Mayor.
Father was not delighted about all of this when he got the whiff of the matter. He along with my family are by now aware of my infatuation for you.
When the first time I saw you playing, I was mesmerized and couldn't get you out of my head. Then I finally asked Reece to introduce me to you. That night, your performance was staggering as always. The way you carried yourself on the field, the sheer determination, your body's agility, everything, just absolutely sublime.
I understand that my method of pursuing you at that time was rather unconventional and serpentine, to say the least, but I had my reasons. Before I could muster the courage to make a proper confession, Reece had already conveyed my feelings to you. Even so, my heart clung to a fragile hope that perhaps you might still say yes. But… no. You rejected me with a coldness that pierced deeper than I ever imagined.
I chose Reece to subtly court you on my behalf, having observed the muted affection you showed her—so evident in the way your eyes softened when you were near her. The smile you gave her, and the shyness that surfaced in her presence, all spoke volumes. I couldn’t resist using this to my advantage, to teach you the lesson that Reece didn’t see you in the same light. Reece herself concurred with my approach.
Nevertheless, how dare you?. How. Fucking. Dare, Reece gets to have you get all fuzzy and not me? I am and will always be better than her. Better than every fucking creature on this land. Is being a Princess a joke to you? It was kind of soothing to at least get to know from Reece that you had broken off contact with her.
The reason that I was so bad at coming forward like a normal person who's interested in you was that at that time, I wasn't aware of the depth of my feelings. My thoughts were clouded by a fleeting desire to simply have you for a night but after getting to know you....I couldn't just use you like that. Even under that tough exterior of yours, I spotted innocence, and a sense of normalcy and the way you were so nonchalant around me, drew me in further. After the rejection though my heart wavered between resentment and affection for you. How could you reject me? Reject Kade Alexander Emsworth? In the end--love prevailed, and here I am.
I tried my best to kick you out of my mind but couldn't even after I dated potential suitors that were getting chosen for me, like Juniper Smith who I even got engaged to at some point, a daughter of some businessman. My heart was not in it though. Because I couldn't stop myself from thinking about you or keeping tabs on you. I couldn't do injustice to her or anyone for that matter, so I broke it off and told my family about it. About this....this sickness that I have. The fucking love I have for you. Oh, what a lethal meld it is of these confusing sentiments inside me. Love, annoyance, the constant craving, excitement...God. Then at the beginning of this year, I tried to reconnect with you but you pushed me away every time and I had to resort to these cheap measures to grab your attention even though it only ended up with me getting cursed back to seven generations, but I am used to it by now. When you go low, I will go lower Deniz.
I got up and took a cold shower. During that, I thought over the current situation and came up with an idea. A splendid one.
Ruth barged into my room as I finished packing and her expression morphed into a puzzled one. "Off to where?"
"England."
"What?! But what about our final project?! We have only worked half of it dude." She gave me a light shove on the shoulder. "For God's sake Ruth , I am not dying. I will work with you all online. Look, it's important for me to leave, princess duties. I just got a call so.."
She heaved a sigh. "Is it because of Leah-
"Of course not, you know we scuffle all the time. You know what? For your sake, I'll apologize to her? Kay?" She nodded with a tight-lipped smile. Everybody knows that Leah and I were like sisters.
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(Your POV)
After arriving at my family's home on the first day, I first relaxed and savoured the comfort of being with my loved ones. Later, I went to my bedroom to call my service provider and get a new number—it’s a routine I’ve grown accustomed to. It was only then that I realized I was crying while doing it.
Why is she doing this? Why can't I be left alone? There is a limit to how many times I can change my number. The thought that she can easily access my new numbers leaves no space for the doubt that I am being spied on heavily. Of course, it's so easy for her to do that. After calming myself down and reminding myself that I am stronger than this, I sat in silence as I took deep breaths.
The events of back in Southampton played back in my head. My job, the forest, Richard's words, 'She takes her duties very seriously.'
It's that damned city where I first met the piece of shit for God's sake.
I went to the police numerous times, even to the London Metropolitan, but they never took me seriously. Why would they? Who would believe someone accusing a princess? They looked at me as if I were delusional, schizophrenic, just another obsessed girl. Why can’t they see that it’s the other way around?
Only my family can provide me the warmth. And talking about family, I really thought about all of this. So I told them everything. From the start. And they did their best to first comfort and support me and then my father just straight up told me to resign and stay here with them. To be honest, I had thought about it after I got to know about her intervention in the field matter. But I really loved my job. It broke my heart to realize that I would have to give up so much just to have peace of mind. But I had to do it.
It was the morning after, and here I was playing cricket with two of my cousins and some neighbourhood kids in our backyard, feeling much better. In the back of my mind, I was still waiting for Clara's response to my resignation e-mail that I sent her this morning.
Your mum called you from inside saying that Clara was calling making you dash inside to answer the phone.
"What's all this? Are you for real?" Despite her firm tone I could make out the pain in her voice. What else did I expect?
"Clara-" I paused and went to the privacy of my room first. "It's--it was really hard for me to do this but I have to. I have to for myself and for our organization, your organization, Clara."
"What the fuck are you on about?! Can you elaborate here?"
Okay, guess this is time to inform everything her too. Wait--what if my calls are being listened to?. Damn it. What the hell should I do?!
"Hello? Deniz??" I stopped chewing my nails and took a breath. Honestly, I don't give a damn. Hence I spilled everything to her just like I did to my family.
She took in the information and I could just picture her posture and face as she sat on her desk chair , her leg bouncing in frustration.
"God, Deniz. I am going bonkers. This whole situation is bonkers. Why didn't you tell me this face to face!? You should have told me this sooner! Instead, you ran away! We could have confronted that Richard piece of shit in front of the Mayor there and then!"
"I didn't run away! I needed peace! A break! And I --look Clara, please. Try to understand, that could have made matters worse. The field was more important to us at the moment. Try to understand."
"I do understand, Deniz. And don't you, for a second, think that I am not on your side. I am here for you, got it?. I just--could've helped you better here. Could've gotten you hooked with some contacts. Look, I can still help you."
My pace slowed down as I stood in front of my mirror. "How?"
"Media, Deniz. There's so much you could do with the power of it. You just need the support of the people-
I cut her call, turned on my VPN and called her again. "Sorry for that, yeah so, listen --the thing is, if I were to make some video on her what proof would I show Clara?."
"Those teammates of yours in highschool--surely they must have some photos or something-"
"Yes, photos. What do photos prove, Clara? Interference in my job? Constant calling? My phone being hacked or something? No. It just proves that we were 'friends' once. I have nothing against her! She only calls me so I don't even have texts. I would get roasted the shit out of if I post on Tiktok or anywhere. And even those teammates don't know about this current situation of mine and they also will have nothing solid on her except... words." I started pacing again and we both went silent, listening to each other breathe for a minute. As I sat down on my bed, she spoke up again.
"I still can't believe a princess is doing that. Like, she isn't getting enough attention from her mummy and daddy? She was even engaged. I heard once from Alfie but she broke it off. Weirdo." Her comment made me let out a dry chuckle. I couldn't care less about her personal life. But I wished that she had just gotten married to her ex-fiance or anyone by now.
"No, Boss. I think she gets plenty of attention from everywhere, this is the first time she isn't getting any and she is going mad...Clara. I can't help but be afraid. Why can't she just get it that I am not interested in her like that? If I ever decide to be with someone, I want them to be just a normal civilian. I don't want to be with a royal!"
"I get you. Some people have air inside instead of brains. But don't you dare be scared or paranoid! It's not your fault! It's fucking harassment at this point. Deniz, didn't I tell you that the forest was no one's property, it was government-owned, not by some royalty. It was true."
"So--the Mayor would've known about this too, right?" My chest tightened as I gripped my bedsheet in anger.
Clara sighed in frustration. "Of course. God, this is enough to sue them all. ALL OF THEM!!" Of course, she would say that. I couldn't agree more with her though. "At the end of the day--they are all rich sons and daughters of bitches. Always remember these words." She hesitated before continuing. "You know you won't believe that I am going to say this and for the record, I am not saying this to support whatever she's doing but to point it out. People sometimes do batshit crazy things when in love, Deniz."
"So!? That doesn't make it right. I don't even know why she is after me of all people."
"I know , I know. You are absolutely right. It is crazy. Hey you know what? Imma go call the Mayor's office and see if-
"Clara the matter is already settled! You cannot just call and ask 'Hey, I was wondering that did a certain Princess order you to do this cuz of my assistant?' As if they would tell you shit. They must have been paid and they wouldn't disclose anything. I am telling you this now, it's stupid." I heard a bang which indicated that she fisted her desk.
"Look! Let me handle this okay? I have my ways. A call ain't gonna hurt anyone. And I am definitely not gonna mention all of THIS! It remains between us. Imma just talk about the forest ownership, okay? Now, I'll call you later. Take a breather for now, okay? Go enjoy your time. I'll...get you on with you about your... resignation."
"Okay, thank you Clara. Goodbye. Also use VPN while calling me."
"Kay, of course, relax now. Don't beat yourself for these crazy assholes. She won't harm you. Got it?. Goodbye, love." I subconsciously nodded and cut the call. Her words soothed me to a good extent. 'Okay. Relax, Deniz. It's not that serious. Don't think of it as so serious. You are home, back with everyone. One day or another she will find someone else, after all, she is a princess, and she will get tired.'
You went back to the yard and grabbed the ball from your cousin, just praying every second to not receive a call from an unknown number any time soon.
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(Kade's Pov):
"It's getting out of hand now, Kade!. Have some self fucking respect. You seriously cannot be asking for this right now!" My gaze remained hardened as Dad and I stood facing each other.
“Language, husband,” Mummy reprimanded, but we were both too absorbed to pay her any attention.
I was now standing in the living room of the palace, my dad scolding me due to the forest matter and arriving back early.
"Father, I assure you, I am here to solve all of it—once and for all." He kneaded the side of his head, letting his hoary hair spill through the gaps between his fingers.
"Really? How? I just don't get you. Why are you so desperate over her?! You are my daughter! A fucking Princess! And a Duchess too! Have some dignity. No other girl will reject you--do you even know how many good families have their eyes on you for their daughters?!"
"THAT'S THE THING! I DON'T WANT THEM, I WANT HER!" I backed away and took a few steps to calm myself, their disturbed expressions reminded me of the same look my teammates had on their faces in the locker room.
"You all are aware of this! Why can't you just let me be?. I tried 'courting' those girls who you are so fond of! Even got engaged! It didn't work, okay?!. Look, Dad, I will have her here. As your daughter-in-law. Trust me. Very soon. Just do what I requested, please." He turned his back on me as he went to gaze out the window.
"Why can't you accept that she doesn't like you that way. How will the marriage even work, my dear?." Mummy's words made my head snap, and my eyes wandered to the fireplace. The fire mimicked the burning passion inside my heart and I raised my chin proudly.
“It will, Mummy. Are you forgetting how royals used to marry? The worst matches endured because they had to—because they were royal matches and I’m not just some random woman on the street, as Dad said. She’s just…” I paused, offering a gentle smile. “A little shy, scared thing. A bit overwhelmed. I know her. She doesn’t hate me—she’ll come around. Believe me.” I looked at Dad and stepped closer, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulders.
"I won't disappoint you."
"Oh, but your future wife already has, daughter." His words made me swallow a sudden surge of irritation. Yet, his resentment is valid, I can't deny that. Damn Deniz, you already have started family drama without even being here. Such a mischief-maker you are, darling.
"You will love her, Dad. And you too...Mummy. She is lovely, everything I can ever want. Anyway...there is something else I have to discuss with you Dad, but later. For now, I have to go prepare for the event."
"Fine, I will have the arrangements made. But Kade, end all of this as soon as you can, you hear me? This is your last chance, after this, I won't allow any more of this pathetic lovelorn scheming of yours." As if I need his support. I offered a slight bow to both of them and chuckled in excitement.
"I will be forever grateful, your Highness. I promise this is the last time." And made my exit, not missing to wink at Julian who was sitting nonchalantly in a corner, the middle brother who is 2 years older than me. He was silently observing this whole ordeal. I didn't even notice him till now. He always has been a quiet one.
Being the youngest of three children certainly had its perks and did I forget to mention, being a princess too? Haha!
I gave Richard a nod as I spotted him in the hallway and couldn’t help but smirk as I climbed the staircase. Oh, there’s no finer intoxication quite like power, and when you mix it with love and passion, the exuberance that follows is simply unparalleled...
My steps were deliberately relaxed as I walked in the familiar corridors, taking in the sumptuous and grand interior. I will never get bored of this. Damn, I sound so sybaritic right now. It's just--it's like something is changing from within me...because of you. I wonder if there has been a Princess like me before, wandering these halls due to the agonizing yearning for her lover. I think I did read once in the palace's library that there was one by the name of Keira Emsworth, my great, great something. Guess I inherited her genes.
I’m the same Kade who used to feel a twinge of jealousy over my older sister Romana being the heir. But now, the throne means nothing to me. After all, who needs a useless throne in this day and age?
You, however, matter to me more than anything now, you are not my obsession at this point...you are my persistence. A goal, that I will achieve. A challenge I won't fail, and won't give up.
I reached the door of a room, the room that I always somehow return alone to. Every single fucking time. My breath quickened and my fists clenched. Why can't I open it? I straightened up and with a determined sigh, I put my hand on the knob.
"I made sure to keep it spotless while you were away, your Grace." Richard's soft voice spoke from behind me but I just nodded curtly without turning back.
"Good job." He knew that this praise was not only for doing the former chore but his contribution to my plan. Without wasting another second I stepped inside and turned on the lights, but for some reason kept my eyes closed until I locked the door.
Walking a few steps in I finally opened my eyes and surveyed the amenities. This wasn't my personal room. This room, I had specifically asked for to be arranged and decorated for the day I bring you here in this palace as my bride. It's our room. It is to be remained unused and untouched by me till then, just another little game that I made. I chose every single thing for this room. I just hope it's to your liking. I inhaled deeply, savouring the fragrance that filled the air. God, it was the perfume you used to wear. I stalked to the foot of the large downy canopy bed and stood with my arms behind my back.
"Why are you doing this to me, Deniz? You are so cruel. Yet," I was about to sit on the bed but refrained myself. 'No, it's a challenge, don't forget it. Your motivation, Kade. Bring her here first , then touch the stuff.'
"yet, I burn for you. For your love." I pulled out my phone and looked at a picture of you from high school. Although I had newer photos, I was drawn to the old ones for some reason. They evoked a poignant nostalgia for my own youth and the faint moments we shared. I gazed at the image of you in a cricket shirt, leaning on a bat with that charming, adorable smile. The urge to pull you into my arms and never let go, to hear your giggles, was as vehement as ever. I reflected your smile back, imagining you were looking at me.
"I am sorry for what I am about to do Deniz. But I have to, love."
➺Part III
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viesantewrites · 6 months
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𝐋𝐨𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐝
(𝐫𝐞𝐰𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐧 𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧)
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Robert Fischer (Inception) x Reader
note: Hey guys, I‘ve rewritten this story a bit and decided to post it on my sideblog. I've changed some of the themes and also that the main character is no longer an OC named Victoria, but the reader. I think this story is kinda difficult to write, which is why I've rewritten it several times. I love plots like Shutter Island and tried to do something similar here & it‘s also a story about parasocial relationships and unrequited love.
summary: The reader is hopelessly in love with her boss Robert Fischer, but he doesn't seem to be interested in her. By an unexpected coincidence, they meet in the city and his sudden intense affection for her confuses her. The reader begins to suspect that something is wrong, and when she finally uncovers the truth about her encounters with Fischer the heartbreaking reality is revealed to her.
you don‘t have to watch the movie to understand the story.
age gap, but the characters are both adults. Robert is 37-39, is divorced and has a child. The reader is about 28/29.
word count: 5000+
warnings: topics like mental illness, depression, this is a quite dark and heavy story
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It was just half past seven when she heard the familiar footsteps in the corridor approaching the office next door. A key was inserted into the lock and a moment later the door opened.
Glancing around to make sure her workspace wasn't too messy, she threw an old paper cup into the bin before her boss poked his head through the door.
"Good morning, Miss YN, so busy already?" he asked with a tired smile. "It doesn't reflect well on me as a boss to have my assistant here before me. I'm sorry, Monday mornings are always a bit stressful for me."
"No problem, Mr Fischer. I've already sorted the mail for you, it's on your desk," she said kindly, watching him as he took off his coat and hung it on the coat rack, a little damp from the rain.
"Thank you, I can count on you."
He was a very elegant, handsome man, about ten years her senior, with dark hair, blue eyes, high cheekbones and an elegant black suit. She must have stared at him a little too long, because he turned to her with a questioning smile.
Immediately her cheeks flushed and she turned back to her computer screen, but by then Mr Fischer had already approached her and placed some documents on her desk. "Please scan them all and email them to Mr Parker, he's been waiting for them for days," he said to her. "It would be best if we sat down together later and quickly discuss my tasks for today, there is a lot to do. If I'm not mistaken, I have a client meeting at three today."
"At two, sir," she corrected him, handing him a planner with today's date thickly underlined.
He started to grin. "You see, this is exactly why I have an assistant."
Fischer disappeared into his office.
She sighed slightly and went to work scanning the documents. She had been working for Fischer Morrow, one of the world's largest energy companies, for barely a month. Their headquarters had moved from Sydney to London after the death of their CEO, Maurice Fischer. Her current boss, Robert Fischer, was a direct descendant.
She liked Fischer Jr a lot. He was friendly, supportive and didn't get angry when things didn't go to plan. But in some ways he always seemed so unapproachable. For example, he never talked about his private life and YN had no idea who he was outside of work. Then again, he was her boss and his private life was none of her business. But deep down she admitted that she was very interested in him.
The days flew by and she finally felt as if she had been employed by Fischer Morrow for an eternity. But who Robert Fischer really was remained a mystery.
One evening, as she was about to leave, she quietly opened the door to Fischer's office. He was sitting in front of his computer, his chin resting on his hands. "Have a nice evening, Mr Fischer." He jumped slightly, obviously not having heard her come in, but then he smiled. "Thank you, you too."
YN looked at her watch. "It's almost half past seven, don't you want to finish your work soon? Don't you have a wife waiting for you?"
Mr Fischer shrugged. "I've been divorced for a few years now, and I only see my daughter at weekends. The only thing waiting for me is an empty, dark apartment."
YN held her breath. It was the first time he had told her anything about his private life. But in the same second, he seemed to regret his words.
"No one waits for me either," she said. "Except for my cat."
Fischer raised an eyebrow with a smile. "At least that's something."
Finally she said goodbye and left the office. But all the way home, she kept thinking about her conversation with Fischer.
Was he perhaps as lonely as she was?
Tired, YN lay in bed. She didn't even have the strength to change her clothes and remove her make up. Although she wanted nothing more than to get out of that itchy, uncomfortable dress and tights. A soft meow sounded beside her and she felt something soft brush against her arm. Smiling, she pulled the cat closer and buried her face in its white fur.
Since leaving her small home village for London, she had no one to talk to. Her old friends had all left her and moved on with their own lives. Robert Fischer was the only one she spoke to regularly, though it was far from a friendship. With the cat in her arms, she turned to the other side. But what if she had feelings for him?
Maybe she should tell him. But wasn't that too much? He was still her boss, after all, and there were probably plenty of women who were interested in him.
She quickly pushed the thought aside and closed her eyes.
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Robert Fischer turned curiously when he heard the quick clicking of heels in the corridor. Panting, his assistant opened the door and dropped her bag on the desk.
"Miss YN, are you okay?"
Her hair was messy, her coat hung loosely over her shoulders as if she hadn't had time to put it on properly, and her lipstick was a little smudged.
"I… overslept," she said, panting. "I'm sorry."
Fischer looked at her with a raised eyebrow. "It's okay. But it shouldn't happen again."
"Of course not, sir," she replied immediately.
He quickly disappeared into his office and returned with a thick stack of papers and a folder.
"Would you be so kind as to sort these documents alphabetically for me? They've been on my desk for days and I haven't had a chance to get to them. I know it's not an exciting task."
She nodded and took the heavy pile from his hand. Fischer thanked her and hurried back to his office.
Sighing, she set to work. But with each page, she found her concentration fading and her mind wandering. Her head ached, her eyes burned and she felt incredibly tired. But she tried not to show it, kept working as hard as she could and finally put the sorted file back on Mr Fischer's desk.
Exhausted, she walked back to her office, sat down in her chair and buried her face in her hands. She was shivering and her ears were ringing. Was it because she had forgotten to take her medicine today?
"Miss YN?" she heard her boss' voice.
She turned immediately and forced a smile. "Yes, Mr Fischer?"
"I have an job interview scheduled for ten, would you be so kind as to prepare the conference room for it?"
"Of course, sir."
He stopped halfway and looked at Victoria questioningly. "Are you okay? You look so pale." She nodded quickly, forcing a smile. "Everything's fine, Mr Fischer." Fischer looked at her, raised his eyebrows, then handed her the key to the meeting room and disappeared back into his office.
A strange feeling of dizziness spread through her head as she walked down the long corridor leading to the conference rooms.
What was wrong with her today?
When it started to get dark outside, YN finally turned off her computer and reached for her bag. The strange dizziness had improved during the day, leading her to conclude that she simply needed a break from work. Fortunately, it was Friday. She knocked gently on Fischer's door, as she always did before leaving, to wish him a pleasant evening. He was sitting there as usual, his chin resting on his hand, deep in thought. He glanced up briefly and nodded politely, noticing her in the doorway. He looked stunningly handsome today, even after this long and exhausting day.
"I didn't ask you how the job interviews went this morning," she asked curiously. Fischer shook his head. "Terribly," he said. "None of these people I'd want in my company." His voice was cold and dismissive, and for a moment she thought he was referring to her, even though she knew he meant someone else. She smiled awkwardly and shrugged slightly. "Well, maybe the next one will be better."
Fischer remained silent.
"Have a good weekend, Mr Fischer."
"You too, Miss YN." He gave her a friendly smile.
"Do you have any plans for the weekend? I know a good restaurant, would you like to join me?" The moment she realised what she had just said, she bit her lip, her face turning red. Had she completely lost her mind? She desperately hoped he hadn't heard what she'd asked, but it was too late. She could see Fischer raise his eyebrows in confusion and stare at her.
"No, Miss YN. I'm not interested. I keep my work and personal life strictly separate." She immediately looked down, embarrassed. Thoughts raced through her mind like a rollercoaster and her cheeks felt as if they were on fire. "I'm sorry, Mr Fischer, I shouldn't have asked you that." She finally grabbed her bag and left the office without another word, feeling Fischer's gaze on her back.
It was drizzling lightly as she walked through the busy streets of London. The cold air did her good and she felt her head clear a little.
Why had she done this? It had been clear from the start that a man like him would reject her. But the words had come out of her mouth as if she had completely lost control. She felt a tear roll down her cheek and quickly wiped it away. She didn't want to have a mental breakdown in public, even though it felt like Fischer had torn her heart into a thousand pieces. Suddenly the strange dizziness returned and her vision blurred slightly. The sounds of London became muffled, as if she were incredibly far away.
"Miss YN, wait!" she suddenly heard a voice behind her that seemed to be getting closer.
She turned around. The dizziness had disappeared as quickly as it had appeared. Startled, her eyes widened as she saw the person in front of her - it was Mr Fischer. What was he doing here? Had he followed her? She tried to speak, but all she could manage was a hoarse stutter.
"I wanted to apologize, Miss YN. It wasn't very nice of me to brush you off like that," he said with a gentle laugh. His voice sounded strangely different, softer than usual. Wordless and spellbound, she stared into the pair of light blue eyes before her, apologetic and gentle in their expression. She knew Mr Fischer had blue eyes, but she'd never noticed how incredibly bright they looked.
"It's okay, don't worry," she managed to say, her knees shaking with excitement.
"No, no, Miss YN. I'll think about the dinner offer, okay? Just because we work together doesn't mean we can't have dinner together, does it?" Fischer suggested, and she nodded slowly, then smiled.
Why this sudden change of heart?
"Well, see you soon." He waved goodbye and YN, still completely confused, raised her hand in response. But before she could form another thought, he had disappeared into the crowd.
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Carefully, YN pressed the shutter on her old camera, focusing the lens on the small lake in front of her. Satisfied, she lowered it. She was confident that this snapshot would turn out well. This park was a place she often visited to clear her head and pursue her passion, photography, as it offered many beautiful subjects. Especially now, in autumn, when the trees were covered with colourful leaves and the silence was slowly descending, with only the occasional pedestrian passing by.
Her dizziness had eased a little, but not completely. Fortunately, it was Saturday and she had the whole day to herself. YN sat down on a bench under a tree that looked to be at least a hundred years old.
She sat there for a while, lost in thought. Eventually she got up and made her way to the West End. The streets of London were noisy and busy as she walked, looking for a warm place in a café and something to eat. Crowds of people rushed past her, music played from somewhere and loud voices filled the air. Exhausted, she rubbed her temples. Maybe she should have stayed home and rested.
Suddenly she held her breath as she spotted a familiar face in the crowd. Dark hair, high cheekbones and piercing blue eyes. Fischer. But before she could think, he had already noticed her and started to smile at her.
"Miss YN, how nice to see you! What a coincidence!"
It was the first time she had seen him in his casual clothes rather than one of his business suits. But this was no less elegant and stylish. He was wearing a well-fitting black coat, a grey knitted jumper underneath and black trousers. It was so strange to see him outside his office at Fischer Morrow Company. Suddenly he didn't seem so unapproachable and distant anymore.
"What are you doing here?" she asked curiously.
He paused for a moment. He seemed to be considering whether or not to tell her.
"I brought my little girl to her friend's house for a sleepover. She's been asking me for weeks because her mum won't let her."
"So you're a cool dad," YN replied.
Fischer rolled his eyes. "I'm the one who lets her get away with everything. We had to turn back twice because she realised she had forgotten her favourite stuffed animal and her toothbrush."
She laughed softly. In a strange way, she enjoyed him talking so openly about his life.
"Oh wow, that looks amazing. It's quite old, isn't it?" Mr Fischer pointed to the camera around her neck. "From the 1960s. But it takes incredibly good pictures for that time," she explained. Fischer seemed genuinely impressed. "Do you have more like it?"
"I have quite a few. From the 50s to the 80s, actually, and of course some modern digital cameras. Photography has been my passion since I was a child," she explained. Fischer looked at her with an interested smile. "So there's actually film in there that needs to be developed?" she nodded in confirmation. "Some photo shops still offer that service, yes."
Mr Fischer seemed genuinely interested in her hobby, asking her questions about it as they walked side by side through the streets of London. She felt incredibly comfortable in his presence and hoped he wouldn't leave so soon. Finally he pointed to the camera again. "Would you take a picture of me, please? I'd like a 60's style photo of myself." YN's heart began to beat faster in her chest. What had he just said?
"Of course, Mr Fischer," she replied nervously. "Robert. My name is Robert," he replied. Suddenly, she stopped in her tracks, completely surprised. No one at Fischer Morrow Ltd called him by his first name, and outside the company she had only heard his uncle, Peter Browning, call him Robert.
"Let's find a nice spot for the photo," he said, letting his gaze wander until it settled on a beautiful fountain.
Carefully, she picked up the camera, took a few steps back and held it directly in front of Robert's face. "Smile, please," she instructed him, finally pressing the shutter.
A pedestrian who had just passed them looked at YN with a confused expression and shook his head. Frowning, she looked after him before carefully tucking the camera into her handbag.
Are you hungry?" asked Robert. "We could go to a restaurant."
Surprised, she looked at him. "I don't know…" she said hesitantly, biting her lower lip. In fact, she had never expected to be asked such a question.
He looked at her with raised eyebrows and she could see the disappointment in his eyes. Finally, she worked up the courage to say what was on her mind.
"It's just… To be honest, you told me yesterday that you were someone who kept your work and personal life strictly separate. Maybe it would be better if we did. After all, I'm your employee."
As much as she wanted to spend time with him, she was afraid of developing even more feelings for him. Robert nodded slowly and shoved his hands into his coat pockets.
"I really like you. I just never wanted to show it, that's why I was so reserved with you and told you I wasn't interested in you".
She closed her eyes and let out a sigh as a ton of thoughts went through her head. Robert finally nodded at her with a slightly disappointed look on his face and turned on his heel.
"Wait!" she called after him.
He stopped immediately and looked at her hopefully.
"Let's give it a try, shall we?"
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"YN… is that a French name?"
Robert's voice sounded slightly tipsy as he grinned curiously at her, twirling his wine glass casually in his hands.
He had taken her to a rather fancy and expensive place, the walls were dark wood panelling, the chairs were covered in red velvet and soft jazz music was playing on one of the radios. Robert looked hauntingly beautiful that night. His skin seemed incredibly soft and flawless, his jawline even more prominent, and his blue eyes shone almost ghostly in the dim light, almost like he wasn’t real…
She smiled, nodded and took a sip from her glass. "My father is French. I grew up in France but moved to England when I was 15."
He nodded with interest, rubbing his chin with his finger.
"And you? I heard you're Australian," she asked curiously.
Robert laughed and ran a hand through his dark hair. "Well, my accent makes it obvious."
YN blushed and looked down at her plate. What a stupid question.
But Robert didn't seem to mind too much, because he started talking about his life in Sydney, how he had finally moved to London after his father's death, and she listened with interest.
But suddenly he stopped and looked at her thoughtfully. "But I'm probably just boring you."
YN immediately shook her head. "No, you're not," she told him. "I find it really interesting to find out all this about you."
At that moment a waitress came to their table with a smile and asked YN in a friendly tone if she had enjoyed her meal. But the waitress paid no attention to Robert, YN noticed with surprise. Perhaps she was just being extra polite to the lady.
Robert pulled out a black leather purse and rummaged through it. Quickly, YN pulled a few notes out of her habdbag and handed them to the waitress. "Keep the change," she said.
The waitress looked at her with wide eyes, "Thank you, ma'am," she said gratefully, "have a nice evening.
Then she turned and left the table.
"You didn't have to do that," Robert said. "As a gentleman, it's actually my job to pay."
She shook her head in amusement. "I bet that's never happened to you before, has it?"
Robert shook his head and took the last drink from his glass. There was a moment of silence between them.
"All right. So what's the plan for the rest of the evening?"
She looked at him in surprise. As soon as he said the words, she felt a tingle in her stomach.
The church clock struck twelve as she crossed the street hand in hand with Robert. It was freezing, and she had pulled her scarf so far up her face that only her eyes and nose were visible. Her date looked at her with amusement. "Are you going to rob a bank?" he asked, laughing out loud.
"Shh!" she snapped at him, putting her fingers to his lips. "You'll wake up the whole neighbourhood."
Although it was quite dark and she could only make out Robert, she knew that his typical mischievous grin was back on his face. She pulled him firmly behind her until they reached the small white building.
"Is this where you live?" Robert asked.
She put her finger to his lips for a second time until Robert stopped talking and looked silently into her eyes. Her heart was beating in her chest as she finally stood on her toes, put her arms around his neck and placed her lips on his. Robert returned the kiss without hesitation and gently pulled her into his arms. YN could hardly believe what was happening. It was everything she had secretly wanted for months. They remained like this for a moment before she finally let go of him and reached for her key.
She felt for Robert's upper arm and finally pulled him into her apartment, closing the door behind him. She immediately wrapped her arms around him and began to kiss him again. His lips were a little cold and tasted of wine. Together they stumbled backwards into her bedroom, taking off his coat, which she tossed carelessly to the floor.
Robert's fingers stroked carefully along her hip and fumbled a little with her belt while she was busy putting little kisses on his neck. With slightly trembling hands she pulled his jumper over his head and Robert took her hand.
"Are you nervous?" he wanted to know. She remained silent.
"Don't be," he whispered softly into her ear, taking her in his arms again and pulling her onto the bed. Breathing softly, she clung to his chest, leaned back and finally closed her eyes as she felt his warm skin against hers.
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The sun shone through the half-open curtains, creating a narrow, bright streak across the floor. Blinking, she opened her eyes and stretched. But immediately a sharp pain shot through her head again and she held her forehead tiredly. Confused, she sat up and tried to remember what had happened yesterday.
But when she heard soft breathing next to her, she turned quickly and all the events of last night came back to her. Smiling, she looked over at Robert, snuggled up next to her in her beige blanket, sleeping peacefully. Tenderly stroking his messy hair, she lay down beside him again and then began to caress his bare chest. Perhaps what they had done was wrong. After all, they were two people who should never have fallen in love. But it had happened, and it felt so right. They remained in this position for some time, Robert asleep and YN lost in thought.
Her eyes swept through the bedroom until they settled on a small white box on her dresser. Quickly sitting up, she reached for it and put a small pill into her mouth. Eventually, Robert began to move a little beside her, opening his eyes tiredly. Smiling broadly, she gave him a small kiss on the tip of his nose.
"Good morning," she whispered.
"Good morning," Robert murmured in a raspy morning voice.
"Did you sleep well?" she asked.
"Yes, wonderfully." He yawned loudly and took her into his arms as she laid her head lovingly on his shoulder.
"Wait, what time is it?" he suddenly wanted to know.
"Quarter past ten, why do you ask?" she replied.
"Shit," Robert muttered as he let go of the hug, jumped out of the bed and started to pick up his clothes, which were strewn all over the floor.
"Wait, wait, where are you going?" she asked, looking at him in confusion.
"I should've picked up my daughter by now," he replied, hurrying to get dressed.
Sighing, she pulled the blanket around her a little tighter. "Can't it wait? Can't you stay for breakfast?"
"I'm sorry, but I'm sure she's already waiting for me.“ Robert dodged her questions, grabbing his coat on the floor and sighing when he saw her disappointed look.
He walked slowly towards her, stroking her chin with his finger, and finally whispered: "We can catch up later." Then he put a soft kiss on her lips before turning around and disappearing through the door. She sank back into the pillows and pulled the blanket over her head.
The rest of Sunday flew by. Mostly because her mind was on Robert and she could hardly wait to see him again tomorrow at work. She had probably never looked forward to a Monday in her life as much as she did that day.
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The next morning, YN carefully applied her lipstick and looked at herself in the bathroom mirror. She noticed that the collar of her white blouse was a little crooked and quickly adjusted it. She wanted to look her best for Robert today, so he wouldn't change his mind and lose interest in her.
Humming softly, she put on her black high heels and grabbed her handbag. She quickly put another pill into her mouth and put the box in her bag. Her headache was completely gone and her head finally felt clear and light again. In a good mood, she breathed in the fresh morning air and made her way to work.
Her heels clicked on the floor as she walked down the familiar corridor of Fischer Morrow. The lights were on in Robert's office. She ran a final hand through her hair, smoothed her blouse and opened the door to her own office.
The air was stuffy and hot. Coughing, she ran to the window and opened it.
"Good morning, Miss YN, I hope you had a nice weekend," a familiar voice sounded from behind her.
Startled, she turned to see Robert's face as he stuck his head through the door, as he always did.
Why didn't he call her by her first name? Confused, she stared at him, trying to form a clear sentence. "But… But… we spent it together…" her voice finally broke. Her head suddenly hurt again.
He seemed so different again. Not the Robert she had spent the weekend with, not the one who had apologised for being too rude to her, not the one who had made her laugh and told her about his life. He seemed more like the one she had worked with for months, the one who never revealed anything about himself.
"Miss YN? I haven't seen you since Friday, when you left my office after… asking me that question."
Her heart almost stopped. Suddenly her knees gave way and she sank to the floor.
"Are you okay? Are you feeling unwell?" Concerned, he bent down to her. "Do you want to go home and rest?"
She nodded slightly and wiped a tear from her eye, which had turned her fingers black from the carefully applied mascara. Then she got up and left the office.
At home, she lay motionless on her bed, tears streaming down her cheeks. She couldn't think straight and her throat felt incredibly dry. The door to her room, which was only ajar, opened gently and something small and white slipped through. Sniffling, she stretched out her arms and lifted her cat onto the bed.
Everything that had happened that weekend had been fake. She had made it all up. And all of this happened because she had forgotten to take the pills she was taking for her delusions. Robert hadn't really followed her on Friday evening; it was all a figment of her imagination. While his real self was still sitting in the office, probably not thinking about her at all. Everything suddenly made sense: why Robert looked a bit different, why his voice sounded different, the waitress who ignored him on Saturday because she couldn’t actually see him, the pedestrian who gave her a confused look because she was talking to herself while taking the photo.
The photo.
She immediately got up, put on her shoes and walked to the photo shop where she had left the film to be developed. Her heart raced as the staff handed her the envelope with the photos. Trembling, she finally grabbed the Saturday night photo, without looking at it herself, and held it up to the staff's face. "What do you see?" she asked.
The young man looked at her in confusion, but remained polite. "The fountain at Piccadilly Circus. Great picture, it turned out really nice."
"Anything else?" she asked.
"No, ma'am," he replied, and it felt like a slap in her face. Fischer had never been there with her. Only her lonely and sad mind had led her to believe that he was interested in her and loved her. Tears welled in her eyes and she left the shop without another word. When she got home, she immediately took the white box of pills from her handbag, rushed into the kitchen, opened the box and poured the pills into the bin.
Crying and with burning eyes, she finally lay down on her bed and buried her head in the pillow as her cat purred softly beside her. She must have stayed like that for hours, as the sun began to set again outside her window. When she finally lifted her head and wiped the tears from her face, she saw a dark-haired man sitting beside her bed, looking at her lovingly with his pale blue eyes. A smile suddenly appeared on her face and she began to laugh, pulling the man into a tight embrace.
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some explanations because i know that story is kinda mind-fucking:
• Is Robert Fischer all a creation of the readers mind?
- No he actually exists, he’s her boss and she‘s in love with him, so she imagines dating him.
• When is he real, when is he fake?
- - The Robert Fischer in the office is real, he turns her down when she asks him out, leaving YN heartbroken. The moment she leaves the office, she starts to imagine what it would be like if he apologised to her, so the man who follows her is just her imagination. The real Robert Fischer is still in his office at Fischer-Morrow.
When she visits the city on Saturday and meets "Robert" and goes on a date with him, it's also just her imagination. That's why other people react to her with confusion, because she's basically talking to herself all the time. On Sunday morning, when she wakes up next to him, he's still fake. When she takes her pills, he quickly "disappears" (he says he has to pick up his daughter...) because they stop her delusions.
On Monday morning, when she gets back to her office, the real Robert Fischer is there again, who hadn't seen her since he had rejected her on Friday evening.
When she gets home, she throws away her pills and her delusions begin again. The man who sat next to her on the bed and comforted her is again the imaginary version of Robert.
68 notes · View notes
viesanterieures · 9 months
Text
Locked In Mind
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Robert Fischer (Inception) x female Reader
note: Welcome to my third Cillian Character fanfic, hope you like it :) I love plots like Shutter Island and tried to do something similar here & it‘s also a story about parasocial relationships and unrequited love.
summary: The reader is hopelessly in love with her boss Robert Fischer, but he doesn't seem to be interested in her. By an unexpected coincidence, they meet in the city and his sudden intense affection for her confuses her. The reader begins to suspect that something is wrong, and when she finally uncovers the truth about her encounters with Fischer the heartbreaking reality is revealed to her.
word count: 5000+
Masterlist
warnings: mental illness, depression
you don‘t have to watch the movie to understand the story.
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It was just half past seven when she heard the familiar footsteps in the corridor approaching the office next door. A key was inserted into the lock and a moment later the door opened.
Glancing around to make sure her workspace wasn't too messy, she threw an old paper cup into the bin before her boss poked his head through the door.
"Good morning, Miss YN, so busy already?" he asked with a tired smile. "It doesn't reflect well on me as a boss to have my assistant here before me. I'm sorry, Monday mornings are always a bit stressful for me."
"No problem, Mr Fischer. I've already sorted the mail for you, it's on your desk," she said kindly, watching him as he took off his coat and hung it on the coat rack, a little damp from the rain.
"Thank you, I can count on you."
He was a very elegant, handsome man, about ten years her senior, with dark hair, blue eyes, high cheekbones and an elegant black suit. She must have stared at him a little too long, because he turned to her with a questioning smile.
Immediately her cheeks flushed and she turned back to her computer screen, but by then Mr Fischer had already approached her and placed some documents on her desk. "Please scan them all and email them to Mr Parker, he's been waiting for them for days," he said to her. It would be best if we sat down together later and quickly discuss my tasks for today, there is a lot to do. If I'm not mistaken, I have a client meeting at three today.
"At two, sir," she corrected him, handing him a planner with today's date thickly underlined.
He started to grin. "You see, this is exactly why I have an assistant."
Fischer disappeared into his office.
She sighed slightly and went to work scanning the documents. She had been working for Fischer Morrow, one of the world's largest energy companies, for barely a month. Their headquarters had moved from Sydney to London after the death of their CEO, Maurice Fischer. Her current boss, Robert Fischer, was a direct descendant.
She liked Fischer Jr a lot. He was friendly, supportive and didn't get angry when things didn't go to plan. But in some ways he always seemed so unapproachable. For example, he never talked about his private life and YN had no idea who he was outside of work. Then again, he was her boss and his private life was none of her business. But deep down she admitted that she was very interested in him.
The days flew by and she finally felt as if she had been employed by Fischer Morrow for an eternity. But who Robert Fischer really was remained a mystery.
One evening, as she was about to leave, she quietly opened the door to Fischer's office. He was sitting in front of his computer, his chin resting on his hands. "Have a nice evening, Mr Fischer." He jumped slightly, obviously not having heard her come in, but then he smiled. "Thank you, you too."
YN looked at her watch. "It's almost half past seven, don't you want to finish your work soon? Don't you have a wife waiting for you?"
Mr Fischer shrugged. "I've been divorced for a few years now, and I only see my daughter at weekends. The only thing waiting for me is an empty, dark apartment."
YN held her breath. It was the first time he had told her anything about his private life. But in the same second, he seemed to regret his words.
"No one waits for me either," she said. "Except for my cat."
Fischer raised an eyebrow with a smile. "At least that's something."
Finally she said goodbye and left the office. But all the way home, she kept thinking about her conversation with Fischer.
Was he perhaps as lonely as she was?
Tired, YN lay in bed. She didn't even have the strength to change her clothes and remove her make up. Although she wanted nothing more than to get out of that itchy, uncomfortable dress and tights. A soft meow sounded beside her and she felt something soft brush against her arm. Smiling, she pulled the cat closer and buried her face in its white fur.
Since leaving her small home village for London, she had no one to talk to. Her old friends had all left her and moved on with their own lives. Robert Fischer was the only one she spoke to regularly, though it was far from a friendship. With the cat in her arms, she turned to the other side. But what if she had feelings for him?
Maybe she should tell him. But wasn't that too much? He was still her boss, after all, and there were probably plenty of women who were interested in him.
She quickly pushed the thought aside and closed her eyes.
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Robert Fischer turned curiously when he heard the quick clicking of heels in the corridor. Panting, his assistant opened the door and dropped her bag on the desk.
"Miss YN, are you okay?"
Her hair was messy, her coat hung loosely over her shoulders as if she hadn't had time to put it on properly, and her lipstick was a little smudged.
"I… overslept," she said, panting. "I'm sorry."
Fischer looked at her with a raised eyebrow. "It's okay. But it shouldn't happen again."
"Of course not, sir," she replied immediately.
He quickly disappeared into his office and returned with a thick stack of papers and a folder.
"Would you be so kind as to sort these documents alphabetically for me? They've been on my desk for days. I know it's not an exciting task."
She nodded and took the heavy pile from his hand. Fischer thanked her and hurried back to his office.
Sighing, she set to work. But with each page, she found her concentration fading and her mind wandering. Her head ached, her eyes burned and she felt incredibly tired. But she tried not to show it, kept working as hard as she could and finally put the sorted file back on Mr Fischer's desk.
Exhausted, she walked back to her office, sat down in her chair and buried her face in her hands. She was shivering and her ears were ringing. Was it because she had forgotten to take her medicine today?
"Miss YN?" she heard her boss' voice.
She turned immediately and forced a smile. "Yes, Mr Fischer?"
"I have an job interview scheduled for ten, would you be so kind as to prepare the conference room for it?"
"Of course, sir."
He stopped halfway and looked at Victoria questioningly. "Are you okay? You look so pale." She nodded quickly, forcing a smile. "Everything's fine, Mr Fischer." Fischer looked at her, raised his eyebrows, then handed her the key to the meeting room and disappeared back into his office.
A strange feeling of dizziness spread through her head as she walked down the long corridor leading to the conference rooms.
What was wrong with her today?
When it started to get dark outside, YN finally turned off her computer and grabbed her bag. The strange dizziness had improved during the day, leading her to conclude that she simply needed a break from work. Fortunately, it was Friday. She knocked gently on Fischer's door, as she always did before leaving, to wish him a pleasant evening. He was sitting there as usual, his chin resting on his hand, deep in thought. He glanced up briefly and nodded politely, noticing her in the doorway. He looked stunningly handsome today, even after this long and exhausting day.
"I didn't ask you how the job interviews went this morning," she asked curiously. Fischer shook his head. "Terribly," he said. "None of these people I'd want in my company." His voice was cold and dismissive, and for a moment she thought he was referring to her, even though she knew he meant someone else. She smiled awkwardly and shrugged slightly. "Well, maybe the next one will be better."
Fischer remained silent.
"Have a good weekend, Mr Fischer."
"You too, Miss YN." He gave her a friendly smile.
"Do you have any plans for the weekend? I know a good restaurant, would you like to join me?" The moment she realised what she had just said, she bit her lip, her face turning red. Had she completely lost her mind? She desperately hoped he hadn't heard what she'd asked, but it was too late. She could see Fischer raise his eyebrows in confusion and stare at her.
"No, Miss YN. I'm not interested. I keep my work and personal life strictly separate." She immediately looked down, embarrassed. Thoughts raced through her mind like a rollercoaster and her cheeks felt as if they were on fire. "I'm sorry, Mr Fischer, I shouldn't have asked you that." She finally grabbed her bag and left the office without another word, feeling Fischer's gaze on her back.
It was drizzling lightly as she walked through the busy streets of London. The cold air did her good and she felt her head clear a little.
Why had she done this? It had been clear from the start that a man like him would reject her. But the words had come out of her mouth as if she had completely lost control. She felt a tear roll down her cheek and quickly wiped it away. She didn't want to have a mental breakdown in public, even though it felt like Fischer had torn her heart into a thousand pieces. Suddenly the strange dizziness returned and her vision blurred slightly. The sounds of London became muffled, as if she were incredibly far away.
Miss YN, wait!" she suddenly heard a voice behind her that seemed to be getting closer.
She turned around. The dizziness had disappeared as quickly as it had appeared. Startled, her eyes widened as she saw the person in front of her - it was Mr Fischer. What was he doing here? Had he followed her? She tried to speak, but all she could manage was a hoarse stutter.
"I wanted to apologize, Miss YN. It wasn't very nice of me to brush you off like that," he said with a gentle laugh. His voice sounded strangely different, softer than usual. Wordless and spellbound, she stared into the pair of light blue eyes before her, apologetic and gentle in their expression. She knew Mr Fischer had blue eyes, but she'd never noticed how incredibly bright they were.
"It's okay, don't worry," she managed to say, her knees shaking with excitement.
"No, no, Miss YN. I'll think about the dinner offer, okay? Just because we work together doesn't mean we can't have dinner together, does it?" Fischer suggested, and she nodded slowly, then smiled.
Why this sudden change of mind?
"Well, see you soon." He waved goodbye and YN, still completely confused, raised her hand in response. But before she could form another thought, he had disappeared into the crowd.
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Carefully, YN pressed the shutter on her old camera, focusing the lens on the small lake in front of her. Satisfied, she lowered it. She was confident that this snapshot would turn out well. This park was a place she often visited to clear her head and pursue her passion, photography, as it offered many beautiful subjects. Especially now, in autumn, when the trees were covered with colourful leaves and the silence was slowly descending, with only the occasional pedestrian passing by.
Her dizziness had eased a little, but not completely. Fortunately, it was Saturday and she had the whole day to herself. YN sat down on a bench under a tree that looked to be at least a hundred years old.
She sat there for a while, lost in thought. Eventually she got up and made her way to the West End. The streets of London were noisy and busy as she walked, looking for a warm place in a café and something to eat. Crowds of people rushed past her, music played from somewhere and loud voices filled the air. Exhausted, she rubbed her temples. Maybe she should have stayed home and rested.
Suddenly she held her breath as she spotted a familiar face in the crowd. Dark hair, high cheekbones and piercing blue eyes. Fischer. But before she could think, he had already noticed her and started to smile at her.
"Miss YN, how nice to see you! What a coincidence!"
It was the first time she had seen him in his casual clothes rather than one of his business suits. But this was no less elegant and stylish. He was wearing a well-fitting black coat, a grey knitted jumper underneath, black trousers and leather shoes. It was so strange to see him outside his office at Fischer Morrow Company. Suddenly he didn't seem so unapproachable and distant anymore.
"What are you doing here?" she asked curiously.
He paused for a moment. He seemed to be considering whether or not to tell her.
"I brought my little girl to her friend's house for a sleepover. She's been asking me for weeks because her mum won't let her."
"So you're a cool dad," YN replied.
Fischer rolled his eyes. "I'm the one who lets her get away with everything. We had to turn back twice because she realised she had forgotten her favourite stuffed animal and her toothbrush."
She laughed softly. In a strange way, she enjoyed him talking so openly about his life.
"Oh wow, that looks amazing. It's quite old, isn't it?" Mr Fischer pointed to the camera around her neck. "From the 1960s. But it takes incredibly good pictures for that time," she explained. Fischer seemed genuinely impressed. "Do you have more like it?"
"I have quite a few. From the 50s to the 80s, actually, and of course some modern digital cameras. Photography has been my passion since I was a child," she explained. Fischer looked at her with an interested smile. "So there's actually film in there that needs to be developed?" she nodded in confirmation. "Some photo shops still offer that service, yes."
Mr Fischer seemed genuinely interested in her hobby, asking her questions about it as they walked side by side through the streets of London. She felt incredibly comfortable in his presence and hoped he wouldn't leave so soon. Finally he pointed to the camera again. "Would you take a picture of me, please? I'd like a 60's style photo of myself." YN's heart began to race in her chest. What had he just said?
"Of course, Mr Fischer," she replied nervously. "Robert. My name is Robert," he replied. Suddenly, she stopped in her tracks, completely surprised. No one at Fischer Morrow Ltd called him by his first name, and outside the company she had only heard his uncle, Peter Browning, call him Robert.
"Let's find a nice spot for the photo," he said, letting his gaze wander until it settled on a beautiful fountain.
Carefully, she picked up the camera, took a few steps back and held it directly in front of Robert's face. "Smile, please," she instructed him, finally pressing the shutter.
A pedestrian who had just passed them looked at YN with a confused expression and shook his head. Frowning, she looked after him before carefully tucking the camera into her handbag.
Are you hungry?" asked Robert. "We could go to a restaurant."
Surprised, she looked at him. "I don't know…" she said hesitantly, chewing her lower lip. In fact, she had never expected to be asked such a question.
He looked at her with raised eyebrows and she could see the disappointment in his eyes. Finally, she worked up the courage to say what was on her mind.
"It's just… To be honest, you told me yesterday that you were someone who kept your work and personal life strictly separate. Maybe it would be better if we did. After all, I'm your employee."
As much as she wanted to spend time with him, she was afraid of developing any more feelings for him. Robert nodded slowly and shoved his hands into his coat pockets.
"I really like you. I just never wanted to show it, that's why I was so reserved with you and told you I wasn't interested in you".
She closed her eyes and let out a sigh as a ton of thoughts went through her head. Robert finally nodded at her with a slightly disappointed look on his face and turned on his heel.
"Wait!" she called after him.
He stopped immediately and looked at her hopefully.
"Let's give it a try, shall we?"
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YN… is that a French name?"
Robert's voice sounded slightly tipsy as he grinned curiously at her, twirling his wine glass casually in his hands. The plate in front of him was empty and he had now carefully placed the cutlery on it, waiting for a waitress to take it away.
He had taken her to a rather fancy and expensive place, the walls were dark wood panelling, the chairs were covered in red velvet and soft jazz music was playing on one of the radios. Robert looked hauntingly beautiful that night. His skin seemed incredibly soft and flawless, his jawline even more prominent, and his blue eyes shone almost ghostly in the dim light, almost like he wasn’t real…
She smiled, nodded and took a sip from her glass. "My father is French. I grew up in France but moved to England when I was 15."
He nodded with interest, rubbing his chin with his forefinger.
"And you? I heard you're Australian," she asked curiously.
Robert laughed and ran a hand through his dark hair. "Well, my accent makes it obvious."
YN blushed and looked down at her plate. What a stupid question.
But Robert didn't seem to mind too much, because he started talking about his life in Sydney, how he had finally moved to London after his father's death, and she listened with interest.
But suddenly he stopped and looked at her thoughtfully. "But I'm probably just boring you."
YN immediately shook her head. "No, you're not," she told him. "I find it really interesting to find out all this about you."
At that moment a waitress came to their table with a smile and asked YN in a friendly tone if she had enjoyed her meal. But the waitress paid no attention to Robert, YN noticed with surprise. Perhaps she was just being extra polite to the lady.
YN's date pulled out a black leather purse and rummaged through it. Quickly, YN pulled a few notes out of the bag and handed them to the waitress. "Keep the change," she said.
The waitress looked at her with wide eyes, "Thank you, ma'am," she said gratefully, "have a nice evening.
Then she turned and left the table.
"You didn't have to do that," Robert said. "As a gentleman, it's actually my job to pay."
She shook her head in amusement. "I bet that's never happened to you before, has it?"
Robert shook his head and took the last drink from his glass. There was a moment of silence between them.
"All right. So what's the plan for the rest of the evening?"
She looked at him in surprise. As soon as he said the words, she felt a tingle in her stomach.
The church clock struck twelve as she crossed the street hand in hand with Robert. It was freezing, and she had pulled her scarf so far up her face that only her eyes and nose were visible. Her date looked at her with amusement. "Are you going to rob a bank?" he asked, laughing out loud.
"Shh!" she snapped at him, putting her fingers to his lips. "You'll wake up the whole neighbourhood."
Although it was quite dark and she could only make out Robert, she knew that his typical mischievous grin was back on his face. She pulled him firmly behind her until they reached the small white building.
"Is this where you live?" Robert asked.
She put her finger to his lips for a second time until Robert stopped talking and looked silently into her eyes. Her heart was pounding in her chest as she finally stood on her toes, put her arms around his neck and placed her lips on his. Robert returned the kiss without hesitation and gently pulled her into his arms. YN could hardly believe what was happening. It was everything she had secretly wanted for months. They remained like this for a moment before she finally let go of him and reached for her key.
She felt for Robert's upper arm and finally pulled him into her apartment, closing the door behind him. She immediately wrapped her arms around him and began to kiss him again. His lips were a little cold and tasted of wine. Together they stumbled backwards into her bedroom, taking off his coat, which she tossed carelessly to the floor.
Robert's fingers stroked carefully along her hip and fumbled a little with her belt while she was busy planting little kisses on his neck. With slightly trembling hands she pulled his jumper over his head and Robert took her hand.
"Are you nervous?" he wanted to know. She remained silent.
"Don't be," he whispered softly into her ear, taking her in his arms again and pulling her onto the bed. Breathing softly, she clung to his chest, leaned back and finally closed her eyes as she felt his warm skin against hers.
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The sun shone through the half-open curtains, creating a narrow, bright streak across the floor. Blinking, she opened her eyes and stretched. But immediately a sharp pain shot through her head again and she held her forehead tiredly. Confused, she sat up and tried to remember what had happened yesterday.
But when she heard soft breathing next to her, she turned quickly and all the events of last night came back to her. Smiling, she looked over at Robert, snuggled up next to her in her beige blanket, sleeping peacefully. Tenderly stroking his messy hair, she lay down beside him again and then began to caress his chest. Perhaps what they had done was wrong. After all, they were two people who should never have fallen in love. But it had happened, and it felt so right. They remained in this position for some time, Robert asleep and YN lost in thought.
Her eyes swept through the bedroom until they settled on a small white box on her dresser. Quickly sitting up, she reached for it and put a small pill into her mouth. Eventually, Robert began to move a little beside her, opening his eyes tiredly. Smiling broadly, she gave him a small kiss on the tip of his nose.
"Good morning," she whispered.
"Good morning," Robert murmured in a raspy morning voice.
"Did you sleep well?" she asked.
"Yes, wonderfully." He yawned loudly and took her into his arms as she laid her head lovingly on his shoulder.
"Wait, what time is it?" he suddenly wanted to know.
"Quarter past ten, why do you ask?" she replied.
"Shit," Robert muttered as he let go of the hug, jumped out of the bed and started to pick up his clothes, which were strewn all over the floor.
"Wait, wait, where are you going?" she asked, looking at him in confusion.
"I should've picked up my daughter by now," he replied, hurrying to get dressed.
Sighing, she pulled the blanket around her a little tighter. "Can't it wait? Can't you stay for breakfast?"
"I'm sorry, but I'm sure she's already waiting for me.“ Robert dodged her questions, grabbing his coat on the floor and sighing when he saw her disappointed look.
He walked slowly towards her, stroking her chin with his finger, and finally whispered: "We can catch up later." Then he put a soft kiss on her lips before turning around and disappearing through the door. She sank back into the pillows and pulled the blanket over her head.
The rest of Sunday flew by. Mostly because her mind was on Robert and she could hardly wait to see him again tomorrow at work. She had probably never looked forward to a Monday in her life as much as she did that day.
The next morning, YN carefully applied her lipstick and looked at herself in the bathroom mirror. She noticed that the collar of her white blouse was a little crooked and quickly adjusted it. She wanted to look her best for Robert today, so he wouldn't change his mind and lose interest in her.
Humming softly, she put on her black high heels and grabbed her handbag. She quickly put another pill into her mouth and put the box in her bag. Her headache was completely gone and her head finally felt clear and light again. In a good mood, she breathed in the fresh morning air and made her way to work.
Her heels clicked on the floor as she walked down the familiar corridor of Fischer Morrow. The lights were on in Robert's office. She ran a final hand through her hair, smoothed her blouse and opened the door to her own office.
The air was stuffy and hot. Coughing, she ran to the window and opened it.
"Good morning, Miss YN, I hope you had a nice weekend," a familiar voice sounded from behind her.
Startled, she turned to see Robert's face as he stuck his head through the door, as he always did.
Why didn't he call her by her first name? Confused, she stared at him, trying to form a clear sentence. "But… But… we spent it together…" her voice finally broke. Her head suddenly hurt again.
He seemed so different again. Not the Robert she had spent the weekend with, not the one who had apologised for being too rude to her, not the one who had made her laugh and told her about his life. He seemed more like the one she had worked with for months, the one who never revealed anything about himself.
"Miss YN? I haven't seen you since Friday, when you left my office after… asking me that question."
Her heart almost stopped. Suddenly her knees gave way and she sank to the floor.
"Are you okay? Are you feeling unwell?" Concerned, he bent down to her. "Do you want to go home and rest?"
She nodded slightly and wiped a tear from her eye, which had turned her fingers black from the carefully applied mascara. Then she got up and left the office.
At home, she lay motionless on her bed, tears streaming down her cheeks. She couldn't think straight and her throat felt incredibly dry. The door to her room, which was only ajar, opened gently and something small and white slipped through. Sniffling, she stretched out her arms and lifted her cat onto the bed.
Everything that had happened that weekend had been fake. She had made it all up. And all of this happened because she had forgotten to take the pills she was taking for her delusions. Robert hadn't really followed her on Friday evening; it was all a figment of her imagination. While his real self was still sitting in the office, probably not thinking about her at all. Everything suddenly made sense: why Robert looked a bit different, why his voice sounded different, the waitress who ignored him on Saturday because she couldn’t actually see him, the pedestrian who gave her a confused look because she was talking to herself while taking the photo.
The photo.
She immediately got up, put on her shoes and walked to the photo shop where she had left the film to be developed. Her heart raced as the staff handed her the envelope with the photos. Trembling, she finally grabbed the Saturday night photo, without looking at it herself, and held it up to the staff's face. "What do you see?" she asked.
The young man looked at her in confusion, but remained polite. "The fountain at Piccadilly Circus. Great picture, it turned out really nice."
"Anything else?" she asked.
"No, ma'am," he replied, and it felt like a slap in her face. Fischer had never been there with her. Only her lonely and sad mind had led her to believe that he was interested in her and loved her. Tears welled in her eyes and she left the shop without another word. When she got home, she immediately took the white box of pills from her handbag, rushed into the kitchen, opened the box and poured the pills into the bin.
Crying and with burning eyes, she finally lay down on her bed and buried her head in the pillow as her cat purred softly beside her. She must have stayed like that for hours, as the sun began to set again outside her window. When she finally lifted her head and wiped the tears from her face, she saw a dark-haired man sitting beside her bed, looking at her lovingly with his pale blue eyes. A smile suddenly appeared on her face and she began to laugh, pulling the man into a tight embrace.
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some explanations because i know that story is kinda mind-fucking:
• Is Robert Fischer all a creation of the readers mind?
- No he actually exists, he’s her boss and she‘s in love with him, so she imagines dating him.
• When is he real, when is he fake?
- The version Robert Fischer in the office is real, he turns her down when she asks him out, leaving YN heartbroken. The moment she leaves the office, she starts to imagine what it would be like if he apologised to her, so the man who follows her is just her imagination. The real Robert Fischer is still in his office at Fischer-Morrow.
When she visits the city on Saturday and meets "Robert" and goes on a date with him, it's also just her imagination. That's why other people react to her with confusion, because she's basically talking to herself all the time. On Sunday morning, when she wakes up next to him, he's still fake. When she takes her pills, he quickly "disappears" (he says he has to pick up his daughter...) because they stop her delusions.
On Monday morning, when she gets back to her office, the real Robert Fischer is there again, who hadn't seen her since he had rejected her on Friday evening.
When she gets home, she throws away her pills and her delusions begin again. The man who sat next to her on the bed and comforted her is again the imaginary version of Robert.
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chosos-mascara · 2 years
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First Date - Satoru Gojo
cw: virginity loss
Gojo learns that you're a virgin, and offers to be your first.
minors+ageless dni. 2.2k words
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When you'd had the call from Jujutsu High to say you'd gotten the job, you were ecstatic. Aspirations of becoming a teacher had been one step closer as you'd been set to shadow the first year's sensei, Gojo. Once this academic year had ended, you'd be able to tutor your own students, no longer an assistant. 
A simple traineeship - if it hadn't been for the cocky, white haired male you'd had to work with. Gojo was friendly, but seemingly infatuated with himself. Not only this, he'd often fish for compliments from you, flirting with you, and asking you to join him for dinner or drinks every chance he'd gotten, catching you alone in the mornings, or in the staff room during a break. It was hard to remain polite after what had felt to be constant nagging, but as he was your senior, you'd been softer on him than you would have been anyone else. 
The only reason you'd said yes this time had been because he'd decided to ask you in front of your students, and with their constant fussing over the pair of you (mainly Yuji and Nobara - Megumi had been somewhat oblivious), you'd agreed to shut them up. You'd thought this action of his was highly unprofessional, not wanting your personal life intertwined with the students you'd taught. 
Sitting opposite the 6'3 twenty-eight year old child, you swirled wine around the glass, taking a sip. You'd dressed nice; a black velvet dress and flats, and made an effort with your hair, a little makeup, despite not seeing this as a real date. Satoru had played the part too, wearing a pale blue button up, and shades, opposed to the blindfold he'd usually modeled. Seeing his brow raise as he opened his apartment door had caused your chest to tighten and heart to flutter, even if you wouldn't admit it.
"So," Satoru began, smile playing at the corners of his lips as he glossed over you for the twentieth time. His glasses sat midway down his nose as he peered over them, allowing you to admire the six eyes he'd inherited. "Have you ever had a man cook for you before?" He laughed, and all the mental praises that had been circling around your head had diminished, eyes rolling. You slouched back in the chair you'd been sat on, annoyed expression only egging Satoru on. "I bet you've never seen a man as charming as me, huh?" 
You sighed, moving upward to stand, looking over to the couch where your bag had sat, looking between that and the door. In your deliberation, the male mirrored the movement, placing a hand on your shoulder to bring your gaze back to him. "I'm sorry," He sighed, lanky frame slouching, though still towering well above your own. "Please, sit." Satoru's expression had changed, morphing into that of seriousness. 
If not for that detail, you'd have left in the moment. But with his relaxed expression and the genuine sentence he'd finally spoken, it was difficult to decline.  "It was a stupid way of me asking if you were seeing anyone - if this is in fact a date." Hearing this tone of voice from Satoru was unusual, though appreciated. You'd softened at his change in demeanor, wanting to hear more of the authentic thoughts he'd had, not the jokes. You'd had faith that behind the brainless exterior he'd put up, there was something there. 
"I've never been on a date." You admitted, a little too honest for the presence you were in, mentally cursing the two glasses of wine you'd thrown back while listening to him babble on. Placing the glass back to your lips, you'd made an attempt at a third.  "What?" Satoru sat back in his seat, watching as the red liquid disappeared from the tumbler you'd had, looking at you in disbelief. "Are you joking?" 
Being treated like an adult by him was new, his usual condescending tone seemingly retired with your threats to leave. You shook your head, placing the almost empty glass back down to have your hands fumble over one another beneath the wood. "I've never had a boyfriend." The sentence rolled out of your mouth as a hoarse whisper, your throat clearing shortly afterward, filling the awkward silence that had now lingered between the pair of you. Your eyes remained on the empty plates before you both, remembering the meal he'd presented to you only twenty minutes ago.  "Huh." Satoru lifted the beer bottle to his lips, taking a sip. Your stomach churned, knowing he'd probably just use this as another means to tease you, though from his mannerisms you'd understood that within this moment, he wasn't going to speak ill of you. Satoru had only one question on his mind, though not entirely appropriate, he couldn't help but ask;
"So, you're a virgin?" 
You held your breath, eyes widening as they met with his through the small black circles sitting at the ridge of his nose. Your lack of answer had exposed you, a wash of heat rising through you with embarrassment. But, the male before you wasn't jumping to make any one-liners, or making his attempts at getting a rise from you, only sitting in awe. The familiar smirk came back as the news sunk in, pulling the shades from his face and folding the legs inward, placing them down beside the empty bottle he'd finished off. 
"I can help you with that." The sentence tumbled from him, as his eyes flickered up from the wood between you to your shocked expression. If you'd had any breath left in you before, it had now dissipated. You were sure he'd be able to sense your rapid heartbeat; the man read people like a book. 
Gojo leaned across the table to tuck a loose strand behind your ear, before standing. "I'll go gentle, don't worry." You'd known the words were somewhat heartfelt, even if he'd said them through the usual mischievous glare he'd worn. You followed him anxiously to his bedroom, already illuminated by the dim lamp beside the double bed it had housed. You'd assumed he'd expected sex as the room had smelled nice, a soft ceder-wood scent in the air from what you'd assumed to be the candle burning on the desk in the corner. It was kept neat, sheets crisp and clearly yet to be slept in. Your heart fluttered as you'd thought of him preparing the room just for you. 
He sat on the mattress, legs bent over the side as his feet met the floor beneath. He held out his arms, gesturing you over. Shaky breaths left you as you straddled his lap, his arms curling around to hold your body in place, and to comfort your edging nerves.  "Don't be so nervous." His request was hummed against your cheek before he placed a kiss upon it, then another. You helplessly turned your head to the side, allowing his lips access to your neck, his hands bringing you closer to press against his chest as he'd sucked at your skin. You gasped, body jolting when he'd nicked at the base of your neck with his teeth, earning a soft chuckle to fan across the wet skin.  "So sensitive." Another muffled comment against you, he brought himself back to look at your face, moving a hand from your back to place delicately over your cheek.  "I said I'd be gentle, didn't I?" 
His mouth was on yours, thumb rubbing circles over your warmed cheek. You struggled to kiss back at first, nausea in the pit of your stomach, but within a few seconds you'd managed to compose yourself, mouth working against his. You'd never been able to feel so much passion from another person before, the feeling igniting a fire within you. Satoru groaned when he felt you relax, your trust in him endearing. 
You could feel yourself growing wetter, usually something you'd achieve through adult sites, never a real-life encounter. You'd hoped he would make a move soon, yourself being unable to admit your wants to the man before you. 
Thankfully, he pulled back, watching as you tilted your head to lean into his hand. He took a moment to admire you in this trance, dick hardening at your slack body language. Satoru lifted you as he stood, turning to place your back on the mattress, head hitting pillows. You'd tensed up realizing what his next moves were, bare thighs spread open by his hands. He smirked at you, eyes tracing over the panties you'd been wearing, while his fingers made quick work at unbuttoning the shirt he'd worn. He slipped the sleeves off and thrown the garment on the floor, kneeling between your bent legs. Your eyes widened as you trailed over his exposed torso. He'd had a few scars tracing over the toned chest and stomach he'd worked hard to have. All hidden under his usual uniform, leaving the general population to be completely oblivious to what had been beneath the fabric.  
He unbuttoned his trousers, slipping them to the knees he was perched upon, leaving only the pair of black briefs he'd sported, a bulge evident. It was hard to tare your eyes from the body he'd presented to you, unable to deny the fact you'd felt attracted to him. All the teasing and flirting he'd done with you had been in preparation for tonight, both of you surprised with the turn it had taken. You didn't think you'd give up your virginity on a first date, with Satoru of all people. 
He traced the hem of the dress you'd worn, lifting the skirt upward. You complied with his movements, raising your arms to allow him to pull the fabric above your head, tossing to where his own shirt had been. You breathed in, Satoru being the first person to see your body in this way. He pulled his fingers down your stomach, letting them hook into each corner of your panties as he slid them down your parted legs. You tried to ignore the self-consciousness you'd felt building within you as he peered at your exposed cunt, but he was completely enamored with you.  "Pretty." He whispered, leaning forward to lay above you, a position you'd known to be missionary from the content you'd seen online, though never being in it yourself. 
"Want me to use protection?" He questioned nose nuzzling into your cheek. You nodded, not being on hormonal birth control because you hadn't needed to be. He didn't complain, just reached to the bedside table to retrieve a condom, opening the packet up to roll it down onto himself. You laid, face to ceiling, waiting for him to make a move. You'd assumed he'd finished wrapping himself up as you felt something press against you. 
He edged into you. You covered your face with the back of your hand as your eyes squeezed shut, not used to the splitting sensation radiating between your legs.  "You're doing so well." Satoru's encouragement caused you to whimper, somehow his words had aided in your experience, heightening the arousal through your stomach.  "Relax, baby." His voice was low, in your ear as you tried to do as he said, starting with your face until you slowly eased up, the looseness allowing him movement within you. A trembling breath left you, focusing on the fullness his cock had given your cunt. 
He remained still for a few moments, allowing you to feel for his size, pussy stretched over his hardened member, before finally beginning the slow roll of his hips, pulling out, and in, hum on his tongue. You were so tight on him, squeezing his dick relentlessly with gummy walls, soft pants through parted lips as your eyes fluttered open, finally looking to peer at his gaze. 
He leaned forward to bring his lips to yours once more, building up a pace within you as his tender kisses comforted you. Your ragged breaths turned into moans as you'd finally accommodated to his size, pain turning to pleasure. Your hand gripped at his bicep, back arching while you'd pulled back from him. He simply basked in the show you'd put on beneath him, cherishing your warmth and openness that he'd understood had just been for him. Knowing he was your first sent shivers down his spine, a protective feeling throughout himself with the awareness this would be a memory that you'd have forever. 
 "Are you doing okay?" Satoru spoke, his voice wavering as you'd clenched over him again. You nodded, sigh leaving your lips. He'd felt close, your tightness being something he hadn't been used to, his cock pulsing as he bullied into you.  "Want me to cum?" He wanted to leave the answer up to you, but with sloppy thrusts, didn't think he'd be able to stop himself if you'd said no.  "Please-" You gasped as he pushed in deeper, a grunt leaving him. He pressed his face into your neck, inhaling the sweet perfume you'd sprayed over yourself before arriving, a scent he wouldn't let himself forget. 
You'd been in a giddy trance, not remembering how he'd pulled out and discarded of the condom, or how he'd gotten into bed beside you, living the covers over you, but appreciating the feeling of his bare body behind yours.  "You did so well~" His praises weren't lost on you as you hummed, eyes closed with goosebumps rising on your skin, remembering the sensation of your colleague's cock inside you. 
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fely-v · 1 year
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I did not forget about the promise I made to myself to embody some of the ideas in the post from the link below.
https://www.tumblr.com/dahyeltal/718137638707740673/spones-day-is-on-june-26th-looking-for-some?source=share
I took the third idea from the "General" section and now I present my little sketch on this topic. I must warn you that English is not my native language and therefore I hope that the translator has done his job.
***
- I didn't know you played three-dimensional chess, Doctor.
- I also play regular chess, Mr. Spock. It's just that I usually didn't see the need to participate in the game with you. After all, it's not my privilege.
He moved one of the pieces to the upper tier. Spock raised an eyebrow in surprise.
- A privilege, Doctor?"
- Well, maybe you can call it something else. Yeah, just admit it. Are you really playing on this ship with anyone other than Jim? - McCoy tilted his head with interest, looking into the Vulcan's eyes. The doctor's lips twitched slightly in a smile
- Most of the people here either do not play chess, or are not ready to play with you specifically, because they know your abilities. I used to think they were doing it for fear of embarrassing themselves. Eventually, you will smash them to pieces. However, looking at your communication with the captain, I realized that you need not so much the game itself as your opponent. For you, chess is a good reason to devote time to communication and socialization, and for Jim it is a great release. And as much as I'd like to rub your nose in, Mr. Spock, I have no desire to deprive you and Jim of this little friendly ritual. Although, to be honest, sometimes my hands itched from the fact that I wanted to move a couple of pieces for someone's victory.
Spock silently considered everything that was said, while Bones bit his lip and considered his move. He found it illogical to argue with the doctor now. Considering that his words were not devoid of meaning, as well as illogical metaphors. Spock had never before paid attention to the fact that he always preferred to spend the game with the captain rather than with any other officer. Although there were certainly avid chess players on the board. He never imagined that one day, for example, Petty Officer Kendall Rumer would be sitting with him on the other side of the board. But even less did he expect that here and now his opponent in chess would be Dr. McCoy. Games with the captain always seemed fruitful to him, no matter how many rounds he won or lost. Inside, he always felt satisfied.
- I think you're right, Doctor. - Spock broke the silence, removing the opponent's piece from the board, - However, I should note that if I knew about your abilities, then you could join this, as you put it, "ritual". I don't think it would have disrupted our communication with the captain. I find it illogical to hide my potential.
- It's just that you've never asked about him, Mr. Spock. And since we're talking about potential... - With a precise movement, McCoy removed the white piece from the board, replacing it with a black one, and looked at the Vulcan with undisguised triumph in his blue eyes.
- Fascinating, - was all the senior assistant said, realizing that in about four moves the doctor would checkmate him with a probability of eighty point and fifty-six hundredths of a percent. In just one game, McCoy was able to transform in front of his eyes from a man who had everything written on his face into a mysterious doctor who sees and knows much more than he says.
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puddleink · 11 months
Text
The Assistant Part 1
Erwin Smith x Male!Reader
Warnings: shameless use of (y/n) sorry, flirting, workplace au, slight sexual tension.
Notes: First fanfic I've written and posted in a WHILE so I apologise ahead of time haha. If you like this fic I will post the rest of it.
Words: 1.8k
(Y/N) admitted to himself that the one main weakness of working for Scouts Agency Limited was running through the rush hour people traffic to arrive at the office on time. As he ran past the friendly door guard and receptionist, he patted down his bag to make sure he had his key card and phone. With the cup holder balanced in one hand, (Y/N) somehow managed to scan his card in the lift and stood patiently while the lift moved upwards quickly.
“Right I have Mr Smith’s coffee, the report for Mr Ackerman’s team and the list of American clients coming to Mr Smith’s evening meeting,” (Y/N) said to himself just as the lift dings and the brown wooden doors opened.
(Y/N) loved how empty the office was when he got to work. As an assistant, he was required to get to the office a half hour early to set up his boss’ office and honestly, he did not mind it. The floor smelt like disinfectant and he could type away without people asking him to get coffee and make copies. 
(Y/N) was always thankful for his job. The people were nice and he had the slightest crush on his boss, Executive Manager Erwin Smith. But of course, this was not just (Y/N)’s fault. Erwin was a very flirty boss.
Very 
(Y/N) often thought to himself that if it was anyone else flirting with him in such a manner as Erwin was then he would be straight on the phone with HR. But Erwin was different. He was exactly (Y/N)’s type. Strong, caring, smart and extremely fit.
It was not uncommon for Erwin to come in late some days after coming straight from the gym, and (Y/N) savoured those days. His ashy blonde hair slightly wet from the gym showers, his muscles bulging from his dress shirt and Erwin’s sauve concentrated face when he tied his tie. 
(Y/N) repeatedly fantasised about that tie…
The sound of people talking and moving about the office floor snapped (Y/N) out of his daydream, and he got back to logging into his laptop and organising his and Erwin’s daily agenda.
As the clock ticked over to 9 o’clock Mr Smith glided into the office and quickly shot a welcoming smile to (Y/N).
“Good morning (Y/N), how are you today?” Erwin flashed his cocky smile at (Y/N) as he set down his bag and coat.
(Y/n) returned the smile as he stood up and walked over to his senior’s desk. He gently placed the coffee in front of him as well as Erwin’s daily itinerary.
“I’m doing well today, very happy it’s Friday,” he replied but he knew the statement was half a lie. He disliked Fridays as he knew it would be 3 days before he would see Erwin again.
As mentioned before, (Y/N) did like his job.
Erwin looked up at his assistant with a smirk, which resulted in a deep blush forming on (Y/N)’s face. Erwin took a swig of his favourite coffee order as the embarrassed assistant almost ran back to his desk.
They sat in happy silence until it got close to midday. 
As soon as the small clock in the corner of his laptop turned to 12 o’clock, (Y/N) shot out of his seat, notepad in hand, and walked over to his boss again.
“Excuse me, Sir,” (Y/N) softly spoke which was met with the kind blue eyes he had fallen for.
“Yes, (Y/N).” Erwin closed his laptop, giving the shorter man his full attention.
“It is time I went to fetch your lunch, Sir, what do you fancy today?” (Y/N) asked looking straight down at his notepad to avoid getting lost in his boss’ eyes.
“Mmh,” the larger male hummed while thinking. He wanted to avoid the obvious joke he could make, however, you could not say he was not tempted. However he did look at the subordinate up and down, he was only human after all.
In the beginning, the flirting started just as a way to get some laughs out of his new assistant or to break the ice, but after Erwin saw how (Y/N) would stutter and blush after such comments, the sincere flirting began. Unfortunately, (Y/n) was oblivious to this.
“Depends…” Erwin said gently. “What can you offer me Mr (L/N)?” 
With this comment (Y/N) could feel his heart jump out of his chest and almost fly onto his boss’ desk in front of him.
Trying to retain his composure he starts listing off the different coffee shops and local sandwich bars with a light blush forming on his cheeks. Erwin noticed this and lightly chuckled to himself enjoying the view of his assistant in a fluster.
Erwin finally made his choice of lunch and (Y/N) quickly scurried over to his desk and picked up his bag. (Y/N) made sure to turn back to his boss to say a small goodbye and then ran out of the door making sure to hide his face.
As the lift doors close behind him, (Y/N) let out a giant sigh of relief. He truly hoped that all the flirting he received from Erwin was sincere, however (Y/N) was prone to doubt himself. 
(Y/N) slipped his earphones on as the doors opened on the desk floor and was greeted by the desk manager.
“Afternoon, Mr (L/N),” Sasha said happily, waving at the busy assistant, who returned the greeting with a smile.
“Hello Sasha, how is your day going?” (Y/N) asked stopping for a second as he did not want to appear rude to the nice girl who always made nice conversations with him. He slowly removed his headphones giving the brunette his full attention.
“Well, it is my favourite day of the year…” Sasha hinted at the assistant, leaning slightly to the side to show the colourful balloon placed behind her lightly messy desk.
(Y/N)’s heart almost fell out of his body. He tried to hide the panic on his face as he remembered the card and homemade banana bread sitting on his kitchen side.
“Oh Sasha, Happy birthday, I’m so sorry I forgot. Mr Smith has me running ragged this week,” he offered a sympathetic smile holding his breath, scared he had lost a true work friend.
The brunette laughed and waved her hand at the assistant. 
“Am I able to pop around later and drop off your card and present?” (Y/N) asked hopefully.
Sasha smiled at (Y/n) and explained that a few of her friends were coming over to her flat after work for drinks and that the assistant was welcome to join them. After a little pondering, (Y/N) agreed to drop around after work, it was a Friday after all, he could afford a few drinks with friends.
After waving goodbye to Sasha, (Y/N) swiftly made his way to the vintage cafe next to the office tower. With a happy sigh, (Y/N) stepped into the warm shop and made his way to the busy counter. After placing Mr Smith’s lunch order, the assistant picked out his own lunch meal and a drink. While he was waiting for the food to be ready, (Y/N) opened his phone and amended his calendar to going to Sasha’s that evening. 
Bing
The notification snapped (Y/N) out of his trance and he stared at the text at the top of his phone.
Is everything okay? Lunch is taking a little longer than normal. I hope you aren’t lost ;)
The text from Erwin made the assistant panic slightly, partly scared that he will be told off by his boss, and partly for the winking face staring back at him. 
More teasing? (Y/N) thought, this was the first time getting flirtation over the phone from his boss.
As soon as the food and drinks were ready, (Y/N) picked up the orders and hurried back to their shared office space, even running past Sasha. 
“I’m so sorry for being late, Sir,” the assistant said hurriedly. He put the coffee and lunch in front of his boss who gave him a smirk in return.
“So…did you get lost (Y/N)?” Erwin said cockily before picking up his sandwich and taking a bite.
“I’m sorry, Sir,” he began to explain. “I got talking to the receptionist downstairs and lost track of time, It will not happen again,” (Y/N) mumbled as he looked down at his own lunch.
“Oh?” Erwin chuckled in reply.
“Yes, it is Sasha’s birthday so we got talking, I even got invited to come to her’s for some drinks after work to celebrate,” (Y/N) continued explaining.
After finishing his sandwich, Erwin looked at his assistant while wiping his mouth and slowly licked his fingers.
“Just make sure to not drink too much, I know it’s Friday but you need to keep yourself safe,” the boss stated before opening his laptop and continuing with his work.
(Y/N) stared at Erwin with wide eyes. This was the first time that Erwin had made a comment so wholesome to him. (Y/N) admitted that he was somewhat used to and could deal with the office flirting, however, a caring comment like that through him for a loop.
After their lunch was finished, the day went as normal as every other day. Every so often, (Y/N) would stand up to get coffee for Mr Smith or run to the photocopier.
As the work day started to draw to a close, (Y/N) started to pack up his workstation, however, his boss’ smooth voice drew his attention.
“Why do they want the meeting to be held there?” Erwin muttered to himself, wiping his hair out of his bright blue eyes.
“Everything okay, Sir?” (Y/N) asked, his coat halfway on his shoulders.
“This meeting with the American clients, they have decided that they want the meeting to be at Rose Wall,” Mr Smith sighed rubbing his temple.
(Y/N) looked very shocked at his boss before walking over to his desk.
“The nightclub?” The assistant asked, looking at the documents on Erwin's desk, reading the clients’ names and details.
Erwin slightly kicked his feet out, pushing his desk chair out and turning to face the floor-length windows behind him.
“I don't know how much business we will get done in a nightclub, but I hope it goes well,” Erwin stated.
(Y/N) almost laughed lightly before straightening up. 
“...Sorry about that, Sir. But I see your anxiety, it does seem like a weird place to complete a large business deal. I am sure it will go well, your deal completion rates are the best of the company.” 
Erwin wiped his forehead and then smiled at his assistant.
“Don’t worry about me, (Y/N), go and enjoy your weekend. Say Happy Birthday to Sasha for me. Remember to be safe, I don’t want to start having to look for a new assistant on Monday.” Erwin smirked.
(Y/N) slipped his work back over his shoulder and waved goodbye to his boss.
“Good luck with the meeting tonight and have a lovely weekend, Sir.” (Y/N) smiled and headed home, Erwin's smile burning into his mind.
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thommi-tomate · 1 year
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Interview with Josip
By:FCB
Servus, Josip! You're currently in Tokyo on the Audi Summer Tour. What impressions have you already been able to gather?
It's the first time I've been to Asia, so it's very special. Tokyo is incredibly impressive. You immediately notice how clean the city is - and the people here are very polite. I was walking around the city with Leroy and Jamal on Thursday afternoon. People kept recognising us, greeting us and wanting to take selfies. Everyone was super friendly. To be able to experience the culture here like this is very nice
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Is there anything you're particularly looking forward to in the coming days?
After the game against Manchester City, I'm also very excited about the upcoming games. The Liverpool match will be a very good comparison for us. In general, we want to take the next steps here in preparation for the new season. I'm also really looking forward to Singapore. That will certainly be another new experience
You're the only native of Munich in the senior squad - what does it mean to you to play for FC Bayern?
For me, it's the fulfilment of a childhood dream. I've been a Bayern fan ever since I can remember - my father's influence on me (smiles). The fact that I've made it here is a huge thing and certainly wasn't always necessarily foreseeable
As you allude to, your career path has been a somewhat unconventional one. You played for Fürstenfeldbruck until just before your 17th birthday. Did you still dream of a career as a professional footballer back then?
The dream is always alive, of course. In my youth, there were a few times when I thought about going to FC Bayern. At first, however, I stayed at TSV 1860 because I thought I had more of a chance of making it there. Then, in the U15s, I was lagging behind a bit physically, and when it was clear that I wasn't going to stay at 1860, I went to Fürstenfeldbruck because my best mate played there. I just wanted to play football, but I never stopped believing in it
Then the move to FC Bayern happened after all...
In the U17s we played against Unterhaching with Fürstenfeldbruck, and I scored a goal and delivered an assist in a 2-2 draw. After that, I was invited to try out for Bayern - I was overjoyed. After two or three months of training with the team, the transfer worked out
You then established yourself in the FCB youth team. Is there a moment you look back on with particular fondness?
One special moment was of course the third division championship with the reserves. Nobody expected that and it was something very special. All that experience in the third division helped me a lot in my development.
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Your professional debut, your first championship, your first competitive goal - a lot has happened in the past two years...
Two years ago, I would never have thought I would experience so much in this amount of time. Of course, there are always ups and downs, including some injuries I suffered. But all in all, the past few years have been extremely positive. I also played my first few games for the Croatian national team. A few months previously, I would never have dreamt that I would play for the national team, because at that time I was still playing for the reserves.
How did you find out about your first call-up to the national team?
When I took the call from the Croatian football federation, I was in the car with my parents and my sister. My mobile phone was connected to the car and everyone was able to listen in. They told me that I would be invited to play for the senior national team. I was perplexed at first, then I looked to my right. My parents started crying, my sister was crying - it was a very emotional moment and I was very happy my family were able to experience it first-hand with me
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What role has your family played in your career?
They brought me to where I am now. My parents took on all sorts of hardships. My mother, no matter what happened, was always there for me and took care of everything. My father has always really pushed me. They've had a huge impact on me
At the World Cup last winter, you reached the semi-finals with Croatia - what did you take away from the tournament?
It was a huge experience. To come third with a small country like Croatia is just amazing. I've experienced an enormous amount of positive things in the past two years, many things I would never have dreamed of in my life
Many of your contemporaries particularly appreciate that you're hard-working. How would you characterise yourself?
Hard-working and ambitious is a good description. Of course I'm happy when others see it that way too. You can't make it in professional football without these two components, unless you're a huge talent. That wasn't necessarily the case with me and that's why I had to utilise other attributes
You're heading into your third season as a professional footballer with FC Bayern. What have you set yourself?
We want to win titles. In the past few years, the way we've been knocked out of the DFB Cup and the Champions League has always been extremely annoying. Personally, I want to stay injury-free. It's important, especially in my position, that if someone drops out, I'm ready to take my chance. My goal is to play as many games as possible. I know there's a lot of competition at Bayern. That's why you should never take it for granted when you play. I'm going in with the mindset that I'm ready when the coach needs me and that I'll make it as difficult as possible for him to do without me
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Home Care: Making a Difference in your Elder's Aging Life
Matters involving parents’ aging condition are major concerns among siblings specifically when their elders live on their own away from them and visits become a struggle because of distance. If during a visit, a parent or both of them exhibit signs of difficulties attending to their daily needs or managing even simple household routines, it is probably the right time to think of their living situation. It should also trigger you to gather the whole family and plan for the appropriate care for your elders.
Because the aging population is growing at a fast rate, elder care services are also sprouting in every corner, making it easier for you to find one just perfect for your parents’ needs. Sending them away from home to senior facilities would somehow be a viable choice especially if it would be impractical and out of the question for you and your siblings to accommodate your parents in your own home. But the thing is, most old people disapprove of living outside the comfort and familiarity of their own homes, and as much as possible, they want to preserve their independence and dignity as they age.
If this kind of situation arises, you and the rest of your family can make your parents’ aging life an uncomplicated one by discussing with them the changes that would inevitably take place. You can always opt for home care, a senior care service that provides the necessary assistance for your loved ones within the convenience of their own home.
Providing loved ones with home care
Even if you commit yourself to taking care of your elders, you’ll find it really taxing and the need for assistance is welcome especially when you must run your own errand or you need to attend to important matters. Home care provided by professional caregivers could alleviate some of your burdens, particularly with daily living tasks of bathing, grooming, eating, toileting, and even shopping. If you live far from your parents, home care gives you peace of mind that your parents have a companion and that somebody is taking care of them and attending to their needs. For as long as your parents do not experience serious health problems that require nursing homes, home care is the best option for their living accommodation.
Providing a safe and elder-friendly home
Once, the family has decided to give the elder a home care, the next thing you should consider is making the house more livable and less prone to accidents if not totally free from them. This means redesigning your parent’s house to create a living space perfect for their aging at home. Floors should be maintained with skid-free wax and if you must have rugs, make sure that they are secured with tacks. Their bathroom and toilet must have enough space to move about taking into consideration that they might need a wheelchair in the future. Mount grab bars in their bathroom, kitchen or in any place you deem necessary. Remove clutters especially in hallways that would possibly make your elders stumble. Install security and communication gadgets so your loved ones can easily get help when needed.
Aging of elders at home need not be complicated and worrisome as long as you give it a great deal of thoughts and serious planning. A home care with a professional caregiver and a living space designed to fit their needs are just about the essentials for your parents to endure and enjoy their twilight years.
Welcome to Stepping Up for Seniors, a dedicated organization committed to making a positive impact in the lives of low-income seniors who require assistance yet lack the essential family support and financial resources to access the help they need. Our mission is simple but profound - to provide a helping hand and bring hope to those in their golden years who might otherwise be left without the vital support they deserve.
Our organization is not just a helping hand; we are a lifeline for low-income seniors seeking support and care. With a team of dedicated professionals and a network of compassionate volunteers, we work tirelessly to make a meaningful difference in the lives of seniors who have walked a long and challenging journey.
Join us in our mission to lift the spirits of low-income seniors and provide them with the care and resources they deserve. Together, we can make a profound impact, ensuring that every senior in our community can enjoy their golden years with grace, respect, and joy.
Explore our website to learn more about our programs and discover how you can get involved in Stepping Up for Seniors. Let's step up together for those who have paved the way for us and deserve to be cherished in their retirement years.
https://homecaremakingadifferenceinyo438.blogspot.com/2023/12/home-care-making-difference-in-your.html Stepping Up For Seniors Assisting Seniors Assistance for Elders https://automotiverepairshopvistaca647.blogspot.com/2023/12/vista-cosmetic-dentistry_02066880093.html https://www.tumblr.com/jessica-harlowe/735782696050163712 https://webdesignagencyquotenewyorkci361.blogspot.com/ https://webdesignagencyquotenewyorkci361.blogspot.com/2023/12/web-design-agency-quote-new-york-city.html https://psychologistmtlaurelnj545.blogspot.com/
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simslegacy5083 · 10 months
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NSB (Straud Legacy) Gen 8 Ep. 140: The Magician and the Politician
Now that Peachy was “Colonel Lawbourne” and almost in control at the precinct, it was time to prepare the final moves of the Landgraab solution.
His next planned step was looping in his great-great-grandfather Don. Ever since seeing Nancy at Don’s wedding he knew the immortal senior Lothario had some past connection to the secret criminal mastermind. Was it a connection that might help shut her down?
Jack’s conversation with Geoffrey at the Winterfest party had confirmed that tie and also revealed a relationship with the family’s ancestral politician Thorne Miller. Peachy decided to hit both angles at once, asking his father to summon Grandpa Thorne while he called Grandpa Don over to visit.
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Don and Thorne were surprised but happy to see one another again. The boys set out some snacks and asked the two ancestors what they knew about the mighty Landgraab matriarch and her long-time spouse. Peachy trusted his great grandfathers and hoped they would be straight with him.
Jack hadn’t grown up thinking of the men as “Grandpa” and had an easier time seeing the human anxiety and embarrassment in the glance the two exchanged as Peachy asked about their past connections with Nancy. There was clearly more to this tale than they usually liked to tell.
Don sighed, saying he’d go first and “get it over with”.
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At that time in his life, Don explained, long before he settled down with Peachy’s great grandmother, he was a bartender. People looking to feel good came to him for a lot more than the usual fizzy drinks, and his supplier and protector had been none other than Nancy Landgraab.
She had a deep stock of advanced mind-altering goods for him to distribute and was shockingly good at keeping law enforcement away. Many wealthy and well-respected Sims forgot their troubles with his assistance, including one budding young politician.
Thorne coughed delicately, admitting that he’d needed a little help to get over leaving his pregnant childhood sweetheart at the alter. The two usually claimed to have met at a charity fundraiser, but really, Don had been Thorne’s dealer of choice, the man who helped keep his sorrows at bay.
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When Geoffrey appeared on Thorne’s campaign trail it had seemed a chance meeting with a fellow believer in his green political platform. Soon the Landgraabs had become key benefactors, managing organizations that let wealthy families and businesses contribute more, under better tax conditions.
Thorne’s jovial demeanor then turned solemn. Nancy had seemed great, but her “research groups” and the special interests that made his policies popular and effective had a dark side that became more and more obvious as he got closer to the position of National Leader. Her support for his ecological reforms required him to support initiatives of hers, initiatives that were sometimes quite complicated and shady.
His attempt to break free of her influence led her to threaten to expose all his regrets, from his abandoned son to secret videos of his substance abuse.
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Thorne was unwilling to throw his old friend and their son into the spotlight and worried that the scandal would undermine his political standing.
He’d gone along with most of Nancy’s demands and found a reliable ally in Geoffrey, who stepped in to keep his wife from insisting on her more problematic ideas and pushed to keep the original environmental goals as a priority. The governing he did, even with Nancy’s unwanted influence, was ultimately something he was proud of.
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Don said he had no idea that Nancy had been blackmailing their clients for using the very same substances she had ultimately been providing.
She was a smooth operator, persuasive and friendly most of the time, but ruthless when she needed to be. Don had gone straight after meeting Violet, and Nancy only let up on the pressure to keep servicing his important clients (including some not so veiled threats about telling his new family about his past) when he “gifted” her a copy of all the details of their business arrangement. He’d said it was to make it easy to replace him, but he knew it also proved he held secrets of hers she might not want to see the light of day.
Strangely, a little threatened dose of her own medicine seemed to strengthen their friendship. Maybe Nancy had spent so long leveraging secrets for power that it was the kind of relationship she trusted most. It was something to bear in mind if they hoped to rein her actions in.
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In the end the two old friends agreed to help Jack and Peachy in their quest, from providing details about Nancy’s shady past they had each learned while in her orbit to helping with any small tasks that might wind up being key to limiting the damage of the Landgraab political and criminal machine.
Thorne also suggested that, when they were ready to take her down, they should make sure Geoffrey understood the trouble they could make for his wife if she didn’t comply. He seemed to love her dearly and Thorne was sure he’d be the sim best able to keep her from lashing out.
When Luigi began to fuss for his midnight feeding the four men said their goodbyes and parted. As they headed to the nursery to soothe their son Jack and Peachy agreed the nights revelations seemed like a key step to ending Nancy’s reign of terror and they couldn’t be happier.
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Want To See More? View The Full Story of My Not So Berry Challenge Here
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superken26 · 2 years
Text
Good day, I am Ken Andrie Ignacio a student of Francisco P. Tolentino Integrated High School. I’m Humss student in my final year in Grade 12, by the way. This KA’s logo because it stands for the people who don’t achieve their goal. The logo is the representation of we need to achieve. Sometimes we need to change direction so that we don’t struggle with what we want to achieve.
WEIRD
In Tokyo, Japan, there is a school called Tokyo Academy. This school is famous because of its huge building and many students want to enroll in it. Tokyo Academy students are very friendly.
There was a weird boy named Aki. He does not talk the whole day in the academy. This man does not cooperate with his group members because he did not talk all day and did not help in groupings. His classmates bullied him and called him weird. One day, he went to the comfort room and the bullies followed him and locked him in the comfort room. While he was locked in the comfort room, there was a man who helped him. His name was Shindou. He was the only one who accepted him in middle school In came her close friend, and while they were talking, Shindou said to him, “It’s weird but that’s no reason not to be friends with you and I don’t care what kind of person you are, I accept you for what you are.” And in all of Aki’s life, only now did someone say that to him, and he smiled and said thank you to Shindou, because in his entire life, only now did someone accept him.
When Aki became a senior, he was no longer with Shindou because he moved to Kyoto, Japan and studied there. He has no friends again, and he is back to his old way of not talking all day and not helping in groupings. While he was sitting alone on the side, someone came to him to take him from the group, and the other members of his group came to him to take him from the activity. Maxine talked to Aki until they finished the activity they were doing. He invited him to meet a member of his group called Taki, and invited him to play basketball after school.
And the next day, while I was walking, he saw a child who had tripped and was completely injured. He helped him and brought him to their house. Aki was surprised because when he brought him to the child’s house, he saw Maxine, the child’s sister, and Maxine did not recognize her. And when Aki was on his way home, Maxine stopped him and said, “Don’t leave first, get a snack first as a thank you for bringing William.” And while they were talking, Aki said that your brother is smart; he knows your house; he knows Maxine. Maxine was surprised because she knew him. He asked Aki if they were classmates, and Aki said, “What are you saying? I’m Aki, your friend. “ Maxine was surprised because she didn’t recognize Aki because his hair was tied and his ears were all adorned with earrings . And Aki said goodbye to go home because she still needs to help her mom bake a cake at their bakery. And when Maxine entered the school, she still couldn’t believe that Aki was the man. She approached Aki and talked to him. When they left the room, Maxine said, “Go back to their house because William said he wanted to play again.” It was a nice young man who assisted me. And since then, Aki has always gone to Maxine’s house to play with her brother, and Taki wondered why Maxine suddenly became close with them, and Aki was surprised why Taki suddenly asked that, and he said that he didn’t like anything about Maxine, and Taki told Aki, “no, that’s why you like Maxine, that’s why you’re asking me that,” and Taki was embarrassed and ran out of the room.
The next day, when Maxine went to school, she noticed that she was very early at school and there was no one there, so she thought of going to the canteen to drink milk. Faith, one of her classmates, came up to her and she sat down. When Faith sat down, she immediately asked Maxine if Aki was her boyfriend. Maxine was surprised and she shouted at Faith that she was only hers Aki. When he left, he thought that he didn’t want to rule over Aki. Why did she hate him. While Taki was walking, he heard Faith and Sakura talking about what happened earlier in the canteen. Faith said that Maxine was angry when she said that Aki was only with her and said “I was just kidding her but she got really angry." When Taki heard what they were talking about, he left in anger because he was jealous of Aki. That night, Aki went to Taki’s house to do activities while they were answering. Taki said, “May Maxine likes you” , ”why can’t you tell me that and it’s impossible that Maxine likes me because I’m just a weird guy” said Aki. Taki suddenly got angry and shouted and suddenly punched Aki. Aki got angry with him and punched Taki. And when they entered the school, their faces were full of wounds and bruises. Maxine and Sakura asked Taki what happened to her. Taki talked to Maxine about why they fought. Taki said that Maxine was the reason, and he admitted that she was the one. There was a reason why they fought.
And when Maxine was about to come in, she suddenly felt sick. William stopped her and took her to the room. “Take some rest, sister. I will call my brother Aki to watch over you.” Said William, and when Aki went to Maxine’s house, he gave her medicine and Maxine was eating. Later, while Maxine was sleeping, she said, “I like you Maxine” and knew that she was about to come in when Aki left Maxine got up from the bed and her pain disappeared due to so much shock. When William came home, he saw his sister, who had already gotten up and had eaten ice-cream, and when he approached Maxine, he said, “I saw brother Aki with a girl and he was still walking.” Maxine was surprised and fell off her ice-cream, and he got angry with Aki . When he entered school, he didn’t show Aki, and when he went to his locker, he meet Aki. And while Aki asked him if he was awake, when he said that he liked her, Maxine suddenly asked who the girl was with him. Aki was surprised and said, “Ahhh, it's Hina." Maxine asked who Hina was while Aki was explaining. Maxine suddenly threw Maxine’s book at him and left. Aki went to Maxine to return the book that Maxine had thrown away and asked why she was angry. Maxine said that you were only talking about Hina and said “yes I was awake when you said that.” I actually said that because I know you are awake. And suddenly, Maxine’s father, Hiroshi, came and asked him who was with him and said “don’t say it's your boyfriend" and suddenly Maxine blushed and said “yes, my boyfriend is there a problem” and Hiroshi told Aki and he asked him what he liked about Maxine.
He said, "I liked him because he doesn’t just judge people and he also changed me, I love him,” and when he finished, he said goodbye to go home, and Maxine’s father said that he should sleep with her. The next day, when they left the house, two boys saw her and said, “you saw that in the same house they came out,” and they spread it all over the school while they were talking about it.
And when they were on their way home, they met the two men who bullied Aki in middle school, and the two told Maxine how weird Aki was in middle school, and because Maxine was so annoyed, she beat up the two men who bullied Aki.
And while they were talking at school, Sakura thought about what they were going to do on Christmas day and when Sakura said no, Maxine thought of inviting Aki to spend Christmas with her and Aki said that he can’t spend Christmas with her because they have a lot to do at their bakeshop “maybe I’ll stop by your place for a while to bring the cake” Aki said and when it was Christmas my father went to deliver the cake they bought and when Aki was going home Hiroshi and Willian stopped him to ask him to come in for a while and when he had finished the coffee that was given to him, he said goodbye to go home and maybe his mom was looking for him and when Aki was leaving, Maxine came with him to take him and as they were walking, Maxine said that their graduation was near and he said that “when we graduate I want to be with you” he was surprised by what Maxine said and he said “I also want to be with you so when we are done I want to get married” and said Aki is no longer at their bake shop. And when they graduated, Aki thought that if all that hadn’t happened, maybe he would still be a useless person in the world and who just wanted to die. He thanked Maxine because she changed his life and the one who used to not talk and was useless. In the world and has no friends now he has a supportive girlfriend and friends who will help him in everything.
The end..
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hanahaki-with-me · 2 years
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"Hanahaki || Johnlock"
~prologue~
Advisory detective, consultant, sociopath (or as he like called himself, highly functioning sociopath), genius, scientist, madman, or simply Sherlock Holmes. He had many names and names.
Those that hurt him, he hid deep within himself, not letting them get to the light of day; to people's lives, or rather their miserable, idiotic existence.
Freak, psychopath, liar, murderer.
This last insult was, of course, not true. He may have been insane, but he certainly didn't kill anyone (possibly seriously injured anyone).
The world hurt Holmes. Nobody ever taught him to love him. It was always only required of him. He was always the sillier and troublemaker child. Microft, his brother seven years his senior, knew about his problems, although Sherlock had never told anyone about them. He knew about drugs and saved him every time his little brother overdosed on them. Eurus. Sherlock did not remember his younger sister; he wiped it out of his mind.
The detective suffered in silence, in the nothingness of a world full of fools and idiots, he was drowned in the palace of memory, he was dying. He got rid of his emotions; at least the visible ones. He was glad inside, he cried inside, he lived inside and died inside. He kept telling himself that loneliness protected him. With time, he began to push away even love, explaining that he did not need it, and that he "disturbed the thinking process by blah blah blah ...". The detective grew indifferent; he looked through emotionless eyes. Thread. Just emptiness. He got lost in it a long time ago, unable to control it.
Greg, Gavin, or Graham (Sherlock never remembered his real name, although he had known him for a long time) Lestrde, a policeman, could even be called Sherlock's friend. But Anderson, the most irritating and idiotic man in the world. He was like a weed in Sherlock's mind backyard. Completely unnecessary to him and his outstanding deduction.
Sherlock got lost. He understood it a long time ago. And Microft only made him aware of it by asking a seemingly simple and rather average question.
"Everything's all right? " he didn't have to ask. After all he knew; he knew him all too well.
Sherlock paused, his thoughts drifted back to the mind palace. He walked through its empty corridors, opening individual room doors. After all, people were standing in one of the many halls. People who didn't believe him, even though he had proven them so many times that he wasn't lying. All faces turned to him. "Liar, murderer, freak, madman". The crowd chanted newer insults again and again. They were all terrible, they hurt; they were like thorns.
And then John. One of a kind, John Watson, stood in the center of the room. Sherlock's assistant, closest friend. When he was around, it had to be okay, right? Truth?! People moved aside to form a corridor at the other end of which was Dr. Watson. He was smiling, so Sherlock didn't hesitate a moment and walked over to his friend. He felt more than friendship for him. The detective loved him. He didn't want it, but he loved him.
Sherlock from the mind palace stood in front of John and smiled friendly and affectionate, though it seemed almost impossible. The doctor came closer, stood on tiptoe and just as he was about to kiss him...
"Freak. Did you really think I could love you? How can you love murder and psyhopath."
... these sentences rumbled in Sherlock's head and echoed through the endless corridors of the mind palace.
The detective stepped back sharply thereby losing his balance. He felt a slight twinge in his heart and an unmerciful burning sensation in his throat. Then he had quite a fit of coughing. Sherlock put his hand to his mouth, feeling something or someone want to come out of his mouth. He spat it out on his hand. It was a small white rose petal slightly stained with blood.
"Sherlock, SHERLOCK!" The detective opened his eyes to see Microft in front of them.
"I'm okay. All is well. It has to be" Sherlock said. But Microft knew nothing was right. Never was righat  with his little brother.
Sherlock got up, not waiting any longer for his brother's reply, and headed for the room. His face showed no unnecessary emotion other than indifference, and the painful pressure in his chest increased with each passing second. As soon as the door to his room closed behind him, he had a fit of coughing. Just like in the mind palace a moment ago. Again that strange, scratchy sensation in the throat and the feeling that something is persistently trying to get out of him.
So he did what he thought. He put his hand to his mouth and fell out of his mouth again...
...rose Flake. Same as in the memory palace; small, white, stained with blood. Sherlock knew what that meant.
He was terrified.
Full story on my wattpad: oh_im_the_devil
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o5-the-daughter · 2 years
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True… True… Let’s go with Willow while I make up my mind between the other two!
Have fun with that. :]
This one actually starts with an incident report - I think it's the one that was requested from Six. To sum it up, on June twenty-second, nineteen-o-five (June 22nd, 1905), a fifty (50) person team of Foundation agents lead by our Agent M. S. raided a known Serpent's Hand outpost in Sohag, Egypt, where a ritual regarding the doors of the Wanderer's Library was being performed; a direct reason for the raid isn't stated, though it's implied that the Foundation didn't want for the doors to be moved. The raid ended in the murder of twelve (12) Serpent's Hand members of varying ranks, though the group of those killed did include a higher-up by the name of Masika. After the members were killed, which also resulted in twent-three (23) Foundation casualties, the place was searched for occult and anomalous objects, during which SCP-[REACTED] was retrieved. More interestingly, though, the search also found a child of eleven (11) years of age, who had managed to hide in a large trash container during the massacre - the child was taken into Foundation custody and brought back to Site-11. The until this point tense, but still friendly relations between the Foundation and the Serpent's Hand were irrevocably shattered that day.
Willow's actual notes start with a remark of them being stationed in the archive of Site-11 for four (4) years, where they were tasked with filing medical records; they did apparently help out at the Site's medical bay on occasion, though this was relatively rare. In nineteen-o-nine (1909), they were promoted to be an assistant nurse to the local trauma team, from where on their career follows a similar pattern to that of Thier. Two (2) years of training, then they became a doctor and started to build their own team.
While there are few records on notable incidents from here on for pretty obvious reasons, they are noted as quickly becoming rather renowned and known across the European Foundation Sites for the combination of their young age and high skill level. This went to the point of their former teacher retiring just one-and-a-half (1.5) years after Khater gained their doctor title, as his own work had become noticably terrible in comparison. One incident that is noted in regards to this was one in nineteen-fourteen (1914), where they were asked to take care of an unnamed patient with minor injuries 'as a favor'; Khater was injuried by said patient, leaving a scar on their neck.
The notes after this briefly mention another of their senior colleagues in the medical field that came to meet Khater in nineteen-seventeen (1917), who also quit soon after meeting them - stated as 'out of frustration', again likely because of the comparison between them and such a young, well, prodigy.
Most of the rest here is not translated as well, though it seems to reiterate Khater's relationship with Thier again; it mentions them as being rather close, and for Khater to have sought psychological services after finding their colleague dead. The notes end after this in nineteen-twenty (1920).
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mariacallous · 2 years
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Last month, a small U.S. federal agency released a regulatory filing that has gotten relatively little media attention—especially in the context of its immense global ramifications. The U.S. Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security announced worldwide limits on China’s ability to import advanced semiconductors. The strict new rules—which countries and companies are scrambling to comply with—go beyond any previous attempt to curtail China’s technological progress and ambitions.
Writing in Foreign Policy a week after the filing, Jon Bateman described Washington’s move as a watershed moment in U.S.-China relations that “all but guarantees a continued march toward broad-based technological decoupling.” He added that the “increasing boldness of U.S. unilateral actions, and Washington’s open embrace of a quasi-containment strategy, … may finally set in motion forces beyond the control of U.S. national security leaders.”
Bateman is a senior fellow in the Technology and International Affairs Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Previously, he was a special assistant to then-Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Joseph Dunford and served as the director for cyberstrategy implementation in the Office of the Secretary of Defense. I spoke with Bateman on FP Live, the magazine’s forum for live journalism, to discuss the ramifications of the latest policy changes since the publication of his essay. What follows is a condensed and edited transcript. FP subscribers can watch the full, 30-minute interview at the top of this page.
Foreign Policy: Jon, for the few people who haven’t yet read your piece, bring us up to speed: What exactly were these new restrictions, and why are they important?
Jon Bateman: There have been multidimensional new export restrictions imposed on China’s ability to import advanced high-end semiconductors—the finished chips that are used for artificial intelligence and advanced computing—and the equipment that is used to manufacture these semiconductors.
The United States has gone deep down into the technology stack to try to thwart and ultimately freeze China’s development of semiconductor technology at its current levels. This is probably the most sweeping and hard-hitting measure that’s been taken against China’s tech sector after four years of pretty significant technology and economic warfare, and it’s really important because it signals an overt, muscular intent to contain and restrict China’s technological development.
FP: Taiwan makes approximately 92 percent of semiconductors, so how is the United States’ role so important in this supply chain process?
JB: The simple answer is that the semiconductor supply chain is a very complex global supply chain. And the United States has a critical role in some key nodes in that supply chain. It can leverage those nodes to impose extraterritorial requirements, like export controls, on others downstream.
So, while Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) is the world’s leading manufacturer of finished semiconductors, the plants that TSMC uses contain U.S. technology. Using something called the foreign direct product rule, Washington is able to say, “Anything that’s manufactured from those plants has to play by our rules.” And because of the long arm of the U.S. law and the need that Taiwan and others have to maintain friendly relations with the United States, as well as [to avoid] potential criminal exposure under U.S. export control rules, everyone has to comply.
FP: If you are a country that doesn’t want to comply, what mechanisms does the United States have to enforce these rules?
JB: The United States takes these things seriously, and so if you are caught, even as a foreigner violating U.S. export controls, you can be subject to civil or even criminal liability. And that’s a big problem if you ever want to have future dealings with the United States or travel to a country that has an extradition treaty with the United States. It would be unthinkable that a major global brand like TSMC would intentionally violate these kinds of restrictions.
FP: Why is Washington going down this route?
JB: The overt justification in the regulation itself is the classic national security argument that China is using these advanced semiconductors and supercomputers to develop its military capabilities. Supercomputers and artificial intelligence can be used to develop missile aerodynamic modeling. It could be used to model nuclear explosions and for all sorts of military purposes. Secondarily, there’s a discussion of AI-fueled intelligence operations and suppression of China’s own people.
But it’s important to realize that although the United States is taking a big whack at China’s military development through blocking these export controls, the main brunt of these controls will be felt by China’s private sector. And by demonstrating a willingness to kneecap China’s broad economic and technological development and the civilian commercial and scientific spheres, the Biden administration is really showing a kind of disproportionateness that signals intentions beyond just kneecapping China’s military. They may want to simply limit China’s rise.
FP: In the piece that you wrote for Foreign Policy, you posited that the “restrictionists” in the Biden administration have won out. Explain that.
JB: Among U.S. policymakers who study China, the debate is really between centrists and what I call “restrictionists”—the people who have a hard-line zero-sum mentality, who want to drastically increase the pace and scope of technological decoupling and hit China hard across the board. Within the Biden administration, there’s been a kind of power battle playing out between the centrists and the restrictionists. This latest foray really shows that the restrictionists have become dominant.
FP: How much do the latest actions hurt China?
JB: In the short term, they hurt quite a bit. China is well aware of the extraordinary dependance that it has on imports for advanced semiconductors, and it’s been pouring tens of billions of dollars into developing its own industries. But these are some of the most complex and sophisticated technologies that have ever been created. The amount of parts and the sensitivity of these parts, and the know-how that needs to go into using them, are just extraordinary.
China has made a lot of headway on developing the lower-end chips, the so-called commodity chips that you might find in a car or a toaster or a thermostat. But China has no capability of developing the stuff that’s being hit by these export controls—the high-end GPUs [graphics processing units] that are used in data centers and for training machine learning models.
So, China’s worried. We’ve seen reports of the government and the private sector in China scrambling to develop some of their response plans, which really will be about doubling down on national self-development. But it’s going to be a long, hard slog.
FP: How many years would development take? And are we talking about a physical manufacturing capability, or is it a human capital issue?
JB: It’s both. China is being restricted from importing very sophisticated machines that it cannot itself make. It’s also being barred from employing U.S. persons. And that’s not just U.S. citizens but a broader category who have been critical in helping some of China’s leading semiconductor companies make strides.
People often say that China is roughly 10 years behind the leading edge in terms of its indigenous semiconductor technology development. It will take probably that long, at least, for China to try to indigenously engineer these capabilities by itself. But that’s a fairly speculative time window.
FP: How might Beijing retaliate? What can it do in response?
JB: It’s been four years now since former U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs and dozens of export controls, visa restrictions, sanctions, blacklists—you name it. And throughout this entire period, China has been very cautious about what we might call a kind of direct, reciprocal, symmetrical retaliation. I think China realizes that it typically has more to lose from engaging in an escalatory spiral, and it tends to prefer to want to hold on to the links that it has with the West until such time as it has its own self-sufficiency and the shoe is on the other foot.
China has some ammunition that it’s choosing not to use. Rare-earth minerals represent a huge dependency that the United States has on China for the mining and processing of something that all electronics need, and that would be a big problem if we lost access to that. China is a manufacturing hub for U.S. tech companies like Apple. China is a source of talent for U.S. universities and companies. China is a source of capital. There are a lot of dependencies there, but I think China is cautious about using those. That will not always be true. There will come some point at which the calculus in Beijing flips and Xi Jinping realizes that he’s got nothing left to lose. We don’t know when that point will come. And I do worry that people really are not anticipating that. They’re not thinking about when that point will come. And this is at a moment when Chinese leadership is becoming more and more opaque and harder for us to predict.
FP: You’ve explained already that the United States can enforce compliance globally. How does the rest of the world feel about that?
JB: Washington wasn’t willing to wait for positive consent from its allies, which is an important statement of diplomatic priorities and something that people in capitals around the world are going to take note of.
Alan Estevez, the U.S. undersecretary of commerce for industry and security, gave remarks last week in which he was asked about this, and he claimed that U.S. allies really have no problems with what Washington is doing and that he’s anticipating that, in some short period of time, U.S. allies will not only endorse what Washington has done but impose their own parallel domestic controls.
I think even if U.S. allies do go along with this, they’re going to note that the initial move was unilateral and they’re going along reluctantly. I question whether that’s a sustainable strategy for Washington to continually drag its allies kicking and screaming. It will have consequences for the positive things that the United States needs to do, like coordinating chip subsidies, harmonizing tech regulations, ganging up on China to have a unified front. And so, this coercive playbook can only be used so many times.
FP: How much harsher could these measures get, and how quickly do you see it moving to industries like biotechnology or pharmaceuticals?
JB: There are a few things in the works right now beyond the realm of export control. Relatively soon, we’ll see in the United States an outbound investment screening regime, which would be an unprecedented government regulation of cross-border financial flows. That’s likely to come in the coming months. Over the long haul, the administration has basically said it’s going to be looking at export controls on biotech, quantum artificial intelligence.
Not a week goes by that there is not some major new proposal, new companies placed on the [Commerce Department’s] Entity List, legislation being proposed in Congress. It’s a very frothy policymaking environment. It’s hard even for someone like me to keep track of. Anything is possible.
FP: Given the U.S. midterm elections coming up next week, how do you think the results could influence what the Biden administration does next?
JB: The White House has unimaginable executive authority to impose export controls and other kinds of restrictions, so it doesn’t need and hasn’t relied on any congressional legislation.
That said, a Republican takeover in Congress will only add political pressure to U.S. President Joe Biden and the Democrats, basically upping the ante. We’ve seen that being tough on China is one of the leading attacks that Republicans, particularly future presidential candidates, have been using against the Biden administration since day one. Biden will need to somehow deflect those attacks, so I think it’s likely that we could see more controls.
FP: It’s clear that the latest policy turning point causes you some discomfort. You’re worried. What are the larger costs of decoupling and where we’re headed?
JB: I am worried. The question is, is there a stopping point? Is there a point at which these controls do more harm than good to U.S. interests and to the world at large? I think we’re close to that point now.
I worry most about the U.S. relationship with China as it relates to overall global stability and our capacity to cooperate on major challenges like climate change, pandemics, or even just having crisis communications stability. The clearer it becomes that the United States is out to contain China’s development, your mind can run wild in terms of the profound geopolitical implications and risks that that creates for us all. The Biden administration and many folks in Washington feel as if the wind is at their backs and that these tough actions are working. But the risks don’t seem to be on their radar. That’s a big concern to me.
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movingcompaniesusa · 5 days
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Evolution Moving Company, LLC Expands Their Moving Services in Dallas, TX
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