#smart classroom setup

[missmaymay13]

home is with you - j.hughes

⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

j.hughes x fem!oc | 13k

summary: jack was a patient person, and he was willing to wait as long as everlyn briar needed to realize that he was there for her.

masterlist

⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻⸻

Quinn Hughes knew a lot about hockey.

Ask him about any game in the last decade—NHL or juniors—and he could give you a detailed play-by-play, rattle off stats like they were embedded in his DNA, and even tell you the name of the ref who made that terrible call in the second period. Hockey ran through his blood. It was his language, his rhythm, his safe place.

Academics, though? That was a different story.

It wasn't that he wasn't smart. He was just... uninterested. Unmotivated. The kind of kid who could get through most classes on charm and bare-minimum effort, skating by (pun intended) with a shrug and a smile. But junior year hit different. The coursework was harder, his travel schedule was crazier, and even Ellen—his endlessly patient, fiercely supportive mom—was starting to worry.

So she did what any mom would do: she found him help. Enter Everlyn Briar.

She was a sophomore, which at first felt weird to Quinn. A younger student tutoring him? But it took less than five minutes into their first session for him to realize Everlyn wasn't just smart—she was brilliant. The kind of person who didn't just know the answers, but understood them. Who explained things like it was no big deal, casually dropping SAT vocab like it was regular slang. She was taking AP classes in everything and somehow managing to be the captain of the school's volleyball team.

And not just on the volleyball team—she ran it. Confident, poised, competitive as hell.

Quinn didn't know people like her existed in real life.

He also didn't expect to like her.

At first, he resented the whole tutoring setup. It made him feel dumb, and if there was one thing Quinn Hughes hated, it was feeling dumb. But Everlyn had this way of making you feel like you were capable. Like you could be just as smart as her if you tried. She had an addicting personality—effortlessly cool, quick-witted, with a sense of humor that caught him off guard more than once.

And then there was her smile.

God, that smile. Bright and full of mischief, like she was constantly in on a secret she might let you in on if you were lucky enough. It was the kind of smile you couldn't forget, even if you tried.

Their tutoring sessions slowly evolved into something else. Something casual, something natural. They'd meet in the library or the back corner of the local coffee shop, but more often than not, their study sessions would end with them laughing over inside jokes, sharing stories about their teammates, or mock-roasting each other over their wildly different Spotify playlists.

Within a few months, they were inseparable.

It wasn't long before their social circles started to blur. Everlyn met Quinn's friends from the team, and he got introduced to her volleyball crew. Weekend hangouts became group events—bonfires, house parties, late-night diner runs. It was all fun and games until people started dating each other and everything got predictably messy.

Typical high school chaos.

There were breakups that forced the group to awkwardly take sides, dramatic friend group rifts, and one infamous party where someone tried to stage an "intervention" for a relationship that wasn't even official. Through it all, though, Quinn and Everlyn stayed solid. He'd show up to her games, she'd come to his. They were always seen together—heads tilted close in conversation, sharing drinks, stealing fries off each other's plates without asking.

Years would pass before either of them realized just how much those years mattered—how foundational they were. Before either of them would understand that what they built back then, in classrooms and crowded kitchens and half-lit basements, was going to follow them far beyond high school.

Because this isn't just Quinn's story.

It's Jack's too.

And for Jack Hughes, Everlyn Briar wasn't just some girl his brother used to hang out with.

She was the girl.

The one he was never supposed to fall for.

⸻ It started small.

At first, Everlyn would stay a few minutes after her tutoring sessions—just long enough to chat with Quinn before he got dragged off to practice or dinner. Then she'd linger a little longer, helping him pack up his notes, maybe sneaking in a few teasing jabs about his handwriting or his inability to remember historical dates. Eventually, Quinn started inviting her over for actual study sessions at his house.

And then, like it was the most natural thing in the world, Everlyn Briar became a regular fixture at the Hughes household.

It was Ellen's idea, really. She was over the moon about Quinn's sudden improvement in school—how he seemed lighter, less tense. His grades had gone up, but more importantly, so had his confidence. And she noticed it wasn't just the academics. Her son was happier. There was a spark in him again.

So of course, Ellen wanted to meet the girl responsible for that.

That first invitation came wrapped in the form of a casual offer: "Why don't you just stay for supper, sweetheart?" And Everlyn, who had only meant to drop off a study guide, hesitated just long enough for Ellen to smile and wave her into the kitchen like she'd already been part of the family for years.

It was so simple. So easy. So warm.

Everlyn didn't realize how much she needed that warmth until she felt it.

The Hughes house was nestled at the top of a long driveway, the kind of home that looked like it had history—scuffed baseboards, picture frames lining the hall, cleats piled by the door. It smelled like home-cooked meals and dryer sheets, and the moment she stepped inside, she could feel something shift in her chest.

There was life here. Real life.

Trophies filled the shelves—some polished and gleaming, others dusty with age. Framed photos covered the walls, capturing every phase of childhood: first goals, missing teeth, family vacations. Hockey sticks leaned against corners. A dog barked from the backyard. Laughter echoed from upstairs.

It was messy in the way that made your chest ache with comfort.

She could've cried.

Because back at her own house, it wasn't like this. Not anymore. The silence there was deafening, broken only by the sound of raised voices behind closed doors or the slam of a front door that never quite shut all the way. Her parents were in the middle of what could only be described as a war disguised as a divorce—ugly, drawn-out, venomous. And lately, Everlyn had become the easiest target.

It wasn't physical. Not exactly. But the emotional toll? That was harder to explain.

The tension followed her like smoke. Her mom was sharp with her words, her dad cold with his distance. The house was split in invisible lines—rooms she couldn't go into without a fight, conversations that ended in tears, meals that were eaten in silence. And she, caught in the middle, found herself suffocating more and more with each passing day.

So she escaped. Any chance she got.

Practice. Study halls. Library sessions that lasted until closing. Couch cushions at friends' houses. Empty locker rooms. Anywhere but home.

Which made the Hughes' house feel like a gift from the universe. An oasis.

The first person to greet her that day—besides Quinn—was a thirteen-year-old Luke Hughes, peeking cautiously from behind his older brother's shoulder. He had that awkward middle-school lankiness, all limbs and big eyes, his dark hair a little messy like he'd been running around all day. Shy but clearly curious, he gave her a wary glance, unsure of what to make of the girl standing at his front door with a backpack and a too-kind smile.

"Hey," Everlyn said softly, crouching down just a little to his height. "You must be the famous Luke. I've heard you've got a killer slapshot."

Luke blinked, then gave the tiniest, bashful nod—cheeks already a bit pink. And just like that, she'd won him over.

From then on, he was her shadow anytime she visited. Offering her cookies, showing off his hockey cards, even once letting her watch him play NHL on the Xbox. Luke Hughes was a soft, sweet soul—and he, like the rest of the family, made space for Everlyn without asking for anything in return.

Next came Ellen and Jim.

They met her with hugs, no hesitation, like she was already part of something. Ellen's warmth was maternal and immediate—offering her water, asking if she was hungry, complimenting her necklace. Jim's was quieter but genuine, his handshake firm, his smile kind. And both of them went on and on about how grateful they were to her for helping Quinn—not just with school, but with his peace of mind.

"You've brought such a light to him," Ellen had said, eyes crinkling. "I don't know what we'd do without you."

Everlyn had smiled and said thank you, but the words clung to her like armor. A light. She didn't feel like a light lately. Not with everything going on at home. But maybe, just maybe, here... she could be.

She was still soaking it all in—memorizing the faces in the photos on the walls, the way the floor creaked in certain spots, the steady hum of a home that felt alive—when the front door opened again.

And in walked Jack Hughes.

He was fifteen then. Already taller than most of the guys at school, with dark, boyish hair that curled a little at the ends and those unmistakable Hughes eyes—sharp, expressive, like they could see straight through you if he wanted to. His backpack was slung lazily over one shoulder, cheeks a bit flushed from biking home, and there was a faint scowl on his face until he rounded the corner and saw her.

Everlyn.

His brother's friend.

The one he wasn't expecting to look like that.

Jack froze for half a second, and it was only noticeable if you were really paying attention. His mouth opened just slightly, like he was about to say something and forgot the words. His eyes did a quick sweep—face, hair, eyes, outfit. And then he recovered, tossing on that signature smirk he wore like a badge.

"Hey," he said coolly. "You must be Everlyn."

She looked up from the couch, smile blooming. "And you must be Jack. I've heard a lot about you."

"Only the good stuff, I hope."

"That depends on your definition of 'good.'"

Quinn snorted from the kitchen, and Jack rolled his eyes. But his gaze didn't leave her. Something about her pulled at him—a softness behind her confidence, something that made his usual smoothness falter just a little.

And when she smiled at him—really smiled, all teeth and light—Jack Hughes, the confident, cocky middle brother, felt his heartbeat do something stupid.

Like skip.

He'd seen her before, sure. In the hallways at school. At volleyball games he'd gone to half-heartedly with Quinn, back when she was just a name he'd heard in passing. But seeing her now, in his home, on his couch, laughing with his brothers?

She wasn't just a name anymore.

And he didn't know it yet—but this girl, this friend of his brother's with the soft voice and the sharp mind, was about to change everything.

⸻

It was subtle at first.

A lingering glance here. A too-long laugh there. The way Jack's eyes would flick toward her in a crowded room, like his brain was hardwired to track her presence no matter what else was happening.

Jack Hughes had a crush.

A real one. The kind that made your chest tighten and your thoughts trip over themselves. But this wasn't just any girl. This was Everlyn Briar. The girl who tutored his older brother. The girl who had somehow woven herself into the fabric of the Hughes home like she'd always belonged there. The girl who showed up with a smile and stayed with a purpose.

And Jack—who usually had no trouble flirting, who could talk circles around most girls his age—suddenly found himself stammering or going completely silent anytime she looked at him for too long.

He hated it.

Well, no. He didn't hate her. God, no. He hated the situation.

Because she was Quinn's friend. His tutor. His person. And there were unspoken rules about that kind of thing—lines that brothers just didn't cross. So Jack kept it cool. He played the role of younger brother, occasional background comic relief, the charming but harmless kid who just so happened to stare a little too long when she wasn't looking.

But all of that restraint unraveled a little the night Quinn decided to throw a party.

Their parents were out of town for the weekend—a rare escape for Ellen and Jim to have a weekend to themselves—and Quinn, being a senior with a newly found sense of confidence and freedom, took full advantage.

The guest list was mostly hockey friends and volleyball players, a mix of athletes and classmates that made the house feel loud and alive by 9 p.m. Jack got the nod to invite some of his own people too, a gesture from Quinn that meant more than it seemed.

Jack wasn't exactly part of the "cool" senior crowd yet, but he could hold his own. And when he found out Everlyn would be there—of course she'd be there—he felt this strange mix of nerves and excitement hum beneath his skin all day.

He played it off well. Showed up in a backwards hat and his best hoodie, dapped up his friends, cracked jokes in the kitchen while snagging handfuls of chips. But all of it—every last bit—was background noise.

Because the second Everlyn walked through the door, it was like gravity shifted.

She was wearing a soft, oversized crewneck and jeans with a rip in the knee, nothing overly flashy or dramatic. Her hair was half up, half down, effortlessly undone, and she wore that familiar look of ease and lightheartedness that made her glow in every room.

Jack could barely breathe.

She looked beautiful. Not in the "done-up for a party" way, but in the "this is just who I am" way. She laughed with her whole body, tossing her head back when one of her friends made a joke, squealing when she missed her last cup in beer pong by a half inch. Every reaction was real—genuine, unfiltered, and full of life.

And Jack?

Jack was down bad.

He nursed a red solo cup and watched her from across the room, his gaze drifting back to her like a reflex. He tried to distract himself—mingled, played a game of flip cup, even tried talking to a girl from his grade who'd clearly been waiting for him to notice her. But none of it landed.

His attention was elsewhere. Always.

And then, at some point in the night—around 1:30 a.m., when the music had dipped into mellow territory and some people had already started crashing on couches—he realized he hadn't seen Everlyn in a while.

Like, a while.

It wasn't like her to just disappear without a word, especially not from a party like this. And something about that silence scratched at the back of his brain.

So Jack set his cup down and started looking.

He did a quick sweep of the main floor—kitchen, basement, backyard. Nothing. He passed by groups of people talking, laughing, someone snoring softly under a blanket on the recliner, but no sign of her. His steps grew quieter as he crept upstairs, the noise from below fading into a dull hum.

And that's when he found her.

The door to Luke's room was cracked slightly, soft light filtering out into the hallway. Jack pushed it open just enough to peek inside—and his heart stilled.

Everlyn was curled up on the far side of Luke's twin bed, one arm tucked beneath her head, the other resting gently across Luke's chest. The youngest Hughes was sound asleep, face relaxed in that vulnerable way only kids have when they're completely safe. A "Fast and the Furious" movie played quietly on the TV, Vin Diesel's voice barely audible over the low rumble of cars on screen.

Jack stood frozen in the doorway.

There she was. Not at the center of the party, not surrounded by friends or attention or lights—but here. With Luke. Tucked into a quiet room, keeping him company, protecting him in the smallest, softest way.

His throat tightened.

Behind him, he heard quiet footsteps and turned to find Quinn standing there, eyes a little glassy from a few drinks but still focused.

"She's been checking on him all night," Quinn said, voice low. "Kept sneaking upstairs just to make sure he was okay. I think he was a little overwhelmed with all the noise, and she didn't want him to feel left out. Ended up tucking him in about half an hour ago, I guess."

Jack didn't say anything at first. He just watched her for a moment longer, taking in the way her brow was slightly furrowed in sleep, how her fingers were still gently curled around the blanket like she didn't even realize she'd nodded off.

"She's got a big heart," Quinn added, clapping Jack softly on the back before heading downstairs again. "We're lucky to have her around."

Yeah, Jack thought, his pulse thudding. He really was.

Because in that moment, standing in the hallway with the light from Luke's room casting a soft glow over Everlyn's sleeping face, Jack Hughes fell just a little deeper into something he couldn't name.

It wasn't just the way she looked tonight. It was the way she was. The way she made herself small to protect others. The way she made herself present when no one else remembered to be.

The way she already cared for his family like it was her own.

And for Jack Hughes, there was nothing more important than family.

So yeah. His crush? It wasn't going anywhere.

Not now.

Not ever.

⸻

If Everlyn Briar had to make a list of the best days of her life, two moments would sit at the very top: Quinn's high school graduation, and the day he got drafted to the NHL.

Both days were drenched in joy, but for different reasons. Graduation felt like the end of a chapter, the beautiful culmination of everything they'd built together—study sessions, long nights, practice runs, pep talks in the hallway, inside jokes exchanged during fire drills. Draft day, though? That felt like the beginning of something. The launch of a dream.

And she was there for all of it.

She still remembered Quinn's graduation day like it was etched in sun. The weather was perfect—clear skies, a breeze just strong enough to ruffle the sea of navy blue gowns lined up in rows on the football field. Ellen was crying before the ceremony even started. Jim pretended not to be emotional, but she caught him wiping at his eyes with his sleeve more than once. Luke was the only one trying to play it cool, muttering about how boring the speeches were while secretly filming every second on his phone.

Everlyn sat with the Hughes family, sandwiched between Ellen and Luke, and beamed like it was her son crossing the stage. Her hands were sore from clapping, her cheeks aching from smiling, but she didn't care. Seeing Quinn walk across that stage, cap tilted slightly, grinning ear to ear as his name was called? That was her best friend. And she couldn't have been more proud.

That night, they went to prom together.

It wasn't romantic—not exactly. It was one of those things they'd decided months in advance, a casual promise made in between chemistry notes and late-night FaceTimes. But when the day came, and Everlyn stepped out of her car in a pastel yellow silk dress that caught the light like liquid sunshine, Jack had nearly dropped the bowl of cereal he was holding.

She was glowing. Absolutely glowing.

Quinn, to his credit, played it cool. He met her at the top of the driveway in a navy suit that matched her dress perfectly, his tie just slightly crooked, which she fixed with a teasing smile and a soft touch. Ellen took so many photos, shouting at them to get "just one more!" while Jim muttered something about missing the days when prom meant sitting on the couch with cartoons and juice boxes.

At prom, Everlyn and Quinn were the couple everyone pointed to—even if they weren't a couple at all. They danced to every song, even the slow ones. They laughed until their sides hurt, took blurry selfies, and snuck out early to get milkshakes at the diner down the street. Somewhere in the middle of it all, Quinn managed to snag a make-out session with a senior volleyball player (thanks to a little not-so-subtle wingwoman energy from Everlyn), and he spent the rest of the night grinning like he'd just scored the game-winning goal.

But the real crown jewel came a few weeks later: draft day.

Everlyn still remembered how tightly Quinn had gripped her hand that morning. They'd flown out west with the whole Hughes crew—Ellen, Jim, Jack, and Luke—and even though the energy was pure chaos, it felt like magic. The kind of day you knew would change everything.

The venue buzzed with anticipation. Reporters hovered like hawks, camera flashes strobing across the crowd. Families in tailored suits and perfectly curled hair. Players fiddling with their ties, bouncing their knees, checking their phones every five seconds.

But Quinn? He was steady. Calm. Like he'd been waiting for this moment his whole life.

Because he had.

And when Vancouver called his name—Quinn Hughes, selected seventh overall by the Vancouver Canucks—the room erupted. Ellen gasped. Jim clapped hard enough to sting. Jack yelled something indistinct, probably profane, over the roar of applause.

Everlyn?

She stood up so fast she knocked over her chair.

She threw her arms around him, and the hug they shared was the kind of thing you felt in your soul. Tight. Breathless. The kind of hug that said, we did it. That all the long nights and frustrations and growing pains were worth it. She buried her face in his shoulder and whispered, "I'm so proud of you," more times than she could count.

He hugged her back just as fiercely. "Couldn't have done it without you, Eve."

He meant it.

The hours that followed were a blur of interviews, handshakes, smiles, and congratulations. Quinn was passed around from one media outlet to the next, pulled into rooms with cameras and sponsors and flashbulbs. And in the swirl of it all, Everlyn found herself drifting toward the one person who felt just as out of place as she did.

Luke.

He was quieter than usual, maybe overwhelmed by the spotlight or just missing the familiarity of home. Either way, he stuck close to Everlyn's side, and she didn't mind one bit.

They wandered the venue together, sipping soda from plastic cups, taking photos with cardboard cutouts, watching the draft board update in real time. At one point, she let him lean his head on her shoulder, his hair slightly messy from his button-down shirt collar.

"You okay, bud?" she asked gently.

"Yeah," he mumbled. "Just... a lot."

She nodded. "I get it."

They didn't need to say much after that. Sometimes, comfort was just existing beside someone who didn't need you to explain how you were feeling. And Luke, in many ways, felt like the little brother she never had.

He'd called her "Evie" for the first time that day. Just once, slipping it in casually when she handed him a packet of Skittles from her purse.

It stuck.

And she didn't realize it then—but Jack had noticed.

He'd been across the room, getting a bottle of water, and he'd looked up just in time to see her crouched next to Luke, laughing at something he said. Her hand resting on his shoulder, eyes soft, her entire posture folded into care.

Jack hadn't said a word. Just watched.

And felt that same tight pull in his chest that had started months ago. The one that always showed up when she was near.

Because Everlyn wasn't just a part of their lives anymore.

She was their life.

And Jack Hughes was starting to wonder if he'd ever be able to untangle his heart from hers.

⸻

When Quinn left for Michigan, everything shifted.

It wasn't abrupt. More like the slow fade of background music when a scene ends. His absence was a quiet hum in the Hughes house, a space that felt too big without his voice filling it. His name was still spoken daily—on calls, in casual conversation, mentioned when Luke would repeat something funny his oldest brother used to say—but the energy had changed.

And with Quinn gone, so too was Everlyn's usual reason to be around.

She didn't disappear, not completely. Luke wouldn't let her. He texted her almost every day, sent her TikToks and memes, even guilt-tripped her with sad selfies captioned "you abandoned me" until she agreed to come by. Saturday mornings and Sunday afternoons became their thing—quick visits that turned into full-day hangouts, movies on the couch, post-practice runs to the smoothie shop.

But it wasn't the same. Not like it used to be.

Until Jack had an idea.

Jack Hughes had always been the sharpest of the three brothers. His brain worked fast, calculated odds like a chess master on a sugar high. And when he realized Everlyn's visits were becoming fewer and farther between, he knew he had to do something.

So, naturally, he tanked a math exam.

Not completely—just enough to raise a few parental eyebrows. He followed it up with a lazy English quiz and a conveniently "forgotten" science worksheet. By the end of the week, Ellen was concerned, Luke was suspicious, and Jack was already plotting his next move.

"I think I need help," he told his mom with carefully rehearsed sincerity. "Like... tutoring help."

Ellen blinked. "You? You've had straight A's since third grade."

"Yeah, well," he shrugged, biting the inside of his cheek to stop himself from smiling. "Maybe I peaked early."

Ellen didn't question it further. Within an hour, she was on the phone with Everlyn, practically begging her to step in.

And when she agreed? Jack almost jumped out of his seat in joy. Almost.

The first tutoring session was a masterclass in subtlety.

He showed up with his notebook wide open, pencil twirling between his fingers, and an expression that screamed I'm totally lost. Everlyn raised a brow the moment she saw his notes—color-coded, flawlessly organized, every assignment completed with precision.

"Okay, Einstein," she said, smirking as she slid into the chair across from him. "What exactly do you need help with?"

Jack scratched the back of his neck, doing his best impression of a sheepish student. "Literally everything."

But Everlyn wasn't just smart—she was Everlyn. She saw through him within the first ten minutes.

Especially when he started "accidentally" getting easy questions wrong, or pretending to mix up formulas he clearly had memorized. At one point, she gave him a pop quiz on vocabulary and he aced it in under a minute. His face turned the lightest shade of pink when she smiled at him afterward, tilting her head like she was onto something.

She never called him out.

Not once.

She just played along. Grinned when he fumbled a fake answer. Rolled her eyes when he exaggerated his confusion. And when the session ended, she leaned in with that same mischievous spark in her eyes and said, "By the way... we've got a home game Friday. You should come."

Jack blinked. "Yeah?"

"Yeah," she said, grabbing her bag. "I'll save you a seat."

He went.

And he didn't stop going after that.

Watching her play was... something else. She was electric on the court. All 5'6 of her moving with fire and finesse, jumping higher than anyone expected, hitting balls with a precision that made the crowd gasp. Jack sat in the stands with Luke, hands stuffed in his hoodie pocket, trying to look nonchalant while fighting the urge to stand every time she scored.

She was fierce. Fearless. Unstoppable.

It did things to him.

After her games, she'd find him outside the gym, sweaty and glowing and absolutely radiant. Sometimes she'd toss him a teasing smile, asking, "Did I impress?" like she didn't already know the answer. And he'd say something dumb like, "You were okay," just to make her roll her eyes.

He loved when she rolled her eyes at him.

In return, she started showing up to his games. Sometimes she'd sit beside Luke, sometimes she'd bring one of her friends. Once, she even wore his NTDP jersey over her sweatshirt—completely nonchalant, like it meant nothing.

It meant everything. Seeing her in the stands with his name and number on her back sent shivers down his spine. 

Jack played like he had something to prove when she was in the crowd. Moved faster. Sharper. Pushed harder. His coaches noticed, his teammates noticed. He noticed.

And God, she was really starting to know his world too. She could match Trevor's chaotic energy beat for beat, holding her own against his wildest banter. Cole Caufield called her "the team MVP" after she roasted three of them during a team dinner. They adored her. Everyone adored her.

Jack wasn't even jealous. Just in awe.

He watched her laugh with his friends, toss popcorn at Luke, joke with his mom, and still somehow make time for him—quiet moments in the car, shared glances across the room, inside jokes exchanged through nothing but a look.

They were becoming close. Real friends.

And maybe that should've been enough.

But it wasn't.

Because somewhere between the tutoring sessions and the post-game fries, Jack's feelings had spiraled into something he couldn't hide anymore. Not from himself. Not from the way his stomach flipped when she touched his arm. Not from the way his pulse picked up when she said his name a little too softly.

He was falling for her. Fast.

And it scared the hell out of him.

Because she was leaving soon. Graduation was around the corner. College applications were already in, and she'd been talking about campuses in other states. Other coasts. Her life was about to expand in ways his couldn't touch yet.

And Jack?

He was just starting to feel like she saw him as more than Quinn's little brother.

So now, every laugh they shared felt a little too short. Every hug a little too brief. Every goodbye a little too heavy.

He knew the clock was ticking.

But God, if he could just freeze time for a little while longer... just a few more "tutoring"sessions, a few more late-night texts, a few more games where she wore his name on her back...

Maybe he could find the courage to tell her how he felt.

Before it was too late.

⸻

She was gone now.

Off chasing sunshine in California, trading small-town hallways for sprawling palm trees and crowded lecture halls. UCLA looked good on Everlyn—of course it did. Top volleyball program. Dream business school. A campus that buzzed with potential. It was everything she had worked for, everything she deserved.

But for Jack Hughes?

It felt like something had been hollowed out of him the moment she left.

He didn't say goodbye like he should have. Not really. He gave her one last hug, half-sincere, half-guarded, a little too quick. He told her to have fun. She promised to keep in touch. She didn't look back when she got in the car.

And then she was gone.

Jack tried to pretend it didn't affect him. He threw himself into hockey, training harder than ever in preparation for his draft year. He focused on speed, strength, footwork—anything to keep his mind off the ache that curled around his ribs every time he caught a glimpse of her old volleyball hoodie in the laundry room.

But autopilot only lasted so long.

Luke was quieter too. Less sunshine, more shadow. He didn't say it out loud, but Jack could feel it—Everlyn's absence hung in the Hughes house like a missing puzzle piece. Meals were quieter. Weekend movie nights didn't feel the same. Even Ellen had made a comment once, half-joking, "I miss our fourth child."

Jack missed her in ways he didn't have words for. Missed the way she used to steal fries off his plate. The way her laugh bounced down the stairs before she did. The way she made everything—everyone—feel lighter.

And then came Thanksgiving.

Quinn was coming home from Michigan. That was expected. The house had been buzzing with preparations all week—Ellen bustling through the kitchen, Jim dusting off the leaf for the dining room table, Luke threatening to eat the pie before it was even baked. Jack was looking forward to it, sure. But even the idea of a full Hughes reunion couldn't quite lift the haze that had settled in his chest since September.

Until the door opened.

And everything stopped.

It was Quinn standing there, his suitcase by his side, a trimmed beard on his jaw that made him look more like a man than a teenager. He grinned wide, stepping into the warmth of the house, pulling Luke into a one-armed hug.

But Jack barely registered his brother's return.

Because behind Quinn, suitcase in hand, stood Everlyn.

Her hair was longer now, sun-kissed and wavy in a way that only California could do. She wore an oversized hoodie with her school's logo on the sleeve and that same soft expression she always had when she was trying not to cry from happiness.

Time froze.

And then it crashed into motion.

Quinn stepped aside just in time for Everlyn to drop her bag and launch herself into Jack's arms.

"You're here," he whispered into her shoulder, voice rougher than he meant it to be.

"Of course I'm here," she murmured back. "Where else would I be?"

She smelled like vanilla and travel and something achingly familiar. Jack didn't let himself hold her for more than a second too long—but God, did he want to.

Then came Luke, barreling down the stairs like he'd been summoned by fate itself. "EVE!"

She barely had time to turn before he was lifting her off the ground, arms wrapped tight around her waist.

"Missed you so much," he blurted, voice muffled against her hoodie. "You're not allowed to leave again. I'm serious. I'll hide your passport. I'll chain your suitcase to the water heater."

She laughed, and something in the house shifted back into place.

Home.

That's what she was. What she had always been.

Jack stood back and watched her with a smile that didn't quite reach his eyes. She still looked at him the same way—fond, soft, maybe a little amused. And he'd gotten better at hiding how her gaze lit a fire under his skin. Better at swallowing the lump that rose in his throat when she was near.

She knew, of course.

Of course she knew.

She was Everlyn Briar. Too observant. Too intuitive. She could solve calculus in her head and read body language like a second language. Jack's not-so-subtle stares. The way he hovered near her but never quite reached. The way he smiled too hard when she was around.

And Quinn? He knew too. Jack could feel it in the sideways glances, the way his older brother's smirk would twitch upward anytime Jack so much as offered to get Eve a drink.

But no one said anything.

Because Jack never said anything.

And maybe that's why nothing ever happened.

The weekend was a blur of traditions and warmth. They ran the annual turkey trot that morning—Jack and Luke sprinting ahead like maniacs, Everlyn laughing breathlessly as she tried to keep up. They came home to Ellen's legendary spread: turkey so tender it fell apart, stuffing soaked in butter, mashed potatoes Jack would defend with his life.

It was loud. It was chaotic. It was perfect.

And when the night wound down, it felt almost scripted.

Just like old times, Everlyn slipped upstairs after dessert, claiming she was "just checking on Luke." And just like always, no one questioned it. She found him curled up in bed with the newest Fast and Furious playing, already half-asleep.

She climbed in beside him without a second thought.

Jack found them later, lights dimmed, movie credits rolling. Luke snoring softly. Everlyn curled against him, one hand draped protectively over her like Luke was afraid she would disappear if he let go. 

It made his heart ache in ways he didn't know how to name.

Because for the first time in months, everyone was home.

Everyone.

And still, something about her felt impossibly far away.

⸻

Time had a strange way of looping in on itself.

One minute, she was cheering for Quinn on his draft day, wiping away tears in between interviews and snapshots, her dress wrinkled from hugging everyone in sight. And then—just like that—it was years later, and she was back in that familiar whirlwind. Only this time, it wasn't Quinn's name echoing through the arena.

It was Luke's.

She had promised herself she wouldn't cry. Really, she had. She made it halfway through the morning with dry eyes and a steady smile. But the second his name was called—Luke Hughes, drafted to the New Jersey Devils—it was over.

A mess. A disaster, honestly.

Tears streaming down her cheeks, breath catching in her throat, trying desperately not to smudge the mascara she'd put on with care. Josh Norris had leaned over halfway through the ceremony, gently tapping her shoulder with a tissue and whispering, "Don't worry, he's the last Hughes to be drafted so you won't have to do this all over again next year."

She laughed through her tears.

Because this moment—this—was sacred.

Luke was beaming next to his buzzing brothers up front, his hands shaking just slightly as he held up his new jersey. And her heart swelled with something fierce and maternal, the same way it had when he was thirteen and scared to come downstairs to a party, when she tucked him in during Fast & Furious marathons, when he looked at her like she hung the stars just for him.

He was grown now. Taller. Broader. More confident. He was mature. Luke Hughes was no longer the little boy she once met. 

He was a man now.

But he'd still held her hand before the draft started.

Still leaned into her shoulder when the nerves kicked in.

Still whispered, "I'm glad you're here," like it was the only thing keeping him grounded.

She had always been a safe space for him. And she always would be.

⸻

Jack had changed too.

Not overnight. Not all at once. But the slow kind of change that creeps in between seasons. Years had passed. His name had been called. His life had launched in ways most people only dreamed about.

And with every new city, every new headline, every new spotlight—he still thought about her.

They stayed in touch. Little messages. Summer meet-ups. Inside jokes exchanged over text. But distance made it easier to push those feelings away. He had flings, distractions, moments of temporary interest. He convinced himself it had passed.

That what he felt for her was just nostalgia.

Until she came back.

She graduated from UCLA in 2022—business degree, communications minor, a resumé that practically glittered. And then, in the kind of twist only the universe could write, she landed her first job in New Jersey. A start-up company. PR and account management. Fast-paced. Groundbreaking. Local.

Jack didn't find out until a week after she moved in.

He meant to message her first. He really did. But time slipped, and she was adjusting, and he didn't want to seem overeager.

Until she received a package at her new apartment. No note. No message. Just a red New Jersey Devils jersey—his jersey—and two tickets to their home opener.

He knew she'd understand.

And she did.

⸻

That night, she walked into the Prudential Center and it felt like the world had hit rewind. Only this time, the crowd was bigger. Louder. Older. And Jack? Jack wasn't a boy anymore.

He was Jack Hughes now.

Franchise face. Highlight reel superstar.

And the second she saw him skate out onto the ice, she felt her heart stop for a beat.

Because he wasn't the lanky, backwards-hat-wearing teenager who used to fake bad grades just to sit beside her. He was taller now. Broader. His movements were sharp, calculated. Every stride held purpose. The crowd roared and chanted his name when he touched the puck. He didn't just play hockey. He commanded it.

She couldn't take her eyes off him.

And he?

He felt her the second she stepped into the arena.

Didn't see her at first. But he felt her. Like gravity.

After the win, he found her in the tunnel. Same smile. Same soft eyes. But different now. Grown. Glowing.

"Hey, stranger," she said, tugging lightly at the jersey he'd sent.

He laughed, that same dopey grin breaking across his face. "Looks better on you."

They hugged—longer than they should have. He smelled like ice and sweat and home. And when they pulled back, something unspoken lingered in the air between them. A pause. A beat. Something that had never quite gone away.

They went out for drinks after, just the two of them. A quiet bar, warm lights, quiet music humming in the background. He looked different here too. Not just older—steadier. The way he carried himself, the way he ordered her drink without asking, the way he leaned back and watched her talk like he was cataloging every word.

He wasn't cocky. Just... sure of himself.

It was attractive. She wouldn't lie.

And Jack? Jack felt like he had been punched in the chest.

Because she was even more beautiful now. Effortlessly radiant. Still that same warmth, still that same grace. But there was something new too—something confident, something grown.

He kept staring at her. In the flicker of candlelight, with her hand curled around her glass and her lips curved in that same soft smile, Jack felt like he was sixteen all over again.

Breathless.

Totally wrecked.

Totally in love.

And it scared the hell out of him.

⸻

They made it a tradition—weekly coffee runs, dinner or drinks after games, late-night walks through the city. She fit into his world like she always had. Seamlessly.

She met the team. Jesper pulled her into a bear hug like they hadn't missed a day. Dawson was polite and immediately impressed. And Nico? Nico looked like he was about to make a move—until he caught Jack watching her.

Just one look.

That's all it took.

No one made a move after that. No one had to.

Because it was obvious.

She was Jack's girl.

Maybe not officially.

Maybe not yet.

But everyone knew.

Especially him.

⸻

It started the way it always did—with a ticket.

Every home game, like clockwork, Jack left two tickets for Everlyn at will call. No message. No pressure. Just a quiet gesture, a ritual of theirs that said you're welcome here. Always. And she'd used the first one nearly every time.

But the second?

She never had. Until now.

Jack's world tilted the second he saw her walk through the tunnel with someone else by her side.

He was tall. Blonde. Crisp linen shirt. One of those designer watches that practically screamed my dad plays golf with your CEO. The kind of guy you'd expect to see ordering a $19 martini and not blinking. His name was Jordan, and he shook Jack's hand with the kind of over-firm grip that tried too hard to say something.

Jack didn't flinch, but God, he wanted to.

Jordan asked questions like he was running an interview—"How's the ice this season? Do you ever get recognized on the street?"—and Jack answered through clenched teeth, polite but cold. He watched as Jordan rested a hand on Everlyn's back, too casual, too familiar. She smiled, but it didn't quite reach her eyes.

Still, Jack put on the happy face.

Because that's what he did. He wasn't going to ruin anything for her—not now, not ever. She looked happy. And if that was real... well, then Jack could deal with it. He'd spent years pushing those feelings to the back of his mind. What was a few more months?

But it was a few more months.

And Jordan didn't go anywhere.

He became a fixture. At games. At dinners. Tagging along to post-game drinks, always ordering for the table like he knew what everyone wanted. Everlyn still made time for Jack, but it was different now. Tighter. More filtered. Coffee dates became his favorite part of the week—not because they were exciting, but because they were just her. No Jordan. No compromise.

Just them.

Just how he liked it.

⸻

The lake house in Michigan was supposed to be a sanctuary.

It always had been. A safe haven carved into the summers. A place where the Hughes brothers could take a breath, train hard, play harder, and be surrounded by the people who made the noise feel quiet.

It was Quinn's idea to bring everyone together that summer—an annual tradition, their own off-season camp that just so happened to include boats, beers, and more competitive tubing than anyone should legally survive.

The house buzzed with energy. Quinn had his old teammates in town—Josh and Dalton Norris, all heart and chaos. Luke brought his crew from Michigan—Dylan Duke, Mark Estapa, Ethan Edwards, each of them slipping seamlessly into the rhythm of the house. Jack, of course, had Trevor and Turcs, whose personalities were basically caffeine personified.

And Everlyn?

She brought Jordan.

The mood shifted the second they arrived. Jordan barely greeted anyone before making a beeline for the deck, muttering something about needing to "take it easy" after the drive. The Hughes boys watched Eve with subtle worry, noting the way her shoulders tensed, the way she scanned the room like she was looking for permission to be herself again.

They tried to bring her in. Quinn cracked a beer and started loading up the boat. Jack blasted a playlist of her favorite cheesy country songs. Luke ran to get the rope for tubing.

"Come on," Quinn called out, tossing her a life jacket with a grin. "Let's get out there."

She smiled—small, tight—but before she could step forward, Jordan touched her wrist.

"You don't have to go, babe. I was hoping we could chill here, have a drink or two. You've been talking about relaxing all week."

The way he said it wasn't cruel. Just expectant.

And Everlyn, as always, folded.

"Yeah," she said, her voice barely above the waves. "That sounds nice."

She took the jacket off. Handed it back to Quinn. Her smile didn't reach her eyes.

The brothers all exchanged a look.

Jordan hadn't just dimmed her light—he was stomping it out, slowly.

⸻

Quinn didn't wait long.

As soon as Jordan disappeared back to Jersey, he pulled Everlyn aside. They slipped down the dock together, away from the buzz of the house and the music, until it was just the lapping of the water and the heaviness of unspoken words.

He didn't sugarcoat it.

"You're not okay," he said.

She froze. "Quinn..."

"You don't laugh the same. You don't light up the way you used to. I watched you talk yourself out of joining the boat like you were doing him a favor for existing."

She blinked hard. "It's complicated."

"No, it's not. He's not your partner, Eve. He's your leash."

That broke her.

Her lip trembled. She turned away for a second like she could hide it, but Quinn stepped forward, pulled her into a hug, and the truth spilled out like water over a dam.

It was like this in Jersey. Jordan always had a reason why she shouldn't go out. Why she should stay in. He didn't trust the hockey scene. Didn't like her independence. The lake house made him uncomfortable. Her made him uncomfortable.

Quinn listened, jaw clenched.

"You don't deserve this," he said firmly. "You never did. You're allowed to be loved out loud, Everlyn. Not hidden. Not controlled."

She cried. God, she cried.

But when she went to bed that night, her decision was already made.

⸻

The next morning, she called Jordan.

She ended it. Direct. No stalling. No soft exit.

He didn't take it well.

He accused her—accused her of having feelings for one of the Hughes boys. "It's always been one of them, hasn't it? I should've known the second you made me come to this dumb lake house."

He hung up before she could say anything back.

And it hurt. It did. She was human, after all.

But she walked out onto the dock not five minutes later, barefoot, hoodie over her bikini, and looked out at the water where Jack and Trevor were laughing on the boat. The sun was shining. The breeze was warm. Luke waved at her from the deck, and Quinn handed her a beer with a proud smirk.

She was home.

And this time, there was no one telling her she couldn't enjoy it.

⸻

Jack couldn't stand it anymore.

Everlyn was smiling again, sure—but not the way she used to. Her laugh was a little quieter, her jokes a little softer, like she was afraid to take up too much space. She still had that spark, but it flickered instead of burned, like someone had dimmed her and walked away.

And Jack? Jack wanted to reignite her.

So he made it his mission to bring her back to life—one small act at a time.

He started with breakfast.

She always loved pancakes. He remembered that. Waffles were fine, but pancakes? Pancakes made her eyes light up. So every morning, when someone inevitably asked what to make for the house, Jack was the first to say it:

"Pancakes. Definitely."

He'd sneak her the last piece of bacon when no one was looking, tucking it onto her plate with a smirk. He'd always save her a seat next to him. And when the kitchen got too loud or crowded, he'd silently pass her the syrup like it was their secret language.

He got up early now, before the sun even stretched across the lake, because he knew she liked her morning runs. He'd tie his shoes and jog beside her, matching her pace, letting her pick the music. They didn't talk much—didn't need to. Just ran side by side, feet hitting the dirt road in quiet rhythm, breaths syncing up like clockwork.

He volunteered for errands now too. Grocery runs. Beer pick-ups. Ice refills.

"I'll go," he'd say casually. "Eve, wanna come?"

She always did.

They'd play music too loud in the car. Race to find the weirdest flavor of chips in the store. Argue over the right ratio of peanut butter to chocolate. He'd lean into her cart, throw in random things just to make her laugh. Her smile was starting to come back, slowly, piece by piece.

And Jack? Jack was falling all over again.

⸻

The fire crackled as the night crept in.

They'd spent all day out on the boat—tubing, flipping off docks, laughing until their stomachs hurt. By the time the sun dipped below the trees, everyone was sun-drenched, half-tipsy, and high on that unbeatable summer haze.

So naturally, they circled the fire pit.

Everyone gathered on the chairs or sprawled out on blankets, drinks in hand, cheeks still flushed from the sun. The playlist was low in the background, country twang giving way to soft indie beats. Someone tossed another log onto the fire, and the stories began.

First came the classics—Quinn's worst playoff beard attempts, Trevor's infamous grocery store prank, Jack's rookie year mishaps. Then came Luke's awkward high school phase, complete with dramatic reenactments of him failing to talk to girls at school dances.

Luke rolled his eyes and grumbled, "Yeah? Well you did the exact same thing when you first met Eve."

Everyone paused.

"You couldn't even sit next to her at dinner for months," Luke went on, completely unbothered. "Because you had such a massive crush on her."

Jack felt the color drain from his face, then immediately return with a vengeance.

The fire masked most of it, but the way his ears burned gave him away.

"OHHHH," Turc and Zegras chorused at the same time. "NO WAY."

Jack laughed a little too hard, trying to brush it off. "That's such a lie, Luke. C'mon."

But then Eve turned toward him, eyes soft, a smile creeping onto her lips. She looked at Quinn first—he gave a knowing nod—and then gently placed her hand on Jack's back.

"It's okay, Jack," she said sweetly. "I thought it was cute. But you were really bad at hiding it."

Dead. He was dead.

"You knew?" Jack asked, face frozen in panic.

"Of course I knew," she said with a small laugh. "I've always known."

And as if that wasn't enough to end him entirely, Ellen strolled out of the house with a tray of cookies and chimed in with perfect timing:

"Oh, Jack. Everyone knew."

The chorus of "OOOOHHHHH!" exploded around the fire.

Trevor nearly fell off his chair. Quinn tossed a marshmallow at Jack's head. Luke looked smug as hell. Jack buried his face in his hands, muttering something about never showing his face again.

It was harmless. All in good fun.

But the second the teasing died down and the yawns started, people began peeling off into bedrooms, one by one. The lake grew quieter, the fire dimming to embers.

And Jack stayed behind.

⸻

He sat there alone, elbows on knees, head tilted back to watch the stars. The air was still warm, but the night felt heavy in a way that pressed on his chest.

She knew. This whole time. He'd spent years hiding feelings he thought would ruin everything—only to find out that she'd seen them from the start.

And she hadn't run. She hadn't pushed him away.

She thought it was cute.

"God," he muttered, dragging a hand through his hair. "I'm such an idiot."

Then came the soft sound of feet on grass.

A blanket settled across his shoulders. A familiar head rested gently against his own.

He looked down and saw her—Everlyn, curled into his side, wrapped in the same blanket, her cheek against his shoulder. Barefaced, makeup long gone, hoodie pulled over her knees.

"Don't worry about it, Jacky," she whispered. "I thought it was adorable. I thought you were adorable."

His heart flat-out stopped.

She thought he was cute too.

He blinked, eyes wide, trying to process what those words meant. What this meant. Her voice was low and sleepy, but there was no mistaking the sincerity in it.

She hadn't said it to tease him. She meant it.

Without thinking, he wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her closer, letting her warmth melt into his side. She didn't flinch. Didn't move. Just sighed and settled in.

His hand rested at the small of her back, thumb brushing the fabric of her hoodie. His heart was racing.

She always took care of them—of everyone. Always made sure Luke had what he needed, that Quinn had someone to ground him, that Jack didn't feel invisible. She was the glue, the safety net, the one who never let herself fall until she knew they were all okay.

And the thought that she had spent so long dimming herself for someone who couldn't see her? Who wouldn't see her?

It made Jack's jaw clench.

He'd been there. Right there. And he hadn't stepped in. Hadn't spoken up. He'd let her walk through that alone because he was too scared of what it would mean for him.

Never again.

Not after this.

⸻

Things had found their rhythm again.

Back in Jersey, back in their bubble, back in that comfortable hum of familiarity that made every day feel like a deep breath. But this time, there was something more. Something better.

Because now Luke was here too.

Everlyn had 2 out of 3 Hughes boys back under one roof, and it was like someone had finally returned the missing pieces of her soul. She hadn't realized how lonely she'd been until her days were filled again—trips to the rink, late-night Mario Kart tournaments, homemade pasta nights where Jack burned the garlic bread and Luke put entirely too much cheese in the sauce.

It was chaos. It was home.

They shared a three-bedroom apartment in Hoboken with a view of the skyline and a couch that had seen more naps than conversations. When they signed the lease, Luke had casually mentioned the third room being for "hockey gear or guests," but they all knew the truth.

That room was hers.

She didn't officially live there. Not on paper. But she might as well have. Her stuff was in the drawers. Her favorite cereal was on the shelf. Her slippers were by the door. Half her wardrobe was draped across the back of the desk chair. She came and went freely, sometimes staying a night, sometimes staying a week, no one ever asking when she'd be back—because they already knew.

That room would always be waiting.

It was one of the few places in the world where she never had to ask if she belonged.

⸻

One night, she was actually home in her own apartment—a rare occurrence, considering how often she found herself curled up on the Hughes' couch with a blanket and a mug of something warm. She had just gotten out of the shower, wrapped in her comfiest robe, hair twisted up in a towel, when her phone rang.

Quinn.

It started with the usual—how was your day, did you eat, how's the new campaign going, tell Luke to call his mother. But somewhere between casual updates and light teasing, the conversation shifted. Deepened. As it always did with Quinn, eventually.

"I've been thinking about... Jordan," she admitted quietly, eyes focused on the ceiling.

Quinn didn't interrupt. Just waited.

"I just—I feel stupid," she said. "I let him control so much. I let him talk me out of things I loved. I let him make me feel small. And I knew better. I always knew better."

"Evie."

His voice was soft. Steady.

"You're not stupid. You're human. And you left. That's the hard part. You did it."

She swallowed. "It still makes me feel like I lost a year of myself."

"You didn't lose it," he said. "You reclaimed it. One day at a time."

There was a long silence.

Then, like it was nothing at all, Quinn added: "It was nice of Jack to make you smiling his top priority this summer."

Her heart paused.

She sat up a little straighter, eyebrows tugging together. "What?"

"Jack," Quinn repeated. "It was nice of him. To make sure you smiled again."

She opened her mouth, but no words came. Her thoughts were caught in a whirl—memories of pancakes, early morning runs, gas station trips, firelight laughter. The way Jack always showed up in exactly the way she needed.

Quinn continued, voice low and casual.

"He's a nice guy."

Everlyn narrowed her eyes. "I know that, Quinn. I grew up with him."

"No," Quinn said, and this time, his voice had a different weight to it. A quiet emphasis.

"I mean... he's nice."

She stilled.

It was such a simple word. But the way he said it—the subtle dip in tone, the almost affectionate cadence—shifted the meaning entirely.

It wasn't just about kindness. It was about care. The kind of nice that went deeper than polite gestures and well-mannered smiles. It was the kind that showed up when you needed it. The kind that held space without asking for anything in return.

Jack was nice.

He was thoughtful in a way most people weren't. Protective without being possessive. Gentle in a way that made you feel safe. He was the kind of man who made sure everyone else had what they needed before taking anything for himself. He remembered your favorite things and brought them home without saying a word. He loved quietly—but completely.

And suddenly, it hit her:

Jack had always been like that.

With her.

She hung up the call shortly after, claiming she was tired. But sleep never came easy that night.

She laid in bed, staring at the ceiling, Quinn's words echoing like ripples in her chest.

He's nice.

Jack, who always made sure her coffee was right.

Jack, who checked her tires when it snowed.

Jack, who gave her space when she needed it, and warmth when she didn't know she did.

Jack, who never stopped showing up.

She turned her head, looking at the empty side of her bed.

And she thought: Am I crazy?

Was she insane for even considering it? For letting her thoughts wander into dangerous territory? For entertaining the possibility that maybe—just maybe—the boy she'd grown up with, the one who had waited and waited without ever saying it out loud, could be the one she was supposed to see all along?

She rolled onto her side, clutching the pillow to her chest, eyes heavy with questions.

What if she ruined it?

What if she broke the family that saved her?

And worse... what if he didn't feel the same anymore?

What if she had waited too long?

⸻

The annual charity gala had always been part of the routine.

One of those must-attend events on the Devils' calendar. Glitz, glam, donors, handshakes, perfectly staged photo ops—and beneath all that, a chance to raise money for good causes. Jack had done a few now. Eve had come with him to the last one, and the arrangement had always been easy. Casual. Fun.

This year? Different.

She could feel it. In her chest. In her stomach. In the way she stood a little too long in front of the mirror trying to decide between earrings. It had started subtly—just a thought, a whisper of a feeling—but after that conversation with Quinn, it was like a switch had flipped.

She was aware now. Hyper-aware. Of how Jack looked at her. Of how he always waited for her to walk through the door first. Of how he always held her things, brought her snacks, fixed her laces when she wore shoes with ties. Things he'd always done... but things that now screamed louder.

He was nice. But not just that. Not anymore.

He was steady. Thoughtful. Quietly romantic in ways that weren't about flowers or fanfare—but about presence. Constant, unwavering presence.

And for the first time, she wondered what it meant that he never expected anything in return.

⸻

They were supposed to go as a trio—her, Jack, and Luke. But then Luke had the audacity to fall in love and get himself a girlfriend, leaving Everlyn to go solo with Jack. She'd teased him about it for a full week, but truthfully... it made her nervous.

This wasn't just another event. Not this time.

The lead-up felt different. More intimate. Jack had taken her shopping, trailing behind her in boutiques, giving honest feedback with that same crooked grin. He didn't complain once, even when she tried on twelve different dresses and only narrowed it down to two. He just watched. Waited. Carried her purse and snacks and made sure she didn't talk herself out of something she loved.

They picked her gown together.

A maroon silk number that hugged her curves and dipped just low enough to be elegant without being too much. It made her skin glow. It made his mouth go dry.

She said yes to it when he whispered, "That's the one," with a look in his eyes that stayed with her all night.

⸻

The day of the gala, Everlyn turned their shared space into her own personal glam studio. She spread her makeup across the bathroom counter, curled her hair in sections, and took deep, grounding breaths every few minutes to keep from spiraling into full-on nerves.

It didn't help that Jack was being Jack.

Bringing her little snacks every hour like clockwork.

A granola bar. A handful of grapes. A pack of those crackers she loved from the bodega.

He kept her water bottle full, placing it within reach like it was part of the process. "Drink," he'd remind her with a little tap on the shoulder. "No dehydration meltdowns today."

She couldn't help but smile at him. He was in sweats and a hoodie, hair tousled, lounging on the couch while she transformed herself into someone worthy of red carpets.

She didn't know it, but Jack was suffering.

He kept stealing glances through the half-open door, catching flashes of her bare shoulders, the soft shape of her face under golden bathroom light. She was already stunning, and she wasn't even done yet.

When she finally stepped out—hair swept into a soft updo, makeup glowing, maroon gown clinging in all the right places—Jack stopped breathing.

No exaggeration.

She walked into the living room and time froze.

Luke was the first to recover, standing up with a big smile. "Whoa. You look incredible, Eve."

She smiled, smoothing her dress down nervously. "Thanks, Lukey."

Jack?

He was just standing there, mouth slightly open, staring like he'd never seen a woman before.

Because he hadn't. Not like this.

This wasn't just Everlyn, his best friend, the girl who made pancakes and knew how he liked his coffee. This was Everlyn, the woman. Powerful. Elegant. Ethereal.

Maroon and gold and glowing from the inside out.

He stepped forward slowly, all black tux hugging him perfectly—hair freshly cut and styled, thanks to her insistence, and now gelled into something polished but still him.

"You..." he finally managed, voice rough. "You look unreal."

Her cheeks flushed, and for a moment they just stood there, looking at each other, the noise of the apartment fading into silence.

"I had help," she said softly, nodding toward him. "You picked the dress, remember?"

"Still," he murmured. "Doesn't feel real."

And the way he looked at her then?

It was reverent.

Not hungry. Not lustful. Just... soft. In awe.

Like she was the most beautiful thing he'd ever seen.

And maybe she was.

⸻

The gala started the same as every other year.

Bright lights. Sparkling gowns. Clinking glasses. Jack and Everlyn moved through the crowd like they always had—effortlessly side by side. He guided her gently through the sea of donors and sponsors, a hand resting on the small of her back like he'd always belonged there.

But this time... that simple touch felt different.

It was warm. Steady. Firm in a way that made her feel held—not just escorted. Not just shown off.

Protected.

And Everlyn couldn't stop thinking about it.

Jack chatted easily, charming everyone as usual, but her body was attuned to him. The whisper of his palm. The careful way he shifted her gently toward conversations. The pride in his voice when he introduced her as his date—even if it was unspoken, unofficial.

She didn't say anything. Couldn't.

Because every time she looked at him tonight, all she could hear was Quinn's voice in her head.

He's nice.

Not just nice. Jack Hughes nice. The kind of nice that meant pancakes in the morning and water bottles filled without asking. The kind that stood beside you silently until you were ready to speak.

And right now, he was looking at her like he was seeing her for the first time—even though he'd always seen her.

⸻

The DJ opened the floor for slow dances, and Jack didn't hesitate.

He turned to her with a soft, crooked smile. "Come on."

They'd danced together before. Plenty of times. It had never meant anything before. But now? As they found their spot on the dance floor, facing each other, hands tentatively finding their place—it meant everything.

The music hummed low, a soft melody that wrapped around them like a secret. Her hand slipped into his, the other resting on his shoulder. Jack's free arm slid around her waist with quiet confidence.

And then... stillness.

They were swaying. They were dancing. But all Jack could focus on was the way Everlyn was looking at him.

Intensely. Softly. Like she was searching for something and finding it in his face.

He studied her—tried to decode it. Her eyes were locked on his like she couldn't look away. And for the first time in all the years he'd known her, he realized she was finally seeing him back.

"What's on your mind, Evie?" he asked, voice just above a whisper.

She didn't answer.

She just kept looking at him. Drinking him in. Her mind was running wild—flashing through every moment that had led them here.

The shy dinners when he couldn't look her in the eye. The fake bad grades. The way he always showed up. Every summer spent putting her first. Every little thing she'd brushed off as "just Jack being Jack."

But now she understood.

He'd been in love with her this whole time.

And she'd missed it.

She swallowed, breath hitching. "You," she said softly.

Jack blinked. "Me?"

"I can't stop thinking about you."

He stared, stunned. Heart leaping. Breath catching. He scanned her face again and again, like he needed confirmation that this was real—that she was real.

And then it hit him.

The look in her eyes.

The one he'd been wearing for years.

She had it now. That open, unfiltered, aching gaze that he used to hide behind smirks and excuses. She was seeing him—really, truly seeing him—and God, it made his chest burn.

The song ended, but Jack didn't hear the music stop. The room disappeared. His grip on her hand tightened as the MC's voice faded into the background.

They returned to their table, but Jack couldn't focus. Couldn't breathe.

He was spinning.

Eve sat beside him, her hand resting on top of his. It wasn't new. Not really. But tonight, it was loaded. Charged. Different.

Jack needed air.

⸻

He slipped out without a word and found himself on the rooftop.

The city stretched beneath him, lights flickering, the hum of cars far below. He paced, hand tugging at the collar of his tux, heart pounding out of rhythm.

He was scared. Not of her—but of hope.

Because this was everything he wanted.

And that's when he heard it.

The door opened with a soft click.

He turned—and there she was.

Glistening in moonlight. Her maroon gown catching the breeze. Her updo slightly loosened from the night. Her eyes... locked on his.

They didn't speak.

Didn't need to.

The air between them was thick with unsaid things. It wasn't silence. It was a conversation without words. A thousand unspoken truths floating between them like stars.

Jack looked at her like she held the answers to questions he hadn't dared ask. And Everlyn looked at him like she finally, finally understood what was right in front of her.

And then—they ran.

No hesitation. No overthinking. Just gravity.

They met in the middle. Arms around each other. Breathless. Shaking.

Their foreheads pressed together. Their hands clung tight.

"Jack..." she whispered, barely breathing.

He closed his eyes, voice cracking. "I know, Everlyn... I know."

And then—he kissed her.

Years of waiting, of wondering, of almosts and maybes—gone.

It wasn't perfect. It wasn't polished. But it was everything. His hands clung to her waist like she was the only thing keeping him grounded. Her hands framed his face, thumbs brushing over his cheeks like she was memorizing the feel of him.

The city roared beneath them.

But up there, on that rooftop, it was silent.

Just two hearts, finally meeting in the middle.

Just two souls, saying what words never could.

⸻

It had been over a year since that night on the rooftop.

Since the city went quiet, and Everlyn stopped running, and Jack finally stopped waiting.

Since the moment their hearts collided in the most certain kind of way—the kind that didn't need promises made with words, because it was all written in the way they looked at each other.

Since then, nothing had been the same.

And yet—everything felt like home.

Every morning, Jack woke up with that same quiet awe he'd had since he was fifteen. The way she hummed while brushing her teeth. The way she'd press her forehead to his before leaving for work. The way she poured her love into everything around her without hesitation or fear.

Every day, he fell harder. Every day, he chose her again.

And Everlyn? She felt like she'd finally exhaled.

Jack Hughes was steady. Warm. Deeply kind in the ways no one else got to see. And he loved her in a way that didn't demand attention—but deserved every bit of it. There was no show, no need for validation. Just him. Quietly hers.

They had made a life together. Not flashy. Not perfect. But theirs.

⸻

It was summer again.

Which meant one thing: the Hughes Lake House was alive.

It was tradition at this point. Offseason hit, and the boys flocked to Michigan like it was a pilgrimage. Quinn was already there, helping Ellen prep bedrooms. Luke had brought a handful of friends from around the league—Macklin Celebrini and Will Smith had become the wide-eyed younger brothers of the group overnight. The Tkachuk brothers had showed up in full chaos mode. And Jack had pulled together the old NTDP gang, making it feel like high school and the NHL were blending into one summer-long sleepover.

The lake house was laughter. Inside jokes. The smell of sunscreen and grilled food and dock water. The soundtrack was country music, clinking beers, and the occasional "WHO let Matthew drive the boat?!"

For the rookies, it was a dream. For the veterans, it was therapy.

And for Everlyn?

It was heaven.

She had her hands full—braiding wet hair, making sure no one left without sunscreen, yelling across the dock to make sure Macklin and Will weren't about to snap their necks trying new wakeboard tricks.

She was the same Eve she'd always been—loving and giving, with open arms and no limit to the space in her heart. She even tucked the rookies in like she had done for Luke all those years ago. Whispering reminders in the dark like,

"You don't have to lose who you are to belong here." "If you can't be yourself with someone, that's not someone worth staying for."

Words she'd once needed herself.

⸻

Jack stood at the door that night, watching her speak to Macklin and Will.

She was seated cross-legged on the living room floor, her maroon hoodie slipping off one shoulder, still in her swimsuit from earlier. Her voice was soft. Reassuring. Patient.

Jack felt his chest ache.

Because God, he loved her.

More than he'd ever loved anything in his life.

She was light. She was grace. And somehow—she was his.

⸻

He found Quinn on the back deck not long after. The moonlight danced across the lake in silver ripples. The sound of crickets filled the quiet. Jack stepped beside him, hands in his pockets, heart full.

Neither of them said anything for a long moment.

Until Jack broke the silence.

"She's... she's really..."

"I know," Quinn interrupted, smile pulling at the corners of his mouth. "I know, Jack."

He turned toward him, eyes warm. "I'm so happy for you two. I always knew. But seeing it? It's different. It's real."

Jack laughed softly, almost shy.

"I have it picked out, you know..."

Quinn blinked. "What?"

Jack looked down. Kicked the toe of his shoe against the deck.

"The ring. I got it. Not for now. I want to wait a little longer, but... I just know. She's it. She's always been it. And I got it early as a promise. A vow. For when I'm ready. For when she's ready."

Quinn just stared at him. Then stepped forward and pulled him into a hug.

It wasn't long. Wasn't loud.

But it was everything.

Two brothers, standing under a sky they grew up beneath, holding the future in their arms.

Inside, Eve stood in the kitchen, sipping from a mug of tea. She looked around at the house filled with laughter, light, and people she loved.

And her eyes found Jack through the window.

He was looking back at her.

And somehow, she knew.

[supernovanetwork]

10 Tips for New Stray Kids Fanfic Writers

Do you ever sit there staring at your Stray Kids draft and think:

“Is this even good?” “What if no one reads it?” “How the heck do I post fics on Tumblr anyway??”

But the truth is—everyone starts somewhere, and Tumblr’s full of people who do want to read what you’re writing (yes, even that fluff fic where Chan is your barista).

This guide is for you—the new fic writer, the quiet reader finally ready to post, the person overthinking everything.

Tip 1: Set up your space

You don’t need a fancy theme or 10k followers. But having a cozy blog setup helps people find and follow your work.

Pick a username you like (bonus if it hints at SKZ or writing).

In your bio, mention your fics, SKZ biases, and any ships or genres you focus on.

Pin a post!!! Link your intro, a masterlist, or a WIP schedule—your call. The most important thing is that this stays ORGANIZED. If people cannot find your fics , they wont be able to read them.

Tip 2: Use tags like your fic depends on it (because it does)

Tags = Tumblr SEO. The first 20 matter most.

Here’s how to tag smart:

Fandom: #stray kids, #skz, #stray kids fanfic

Member: #han jisung, #bang chan, etc.

Ship (if any): #hyunlix, #minchan, etc.

Genre/tropes: #fluff, #angst, #hurt comfort, #roommates au

Format: #oneshot, #smau, #drabble, #fic series

This helps the right readers find your stuff!

🛑 Important: Don’t tag members, ships, or tropes that aren’t in your fic just for reach. That’s called false tagging, and it breaks trust with readers. Someone clicking #seungmin isn’t expecting a Jeongin x reader fic with zero Seungmin content 😅

Keep your tags accurate and relevant—it builds a loyal reader base way faster than overtagging ever will.

Tip 3: Use the “Read More” feature

If your fic is more than a few paragraphs, add a Read More break (the little scissors ✂️ in the editor). It keeps dashboards clean and your post looking tidy.

Bonus: You can add a fun header, a quote, or tags before the cut to hook readers in!

Tip 4: Make a Masterlist (even if you only have 1 fic)

It’s your fic menu! This is where people will go to read your work. Be proud of it!! List your stories by member, ship, or type. Add emojis for ✨aesthetic✨. Update it as you go.

Even if you’ve only posted once—put it on there. You’re a writer now. 🫶

Tip 5: Engage with other SKZ fic writers

Tumblr isn’t a one-way street. You’ll build a reader base faster (and have more fun!) if you:

Reblog others’ fics and leave comments on their work.

Answer asks. Send asks.

Join writing events or tag games.

Hype up your mutuals!!

The stray kids community is super supportive—don’t be shy.

Tip 6: Use content warnings + proper tags

Keep your readers safe and informed by tagging:

Sensitive themes: #tw abuse, #death, #mental health

NSFW: Always tag it clearly, and don’t forget the 18+ warning

Major spoilers: if it’s plot heavy, give a heads up

It’s respectful and helps build trust.

Tip 7 : Reminder: Notes ≠ Worth

Got 7 notes on your fic? That’s seven whole people who took the time to read your words. That’s a small group reading circle. Intimate. Intentional. Beautiful.

20 notes? That’s a classroom full of people listening to the story you created.

100 notes? You just filled a conference room. Imagine standing at the front, reading your fic out loud to everyone in that space.

500+ notes? That’s a theater audience. All eyes on you. Applauding your imagination.

No matter the number, your story reached someone. That matters.

✨ Some fics blow up overnight. Some quietly change someone’s whole day. Both are real impact.

Write because you love it. Write because it’s in you. Write for the one person who needed that exact scene, line, or character—and found it in your words.

Tip 8 : Make your blog feel you

Tumblr loves writers who:

Share WIP snippets or headcanons

Post silly tag games

Talk about writing struggles (we all relate)

Make moodboards or fic memes

People connect with your words and your personality. Let that shine.

Tip 9: Start small—and keep it fun

You don’t need to drop a 10k word masterpiece your first time out. Write a drabble. A blurb. A tiny scene that makes you smile.

Low-pressure writing builds consistency and helps you find your voice. The best part? Those small fics often get the most love because they’re easy to read and reblog.

Tip 10: Reblog. Your. Own. Fic.

Tumblr moves fast. Your post can get buried in hours. So reblog it! More than once. With:

A different teaser line

A fun tag (like #if you like pain, read this)

A “thank you” or “I can’t believe I wrote this” moment

It’s not annoying. It’s smart. People are in different time zones and scroll at different hours. Let your fic breathe.

If you don’t hype yourself up, who will?

Did this help you?

Or maybe you have some tips that helped you as a new writer?

Feel free to leave them in the comments — we’d love to hear from you!

[marjoch]

FOR SURE

TA viktor x undergrad jayce. jayce has acquired his number, and they go out. ft. a dash of stoner viktor x takes one hit and dies jayce

chapter 2 of 16

early updates ao3 @ josmarch !

A university in California, November.

The breeze was perfect. There were a few clouds dotting the skies, and grad student Viktor was hoping for rain. Born and raised in the Queens borough of New York City, he was used to more diverse weather. He’d been in California throughout his college education, and he still mourned the winter snow.

Today was particularly intriguing for Viktor, because he was a teacher’s assistant in an advanced chemistry lab. It wasn’t the work that intrigued him — sure, it was the best way to ease into a career, especially being given the opportunity to assist one of the university’s most renowned science professors. This would look good on his resume. No, it was one person. Viktor showed up early each day, just for the chance to spend even a moment alone with Jayce Talis.

Jayce started class as a dedicated student, turning in his work early and asking questions when it was necessary. Viktor had stopped by him and his lab partner several times, to check in, and maybe even to have an excuse to talk to him. There was something about him that was almost magnetic, and when their eyes met during experiments, Viktor noticed the way Jayce averted his quickly. Was there something there? He couldn’t tell.

Viktor could start conversations easily, but they would only go so far. He’d given Jayce advice on keeping up with classwork, noticing how he started lagging behind. When he was helping Professor Heimerdinger grade assignments, he saw how Jayce’s neat writing in the early semester turned into scrawling letters by now, indicative that he was rushing. He must have been a busy man, Viktor reasoned.

Intriguing, then. There was no better word for it.

Viktor’s eyes scanned the lab, watching pairs of students dutifully titrate their solutions. Jayce was partnered with Sky, a young woman Viktor had worked with before. He’d tutored her in an anatomy class, and he knew she was smart, so he felt they were a good match. Initially he’d suggested pairing them on purpose, to give Jayce the upper hand. He now knew that Jayce was capable of holding his own, even with his apparently occupied schedule.

He was caught looking, then, as Jayce’s eyes met his own. Before Viktor had the chance to redeem himself by continuing his glance across the rest of the students, Jayce turned away quickly. He muttered something to Sky, who looked back. That was enough to prompt Viktor to move on. He made his way around the classroom, stopping by a pair of young men who were increasingly frustrated with their attempts.

“I can’t figure this shit out,” one of them was saying to the other. He noticed Viktor, and straightened, correcting his profanity. “I can’t figure this out.”

Viktor looked down at their setup. “Refrain from rushing,” he offered. “Half a drop is the difference between just enough, and too much.”

The second student nodded, and turned back to the experiment. Viktor moved on.

His next stop was Jayce’s table. Sky was tending to the titration while Jayce was bent over, head in his hands.

Viktor had to ask. “Is everything okay over here?”

He noticed the urgency in Jayce’s adjustment. He sat up quickly, hands quietly hitting the table, eyes meeting the teacher’s assistant. “Why wouldn’t it be?” Was his tone almost… nervous?

Viktor feigned nonchalance. “I’m just checking in.” He looked back at the pair he’d just left. “A few students had other questions.” It was hard not to draw his eyes immediately back to Jayce, and it was a coordinated move to look back at the pair he was in front of.

“We’re alright, thank you,” Sky interjected, effectively saving Jayce from speaking again. Viktor was no stranger to the subtleties of their exchange.

Viktor nodded, letting the conversation end there. In his eyes, it was almost an effort to test the waters. Jayce seemed nervous in his presence, but he wasn’t sure if it was an honest perception.

“Actually, Viktor?” Sky’s voice interrupted his dismissal. Viktor turned around, waiting for her continuation. “Jayce had a question.”

Viktor looked between the two of them. It was quiet as he walked back, ready to answer a question related to science. The silence around the table was deafening: the sound of chatter could be heard in the background, but his focus eliminated it completely.

Sky seemed exasperated, as if Jayce was causing her problems. “He wanted to ask for your number.”

So it wasn’t an actual problem, then, and she was a supporter. It was impressive how easily she was able to get the words out while Jayce sat, stunned. Jayce gave her a look, and kept his eyes on her as she went back to her work, as if nothing was going on.

“Is that true?” Viktor addressed Jayce, finally earning his gaze. He waited, leaning on his cane, and Jayce finally sighed.

“Yes.”

Viktor was pleased. He’d had the thought in his mind for sometime, but would not be the one to say it because of his position as a teacher’s assistant. He’d never dated anyone that wasn’t on his academic level, and even then, it had been fleeting — more of a concept than a relationship. “Give me your notes.”

Jayce seemed surprised. His face turned white, hands shaking as he flipped the page and handed it over.

Viktor took it, putting his pen to paper. He considered writing the number as it was, but enjoyed the fun of a game: he drew out a complicated equation in which the answer was ten digits, and handed the notebook back with ease. “There you go.”

Jayce just stared at him, as if he was still processing the event. Viktor wasted no time in moving on, the thought of Jayce occupying his mind as he did his job in helping students who struggled.

Viktor was by the front at the end of class, helping collect the notes that students were turning in. Sky was the one who brought up the notes from Jayce’s table, much to Viktor’s dismay. His eyes found Jayce on the way out, and he couldn’t help the slightest smile from appearing on his lips.

Back at home, Viktor kicked off his shoes and headed to the kitchen. His cat brushed up against his legs, waiting to be fed. He cracked open a can of cat food and spooned it into her bowl, putting it on the floor by her water bowl and petting her head gently.

“Missed you, Genevieve,” he said.

Since starting grad school, Viktor had been lucky enough to live alone. He’d been on a scholarship most of the experience: it was the only reason he was still in California. He longed for home, especially in the winter, but he was set on finishing the goal he’d set out to accomplish.

Granted, there was nothing for him at home. He was raised as a first-generation American, born to Czech parents who’d passed away at different points in his childhood and adult years. But while he didn’t have much to go back to, he longed for it all the same.

There was work to do. Once Genevieve was fed, he made his way to the dining room table. It was covered in stacks of textbooks, varieties of notes, and assignments he was helping Professor Heimerdinger to sort through. He propped his cane up against the table as he sat and started, playing some easy music from his phone to get through it. Classical was his go-to for work: it lacked words to distract from the task at hand, and it was a reminder of when he studied piano.

The night settled in, and Viktor had to turn a lamp on to see what he was doing. While the rest of the dining table chairs were nice mahogany, the chair he sat on was on wheels. It allowed him to move across the room without the effort of getting up, and he utilized it now, rolling over to the lamp and turning it on before returning to the table.

Once he was finished sorting through everything for class, he started on his own homework. It was extensive — he was working on a thesis, and he kept stalling. It was frustrating, but he was determined.

Sometime in the midst of his work, his phoned buzzed on the table. Viktor came to a stopping point before picking it up, looking at the screen. It was an unknown number, with the simplest inquiry: Is this Viktor?

It had to be Jayce. He couldn’t help but smile, and he composed a response.

I think you have the wrong number.

His phone informed him the text was read. He hesitated, waiting to see if anything else would come through, and then redeemed himself.

Kidding

Viktor went back to work, trying to remain focused, but finding his thoughts wandering back to the text conversation that had just begun. That message was left on read, and after a few minutes, he weighed the options of texting again.

On one hand, he could successfully leeway into a real conversation. On another, he didn’t want to seem desperate. Jayce intrigued him, as he’d come to realize.

Fuck it.

How was your day?

That was easy enough. He went back to work, doing his best to pay attention to his homework, fingers dancing on the edge of the table at a familiar tune he’d played on piano years ago.

The phone buzzed. Viktor looked immediately.

I’m good, how are you?

He let a few minutes pass by. Viktor wondered why he was thinking about this so strategically. Jayce was just a man.

Good enough. Do much with your evening?

He hardly had time to put his phone down before Jayce responded. Device still in hand, he read over the words.

Spent it working our your equation

So Jayce had cared enough to work it all out. Obviously, he thought, because he’d been texted, and he hadn’t given the answer of his phone number outright. Jayce didn’t sound like he had any help.

Even if he had, would Viktor have cared?

Viktor looked between his own homework, and the phone.

You should probably do your homework.

If Jayce had spent the majority of his evening up until this point solving an equation that was irrelevant to his academic career, what would Viktor have to look over the next class they met? He liked seeing into Jayce’s mind. The way he documented his findings was different than anyone else: he had a perspective that viewed things from a new angle, and Viktor wanted to pick his brain.

I’d rather talk to you

It was the first text that truly had him sitting in silence. The piano score he was listening to faded out, and it took a minute for the next track to fade in, accurately representing his reaction.

What to say to that?

Viktor set his pen to his paper again, an attempt to get back to business. He made it through a few problems, but his mind was somewhere else. He couldn’t focus while the conversation still hung in the air.

We could talk over drinks. Friday?

After sending it, he squeezed his eyes shut, as if that would result in an easier letdown. He was prepared for Jayce to back out. Maybe he had plans Friday, with some girl he was seeing. Viktor remembered the start of the semester, when a beautiful woman walked him to class every day, kissing him in the hallway. He remembered the jealousy he’d felt, totally unprompted.

Give me a time and place, and I’m there

Relief flooded his body. Viktor sat back in his chair, fully stepping away from his work for the first time. Where should he take him? Was this a date?

There was no one around to consult, so he thought long and hard about a time and place, just as requested. He finally settled, and texted back, turning off his phone and setting it down on the table.

Viktor sighed deeply. The music kicked back in, and he went back to work. Once he started, it was easy to continue, and he finished before it was late. That was a success, because he was usually up until the early hours of the morning, barely making it to bed before he collapsed of exhaustion.

Done with his work, Viktor rose from the table and made it to his room. He changed for bed and crawled under the blankets, cane against the bedside table. Genevieve made an appearance, settling next to him while he leaned against the pillows.

One last text to Jayce. It couldn’t hurt.

Goodnight

He set his alarms to rise early, and put his phone on his bedside table. It was surprisingly easy to fall asleep with Jayce on his mind, and he found himself pondering the concept of Jayce next to him as he did.

The days dragged on now that Viktor was anticipating Friday. The lab wasn’t meeting again for the rest of the week, so Viktor had no excuse to see Jayce before then. He was lucky enough to see him from a distance across campus, and Jayce waved at him before he had the chance to react. He raised a hand to wave back as Jayce moved on, a taller girl dressed in blue chatting by his side.

Was it a lover? He couldn’t tell. Viktor hardly knew anything about Jayce’s life, but he wanted to know more.

He would just have to wait.

When the hour finally arrived, Viktor was on time. He dressed in trousers, and settled on a white button-down under a navy sweater vest. When he opened the door, his eyes searched the bar.

Sitting at the counter was Jayce, wearing jeans, a similar white button-down, and a light jacket. He looked at his phone and then turned towards the door, eyes immediately finding Viktor.

Jayce smiled and waved, and Viktor knew the game was already over. Jayce had him right where he wanted him.

Viktor didn’t know how badly Jayce wanted him back.

“Hello,” greeted Jayce as Viktor walked to the counter. Jayce stood, standing in front of him.

“Good evening,” was Viktor’s response. “You’re early.”

“I’m very punctual,” Jayce shrugged a little.

“I know,” Viktor nodded.

Jayce seemed surprised that Viktor noticed his attention to detail. He turned to the bartender, a buff man with his hair pulled back. “What do you have on draft?”

The bartender elaborated, and Jayce ordered one of the beers. He turned to Viktor, then. “What do you drink?”

“I’ll have the same,” Viktor told the bartender, who grabbed a second glass.

Jayce pulled out his card, but Viktor was faster, cash in hand. The bartender sat the drinks in front of them. “Eighteen dollars,” the bartender informed. Viktor gave him a twenty, and found another five in his wallet.

“Keep the change,” Viktor nodded, picking up the glasses and handing one to Jayce. He focused on Jayce. Now that they were closer, he noticed the amber in his eyes, the same he saw when he looked in the mirror. Between the shirts and their gaze, they were already on a good track. “Want to talk somewhere quieter?”

Jayce just nodded. Viktor thought it was cute that he was so enthusiastic.

Viktor grabbed his hand, cane hanging from his arm, and led them through the growing crowd towards the back of the bar. There were booths up against the wall on one end, and Viktor dropped Jayce’s hand as they made it to an empty one.

They slid into the seats on either side. Viktor took a drink from his glass, and Jayce set his on the table, watching. Viktor put his down, then, meeting his gaze.

“So,” Jayce started, voice trailing off.

Viktor raised an eyebrow, waiting. “So…?”

“So, uh, how are your classes?” Jayce attempted, sipping at his beer.

“I didn’t ask you out to talk about classes,” Viktor said.

Jayce choked, coughing on his drink. “Wrong pipe,” he informed, redirecting his cough into his sleeve and catching his breath.

“Are you okay?” Viktor asked, concerned.

“Is this a date?” Jayce answered with a question.

Viktor was surprised by his bluntness. It was already giving him more insight into Jayce’s character, and how he was upfront about things. “Do you want this to be a date?”

So many questions, back and forth, with no answers. Neither of them cared.

“Um, yes,” Jayce decided, raising his beer to his lips again to escape elaboration.

Viktor just shrugged. “Yes, then.”

Jayce nodded, looking around the bar. “This is a nice place. Do you come here often?”

Viktor noticed the way Jayce had a hard time making eye contact. Was it his effect on the man, or was Jayce uninterested?

“Only when I’m talking to men,” Viktor joked. He hadn’t brought anyone here, but he had been several times before. Even on weekends, it wasn’t insanely busy, and he valued the ability to navigate through the bodies.

“So you’re gay, then,” Jayce deduced.

Viktor laughed a little. “Yes, Jayce,” he said. “I’m gay. Do I not look gay?”

“You can’t be sure these days,” Jayce answered. “I didn’t want to assume and look like an idiot.”

“You’re not an idiot,” Viktor reassured, taking another drink. “Your work is very well-spoken, although I have noticed the decline in your efforts. I’m surprised you were free to meet me, I imagine you’re very busy.”

Jayce seemed like he’d been caught. Viktor was curious. “Thanks,” he said, working on his beer. “I’m gay, too. Well, I’m bi.”

“I assumed,” Viktor said. “You’re better than me to ask.”

“I don’t think we should have to ask. I think it’s stupid. We should just love who we love.”

Viktor noticed how Jayce filled every empty space with words, like he was trying to convince him to stay engaged. Viktor wasn’t going anywhere. He reached out and touched Jayce’s hand, enough to ground him, and then sat back again. “Tell me about yourself.”

Jayce divulged, then, and Viktor paid attention. He wasn’t surprised to hear that Jayce was from LA, but Jayce had endless questions about New York. Viktor answered all of them, and the night passed.

Sometime into their second drinks, Jayce brought up his thesis. “I’ve been stumped lately. I want to research temporal anomalies.”

“That��s bold,” Viktor commented, watching Jayce from across the booth.

“That’s what I’ve been told,” Jayce drank from his beer. He could hold his alcohol, but Viktor’s presence made him feel more intoxicated. The teacher’s assistant was like a drug.

Viktor wasn’t fazed by the idea. “I think it’s brilliant. I’ve yet to encounter anyone else studying that subject.”

Jayce smiled. “You think so?”

Viktor particularly liked Jayce’s smile. It was always genuine, not forced, and it made Viktor feel comfortable. Like his words or opinion mattered. And there was that tooth gap that gave Jayce a sense of human realness, not completely perfect, except in his own way. It was perfect to Viktor.

“Of course,” Viktor said, affirming his thoughts. “I can help sometime, if you want. Not that you need it.”

“You mean it?”

Was that excitement in his tone? Viktor wanted to find out.

“You should show me your work sometime. I can look over it.”

Jayce finished his beer, and set the glass down. “I’m free now.”

God, he was just Viktor’s type. A date at a bar, followed by research? It was what he was planning to do when he got home anyway.

Viktor finished his beer, a mirror image of Jayce. He slid out of the booth, leaning on his cane, and Jayce picked up both glasses to carry them back to the bar. So he cared enough to make life easier for the bartender, Viktor thought. He walked with Jayce, and the pair of them headed out to the street.

“Did you walk?” Jayce asked. When Viktor nodded, he continued. “Me too. I live close.”

They set off, then. There was small talk between them: Jayce commenting on the stars, Viktor asking him if he had a favorite constellation. He thought it suited Jayce to prefer the archer. It held the most stars of any constellation, representative of his many thoughts, all interesting to Viktor.

They arrived at Jayce’s residence: a building of four units, with an entrance to each on the outside. Jayce led them to his unit. He fumbled for his keys and unlocked the door, pulling it open upon his success.

“Welcome,” said Jayce, motioning inside. He held the door for Viktor, who entered, taking in the apartment.

Jayce’s living quarters were just how Viktor imagined. It was an open floor plan, with the living room bleeding into the kitchen, and not a dining room table in sight. There was a couch in front of a television, which was on, some action show being ignored by Jayce’s roommate: a young woman with vibrant pink hair, lying on the couch, laughing on the phone with someone.

“Hey,” Jayce greeted her. “This is Viktor.”

“Yeah, hold on,” the woman was saying into the phone. She sat up, then, and gave a wave. “I’m Vi,” she introduced.

“It’s nice to meet you,” Viktor said, standing near Jayce.

Jayce pointed down the hall. “My room is the one at the end of the hall. I’ll grab us a beer and be right there.”

Viktor nodded, and made his way towards the room. Jayce watched him go, and then went to the refrigerator, opening it and finding two bottles. He popped the caps off, and began to head past Vi.

“I know, I know,” Vi was smiling. “I won’t do it again, promise.” A pause, and then a laugh. “Oh, you don’t believe me?”

As Jayce passed her, Vi waved for his attention. He turned to her, and she gave him a thumbs up.

“Nice,” she said, mouth away from the phone. Then she laid back down, turning to her conversation: “Come on! You have to give me some credit. He deserved it.”

In Jayce’s room, Viktor flipped on the light to find the missing dining room table. The bed was small, pushed into one corner, and the table took up the majority of the space. A wall had been painted as a chalkboard, and it was full of scrawling writing, equations and formulas. The rest of the apartment was what he expected, then — the room was different, because he didn’t know just how dedicated Jayce was. It was almost a breath of relief: maybe he did understand Viktor’s own passion for science.

“Hey,” Jayce greeted, coming into the room and handing Viktor a beer, shutting the door behind him.

Viktor pulled his attention from the board for a second, taking the beer, and motioning at the wall. “You did all this?”

Jayce nodded. “It’s a lot, I know,” he sighed. “It keeps me up at night.”

Viktor looked between Jayce and the board. “Do you mind?”

Jayce shook his head, picking up a piece of chalk and handing it to him. “Please.”

When Viktor took it, their fingers brushed together, and it sent shivers down his spine. He looked over the board. “Have you considered it backwards?”

Jayce raised an eyebrow. “What do you mean?”

Viktor put the chalk to the black wall, finding an empty space and rewriting the problem from another perspective. When he was finished, he stepped back.

“Oh,” Jayce said, putting his hands on his head as if he’d just had a breakthrough. “Oh, you’re good.”

Viktor smiled, and managed a nonchalant shrug. “I try.”

“You don’t have to try,” Jayce said without thinking. Then he sighed, as if he should’ve thought through his words better. Viktor thought it was cute.

“Do you smoke?”

The question from Viktor turned Jayce’s attention from math to the man beside him.

“Sometimes,” Jayce offered, lying through his teeth.

“Do you want to?” Viktor asked. “I have a joint on me. We could go outside.”

“We can smoke in here, I don’t care,” Jayce shrugged. “Vi doesn’t care, either.”

Viktor didn’t care. He had the joint in a small plastic tube in his pocket, and he produced it, popping it open. He dumped it out into his hand.

“I don’t have a lighter,” Viktor informed. “Or an ashtray.”

“Hold on,” Jayce sprang into action, leaving the bedroom in a flash. Viktor hardly had time to continue looking around at the posters of old sci-fi movies and the crystals sitting under Jayce’s windowsill before Jayce came back, lighter and ashtray in hand.

He shut the door. He handed the lighter to Viktor, and set the ashtray on the table. There was something about the way Jayce was always in action, ready to supply whatever Viktor needed. If they hadn’t been talking in this way, Jayce would’ve made a good lab assistant, or even a partner in science.

Viktor put the joint between his lips, and Jayce watched him hold the lighter to it like it was a movie. Viktor inhaled, and breathed out the smoke, sighing in relief. He’d started smoking for medicinal reasons years ago, but he would be remiss if he denied enjoying the recreational benefits.

After another puff, Viktor passed it over to Jayce. Jayce had smoked before, but it had been years. He inhale through the filter, trying to play it cool, and began coughing the second the smoke hit the back of his throat. Clouds of smoke erupted as he coughed, doubling over.

Viktor took the joint back, the faintest smile on his lips. Jayce reached for his beer, and desperately sipped. Before Viktor could ask anything, Jayce assured, “I’m okay. I’m okay.”

Viktor took another drag, watching Jayce carefully. When Jayce stood up straight again, finally recovered, Viktor extended the joint to him again. Jayce hesitated, but took it.

“You don’t have to hit that,” Viktor said.

Jayce wasn’t listening. He hit the joint again, this time easier, careful. When he exhaled, he did so successfully, and handed it back over. Viktor noted how he looked as if he’d succeeded at some achievement, and he couldn’t help but chuckle under his breath.

“What?” Jayce asked, catching his reaction.

“Nothing,” Viktor responded, taking another drag. Again, Jayce watched him, enjoying the view. Viktor felt his gaze, but played it off, turning back to the board as he continued smoking. He held out the joint to Jayce at some point, and Jayce waved his hand in denial.

“I’m tapping out,” Jayce said. “You go on.”

Viktor had no complaints. He put the chalk on the wall again, considering the work Jayce had already done. He turned back, pointing to a specific part of the equation. “Do you have the notes for this?”

Jayce nodded, and fumbled through the pages on the table. When he found the right one, he handed it over easily. Viktor read through it, still smoking. This time, he hardly felt Jayce’s gaze, which was hyper-focused. Viktor flicked the ash into the ashtray, and carried on.

While Viktor was working, Jayce was faltering. He pulled out a chair to sit down, and Viktor recognized the experience he was having. “Do you want some water?”

Jayce shook his head, sipping from his beer, not speaking. Viktor could have carried on with the equation, but he set the notes down and leaned against the table, eyes on Jayce.

“I’m okay,” Jayce said, but Viktor could tell he was struggling.

“Do you want to lay down?” Viktor asked.

“Maybe,” Jayce couldn’t decide.

Viktor put the joint out, leaving the remains in the ashtray, and opened a window to ventilate the room. It was chilly outside, but neither of them complained.

“I’m going to go,” Viktor decided, setting the chalk down. “You should get some rest. We can continue this another day.”

Jayce looked disappointed, but he didn’t argue. “Let me walk you out.”

Viktor was wary, but Jayce rose, and walked to his bedroom door. Just as he had outside, he held it open for Viktor, who made his exit.

At the front door, they lingered. Jayce was captivating as ever, but Viktor wasn’t going to make a move while he was far too high on top of the beers they’d shared. “I had a great time tonight,” he told Jayce, who smiled and stared at the ground.

“I’m glad,” Jayce finally met Viktor’s eyes again, nerves racking his body. He would’ve felt this way under the influence or not.

“Text me,” Viktor said.

Jayce was still beaming, and he nodded. “I will. Get home safe?”

Viktor echoed him. “I will.” He made his way off of the porch entrance. “Goodnight, Jayce.”

“Goodnight,” Jayce called after him, watching Viktor until he disappeared from sight.

[fireinthefireproofvault]

Hammelburg University Chapter 1 (Hogan's Heroes College AU)

(My first Hogan's Heroes fic 🥳 Nothing too deep or revolutionary, just wanted to have some silly fun! This chapter is mostly just introductions and setup before we really get started hehe~)

For all they said about Germany, they sure had nice labs. The H.U. laboratory spaces were nothing like the little rooms with chipped white-painted tables and a few beakers and microscopes back in Indiana community college. Real equipment walled the whole place and even sat as decoration if the spectrometer on the professor's desk was anything to go off of. Heck, that was the most advanced spectrometer Andrew had ever seen, not that he'd ever really seen one in person before. But if he had, he was sure it wouldn't be as fancy as that. Too bad they wouldn't need it for this class.

This class. At the thought, he gulped, nerves shooting back up, but they were quickly interrupted by the scrape of the chair at his side. Oh boy, a neighbor! Lab partner! Little guy. Short dark hair and dark eyes. Neatly kept. All his pencils were lined up and his textbook looked positively immaculate. Must be smart.

"Some class this is gonna be, huh? I'm a little scared, to be honest."

"Don't tell me you took this class as an elective." Snippy as the words, lightly accented, could have been, they were delivered with humor and a smug little smile that had Andrew smiling back.

"No way! I'm a Chem major. I have to take stuff like this the whole time. I had my choice for this slot, so I thought 'why not biochem?' It's the kind I know the least about. What about you?"

"For my major, too, though I had no choice in the matter. All the medical majors need a good foundation."

"Medical? Wow, are you going to be a doctor?"

"In a sense," the little guy smiled again, this one devoid of humor in lieu of something sweeter and more idealistic, "Veterinary Science."

"Ooh, that's great! My aunt had a great vet when her dog got sick- said it made all the difference in the world. Gave him five stars on Yelp and everything! Bet you'll get five stars too one day."

"There's just one little hurdle to get past."

"What's that?"

"I still faint at the sight of blood."

~

The classroom was pretty standard.  Close enough to what they had back in the States and clearly set up for the debates that Robert so anxiously looked forward to.  Big part of why he was a law student, after all.  Not one, but two podiums stood eyeing down the sea of chairs waiting for their chance to see their bearers take the stage, verbally and psychologically duking it out.

As it stood, first class was always for introductions.  Assessing the strengths and weaknesses of all the other students.  A cursory glance around the already-filled seats found Robert a fun one, urged his feet forward to the seat he’d claim for the semester’s duration.

Eager look.  Short, dark hair prematurely thinning a little bit.  Pity.  Black hair, blue eyes, proud features made infinitely more haughty by, of all things, a monocle.  Slight upturn in the nose working with the tiny lens and its accompanying squint to paint the picture of one attending a prestigious university on daddy’s money.  Oh, yes, Robert liked the looks of this one.

“Lemme guess— long line of lawyers?”

The young man looked startled, tilted his head with puzzlement as he fixed Rob with a good straight-on look for the first time, taking in his mild, quizzical smile and cheekily raised brows before raising his own.

“How did you know?”

Nailed it.  His voice managed to come across simultaneously confident and wavering.  Money.  German accent, too— perhaps a Hammelburg native?  No, not with clothes that nice.  That turtleneck was practically hand-tailored the way it hugged his lean figure.  Probably Berlin.

“All the best lawyers go here,” Robert pointed out, “And who better to usher in the next generation than the guys who already made their millions?  Robert Hogan, by the way.  Friends just call me Hogan.”

“Wilhelm Klink.”  The young man opposite Robert straightened.  Paused.  One moment, two.  A wide smile.  “Friends just call me Klink.”

“Sure they do,” Rob smiled back, giving a little shake of his head, “The gang back in Berlin?”

Repeat performance.  “How did you know?”

“I’m psychic.  Would you like me to read your palm next?”

~

“Need some help with that?”

Peeling his eyes from the teetering textbook-student union tray-starbucks spread between both arms, Kinch was met with the sight of a guy in a long blue coat and, curiously, sporting a watch on each wrist.  Cocking an eyebrow, he smiled coolly.

“Sure, if you don’t mind grabbing the starbucks.”

“Heading to a table?”

Judging by the accent, the timepiece connoisseur was a bloke from England.  Hammelburg University boasted a surprising number of international students.  Students like Kinch himself, not that Mister Fish and Chips had as much to prove.

“Yeah,” Kinch nodded, “Any by the wall?”

“Your wish is my command.”  Waving a hand, the brit guide-dogged Kinch to the edge of the student union, spilling not a drop of his starbucks even as he swept all the trash and napkins off the table with a flourish, holding up a finger.  “But for a price.  I need the outlet, too.”

“Be my guest.”

“Good thing I’ve got an hour here.  My phone’s almost dead,” he remarked as he plugged in.

“Me too,” Kinch told him, “I don’t suppose you’re in Econ 1?”

Those big blue eyes widened alongside the grin beneath them.  “Well, how do you like that?  Have you bought your textbook already?  If so, have I got a proposition for you.  Peter Newkirk, by the way.”

“The artist formerly known as James Kinchloe.”

It was Peter’s turn to cock an eyebrow at that.

“Everyone just calls me Kinch,” the aformentioned ‘artist’ added with a shrug and a sip of his German starbucks, “Now I don’t suppose your proposition has anything to do with sharing a textbook, does it?”

“I like to think of it more like ‘joint study sessions’.  A little symbiotic relationship, if you will.”

Kinch grinned.  “Save that for biology— you’ve already got yourself a deal.”

“Thank you,” Peter rested a hand over his heart, “For saving me from a life of crime downloading illegal PDFs.  That’s the gateway, they always say.”

“I thought that was weed.”

“Yeah, well, I already tried that and I didn’t like it very much.”

“Really?  You?”

“Yeah, don’t like the smell much and it made me a little too—  Oi, wait, what’s that supposed to mean?”

~

“What are you looking at?”

“Your ring, of course.  Everything else you have is the same as mine.”

“What about it?  It’s a family crest!”

“Quite ostentatious.”

“Like your sweater isn’t designer!”

“I never said it wasn’t.  You might notice that it is only solid grey, though.”

The young man frowned.  Glanced down and then back up with those suspiciously narrowed brown eyes.  Said nothing, of course.

Albert tried again, extending an olive branch he didn’t particularly mind the acceptance status of.  “Prosecution?”

This time, a tight smile.  “Of course.”

“Then we have that in common.  Albert.”

Albert extended a hand, his seatmate took it.  “Wolfgang.”

“And what are those two in front of us doing?  It looks like…a palm reading?”

“Would you two knock that off?”  Wolfgang hissed at the students seated at the desk directly in front of them, knocking their joined hands apart with his.

The guy in the leather jacket, the one who’d been tracing a finger over the lines of the other’s in a clear display of bullshit, shrugged and fixed Wolfgang with a devil-may-care smile.

“Why, you wanted your turn?”

Had this been a cartoon, Wolfgang would surely have had one of those little veins drawn upon his forehead.  “The professor just walked in!”

“Ah,” Leather Jacket nodded, tilting his head in mock thought, “You’re right.  I should do him next— might get me some extra credit.”

Snickering to himself, Albert gave one final glance between Wolfgang and Leather Jacket and shook his head.  Wouldn’t this be a fun semester?

~

The paths between buildings—towering, old, and stone—were immaculately paved and clean.  Not a wad of gum or piece of trash in sight, at least not where Robert and Wilhelm exited their class.  Only smooth, evenly spaced light grey stones to greet his boots with each tap toward the student union.  They’d even put in flower beds along the way, filled with bright blue cornflowers of all things.  Ugh.  Robert shook his head before glancing back Wilhelm’s way.

“Hey, how about an after-class starbucks?  My treat.”

“But you came in with a starbucks,” Wilhelm protested.

Robert shrugged.  “Yeah, but the barista was so hot, I’m kinda hoping she’s still working.  Campus sure knows how to make their money.”

“She was… that pretty, huh?”

“Gorgeous.  Enough to give anyone a caffeine addiction.”

“Alright, if you really want to spend your money on me, who am I to say no?  Lead the way,” Wilhelm replied, sweeping a hand toward the student union.

“And lemme guess, your usual’s a venti with a lot of add-in shit?”

“Hazelnut syrup is not shit!”

“Sure, man,” Robert smirked, sticking his hands in his jacket pockets, “Sure.”

He watched Wilhelm stew in his thoughts— whatever those were— all the way up that neat trail and between the great glass union doors.  All up those old wooden steps, heavy and sturdy beneath the weight of every student passing through them.  Starbucks awaited at beyond the stairwell’s open arms.  Those and the long-ass line winding out the doors and nearly out to the study tables.

“Long line.”

“I see that.”

“If you wanna pass the time, we could finish your palm reading,” Robert offered, extending his hand.

Squinting down at it, then back up into his eyes, Wilhelm said, “Forget it” and promptly pulled out his phone.  iPhone 16.  Tch.  Leaning over his shoulder when they shuffled forward in line, Robert watched a tiktok alongside him.  One of an older guy playing a classical violin.

“He’s good,” he remarked with a nod down to the screen, “You like the violin?”

Pulling his phone away, turning it off and sliding it into his pocket, all while maintaining firm eye contact, Wilhelm broke into a proud grin.  “Like it?  I play it.  I’m a music minor.”

“Oh, yeah?  Do you have any videos of yourself playing?”

What followed was an entire caffeine-and-sex-driven shuffle into corporate coffee purgatory soundtracked by the pained cries of a tortured violin cradled beneath the loving grip of Wilhelm, who for the first time Robert wondered at the possibility of deafness.

“So?  What do you think?”

“I think you’re next to order,” Robert deflected, scooting him closer to the counter, where a second, different hot barista stood, “Go get ‘em, tiger.”

“Wait,” Wilhelm floundered, turning back, “What do I say?”

“Venti with three pumps of extra shit, remember?”

“One venti with three pumps of extra sh-  Hmph!”  Wilhelm waved a hand.  “Who needs you?”

“Her, if I’m lucky,” Robert shot back with a smile and a nod to Hot Barista Two, whose name tag read Hilda, “One grande Americano…”

“For the grande Americano?”  Wilhelm mocked, arms crossed tight along his turtleneck.

“Hey, I like that!  Mind if I steal it?”

Hilda giggled, asking Wilhelm to repeat his order one more time before taking their pay and waving them off.

“What, do you follow all those ‘how do you open’ accounts on twitter?”

“Stick with your violin videos, that’s all weird incel shit.”

“Weird incel sh— whoa!”

Before the two of them could even bustle past the line and find a table, someone had bumped into Wilhelm, sending a bit of his venti hazelnut mocha splattering onto his loafers.

“Dummkopf!  These are expensive,” he whined, waving a pitiful hand over them instead of acting.

Handing him a napkin, Robert got a good look at the guy who’d crashed into them.  Big guy, tall and broad-shouldered.  Just broad in general.  Large hands held at his sides, he peered down with wide blue eyes at Wilhelm’s wealthy angst.

“I was not trying to!  I swear I just wanted to go find a table.  I did not even see you!  I saw nothing!  I did not even see my own feet.”

“Yeah, I bet.  You’re fine.  Wanna come sit with us?”

“Robert,” Wilhelm was still whining, “Why?”

“Answered your own question, buddy,” Robert responded, slinging an arm around him and standing him back up, marching their little troupe of three over to the array of tables, all of which seemed to be occupied by study groups, couples, and the like.

“’ey, Schultzie, looking for a table?”

The voice, eager and British, belonged to a guy in blue who was wearing two watches for some reason.  Sat across from him was a guy about the same age, handsome and dark-skinned, clad in a jacket and beanie, and seemingly working on a mustache.

“Friends of yours?”

“Yes,” the big guy replied with a smile, “From my Econ class!”

“Look at us,” Robert said, arms still around both German students as he marched them over, “Day One and already a big happy family.”

[faggotisaacfloofs]

Also idk if I can say this enough but

If you are considering getting a Smart Drive my recommendation is Absolutely Do Not Do That. Hugest waste of fucking money holy shit.

It's made of plastic almost entirely. Everything exterior is plastic and easily damaged. It will flip under your chair and cause huge problems over minor bumps in sidewalk. (You have to get out of your chair or have someone else flip it back around the right way when this happens!!)

It gets scratched so badly, so easily. Its speed dial is incredibly finicky, and nearly impossible to use around people who are walking (because humans do not walk at a steady pace) or to get it at exactly the pace you want. and impossible to use in small areas, enclosed spaces with turns (i.e. like. Hallways at the doctor office. The grocery store. Classrooms. You know. Where you actually might need it.)

I'm sure there are people who find this incredibly useful. I just don't know who they are or how their setup is or how they make it work!!!

The only people I could see benefitting from this are people who are sufficiently able to self-propel in all minor distances (i.e. can easily cover like 100 meters /go for like 30 min in a store without difficulty) but want assistance for long distances in wide open places. However, the ground better be smooth as fuck and if there's a crack in the sidewalk or you have to curb hop (up or down!!!) even 2 inches, you're screwed. Good luck on literally any street in this country!!!

If you are going really long distances indoors on flat ground, wirhout frequent turns, this might be for you.

If you need it for completely flat paved roads with no cracks and no debris, this might be for you.

A smart drive does not make your chair "almost a power chair where all you have to do is steer with the wheels" [quote from my doctor]

Literally the only thing I can use my smart drive for is going to 1 specific park that has 10 foot wide sidewalk path that is impeccably maintained and smooth. That's literally the only place that is smooth and wide enough for me to use it. And going into the near-empty mall here. But when I get to the art store I cannot use it at all inside a store. Just the 50 yards to get to the store.

I honestly don't know if I am somehow doing something wrong to make it like this. Idk how it can just be me though. Fuck's sake.

A thing that could have so much potential.

I wish I had spent 1/3 the money and gotten the goddamn firefly instead. That one you also can't use inside much because it's so big but I'd be able to do way more outside with it!!! lol. Or just gotten the fucking non-custom lightweight power chair instead. I have wished for that ever since I got this chair lmaoooooo.

I'm just.

So tired of this.

It's been....18 months??? Since I first got the order to get a wheelchair. And I still do not have a functional setup.

World be better please.

[mashivasmartboard1]

Want to Set Up a Studio?

Mashiva brings you modern and professional studio setup solutions. Ideal for digital classrooms, recordings, and presentations, our cutting-edge equipment, including smart digital podiums, PTZ cameras, and digital boards, will transform your studio into a state-of-the-art facility.

[ocimumglobal]

Digital Podiums: Revolutionizing Presentations in the Modern Era

In the age of rapid technological advancement, traditional tools are being replaced by smart, tech-savvy alternatives. One such innovation that has significantly impacted the realm of presentations and public speaking is the digital podium. Whether in educational institutions, corporate settings, or public venues, digital podiums are transforming the way information is delivered and received. Let’s delve into the features, benefits, and reasons why digital podiums are becoming indispensable in today’s world.

What is a Digital Podium?

A digital podium is an advanced version of the traditional lectern. It integrates various technologies, such as touchscreen displays, built-in microphones, and audio systems, to enhance the presenter’s experience. Designed to offer seamless integration with multimedia content, digital podiums are the perfect blend of simplicity and sophistication.

Key Features of a Digital Podium

1. Touchscreen Interface

One of the standout features of digital podiums is the large, interactive touchscreen display. This allows presenters to:

Navigate through slides effortlessly.

Annotate content in real-time.

Access multimedia files with a single touch.

2. Integrated Audio System

Digital podiums are equipped with built-in microphones and high-quality speakers, ensuring clear audio delivery to the audience. Many models also include noise-cancellation features for a professional-grade audio experience.

3. Compatibility with Multiple Devices

Modern digital podiums support connections with laptops, tablets, and USB drives. This ensures flexibility and ease of use, regardless of the presenter’s preferred device.

4. Internet Connectivity

Wi-Fi and Ethernet connectivity enable users to access online resources, stream videos, or download additional materials directly from the podium.

5. Adjustable Design

To cater to presenters of different heights and preferences, many digital podiums feature height-adjustable designs. This ensures a comfortable experience for all users.

6. Robust Security Features

Digital podiums often include password-protected access and encrypted data storage, ensuring that sensitive information remains secure.

7. Multi-Language Support

For institutions and organizations with diverse audiences, digital podiums offer multi-language interfaces, making them accessible to users worldwide.

8. Built-in Lighting

Integrated LED lighting enhances visibility for documents or notes during presentations, especially in dimly lit environments.

9. Recording and Streaming Capabilities

With built-in cameras and software, digital podiums allow presenters to record their sessions or stream them live. This is especially beneficial for hybrid and virtual events.

10. Durable and Sleek Design

Constructed with high-quality materials, digital podiums are designed to withstand frequent use while maintaining a modern and professional appearance.

Benefits of Using a Digital Podium

Enhanced Engagement

Digital podiums make presentations more interactive, captivating the audience’s attention with visuals, videos, and real-time annotations.

Time Efficiency

By consolidating multiple functionalities in one device, digital podiums save setup time and allow presenters to focus on delivering their message effectively.

Accessibility for All

Features like adjustable height and multi-language support ensure that digital podiums are user-friendly for people of all abilities and backgrounds.

Professionalism

The sleek design and advanced features of a digital podium enhance the presenter’s credibility and make a lasting impression on the audience.

Environmentally Friendly

By minimizing the need for printed materials, digital podiums contribute to sustainability efforts and reduce paper waste.

Applications of Digital Podiums

Educational Institutions

In classrooms and lecture halls, digital podiums revolutionize teaching by integrating multimedia content, enabling virtual lectures, and facilitating interactive learning sessions.

Corporate Meetings

For business presentations, digital podiums offer a polished and efficient way to communicate ideas, showcase data, and engage stakeholders.

Conferences and Seminars

Digital podiums are ideal for large events, ensuring seamless transitions between speakers and consistent audio-visual quality throughout the sessions.

Houses of Worship

In religious settings, digital podiums enhance the delivery of sermons and announcements with audio-visual support.

Public Venues

Digital podiums are increasingly used in public addresses, exhibitions, and cultural events, offering versatility and efficiency in diverse scenarios.

Top Considerations When Choosing a Digital Podium

1. Ease of Use

Opt for a digital podium with an intuitive interface that minimizes the learning curve for users.

2. Compatibility

Ensure the podium is compatible with the devices and software commonly used in your organization.

3. Portability

If the podium needs to be moved between locations, consider a lightweight and mobile model.

4. Customization Options

Some manufacturers offer customization features, such as branding and color choices, to align with organizational identity.

5. Warranty and Support

Choose a reliable vendor that provides a comprehensive warranty and excellent customer support to address any technical issues.

Future Trends in Digital Podiums

1. AI Integration

Future digital podiums may include AI-powered features such as speech-to-text, real-time language translation, and personalized content recommendations.

2. Advanced Analytics

Data analytics capabilities will provide insights into audience engagement, helping presenters refine their techniques.

3. Enhanced Connectivity

With the rise of IoT, digital podiums may integrate with other smart devices to create a cohesive technological ecosystem.

Conclusion

Digital podiums are not just a tool; they are a game-changer in the way we communicate, teach, and present. Their versatility, combined with cutting-edge features, ensures that they remain at the forefront of modern presentation technology. Whether you’re an educator, a business leader, or a public speaker, investing in a digital podium is a step toward enhanced professionalism and efficiency.

#DigitalPodium #PresentationTechnology #TechForEducation #SmartLecterns #CorporatePresentations #InteractiveLearning #PublicSpeakingTools #ModernClassrooms #TechInnovation #SustainablePresentations

[digitaldetoxworld]

Smart Speakers: The Evolution of Audio Technology and Home Automation

 Smart audio systems have transformed from mere audio gadgets to imperative tools inside the modern home, serving as hubs for enjoyment, productiveness, and automation. These modern devices are powered with the aid of synthetic intelligence (AI), combining voice recognition with internet connectivity to provide an unbroken person's enjoyment. This essay explores the origins, functions, programs, demanding situations, and future of clever speakers, emphasizing their growing role in improving comfort and connectivity in normal life.

Smart Speakers 

The Origins of Smart Speakers

The idea of a clever speaker began with improvements in AI and herbal language processing (NLP). The first and foremost jump came with voice assistants like Apple’s Siri in 2011, accompanied by the aid of Google Assistant, Microsoft’s Cortana, and Amazon’s Alexa. These technologies laid the foundation for voice-interactive gadgets.

In 2014, Amazon delivered the first Echo speaker, presenting Alexa as its built-in assistant. Initially, the Echo became seen as a novelty, allowing customers to invite primary questions or manage a few clever home gadgets. However, its ability to integrate with different clever gadgets quickly gained traction, and main competitors like Google and Apple developed their very own clever speaker traces.

Key Features of Smart Speakers

Voice Recognition and Assistance

Smart speakers depend upon superior microphones and NLP algorithms to system voice instructions. They can solve questions, offer weather updates, examine the information, and perform net searches.

Smart Home Integration

A cornerstone of smart speakers is their potential to govern clever home gadgets inclusive of lighting, thermostats, door locks, and protection cameras. Through structures like Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit, these gadgets act as centralized controllers for a linked home.

Entertainment

From streaming song and podcasts to gambling audiobooks, clever audio systems are designed for leisure. They combine with services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Audible, delivering super sound tailored to users’ choices.

Personalization

Modern clever speakers can understand individual voices, providing customized responses, calendars, and playlists. This characteristic ensures that every person gets a custom-designed revel in.

Multi-Room Audio

Many smart speakers support multi-room audio setups, allowing users to synchronize track playback across more than one gadget in distinct rooms.

Third-Party Skills and Apps

Developers can create "talents" (Alexa) or "moves" (Google Assistant) to enlarge functionality. These range from ordering meals to playing interactive games, making the devices flexible and adaptable.

Applications of Smart Speakers

 Home Automation

Smart audio systems serve as the mind of clever houses. They connect with devices like smart bulbs, thermostats, and appliances, allowing users to govern their houses with easy voice commands. For instance, announcing, “Turn off the lights,” can extinguish lighting fixtures within the entire house.

Productivity and Time Management

Users can set reminders, alarms, and timers or control their schedules using a smart audio system. Integration with productiveness apps like Google Calendar and Microsoft To-Do allows users to stay organized.

Accessibility

For people with disabilities, clever speakers offer an available interface for controlling gadgets, gaining access to records, or communicating. Voice commands dispose of the want for physical interaction, making era more inclusive.

Education and Information

Smart audio systems act as educational gear, answering queries on numerous topics, translating languages, and even supporting math problems. They are an increasingly number of used in classrooms to guide learning.

Entertainment and Relaxation

In addition to gambling music, smart audio systems provide meditation guides, bedtime memories, and interactive games. Some models, just like the Echo Show, encompass displays for video playback and recipe tutorials.

 Shopping and E-commerce

Users could make purchases through clever speakers, check product availability, or order groceries. Integration with platforms like Amazon permits voice-based total buying studies.

Challenges and Concerns

Despite their several advantages, smart audio systems face demanding situations, specifically around privateness, protection, and consumer acceptance as true with.

 Privacy Issues

Smart audio systems are continually listening for wake phrases like "Alexa" or "Hey Google," elevating issues about information collection and inadvertent recordings. Users often worry approximately how their voice facts are saved and utilized by organizations.

Security Vulnerabilities

Being connected to the net makes smart speakers prone to hacking. Cybersecurity professionals have proven how vulnerabilities in these devices can expose touchy information or furnish unauthorized access to smart domestic structures.

 Misunderstandings and Errors

Voice reputation era, though superior, is not foolproof. Misinterpretation of instructions can lead to accidental movements, irritating users.

Digital Dependency

Overreliance on smart audio systems might also make contribution to a decline in important thinking or the ability to carry out obligations without technological help.

 Compatibility Issues

Not all smart domestic devices are compatible with every smart speaker. This fragmentation can be complicated for consumers looking to build cohesive smart ecosystems.

The Future of Smart Speakers

The destiny of smart speakers lies in more integration, improved AI skills, and stepped forward privateness measures. Key trends shaping their development include:

 Advanced AI and Machine Learning

As AI evolves, clever speakers turn into extra intuitive, able to information context and nuanced language. This will permit extra herbal conversations and smarter interactions.

Seamless Integration with IoT

The Internet of Things (IoT) is expected to grow exponentially, and smart audio systems will play a central role in managing interconnected devices. Enhanced interoperability standards like Matter aim to make smart home ecosystems more cohesive.

 Enhanced Privacy Features

Future models may additionally encompass on-tool processing, where commands are handled regionally instead of inside the cloud, lowering privateness issues. Companies are also likely to introduce policies that are more transparent regarding records.

Expanded Accessibility

Smart audio systems will continue to cater to diverse populations, with functions like multilingual aid, visible aids for the hearing-impaired, and tactile interfaces for people with constrained mobility.

 Immersive Audio Experiences

Advancements in the audio era will make clever audio systems capable of turning in excessive-constancy, 3-D soundscapes, enhancing their role as enjoyment hubs.

Sustainability

With developing environmental attention, manufacturers are focusing on the usage of sustainable materials and strength-efficient additives in clever audio systems.

[itmglobal]

Top International School in Gwalior: A Perfect Choice for Quality Education

When it comes to choosing a swish academe for your child, quality education, a conducive terrain, and world-class installations are essential. Gwalior, known for its nonfictional drollness and cultural heritage, is also becoming a mecca for modern education. However, this blog will help you understand what makes an academy stand out and how it can shape your child’s future if you are looking for the top international school in Gwalior.

Why Choose an International School?

International seminaries offer a class that goes beyond handbooks. They concentrate on global literacy, critical thinking, communication chops, and overall personality development. From pre-primary to high school, scholars are tutored using advanced tutoring styles and a more practical approach.

The top international school in Gwalior offers world-class structure, endured preceptors, and ultramodern technology that ensures scholars are well-prepared for public and international openings. These seminaries also promote creative literacy through alternative conditioning like music, trades, sports, and public speaking.

Residential School installations A Home Down From Home

Numerous parents also look for a residential school that can provide a safe, disciplined, and nurturing environment for their children. The stylish transnational seminaries in Gwalior offer excellent domestic installations. Scholars live in well-maintained caravansaries with 24/7 security, nutritional food, and devoted wardens to take care of their requirements. The domestic setup encourages independence, cooperation, and time management in scholars.

Having a domestic academy setup also benefits scholars from outside Gwalior. They get access to top-notch education without compromising on comfort or safety.

What Makes the Top International School in Gwalior Stand Out?

Transnational classes like IB, IGCSE, or Cambridge

largely good and trained preceptors

Smart classrooms and well-equipped laboratories

Emphasis on sports, trades, and leadership training

Regular career counseling and personality development programs

safe-deposit box and well-managed domestic academy installations

Final studies

Choosing the top transnational academy in Gwalior means your child gets a stylish academic and life skills foundation. Whether you’re from the megacity or outdoors, opting for an academy that also offers domestic academy installations can give a complete and enriching educational experience. Invest in your child’s future with an academy that focuses on excellence in every aspect.

[salmanthavertech]

What Makes DLF Public School One of the Best Schools in Ghaziabad for New-Age Learning

In an era defined by innovation, globalization, and fast-paced change, education needs to go far beyond rote learning and textbook knowledge. The ability to adapt, think critically, and collaborate globally has become vital. Among the best schools in Ghaziabad, DLF Public School stands tall with its visionary approach to new-age learning that prepares students not just for exams but for life itself.

1. A Future-Forward Learning Philosophy

DLF Public School's mission is clear: to empower students with 21st-century skills. Its academic framework combines strong foundational knowledge with modern pedagogy focused on innovation, problem-solving, and adaptability. This approach makes it not only one of the best schools in Ghaziabad but also a model institution for new-age education in India.

Unlike conventional setups, DLF Public School emphasizes holistic development and believes that education is not limited to the four walls of a classroom. This philosophy is embedded in every program, activity, and initiative, helping learners discover their potential at their own pace.

2. Project-Based and Experiential Learning

One of the key differentiators that position DLF Public School among the best schools in Ghaziabad is its focus on experiential learning. The school believes that children learn best by doing. To foster this, students engage in a variety of projects and real-world simulations—be it creating scientific models, conducting market surveys, or presenting startup ideas.

These hands-on experiences allow students to connect theory with practice, develop analytical thinking, and apply knowledge in meaningful contexts. It’s this level of innovation that makes DLF students future-ready and adaptable.

3. Integration of Technology in Classrooms

DLF Public School is committed to integrating technology with education. From smart classrooms to AI-based learning tools, the school ensures students are well-versed in modern technologies from an early age. Learning Management Systems (LMS), interactive modules, and virtual labs support personalized and self-paced learning.

This tech-savvy environment not only enhances academic performance but also ensures that students are equipped to thrive in a digitally-driven world—strengthening DLF’s reputation as one of the best schools in Ghaziabad for new-age education.

4. Life Skills and Leadership Programs

Recognizing that academic success alone isn't enough, DLF Public School has incorporated dedicated programs to nurture essential life skills and leadership qualities. Whether through debate clubs, entrepreneurship cells, student councils, or service-learning projects, the school encourages students to take initiative and lead with empathy.

This comprehensive development approach builds character, confidence, and a sense of responsibility—attributes that are key to success in modern life and careers.

5. STEAM Curriculum and Innovation Hubs

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) education at DLF is elevated to STEAM by integrating the Arts, encouraging students to think creatively and solve problems with both logic and innovation. Innovation labs, robotics workshops, and coding boot camps ensure students are not just consumers of technology but creators too.

The school's innovation hubs promote curiosity and invention, where students brainstorm, build prototypes, and even participate in global competitions.

For more details, visit here: https://www.dlps.co.in/

6. Global Collaboration and Exposure

While the school maintains strong roots in Indian values, it also gives students a global perspective. DLF Public School regularly engages in global student exchange programs, international webinars, and collaborative projects with schools abroad. These initiatives expose students to diverse cultures, ideas, and ways of thinking—an essential skill in a globally connected world.

By fostering global citizens with local values, DLF bridges the gap between traditional education and the demands of the future.

7. Emotional Well-being and Mindfulness

In today’s high-pressure academic world, mental health and emotional intelligence are more important than ever. DLF Public School places equal emphasis on emotional well-being through dedicated counselling, mindfulness sessions, and programs like 'Happiness Curriculum.'

Teachers are trained to identify stress indicators, and the school has created a safe space for students to share, reflect, and heal. This thoughtful integration of emotional support makes the school a nurturing and inclusive learning environment.

8. Skilled and Visionary Faculty

Behind every successful student is an inspiring teacher. DLF Public School boasts a team of passionate and professionally trained educators who are not just subject matter experts but also mentors and facilitators of holistic development.

Regular training, international exposure, and pedagogical workshops ensure that faculty stay updated with the latest trends in education. Their commitment to lifelong learning inspires students to follow suit.

9. A Safe and Progressive Infrastructure

The campus itself speaks volumes about the school’s dedication to modern learning. With fully equipped smart classrooms, innovation labs, libraries, sports complexes, and safe transport systems, the school offers an environment that supports both academic and extracurricular excellence.

The infrastructure at DLF Public School isn’t just modern—it’s also purposefully designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and independent learning.

10. Proven Academic Results with a Progressive Edge

While innovation and holistic learning are key pillars, DLF Public School has never compromised on academic excellence. Year after year, its students top CBSE board results and secure placements in prestigious institutions across India and abroad.

The school strikes a powerful balance between performance and personal growth—cementing its position as one of the best schools in Ghaziabad.

Final Thoughts

DLF Public School stands as a beacon of new-age learning in Ghaziabad. With its cutting-edge teaching methods, global outlook, and emphasis on holistic growth, it truly deserves its spot among the best schools in Ghaziabad. What sets it apart isn’t just its results but its vision to shape future-ready individuals who are compassionate, innovative, and courageous.

[vivencyglobal]

Future-Ready Networking Solutions by Vivency Global

Description 

Remain connected, secure, and scalable with Vivency Global's smart networking solutions. Whether you need cabling and Wi-Fi, security, or data centers, we have everything your business needs for smooth digital functioning. 

Future-Ready Networking Solutions by Vivency Global 

In the digital-first age, a safe and solid network is the basis of all successful businesses. From sending emails and video conferencing to running cloud applications and smart systems—everything rests in the balance of a solid, reliable network. 

At Vivency Global, we specialize in delivering future-proof networking solutions that allow businesses of any size to remain connected, work smarter, and grow faster. Whether you're expanding your business with a new office or upgrading your existing IT infrastructure, we can help you develop a fault-tolerant network that suits your needs to the dot. 

Why Networking Solutions Matter 

Good networking isn’t just about cables and Wi-Fi—it’s about productivity, performance, and peace of mind. When your network works the way it should, your team can collaborate better, your systems run faster, and your data stays secure. 

Vivency Global understands the value of well-designed networks, and we’re committed to delivering solutions that are not only efficient but also easy to manage and built to last. 

Vivency Global’s Core Networking Services 

Structured Cabling Systems 

We provide neat, tidy cabling installations using the best materials like Cat6, Cat6A, and fiber optics. Our structured cabling solutions are designed to offer speed, dependability, and future-proof flexibility. 

Wireless & Wired Network Setup 

Our technicians design and deploy wired LAN/WAN systems and enterprise wireless networks with high-speed, buffer-free connectivity across your facility—no dead zones or delay. 

Advanced Network Security 

Security is our top priority. We protect your business with robust firewalls, intrusion protection systems, and continuous monitoring to secure your data and keep your network safe around the clock. 

Server Rooms & IT Rack Installations 

Vivency helps companies design and manage efficient, climate-controlled server rooms with solid power, airflow, and backup data functions. 

Smart Building & IoT Networking 

From lighting to security systems, our networks are designed to be effortlessly compatible with your IoT devices and automation systems, turning your building into an intelligent, responsive space. 

What Makes Vivency Global Unique? 

Vivency Global is a people-oriented firm. We believe that fantastic technology must be accessible, user-friendly, and centered on your distinct requirements. These are some of the reasons why customers trust us: 

 Custom Solutions for Your Business—No one-size-fits-all setups. We tailor every solution to your industry, layout, and goals. 

 Professional & Certified Technicians—Our technicians are professional, friendly, and experienced in handling networks of any size. 

 Scalable Systems— Whether you're a small business or an enterprise organization, we design networks that grow with you. 

Post-Installation Support—We're here to support, troubleshoot, and upgrade your network whenever you need. Industries We Support 

Vivency Global network services are utilized by businesses across various sectors: 

 Education—Constructing connected, collaborative classrooms. 

 Healthcare—Safely sharing data and telehealth platforms. 

 Corporate—Secure remote work, video conferencing, and company communications. 

 Retail & Hospitality—Smooth Wi-Fi, POS integration, and customer experience solutions. 

 Government & Institutions—Secure communications and compliance-tested systems. 

Let's Build a Stronger Connection 

At Vivency Global, we're not just an IT solutions provider—we're your technology partner. We aim to empower you to lead the way with smart, secure, and expandable networking solutions. 

Whether you're moving to a new office, expanding your staff, or upgrading your current systems, we've got the hardware and expertise to keep your business connected 

[optomaindia]

Optoma Wave 130: Elevate Every Viewing Experience with Laser Precision

When it comes to immersive projection, Optoma has always led the way with cutting-edge technology and innovation. Continuing this legacy, the Optoma Wave 130 emerges as a powerful, compact, and versatile laser projector designed for exceptional visual performance in both home entertainment and professional environments.

Brilliant Laser Projection, Compact Design

The Optoma Wave 130 is powered by laser phosphor technology, delivering up to 3,000 lumens of brightness. Whether it’s a bright living room, a classroom, or a boardroom, the Wave 130 ensures crystal-clear images with consistent brightness and vivid color accuracy.

Its sleek, lightweight design makes it ideal for space-conscious users. Whether mounted on the ceiling or used on a table, the projector blends effortlessly into any setup.

True 1080p Resolution with HDR10 Support

With Full HD 1080p resolution, the Wave 130 offers pin-sharp image clarity. Enhanced with HDR10 compatibility, it elevates visual content by bringing out stunning contrast levels and richer color tones. Movies, games, and presentations look more lifelike than ever before.

Smart Connectivity & Easy Setup

This projector is engineered for modern lifestyles and business needs. Key connectivity features include:

HDMI and USB-A ports for versatile device integration

Built-in 10W speaker for convenient audio

Auto keystone correction and four-corner adjustment for hassle-free installation

It also supports content streaming through external devices, making it a great option for users who want to access OTT platforms, YouTube, or screen mirroring via compatible accessories.

Eco-Friendly & Long-Lasting

Thanks to its laser light source, the Optoma Wave 130 boasts an impressive 30,000-hour lifespan with minimal maintenance. It also operates with reduced energy consumption compared to traditional lamp-based projectors — making it a greener, cost-effective solution in the long run.

Ideal Use Cases for the Optoma Wave 130

Home Cinema: Enjoy cinematic experiences with superior clarity and sound

Office Presentations: Reliable performance and easy portability for business professionals

Education: Vibrant and engaging visuals for classrooms and training sessions

Gaming: Fast response and high contrast for immersive play

Why Choose Optoma Wave 130?

The Optoma Wave 130 stands out as an all-in-one projection solution — combining laser performance, intelligent design, and user-friendly features. Whether you’re transforming your living room into a home theatre or upgrading your meeting room tech, this projector delivers on all fronts.

Explore the Optoma Wave 130 today and discover the future of high-performance projection.

👉 Visit the official product page on Optoma India for more details.

Read More Link:-

Business Projector

Projector For Home

4K Projector

Optoma India

[coastalsmartblinds]

Why Granite Bay Residents Are Saying Goodbye to Old Window Treatments

Granite Bay folks know a thing or two about living well. Wide spaces. Natural light. Views worth showing off. Yet many homes still deal with dusty blinds, tangled cords, or curtains that never quite block what you want. That’s changing—fast. Because across the neighborhood, residents are making a switch. They’re choosing smarter ways to block glare, invite softness, and control sunlight with ease.

Old-school window treatments are heading out. They’ve served their time. But in a world where homes do more than ever—from offices to classrooms to calm spaces—your windows should keep up. That’s where blind shades for windows enter the scene. They’re clean. They’re smooth. And they look like they belong in 2025, not 1995.

At Coastal Smart Blinds, we’ve watched Granite Bay homes transform. Once someone installs motorized blinds, everything changes. Early risers can now wake up with filtered morning light without even touching a switch. Movie lovers hit a button and enjoy a dimmed space with no glare on the screen. Busy families get more peace and less mess.

What’s even more fun? Control. Some homeowners love voice-activated setups. Others prefer using an app. A few go all in with schedules that adjust throughout the day. With window shade automatic options, you’re not adjusting cords anymore. You’re choosing your vibe from the couch, car, or even the beach.

And yes, we still care about beauty. Style never gets left behind. We offer fully custom blinds Sacramento service for every type of home. Love a rustic vibe? Prefer clean white lines? Want something in wood grain or linen-style finishes? You name it. We don’t do cookie-cutter.

Got a ride that matters too? Our team installs automobile window blinds for drivers who care about comfort even on the go. Keep the car cooler. Shield little ones from hot sun. Add privacy without heavy tints. It’s sleek protection that fits into your day without any fuss.

Why Choose Coastal Smart Blinds

1. True Custom Fit Every Time We measure twice. We consult. We show you real options. When you go with us, your window treatments feel built in, not tacked on.

2. Local Knowledge Matters Granite Bay isn’t just another ZIP code. We know how that afternoon sun hits. We pick materials that don’t warp or fade in California light.

3. Automation Done Right Our motorized blinds don’t glitch or confuse. They just work. Whether you want voice commands or app control, we make it simple.

4. All-in Style and Performance Looks matter. So does function. Our blind shades for windows check both boxes. You don’t sacrifice comfort for style—or the other way around.

5. Yes, We Do Cars Too Need relief from car heat? Our automobile window blinds give you comfort on every drive. Great for families, commuters, or weekend warriors.

6. Quick Turnaround Without Cutting Corners No six-week waits. No sloppy jobs. Just expert installs from pros who care about leaving your space better than they found it.

FAQs

Can I mix different styles in one home? Definitely. Some rooms need blackout. Others need sheer coverage. Our custom blinds Sacramento experts help blend styles without clashing designs.

Are automated blinds noisy? Nope. Our window shade automatic systems run quiet. So quiet, you’ll forget they’re even moving until the light shifts perfectly.

What happens if my system stops working? We’re local. We fix. We don’t ghost. Call us anytime for tune-ups, adjustments, or tech questions.

Do motorized blinds need rewiring? Not always. Many motorized blinds work wire-free with rechargeable batteries. Others plug in neatly with minimal disruption.

Can you help with oddly shaped windows? Yes. We specialize in custom fits. Arched, angled, oversized—we’ve got you covered.

Do you offer consultations? Yes again. Free in-home consultations give you samples, ideas, and honest advice without pressure.

Old window treatments? They’ve had their time. Granite Bay’s moving forward with window solutions that match today’s pace, style, and expectations. Whether you want one room done or your whole house reimagined, Coastal Smart Blinds is ready when you are.

Contact Coastal Smart Blinds 📍 4705 Crimson Ct, Sacramento, CA 95842, United States 📞 +1 (916) 342-9744

[callofdutymobileindia]

Best Low-Cost Franchise Owner Opportunities with High ROI in 2025

In today's entrepreneurial landscape, more and more individuals are looking to escape the traditional 9-to-5 grind and step into business ownership. But starting from scratch can be risky and expensive. That’s where franchise ownership comes into play — especially low-cost franchise owner opportunities that promise high returns on investment (ROI).

Whether you're a first-time entrepreneur, a working professional seeking passive income, or someone looking to switch careers, owning a franchise in 2025 can be a smart, low-risk pathway to financial freedom. Many established brands now offer scalable, affordable franchise models across sectors like education, food & beverage, health, and technology.

In this article, we explore the best low-cost franchise owner opportunities in India and beyond, with a focus on low investment and high potential ROI.

Why Choose a Low-Cost Franchise?

Low-cost franchises give you the best of both worlds — brand recognition and operational support, without the burden of a massive upfront investment. Here’s why they’re popular:

Lower Barrier to Entry Startup costs range between ₹2–₹10 lakhs, making them accessible to most aspiring entrepreneurs.

Faster Break-even With minimal overhead, franchisees often recover their investments within 6–18 months.

Established Systems Proven business models, training, and marketing support reduce operational guesswork.

Risk Mitigation You're investing in a brand with existing market validation — much safer than launching a new business.

Top Low-Cost Franchise Owner Opportunities with High ROI

Let’s dive into some of the best and most profitable franchise opportunities in 2025 that require minimal investment yet offer maximum returns.

1. Boston Institute of Analytics (BIA)

Sector: Professional Education (Data Science, AI, Cybersecurity, Digital Marketing) Initial Investment: ₹5 – ₹10 Lakhs ROI Timeline: 6–12 Months Franchise Model: Online / Hybrid / Classroom

Boston Institute of Analytics is one of the most promising names in global education franchising. Focused on high-demand skills like Data Science, Generative AI, Cybersecurity, and Digital Marketing, BIA offers a tech-enabled, low-investment model perfect for solo educators, professionals, or small business owners.

Why It’s High ROI:

Programs aligned with future tech jobs

Low infrastructure requirements

Global certifications attract high-paying learners

Digital franchise options with minimal setup

If you’re looking for a future-proof franchise owner opportunity with strong margins and meaningful impact, BIA is a top contender.

How to Choose the Right Low-Cost Franchise Opportunity?

Here’s what you should keep in mind while selecting a franchise as an owner:

✅ Match Your Interests

Choose a franchise in a domain you understand or are passionate about — education, food, retail, logistics, etc.

✅ Assess Support System

Look for franchisors that offer training, marketing help, lead generation, and operational support.

✅ Understand ROI Timeline

Clarify how soon you can break even. Many brands will share average franchisee revenue data.

✅ Local Demand

Study your local market before finalizing. For instance, tea stalls may work well in railway areas, while digital education is best for urban learners.

✅ Check Franchise Fee & Terms

Evaluate if the franchisor charges a royalty, has fixed-term agreements, or requires a renewal fee.

Final Thoughts

Becoming a franchise owner doesn't have to cost a fortune. With the right low-cost investment and a high-ROI model, you can start your entrepreneurial journey with minimized risk and maximized support.

Among the best franchise owner opportunities for 2025, Boston Institute of Analytics (BIA) stands out as a tech-forward, future-ready brand offering AI-powered learning solutions in Data Science, Cybersecurity, and Digital Marketing. Their low-cost, online franchise model is scalable, affordable, and built for modern learners and digital entrepreneurs alike.

Whether you want to open a small tea stall, a courier office, or an AI training center — franchise ownership offers a tried-and-tested way to build wealth in 2025.

[kundlimodern]

Why The Modern School ECNCR is Among the Best CBSE Schools in Sonipat and Haryana

The Modern School ECNCR, located in the prestigious Rajiv Gandhi Education City, Kundli, Sonipat, is redefining quality education with a perfect blend of academics, character development, and holistic growth. With a rich legacy rooted in values and forward-thinking practices, the school is consistently ranked among the Best CBSE Schools in Sonipat and Best CBSE Schools in Haryana.

Holistic Education with a Mission

At the heart of The Modern School ECNCR lies a powerful mission:

Promote excellence across academics, sports, arts, and life skills.

Provide teachers with top-tier training and technology.

Blend tradition with innovation.

Instill inclusivity, compassion, and core values.

These principles shape a learning environment where students become confident, socially responsible global citizens.

A Vibrant School Life Full of Events

The school fosters community and creativity through a wide array of events and celebrations. Highlights include:

Grandparents Day (May 17, 2025): A heartwarming celebration of love across generations.

Mother’s Day Celebration: Filled with affection, gratitude, and student participation.

English Picture Description Competition (P4–S3): Encouraging observation, imagination, and communication skills.

A Premier Day and Boarding School

The school offers one of the finest boarding schools in Sonipat, known for its secure, nurturing, and structured residential experience. With hygienic food, trained staff, and co-curricular opportunities, it’s no surprise that it is also regarded as one of the best boarding schools in Delhi.

For students who prefer to return home daily, the school’s day boarding school setup ensures extended academic support, recreation, and supervised study time—perfect for modern-day family needs. If you're looking for a trusted day boarding school in Delhi, this is an excellent option.

The school is also commonly searched as a Rajiv Gandhi day boarding school, thanks to its prime location and top-tier facilities.

Why Parents Choose Modern School ECNCR

CBSE-affiliated with a strong academic track record

Integrated learning model with life skills, sports, and extracurriculars

Cutting-edge infrastructure and smart classrooms

High levels of safety and hygiene

Experienced and compassionate faculty

Admissions Open for 2025-26

If you are seeking the Best CBSE Schools in Sonipat Haryana that offer an enriching and future-ready education, The Modern School ECNCR is your destination.

Contact Us Address: Rajiv Gandhi Education City, Phase-2, Kundli, Sonipat, Haryana - 131023 Phone: +91 130-2386268 / 69 | +91 7027802783 / 84 Email: modern@modernschoolec.com

Website: https://modernschoolec.com

[wayvidalearning]

How to Teach Online and Earn Money by Creating and Selling Online Courses from Home

More teachers, coaches, and subject experts are exploring how they can teach online and earn money by sharing their knowledge from anywhere. Whether you are a full-time educator or someone with valuable skills to share, teaching online has become a smart and flexible way to build your income. With the increasing demand for online learning platforms, learners across all age groups are now searching for quality courses and reliable teachers on the internet.

The good news? You do not need to be a tech expert to get started. With the support of a Best Online Course Creation Platform like Wayvida, anyone can create and sell courses online in their area of expertise. From uploading lessons to reaching the right students and tracking earnings, everything can be done in one place without confusion.

Why Now is the Best Time to Start Teaching Online

With the rise of online learning platforms, it has become easier than ever to create and sell online courses and earn from your skills. Whether you are a subject expert, trainer, or educator, the demand for flexible and affordable learning has opened new income opportunities for you.

Today, teaching is not limited to a classroom. Anyone with knowledge can share it and earn. The key is choosing the right Best Teaching Platform that gives you control over your content, pricing, and student engagement.

Best Online Teaching Platform to Teach from Anywhere: Wayvida

Choosing the Best Online Classroom Platform is the first step toward building a successful digital teaching career. These platforms help you organize your content, connect with learners, and simplify your entire teaching process.

Wayvida is designed to make teaching online stress-free and rewarding. Whether you want to sell courses online in science, art, business, or coaching, it offers built-in support that includes:

Video hosting

Quizzes and assessments

AI-powered content creation

Tuition Management System

Student performance tracking

Everything is arranged in one place, so you can focus on teaching while the platform handles the rest. Whether you want to teach from home or expand globally, choosing an all-in-one solution like Wayvida helps you start and scale with ease.

Step-by-Step Guide to Teach Online and Earn Money

Getting started with Free Online Teaching Platforms is simple. Follow these steps to launch your first course:

Choose the Best Free Online Teaching Platform (Wayvida offers all the tools you need)

Sign up and build your instructor profile

Create your course using the AI Curriculum Builder

Write engaging content with AI-Powered SEO Tools

Add quizzes and assessments with the Easy AI Test Creator

Generate learning outcomes with AI support

Design visuals with the AI Image Generator

Set your course price and publish your course

Benefits of Teaching Online

By choosing the right Online Course Builder, you can teach online and earn money doing what you love:

✔ Teach from home and reach a global audience ✔ Use AI to save time and improve content ✔ No need for coding or design skills ✔ Set your own pricing and schedule ✔ Create professional courses with ready-made tools

Looking for the Best Graphy Alternative?

If you’ve been searching for the Best Graphy Alternative or exploring Best graphy alternative to help you launch your online teaching career, Wayvida is the ideal platform. It’s designed for educators who want more control, flexibility, and features than what other platforms offer.

Wayvida helps you create and sell courses online with ease and gives you the tools needed to scale your teaching business from anywhere.

Start Teaching Online Today with Wayvida

Teaching online is simple when you have the right tools in one place. From planning to publishing and earning, everything becomes easier when your platform supports you with AI-powered features, a smooth setup, and student-friendly access.

👉 Explore the top features of Wayvida — How to Teach Online and Earn Money by Creating and Selling Online Courses from Home

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👉 Online Course Selling Platform That Makes Teaching and Earning Simple and Fast for Educators