#Pre-Employment Screening Tests

[preemploymenttest]

Trainability

Hiring managers and recruiters often struggle to identify the best candidates because they don't have enough time or resources to conduct thorough background checks. This leads them to hire unqualified applicants who might turn out to be bad hires. Learn more: https://blog.hirenest.com/why-recruiters-should-look-trainability/

The average hiring manager spends only 2 hours per week screening resumes. That means they miss out on hundreds of qualified candidates every month. A study conducted by one big company found that nearly half (46%) of employers say their biggest challenge is finding qualified talent. In addition, over 40% of companies report having difficulty filling open positions due to lack of skills and experience. If you're looking for a job, it's important to keep your resume updated. Every few months, update your resume with new skills and experiences. It will help you stand out from the crowd and give you a competitive edge.

The ability to learn new skills quickly is one of the most important traits in any employee. And yet, we often overlook this trait when hiring people. We assume that everyone has the same level of trainability as us. This assumption is wrong. In fact, some people are more trainable than others. 

What makes a person trainable?

“Trainability” refers to someone's ability to learn new skills quickly and easily. In fact, trainable people tend to be more successful than those with high IQs but low trainability. You can find out more in our article: https://blog.hirenest.com/why-recruiters-should-look-trainability/

The answer lies in the way we think about training. If you look at the history of sports, it was only after people started thinking of training as a process of adaptation that they began to see improvements in performance. This is why I believe that the best approach to training is not just to focus on what you want to improve but rather to understand where you currently stand and then work backwards from there. The most important thing I learned was that it's not just about what people say they want; it's about what they actually do. If someone says he wants something, but doesn't act like he really does, then we should assume he doesn't really want it. This is why I think it's so important to look at behavior change from the outside, rather than focusing only on what people tell us they're doing.

Trainability Addresses the Widening Skills Gap

The skills gap has become one of the most pressing issues facing our economy today. In fact, it’s so important that President Obama recently called it “the defining challenge of our time.” According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly half of all jobs will require some form of training by 2020. And yet, only about 20 percent of Americans say they feel prepared for those new roles.

So what does this mean? It means we must train people differently than we did before. It means we must teach them not just how to do things but why they should care about doing them. It means we must help them understand the importance of being able to perform at high levels consistently.

This is where the power of gamification comes into play. Gamification isn’t just another buzzword—it’s a proven way to motivate employees and increase engagement. Companies like Zappos, Disney, and Google have used gamification to great success. They know that if you want someone to complete something, give them a little incentive. If you want them to work harder, give them a bigger reward. If you want them excited about their job, give them a chance to compete against others. 

Conclusion

A recent study found that hiring managers rate trainable candidates as more desirable than those with experience. This was true even when the candidate had no relevant work experience. In fact, recruiters rated trainable candidates as much more desirable than experienced ones. So why does this happen?

The answer lies in our brains. While we tend to think of ourselves as rational beings who weigh all information before making decisions, new research suggests otherwise. Our decision-making process is actually based on emotions rather than logic. Researchers at Cornell University conducted two experiments to test whether people would prefer to hire someone with little experience but lots of potential versus someone with years of experience but less potential. They asked job applicants to complete a personality questionnaire called the Big Five Inventory (BFI). Applicants were then given mock interviews where they answered interview questions. Afterward, they completed another BFI survey. Those who scored high on extraversion and conscientiousness were deemed “trainable.” Trainable candidates received higher scores from both the interviewer and applicant surveys. But what really stood out was that the results held regardless of the applicant’s level of experience. Even though the trainable candidates had fewer years of experience, they still received higher ratings from the interviewer and applicant surveys than did the experienced candidates. This study shows that even with less experience, trainable candidates were rated more highly by interviewers and applicants. It also showed that the difference between the two groups was consistent across all levels of experience. So, while some people may think that hiring managers prefer experienced candidates over those with less experience, this study suggests that they don't necessarily make such distinctions when evaluating candidates.

The study found that interviewers were able to identify trainable candidates at rates similar to those who scored well on the applicant survey. This suggests that hiring managers may not need to rely solely on applicant feedback to identify potential trainees. It turns out that the way we perceive others has a lot to do with how we feel about ourselves. For example, if we believe that we’re not smart enough to succeed, it will affect how we view others who seem smarter than us. If we don’t see ourselves as capable, we won’t try hard enough to achieve success. And if we don’t like ourselves, we won’ t want to help others improve either. If you want to know more about Trainability: Why Hiring Managers and Recruiters Find It in the Best Talent?, read this article: https://blog.hirenest.com/why-recruiters-should-look-trainability/

#hirenest #pre employment assessments #blog hirenest #recruiting #hirenestblog #bloghirenest #pre-employment assessments #hirenest blog #pre-employment screening tests #pre-employment screening assessments #pre employment screening tests #pre employment tests #Trainability #Hiring Managers #Hiring Managers and Recruiters #Recruiters #Hiring #career #jobs

[hirenest]

Integrity Tests

How often should I take integrity tests? How does it work? What are they good for?

Integrity tests are designed to assess your honesty and integrity. They are usually given at the beginning or end of a project. The purpose of these tests is to ensure that you are being honest and trustworthy throughout the duration of the project.  Learn more: https://blog.hirenest.com/what-you-should-know-about-integrity-tests/

You should take integrity tests every time you start a new project. This way, you can get feedback from your clients and colleagues about whether you are being honest and reliable.

If you do not pass the test, you will be asked to explain why. Your explanation must be truthful and convincing. It may help if you prepare a written response before taking the test.

A client who has a problem with dishonesty or lack of integrity might be difficult to deal with. He or she might lie to cover up mistakes or try to avoid paying bills. Or he or she might steal money or property.

In addition to the financial costs, a dishonest employee can damage the reputation of the organization. For example, if a company hires someone who steals from his or her employer, this could reflect poorly on the company and its products.

Types of integrity screening

The most common types of integrity screening include:

• Financial – checking financial records for accuracy and completeness

• Personnel – verifying employment history and references

• Physical – reviewing medical records for accuracy

• Environmental – ensuring compliance with environmental regulations

If you suspect fraud, contact your state attorney general’s office or consumer protection agency. They may be able to help you file a complaint against the business.

The first step in any investigation is gathering information. Start by talking to employees who were directly affected by the incident. Ask them what they saw or heard during the event. Also ask if anyone else witnessed it. 

Pre-employment integrity testing

The employer must provide reasonable accommodations for employees who take medications that may impair job performance. This includes providing a safe work environment, allowing breaks during the day, and changing shift schedules if necessary.

If you do not disclose your medical history, it will be assumed that you are healthy enough to perform the essential functions of your job.

Examples of Overt Integrity Questions

The most common example I see is someone who has a lot of money invested in a company they believe in. They want to know if it’s worth selling now at a lower price than what they paid originally. This question is often asked by people who have already made a decision to sell, but don’t yet feel comfortable doing so.

If you’ve decided to sell, then you should probably just do it. It’s not really a question of integrity, because you’ve already taken action based on your values. But if you haven’t made a decision, then this question may prompt you to think about whether you’d like to sell, and if so, when would be the best time to do it. You can find out more in our article: https://blog.hirenest.com/what-you-should-know-about-integrity-tests/

Examples of Overt Integrity using Questions

“How do you feel about the fact that many people believe that eating meat is immoral?”

“Do you think it’s important to keep our planet healthy?”

 “What would you say if I told you that some people don’t like you because they think you’re a racist?”

“I know that you really enjoy watching movies at home, but what kind of movie do you prefer?”

The most important thing about a company is its reputation. If a company has a good reputation, customers will trust them more than if they don't. So when a company does something wrong, people notice. And when they do something right, people notice even more. This is why companies spend so much time and effort building up their reputations. They want to make sure that everyone knows what kind of business they're doing.

Conclusion

The most important thing about any test is that it should be conducted by someone with experience testing for integrity. If you don't have anyone with experience, then you need to find someone who does. And if you're going to conduct your own tests, make sure you understand what you're looking for.

How To Find A Good Test For Integrity

There are many different types of integrity tests available. Some are simple, others are complex. Some are quick, some take hours. Some are cheap, some are expensive. But all of them will help you determine whether or not your supplier has integrity.

The first step is to find out what type of test you want to do. If you just want to check if they have any problems, then a basic audit may be enough. It could include things like checking if they have a website, who owns it, where they are based, and so on.

How To Find A Bad Supplier

Once you know what kind of test you want to perform, you should start looking at suppliers. This means finding someone who does this work regularly, and asking them for recommendations. You might ask friends, family members, colleagues, business partners, or anyone else who knows them well.

The best way to find a supplier is by word of mouth. If you don't know any people who do this type of testing, then you could try searching online. There are many websites where you can search for companies offering laboratory services. If you want to know more about How to Get Honest Answers from Integrity Test Questions, read this article: https://blog.hirenest.com/what-you-should-know-about-integrity-tests/

#Integrity Tests #hirenest blog #hirenest #pre employment tests #Integrity Questions #Pre-Employment Screening Tests #Screening Tests #human resources #Pre-Employment Assessments

[ericadrawsstuff]

Gotta drop my pirate brainrot cringe fest to go in for pre employment drug screening for my new job. I think the people who are keeping the War on Drugs going just have a piss fetish at this point. They should be paying me for my time.

#war on drugs #pre employment screening #piss test #pee pee

[dontmeantobepoliticalbut]

WA Senate passes bill to bar hiring discrimination for cannabis use

BY CLAIRE WITHYCOMBE

Washington employers would be prohibited from refusing to hire a potential worker solely because of a drug test showing they had used cannabis under a bill that passed the state Senate on Wednesday.

Washington voters approved recreational marijuana in 2012 through Initiative 502. More than a decade later, though, as more states have moved to legalize the drug, Washington employers can still screen out applicants who use cannabis.

If Senate Bill 5123 becomes law, Washington would join several other states that have enacted laws shielding employees from workplace penalties for off-duty cannabis use. The bill passed the state Senate on a 28-21 vote Wednesday, sending it to the House for further consideration.

In 2019, Nevada became the first state to stop employers from rejecting an applicant because of a drug test showing cannabis use. Last year, California Gov. Gavin Newsom signed into law a bill barring discrimination in hiring, firing and other conditions of employment if a worker uses cannabis while off duty.

The Washington bill’s sponsor, Sen. Karen Keiser, D-Des Moines, introduced a similar proposal last year, but it didn’t get to the floor for a vote. Washington’s bill only covers drug tests before hiring, Keiser said. An employer could still test you for cannabis once you have a job, and could still make a hiring decision based on a drug test that doesn’t include cannabis.

“If your employer wants to test you every week after you’re hired, they’re still able to do that,” Keiser said. “This is simply opening the front door of getting into a job. Because too many people who see that they have to take a drug test to even apply, don’t even apply.”

Certain jobs are excluded from the bill, including in the airline and aerospace industries and those requiring a federal background investigation or security clearance. Employers could still screen workers for cannabis after an accident or if they suspect impairment on the job.

Thanks to an amendment from Sen. Curtis King, R-Yakima, the bill also excludes professions where impairment on the job means “substantial risk of death.”

A central challenge in regulating cannabis use in the workplace is that a test that measures impairment from the drug is not yet available. That poses a problem especially for workers and employers who are subject to federal regulations, including through contracts with the federal government or because workers must have commercial driver’s licenses.

Burl Bryson, executive director of The Cannabis Alliance, told lawmakers in a public hearing Jan. 10 that potential candidates can consume cannabis legally “and still test positive for weeks later.”

“If the same approach were applied to alcohol, employers would refuse employment to anyone who enjoyed a beer or glass of wine on the weekend,” Bryson said.

“It simply doesn’t make sense to base an employment decision on that kind of unreliable outcome and test,” Keiser said on the Senate floor just before the vote Wednesday.

The bill had drawn some opposition from business lobbyists, who expressed worries about employers’ responsibility for safety problems in the workplace.

Bob Battles, general counsel and government affairs director for the Association of Washington Business, which has 7,000 members including major employers Boeing and Microsoft, said Wednesday the organization shifted to a more neutral position, citing changes clarifying that it covered only preemployment screening, as well as King’s amendment to exclude positions where impairment could be deadly.

#us politics #news #the Seattle times #Washington #2023 #pre employment drug screenings #drug testing #cannabis #marijuana #discrimination #Washington senate #Washington house of representatives #Washington legislature #SB 5123 #off-duty cannabis use #Karen Keiser #Curtis King #The Cannabis Alliance #Burl Bryson #Association of Washington Business #Bob Battles #hiring discrimination

[ichekservices]

Balancing Pre-Employment Drug Testing and Background Checks with iChek Services

Introduction

In the world of modern business, where companies strive to maintain a productive and safe working environment, the processes of pre-employment drug testing and background checks have emerged as crucial components of the hiring process. At iChek Services, your trusted partner in employee screening, individual screening, and corporate screening solutions, we understand the delicate balance required to ensure both a drug-free workplace and fair employment opportunities. Our commitment to providing comprehensive services has led us to explore the art of harmonizing pre-employment drug testing and background checks. In this article, we delve into the importance of this balance and how it contributes to the success of businesses and the well-being of employees.

The Purpose of Pre-Employment Drug Testing: At iChek Services, we recognize that pre-employment drug testing is vital to ensuring candidates entering the workforce are free from substances that could impair their ability to perform their jobs safely and effectively. This practice is particularly critical in safety-sensitive industries.

The Role of Background Checks: Our suite of services includes comprehensive background checks, encompassing criminal records, education verification, employment history, and more. These checks, provided by iChek Services, contribute to creating a secure work environment and reducing risks associated with negligent hiring.

Striking the Balance: Achieving the right balance between pre-employment drug testing and background checks is central to our approach at iChek Services. We understand that overemphasizing either aspect could lead to missed opportunities or an overbearing hiring process. By integrating both, we ensure companies can mitigate risks while giving qualified candidates a fair chance at employment.

Customized Screening Solutions: We pride ourselves on offering personalized screening solutions tailored to your industry and role requirements. With iChek Services, your candidates are evaluated fairly and appropriately, considering the unique demands of each position.

Legal and Ethical Considerations: Our commitment to legality and ethics is unwavering. iChek Services ensures adherence to regulations such as the Drug-Free Workplace Act and the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), guaranteeing a lawful and ethical screening process that respects candidates' rights and privacy.

Communication and Transparency: At iChek Services, transparent communication with candidates is a cornerstone of our approach. We believe that open dialogue about the purpose and scope of drug testing and background checks fosters trust between your company and potential employees.

Conclusion

Balancing pre-employment drug testing and background checks is an art that requires expertise and understanding. At iChek Services, our comprehensive screening solutions exemplify this equilibrium, reflecting our commitment to creating safer workplaces and offering equal opportunities. By embracing the synergy between drug testing and background checks, businesses partnering with iChek Services can build a workforce that thrives in a secure and supportive environment while safeguarding their interests. Choose iChek Services for a holistic approach to screening that respects both your company's goals and candidates' rights.

#ichek services #background check services #pre employment screening #drug testing

[amhnationwide]

How to Get a Pre-Employment Drug Test

New Post has been published on https://amhnationwide.com/drug-testing/how-to-get-a-pre-employment-drug-test/

How to Get a Pre-Employment Drug Test

categories: #DrugTesting tags: #BloodTesting, #HairFollicleTesting, #PreEmploymentDrugTest, #PreEmploymentScreenings, #SalivaTesting, #UrineTesting

#Blood Testing #Hair Follicle Testing #Pre-Employment Drug Test #Pre-Employment Screenings #Saliva Testing #Urine Testing

[jasonbarkar]

How to Hire Blockchain Developers: 5 Steps to Follow

Blockchain technology has emerged as a critical component of Industry 4.0. According to a recent study, the Global Blockchain Market is expected to reach USD 34 billion by 2026, with a growth rate of 45%. The escalating growth span of the blockchain industry creates the need for proficient professionals.

However, finding expert Blockchain developers who can design and develop proficiently is difficult unless you choose a skill assessment platform for skill tests. Developed and validated by experienced industry experts, the Blockchain developer skill test helps easily evaluate a candidate’s practical knowledge and job readiness.

But how to start the test? What are the steps to follow? Let’s dive in –

#hire blockhain developer #blockchain #blockchain skill test #skill assessment #pre-employment screening #hiring #recruitment platform

[whatsnewalycat]

Designated Person | Chapter 3

Pairing: Francisco "Catfish" Morales x F!Reader

Chapter 3: Puzzle Pieces

Series Summary: When posting bail for Frankie Morales, your former employer and former lover, you unwittingly designate yourself as his third party custodian during his pre-trial release. Your often tumultuous relationship with him is given a new set of rules and put to the test. Can the two of you co-exist peacefully, or will you crash and burn?

Rating: Explicit (18+ only)

Word Count: 8.2k+

Content / Warnings: Reader POV, nannying, infant / toddler, infidelity, past romantic & sexual relationship, flashbacks, awkward conversations, first date, first kiss, platonic (???) cuddling, confrontation, argument

Notes: Yeeehaw hi, friends. I don't know that I've mentioned this previously, but "reader" is like mid-to-late 20's for the purposes of this story, so there's a bit of an age gap there. And there was a power imbalance with their relationship to begin with and stuff so I'm just putting that out there. This chapter gives big "Bike Scene" by Taking Back Sunday vibes if you're into that lol. That's all I have for now! Thank you for reading.

[ Tag List ] [ AO3 ] [ Spotify Playlist ] [ Series Masterlist ]

Finally, it’s quiet. 

You’re not sure if it’s a full moon or what the fuck is going on, but today has been particularly hellish in the Howard household. 

The youngest two children, Ashton and Jaxson, are four and three, respectively. Which can be great when they play together, or when you find activities for the three of you to do while the oldest is at school. But then there are days like this, when neither of them want to do the same thing and both of them want your undivided attention. You can barely finish appeasing one before the other starts crying. 

To add to the chaos, when the eldest Howard child, Emmaleigh, came home from school, she promptly stomped up the stairs to her bedroom, then slammed and locked the door. As Jaxson tugged on your shirt and screeched for you to continue reading names of different species of whales pictured in his animal encyclopedia, you tried to coax her out of the room to tell you what was wrong, but she wouldn’t budge. 

On days like this, by the time Marla gets home, you’re essentially a bundle of nerves with knotted muscles. 

You take another peek into the family room, where Ashton and Jaxson are settled into the cushy microfiber sectional watching Finding Nemo. They both seem content and neither of them notice your presence, so you tiptoe up the stairs to the main level, into the kitchen. 

With a heavy sigh, peel the electric blue post-it note off the dull, cream colored vinyl countertop. The message, written in Marla’s neat, rounded hand, reads: OK to DoorDash dinner. 

“Thank fucking god,” you mutter under your breath, then pad over the dark hardwood floor to a laptop sitting open on the dining room table. As you place an order for food from a local burger joint, you mentally give thanks to Marla again. Not only will dinner from Emmaleigh’s favorite restaurant lift her spirits, but it takes a load off your mind. 

You’ve nannied for about a half a dozen families, and Marla is the most easygoing mom you’ve dealt with by far. Generally speaking, you’ve found your families with two or more children are less rigid than families with one child. You think that Marla is especially lax because she’s a single mother and, as the founder and CEO of an adult toy company, a bona fide hashtag girl boss. She knows that her children can be a handful and isn’t immune to giving in to their demands for junk food and screen time. 

Your last job, with the Morales’s, was much more structured. Angie had very specific instructions, typed up the night before and automatically emailed to you at 6am each morning. Of course, you could have pinpointed her as type A during your interview, when she pulled your resume out of a color-coded accordion file of potential candidates, followed by a pre-printed list of questions she used to jot down your responses. 

Her shiny red fingernails were long and pointed to sharp tips that clacked against the tabletop of a local coffee shop. Round, brown eyes with little flecks of gold looked up from her questionnaire to you as the interview came to a close. 

“The hours are 7 AM to 6 PM, Monday through Friday. My husband gets home at 4, but I would need you to stick around and make dinner while he helps with Sarah.”

“Oh, ok,” you nodded, frowning in confusion at the overlap. 

She leaned forward slightly, as if letting you in on a secret, and explained, “He doesn’t know what the hell he’s doing. I love the man but he’s useless in the kitchen.” 

You chuckled at this, grinning, “I get that a lot, actually. I just don’t usually get an extra set of hands to help me with the kids.” 

“He’ll stay out of your way, don’t worry,” she winked, then took another cursory glance at the questionnaire before telling you, “Well, you’re definitely the most qualified person I’ve interviewed. I think you’d be a great fit for us. What do you think?“ 

“Is- is that a job offer?” you stammered. After your last family’s mom was laid off a month prior, you were abruptly out of work. This was the break you desperately needed. 

Her cherry red lips curved into a disarming smile and she nodded, “But, if you need time to think about it-”

“No,” you interjected, almost a little too forcefully, then softened and added, “I’d love to.” 

Before noon on your first day working for the Morales’s, you had grown attached to Sarah. The six-month old baby had a chocolate soft serve swirl of hair right at the top of her head like a crown, and it wiggled like jell-o every time her big bobble head would sway and jostle. Her deep brown eyes were round and expressive. Whenever you had one-sided conversations with her, she'd coo and babble in response, raising or furrowing her eyebrows, like she was contributing even though she couldn’t understand a lick of what you said. 

After laying her down for a nap, as you tiptoed down the hallway away from her bedroom, a picture frame hanging on the wall caught your eye. You stopped to examine the photo of Mr. and Mrs. Morales from their wedding day.

Angelica’s pearly, knee-length dress hugged her hourglass shape. A white tulle shawl hung over her shoulders and draped down her arms, rhinestones scattered across the fabric. Her jet black hair was loosely pinned back, save for a few strands of long, wavy bangs left to frame her heart-shaped face. Her makeup was done up as fiercely as it was that morning and during your interview. Razor-point black winged eyeliner painted on behind her long, black lashes. Perfectly arched eyebrows. Her alluring lips were shiny and red, just like her fingernails.

Who you assumed to be Mr. Morales wore a fitted black suit, but no tie. He had bronzed skin and broad shoulders that pulled his posture straight. The man’s brown hair showed the beginnings of curls, his sparse facial hair trimmed close to the skin, save for a pronounced mustache. He had a strong nose and chin. His dark brown eyes and dimpled smile made your stomach flutter. 

The happy couple stood next to each other on the steps of what looked like either a church or a courthouse. Mr. Morales had one arm tucked behind his bride, whose hands were clasped around a small bouquet of white lilies. Both leaned their heads towards the other while they faced the camera and flashed the kind of practiced smile reserved for professional photographers. 

Blood rose to your cheeks when you realized you were staring at the groom and attraction was pooling between your thighs. You glanced around self-consciously, then down at the floor as you made your way to the living room. 

For the remainder of the afternoon, time worked like a garrote, twisting around your neck, tighter with each minute that drew you closer to 4:00. 

When he came home, you were participating in tummy time with Sarah. She babbled and blew spit bubbles at you, careening her wobbly baby head around to focus on your smiling face. The heavy door to the garage opened and slammed shut. Your heart skipped a beat when he ascended the stairs and looked around, doling out a polite smile and wave to you. 

“Hi there,” you greeted, then asked Sarah in baby talk, “Is that your daddy? Do you wanna go see him?” 

She cooed. 

“I’ll take that as a yes,” you chuckled, then rolled to your knees and propped her on your hip as you stood. 

“How was she?” he asked, tilting his head with a smile to Sarah. The dulcet baritone of his voice reverberated through your chest. You swallowed hard as you realized that he’s so much more handsome in person. 

“She was great! Woke up from a nap about an hour ago, then she ate 8 oz from her bottle. Did a little tummy time, as, um, as you can see,” you handed her off to him. As you did this, his hand slid over yours accidentally. It was rough and warm and made your stomach flip. Your heart was thudding like you had just run a marathon. 

He nodded at Sarah, copying her wide dimpled smile, then met your eyes, “Ang said you might need my help while you cook?” 

When he made eye contact with you, all the air left your lungs and your brain short-circuited. He blinked in anticipation of your response, causing you to snap out of your daze, stuttering, “Y-yeah, sorry, um- yeah,” you winced in embarrassment, “She wanted me to make dinner when you got home, said you could help with Sarah while I do that.”

When you looked back up again he was smirking at you. That did not help the state of your composure. Your face was like a heat lamp and you averted your gaze, “I can get started on that now.” 

While retreating into the kitchen, you pulled out your phone and found the recipe Mrs. Morales sent to you. He followed you into the kitchen, sans baby, heavy work boots clunking against the fake honey oak linoleum flooring. You tried to act as normal as possible when you turned to the fridge and he was already there, bending over to get a beer out of the crisper and asking, “You want one?” 

As desperately as you wanted to say yes, abso-fucking-lutey yes, it was your first day with this family, so you declined. 

“Do you drink?” he questioned further, still hanging over the open drawer in the fridge when he peered up at you. 

You nodded, “Yeah, but…” 

He fished out a second beer, then pushed the crisper closed with his foot and stepped away from the fridge, chuckling, “I think you need it.”

Teeth clenching your tongue flat, you fought the urge to tell him to shut up. You approached the open fridge and retrieved the necessary ingredients before nudging it closed with your hip, “I don’t know. I don’t want your wife to get mad at me. Um, drinking on the job and all.” 

While you told him this, he twisted the cap off of one bottle and put it on the counter next to him, then the second, which he placed on the stovetop for you. As he stepped back and leaned against the counter to face you again, he said, “I won’t tell on you, don’t worry.” 

Your heart was in your throat attempting to strangle you. You turned around and flashed a joking eye roll at him as you accepted the bottle, “Sure.”

He winked, grabbing his beer as he pushed off the counter towards the living room, calling back, “Let me know if you need anything.” 

“Um, yeah, same,” you laughed nervously. 

Frankie slams the passenger side car door shut and you put the car into drive, “How’d the meeting go?” 

His seatbelt locks in place with a click. He stretches out in the seat that’s now constantly set to his preference: slid as far back as it can go, reclined to a wide, obtuse angle. His knees settle far apart and he looks out the window, pressing his fingers to his lips as he shakes his head. 

Your nostrils flare at this annoying lack of response, but you try again, “I already ate, do you need me to stop anywhere for you?” 

He doesn’t move when he mumbles, “I’m fine, thanks.” 

You roll your eyes and turn the radio up in an attempt to dampen your irritation with his brooding. 

After arriving at home, both of you trudge inside to your separate bedrooms. You strip off your day clothes and replace them with a baggy, tie-dyed t-shirt and a pair of black cotton shorts. Your skin still feels too tight, muscles too tense for comfort. 

Fuck, you want a beer. Or a lay. Or both. Some kind of release. 

Your phone buzzes from your nightstand, so you grab it and find a new message notification from Tinder. 

> RORY:  > You free tomorrow night? 

With a grimace, you toss your phone onto your bed, then exit your bedroom to find Frankie rummaging through the fridge for something to eat. He has also made a wardrobe change into lounge wear, retiring his hat for the evening, sporting a pair of gray sweatpants and an old, weathered Metallica t-shirt. 

“Did you change out of your crabby pants, too, or are those on under your sweats?” you tease. 

He scoffs and glances over at you, “I’m not crabby.” 

“Sure you’re not,” you tiptoe past him into the living room, where you collapse onto the couch and turn the TV on. 

Flipping through Netflix for a while gives you little inspiration. The chair in the dining room groans as Frankie sits down to eat whatever he was able to find. You holler to him, “Whadda you wanna do tonight?” 

“Besides get hammered?” his response from the dining room table is muffled by the food in his mouth. 

“Obviously,” you snort.

“Mmm,” he hums, pauses for a beat, then sighs, “Fuck, I don’t know.” 

You scrunch your nose up and try to brainstorm ideas. Immediately your mind plummets into the gutter, reminding you how fucking hard he made you cum on Monday. The memory electrifies your skin and sends your heart racing in your chest.

It was so fucking reckless. 

Reckless and perverse and so fucking hot you wanted to tear your own skin off afterwards. 

Whatever the opposite of that is. 

“Do you wanna do a puzzle?” you call back to him. 

At first he snickers, “A puzzle?” But then another moment passes and he asks, “What kind of puzzle?” 

“I have a few. Let’s see,” you squint up at the shelf on your wall that’s lined with boxes of board games and puzzles, “Freddie Mercury, pandas, space, or gnomes.” 

You hear him chewing as he soaks in these options, then he says, “Freddie Mercury.” 

While he finishes eating, you clear off your coffee table and pull the box down from the shelf. 

“A thousand pieces? Goddamn,” he sits down on the floor across the table from you, dusting his hands off before sifting through the box of puzzle pieces. 

“We don’t have to finish it tonight,” you tell him as you scoop some into your hand and pick through them, “Try to find the edge pieces.” 

The two of you isolate all the jigsawed pieces with at least one flat side and spread them, shiny, printed side up across the table. As you click a few together, Frankie’s cell phone rings. 

When he pulls his phone out of his pocket, your eyes flick to the screen and see Angie’s contact photo. It’s a selfie they took together while on vacation in Australia, their smiling faces shiny with sweat and rosy from booze. Your stomach knots. 

“Hey,” Frankie answers. 

His dark eyes scan the room and meet yours. You immediately drop your gaze to the puzzle pieces and hum to yourself as you blatantly eavesdrop. 

“Yeah, does that still work for you?” 

There’s an indistinguishable soprano response from his wife. 

“Let me check,” he says to Angie, then holds the phone to his shoulder and mumbles to you, “Hey do you think you could give me a ride tomorrow morning at 10?” 

You nod without looking up at him. 

“Yeah that works,” he tells her, shortly followed by, “Ok. Yep. Love you, bye.” 

A stake plunges through your heart. 

He puts the phone back in his pocket and resumes his thorough examination of the puzzle pieces, eventually mumbling, “Thank you, by the way. For giving me a ride.” 

“Sure,” you glance up and flash him a quick smile. When you turn your attention back to the puzzle, you ask, “Are you excited to see Sarah?” 

“Yeah,” his voice is lifted and warm, and you can tell he’s smiling, “Fuck, I miss her so much.”

What you want to say is I do too, because it’s the truth. That attachment you had to her never really went away. But it seems pointless. 

“Are you guys doing anything or just sticking around the house?” you ask. 

“We’re gonna go to the zoo, then Ang is gonna throw something together for dinner,” he clicks two puzzle pieces together and hums thoughtfully to himself. 

“Is she still super into penguins?” 

He chuckles, “Yeah. Last time me and Ang took her, she started screaming every time we tried to leave the exhibit.” 

You laugh and shake your head, “Every goddamn time. I always had to bribe her with ice cream.”

“She’s so stubborn,” he grins and sits up on his knees to lean over the puzzle and get a closer look, “Just like her mom.” 

A weight pulls at your stomach. You feel obligated to ask, so you do, “How are things with you and her mom?” 

He’s quiet as he contemplates this, staring at the shiny pieces, thrumming his fingers against the table. With a sigh, he answers, “I don’t know.” 

You try to keep your breaths metered, as to not give away the thudding in your chest. Adrenaline-spiked blood whooshes in your ears. 

Frankie continues, “Things were better when I got arrested, but, you know…” 

Your eyebrow raises on its own accord, but you don’t comment. If things were better, why was he doing blow and driving drunk? Nope, none of your fucking business. 

Not my chair, not my problem. 

“I’m kind of nervous about it, actually,” he admits quietly, “Spending time with her and all that. I really want things to work.”

“Why?” your mouth asks before your brain can tell you to shut the fuck up. 

“She’s my wife. And- and the mother of my child,” he scoffs and shakes his head, “I love her.” 

The sharpness in his tone drives the stake in your heart down further. Your eyes flick to his and see that he’s studying your face, stare hardened to steel. Those three words eat away at you. What he said was: I love her. But you know what he wanted to say was: I love her. 

You nod in response, dropping your gaze back to the puzzle. Your body moves autonomously, clicking a few puzzle pieces together, scanning for matching patterns, while your mind plays it over and over. 

I love her. 

I love her. 

I love her. 

Static buzzes in your chest. Your throat feels tight, so you clear it, then tell him, “I don’t know if I’ll be able to pick you up afterwards.” 

“Why not?”

“I have a date,” you inform him, glancing up to gauge his reaction. 

“Oh,” he murmurs, then frowns, “That shouldn’t be a problem.” 

Silence settles over the two of you. It’s just the scrape and click of puzzle pieces across the tabletop and hums of contemplation. You notice the way he seems to get buried in his thoughts, pressing his fingers to his lips, gnashing his jaw back and forth. A sick satisfaction roils inside you. 

You decide to call it a night when the edge of the puzzle is put together. When you sink into your bed, you open Tinder and send a response to Rory. 

< ME: < Definitely. What’re you thinking? 

The message is opened immediately, and he responds. 

> RORY:  > Wanna get dinner? 

< ME: < Yes please :)

> RORY:  > Pick you up at 6? 

< ME: < It's a date

The BBQ place Rory takes you to is busy and loud, its high ceilings making plenty of space for every noise to ricochet off the wood paneled walls down into your eardrums. You’re seated across from him, resting your chin in your palms, elbows pressing into the wobbly table top as you listen to him talk about his job as a personal trainer. When you shift in your seat, your legs stick to the black vinyl upholstery, and you wince at the sensation.

Your eyes trail his rigid biceps that pull his t-shirt sleeves taught. A faded black tribal tattoo peaks out from beneath the white fabric. From the shirtless pictures on his Tinder, you happen to know he has a whole collection of douchey tattoos lining his sun-tanned, muscular body, but you might be willing to overlook that. 

You mark his tattoos down in the “things you don’t like” column in your brain. 

Rory is conventionally attractive in a very masculine way, his face all hard angles with a dimpled, squared off jaw. Straight, white teeth are almost always visible behind the peak of his thin, bow-shaped lips.

He seems like the kind of person that has a standing appointment with a hairdresser that knows exactly how to trim his hair into a close, neat cut without him giving instructions. You’re willing to bet he takes a shower at exactly 6 AM every day, then applies just enough product to make his golden brown hair stand at attention. He probably food preps and has like six hard boiled eggs or something equally rich in protein for breakfast each morning. 

Every part of him seems disciplined and routine. Stable. You mark that down in the “things you like” column. 

When he asks you what you do for a living, you tell him, and he asks how you got into the nannying business. 

“Growing up, I took care of my younger siblings all the time. I’d babysit for the neighbors and stuff, too. It just naturally evolved after I graduated high school,” you tell him, meeting his stunning hazel eyes with an easy smile.

“Do you have a big family?” he crosses his arms on the table and leans in. The off-kilter base of the table responds, shifting towards him. 

You nod, “I have an older brother and three little sisters. My brother, Ben, is two years older than me. My sister, Marlene, is four years younger. Then there’s Leah, who was born two years later. And Rachel is the baby, who came a year after Leah.” 

“Five kids,” he marvels, “Wow. No wonder you had to help out so much.” 

You smile politely at this, although you know your role as their caregiver had more to do with your parents’ active social calendar than the sheer number of children. 

“Do you want kids?” Rory inquires, his brow furrowing in a way that tells you the answer is important to him. 

“Oh, definitely,” you respond, take a sip of your water, then continue, “I don’t know about five, that seems like overkill, but more than one for sure.” 

This seems to please him. His lips curl into a smile. 

“What about you? Do you have any siblings? Want any kids?” you stab the ice in your glass of water with the straw, then return your eyes to his. 

“Two brothers. I’m the middle child,” he rubs his hands together and smirks, “And, yes, kids are no doubt a priority for me.” 

You smile and nod in acknowledgment. Mark it down in the “things you like” column. 

His eyes linger on yours and you feel blood rush to your cheeks. The waitress appears with two trays of food, placing them on the table. As you eat, you find out that Rory was born and raised close to where you were, in another coastal town off the Gulf of Mexico. He was transferred to Kissimmee about two years ago as part of a job promotion. 

“What brought you here?” he questions, then picks up the ribs on his tray and tears a chunk of meat off the bone. 

You shake your head, “Moved here with my ex-boyfriend. He was from the area originally. I needed to get the fuck out of my hometown, so he suggested moving here.” 

You kick yourself for mentioning your self-exile from Ruskin, and hope to god he doesn’t ask why you needed to leave. First dates are no place to recount the ruthless campaign ran against you until you couldn’t take it anymore. 

“What happened with him?” 

A sigh of relief expands your lungs. You answer, “Fell in love with his high school sweetheart.” 

“Wow, that blows,” he frowns, “Been there. Cheated on. It feels terrible.” 

“That it does,” you mutter, pushing kernels of corn around the white plastic bowl on your tray, “He told me about it when it happened, at least. And they’re really happy together. Got married and had kids and all that.”

“No offense, but he’s still an idiot,” he declares with conviction, “I mean, who would do that to someone as gorgeous as you? Besides, cheaters are all scum.”

The compliment warms your insides. You smile demurely and bat your eyelashes at him outwardly, while inwardly you make a mental note to never mention your past with Frankie to him. 

After you finish eating, Rory pays the check and drives you back to your house. The living room is illuminated through the window facing the street. When he puts the car in park, he glances up at it and frowns, “Do you live with someone?” 

“Yeah,” you chuckle nervously, “I have a roommate. They must’ve come home while we were out.” 

“Can I walk you to your door?” His voice is low and sultry. 

You bite your bottom lip and nod. 

He tells you to stay put as he comes around the car to open your door for you. As you walk side-by-side up the cracked sidewalk that leads your house, his hand finds the small of your back. There’s a nervous energy pulsing through your veins, thickening with each step. 

When you reach the foot of your porch steps, he turns to you, meeting your gaze and holding it, “I had a really good time tonight.” 

You face him, and his hand slides to your waist. A tingle spreads across your chest and heats your cheeks, “So did I.” 

His eyes flick to your lips. He leans in. You mirror the movement, eyelids fluttering closed as his lips meet yours. He tastes like peppermint and smells like conifer trees. The kiss is mechanical and his hand is stiff at your waist. It doesn’t awaken anything hungry within you, but it’s nice. 

When you pull away, you look up at him through your eyelashes, “Goodnight, Rory.” 

“Goodnight,” he smiles wide, big white teeth taking up half his face. 

When you open the front door and step inside, Frankie is mid-movement, sitting down on the couch. 

“Hey,” you call as you lean against the closed door and pull off your wedge sandals. 

“Hi,” he responds, sitting up straight. 

It amazes you how much the one syllable says. The slightly panicked upward inflection, the tensing of his shoulders, how out-of-breath he seems. He rests his elbows on his knees and leans forward, hands clasped together, knuckles white.

You drop your purse on the ground, “You getting anywhere on the puzzle?” 

He hums and nods, “I’ve assembled quite a few mustaches.” 

You tiptoe across the carpet and kneel down opposite him, scanning the clumps of puzzle that he’s managed to complete. It entrances you immediately, your fingers and brain working in tandem, making the world fade into the background. Some time passes before you feel Frankie staring at you. You look up at him and meet his eyes, “What?” 

“Nothing,” he shakes his head and smirks. 

You blink at him and raise your eyebrows, “Bullshit.” 

His smirk breaks out into a smile that tugs at your heart, the way his eyes crinkle into crescents and his cheeks dimple. He drops his gaze to the table and taps his lips, then shrugs, “You just look really nice. That dress was a good choice.” 

“Thanks,” you mutter, returning your attention to the puzzle, ignoring the flutter in your chest. 

“How was your date?” he asks, trying to seem disinterested, even though his shoulders hunch up to his ears and his jaw clenches. 

“So good. I think for our next date, we’ll get married,” you tease, glancing up to flash him an amused smile. 

“Hilarious,” he rolls his eyes. His knee starts bouncing and he inquires, “Have you been seeing him for a while or is this a… recent development?” 

“It was literally our first date,” you raise an eyebrow at him, then shrug, “He was nice, though. We have a lot in common. I’ll probably see him again.” 

He shifts in his seat, but says nothing, so you don’t say anything, either. You find a few more puzzle pieces that correspond and click them together. 

“How was the zoo?” you inquire, looking up to search his face, noting his far-away eyes and pouting lips. 

“Good,” he answers with strained positivity, “We’re gonna do something next Saturday. Not sure what yet.” 

“That’s good,” you tell him. Your voice is dripping with an overly ripe kind of sweetness that seems disingenuous and repulsive. By the way he blinks up at you with a droopy, blank expression, you’re certain he senses it, too. Blood rises to your face and you bite down on your tongue, pulsing your teeth against the soft muscle, savoring the sharp pain the motion causes.

You take a deep breath in, exhaling through slack lips that make a buzzing pbpbpbp sound, then ask, “What do you wanna do for dinner tomorrow?” 

He frowns, “Whatever you want, I don’t care.” 

“Good talk,” you mutter under your breath, then rise to your feet, “Do you need to use the bathroom before I take a shower?” 

Frankie shakes his head without looking up from the puzzle. His fingers press against the pillowy flesh of his lips. You feel an urge to scream at him, to push his buttons somehow, anything just to get him to react, but you drop it. 

Once you’ve showered and changed into comfier clothing, you return to the living room and find Frankie laying on his side, curled up on the couch, a pillow wedged between his cheek and his hands. Jungle Boogie by Kool & The Gang is playing behind the opening credits of Pulp Fiction on the TV. You approach with caution, “Do you mind if I join you?” 

“Not at all,” he answers and goes to sit up. 

“You can stay there, it’s fine,” you tell him. He relaxes back into his previous position as you grab a blanket and pillow from a wicker basket next to the TV, “Want a blankie?” 

“Fuck yeah.” 

His enthusiastic response brings a smile to your face. You grab another blanket and drape it over his body before settling into the opposite end of the couch and stretching out. He seems stiff when you pile your legs on his over the middle cushion, so you pull your knees up a little further, closer to your body. 

“I wanna ask you a question but I want you to know it’s ok to say no,” he says in a somber voice. Your heart immediately starts sprinting. 

“What?” you furrow your brow and look over to meet his eyes, but he’s staring at the TV with a blank expression. 

“Will you cuddle with me?”

Your stomach flips upside down. You search his face in question, unsure what to say. No, probably. The two of you literally just had a conversation about keeping your relationship platonic less than a week ago. What the fuck? 

He finally glances at you and sees the confusion. His forehead creases and his foot starts bouncing under your calf. 

He elaborates, “I’m freaking out right now and I think it would help. No funny business, though, I swear to god. I just…”

As he trails off, his eyebrows part and face softens. He shakes his head like he can’t explain it further. His eyes are shiny in the light of the TV and he looks like he’s tearing up. You’ve never seen him cry. But the panic can do weird things. You’re well acquainted with the panic, unfortunately. 

You swallow hard and nod, “Y-yeah, that’s fine.” 

There’s a momentary ruckus while the two of you scoot and reconfigure. Your back settles against his chest and one of his arms tucks under your cheek. The other wraps around your belly, drawing you close, “You comfy?”

“Yeah,” you answer. 

“Are you sure this is ok?” he asks. His voice is low and shaky. It vibrates against your skin and sinks down into the marrow of your bones. If you’re still enough, and keep your breaths shallow enough, you can feel his bass drum heart pounding in his chest at a bpm familiar to you. 

“Yeah, it’s fine, Frankie,” you assure him, enveloping his hand at your belly with your own. He takes a deep breath and the exhale tickles your ear.

On the TV, Jules Winnfield and Vincent Vega are chatting about hash, but you can barely pay attention. 

Frankie’s warmth is a sedative. It always has been. Much to your disdain, you hope the feeling is mutual. And you think it could be, because his thudding heart seems to slow. His body relaxes against yours. 

And it’s so unfair how he can make you feel like this. How, one second he makes you so nervous you could puke, or so frustrated you want to scream in his face, then the next he’s holding you and it’s like your soul is finally resting here with his. 

You think about your date with Rory. He was a gentleman and seems like he’s stable and nice enough. The kiss was fine, good even, but not electric. And that’s fine, because in your experience, first kisses are almost always lackluster. 

Your first kiss with Frankie was like lightning, though. 

Months passed working for the Morales family and you came to be more comfortable with Frankie being around while you cooked dinner. Your conversations were mostly functional, about Sarah or things around their house. But you found him charming and your crush only grew more intense. 

Sometimes you would watch Sarah on Saturday nights so he and Angie could go out on a date. One of these Saturdays, they came home at 1 AM, and Angie was hammered. 

She stumbled up the stairs and plopped down on the couch next to you. Her black hair was mussed and she was all giggly. She said something in Spanish to Frankie, and turned to you, “Do you wan’ chicken strips?” 

“You- you don’t have to feed me, that’s ok, Mrs. Morales-” you stammered, going to stand up and get ready to leave.

“Oh hun, call me Angie, I’m begging you,” she grabbed your arm, “And stay, please! Chicken strips! Come on, hang out with me.” 

“Um…” You glanced around to gauge Frankie’s reaction, but he was in the kitchen preheating the oven, so you nodded, “Sure, ok.” 

“Yay!” Angie clapped, then sprawled out on the couch and propped her heels up on your leg, “Do me a favor, hun, take these off for me?” 

You chuckled and examined the shiny silver clasp of her stilettos, working to undo the strap across her foot as she asked, “So what’s your deal, are you single, do you have a boyfriend, girlfriend, what?” 

“Ang, come on,” Frankie chided from the kitchen as he pulled a few beers from the fridge. 

“What? I’m just asking!” she scoffed at him, then tilted her head at you with a hazy drunk smile, waiting for you to answer. 

You managed to unclasp her shoes, despite her wiggling, and they thudded to the floor one by one.  

Frankie walked past, handing an open beer bottle to you, then another to her, before sitting down on the loveseat. He kept glancing over at you and Angie, then up at the TV, which was playing King of the Hill. 

“I’m single, yeah,” you sighed and took a sip of beer, “Unfortunately.” 

“Hey, nothing wrong with that, girlie. Enjoy it while you still can.” Angie said, then set her full beer bottle on the ground and groaned, “Oh my god I have to get out of this fucking dress. I’ll be back, don’t go anywhere.” 

She marched off into their bedroom, swaying gently as she walked. This was all very amusing to you because you had never seen her be anything but intimidatingly perfect. 

You pulled out your phone and scrolled for a bit, sipping at your beer while waiting for her. Every once in a while, you found yourself looking over at Frankie, who was picking at the label on his beer bottle with his eyes glued to the TV. 

A shrill beep from the oven indicated it was preheated. He rose to his feet and walked down the hallway to their bedroom. You heard the click of the door closing, then he returned to the living room and asked, “She’s passed out, do you really want chicken strips?” 

“No, not really,” you chuckled, tucking your hair behind your ear and dropping your gaze to your beer bottle. 

“And you don’t have to stay or anything like that, no pressure,” he advised. 

You glanced up at him and got caught in his dark, warm eyes for a moment before you shook your head, “No, I’ll stay and finish this, if that’s ok.” 

“Of course, make yourself at home,” he assured you with an easy smile, then sat down in the middle of the couch, just a foot away from you. 

And you fucking knew what you were doing by staying. That’s the worst part. Attraction hung thick in the air between your bodies. It dampened your skin and condensed inside you. 

Every so often in the weeks preceding, you caught him staring at you, and vice versa. More and more, the eye contact lingered just a bit longer than appropriate. Just long enough to make you wonder. It seized your heart and pumped all the blood in your body between your legs and up your neck. 

The prospect of his affection was on your mind all the fucking time. Every time he’d laugh at one of your jokes, or brush up against you in passing, or find a reason to touch you intentionally, you wanted it to last forever. 

But you didn’t initiate anything. You were content admiring him from afar, wondering if his lingering looks meant he wanted you, too. He was at least fifteen years older than you, married, and your fucking employer. There was no way in hell you would risk your livelihood by making a move on him, no matter how tempted you were. 

If he pursued you, though… that would be different. And you desperately wanted him to. 

“I’m sorry about Ang,” he said, leaning back against the couch, “She drank a lot tonight.” 

You chuckled and shook your head, “Totally fine. We all have to let loose every once and a while.” 

He hummed in agreement, and your eyes flicked to his, and they were so intent on your face that your heart started racing. 

“And how do you like to let loose?” he rumbled, his gaze dropping to your mouth. 

Your lips parted. You managed to quirk a brow and breathe, “Are you sure you wanna know?” 

Frankie sat forward, taking your beer and setting it on the ground. You could smell his whiskey-soaked mouth. The woody scent of his cologne. His hand rested on your knee. A shiver jolted across your skin and you swallowed hard. 

“I think I might know,” he murmured, sliding his hand down further, setting his thumb into motion against your tender inner thigh, leaning closer. 

“This is a bad idea,” you warned him in a whisper, but brought yourself closer to his beckoning lips, insides coiling tight, begging for you to just fucking do it. 

“Terrible idea,” he agreed, brushing his nose against yours, bringing his hand to your chin, holding it as he took the plunge and pressed his lips against yours. 

The kiss was a slow peck that lingered with heat, and when he peeled his lips from yours, murmuring, “Sorry-” you grabbed onto his shirt and pulled him back in, all hot-blooded and eager, savoring the softness of his pillowy lips, the harsh liquor burn on his breath. You couldn’t help but whimper as his tongue rolled wet against yours. He renewed it with hungry urgency, cupping your cheeks, pulling you closer, both of you completely lost and breathless. 

You tried to sit up, to get closer, to crawl inside him if you could, but knocked over the bottle of beer with a sharp clink. Both of you jumped apart at the disruption. 

“Shit,” he hissed and stood up, striding to the kitchen. You stood up, too, trying to catch your breath and regain your composure. The spell was broken. The weight of what just happened crashed down on you all at once. 

You snatched your purse up off the floor just as he came back into the room with a wad of paper towels. 

“I’m sorry-” you faltered. 

He shook his head, “No, no, don’t worry, it’s fine.” 

“No it’s not fine, you’re-” your eyes darted to the closed bedroom door where his wife was sleeping and whispered, “You’re married. And- and- I work for you, I’m an idiot. I just have a stupid crush. An- and I won’t do it again.”

“Hey, no, don’t-” his voice was pleading and soft. He reached out to you but you shook your head and dropped your eyes to the ground, crossing your arms. 

“I have to go, but I’ll see you on Monday, ok?” you pushed past him to leave. 

The whole drive home, the whole next day, you were so fucking mad at yourself. You had never done something like that with your employer. It was unprofessional and wrong. 

Yet… 

The kiss consumed you. It’s all you could think about. You wanted it to happen again. You wanted it to go further. It set you on fire and the flames felt fucking exquisite. 

And now, as Frankie is holding you, nuzzling against your shoulder, and you feel whole and calm and safe like you can’t with anyone else, you wonder for the millionth time if you’ll ever find this with someone who loves you back. 

You drag the silver tines of your fork across the barest section of your ceramic plate just to watch Frankie squirm at the ear-piercing squeak. Family dinner again. A stalemate for who goes first again. 

“I’m gonna keep doing this until you start,” you advise, then make the noise happen again, “I can do this all night.” 

He closes his eyes and tilts his head back, sending his cap onto the floor behind him, “It’s just gonna start a fight.” 

“I don’t give a shit,” you blink and prop your chin up on the heel of your palm, “Not saying anything will also start a fight, so…” 

Frankie just swings his head back to neutral and stares at you, his arms crossed, elbows resting on the table. 

You scrape your fork against the plate and smirk at him. 

“Jesus fucking Christ fine,” he groans, running his hands down his face before crossing his arms again. His eyes meet yours and he opens his mouth to speak, letting it gape for a moment, then admits, “While we’re living together, I think maybe…”

He snaps his mouth shut into a straight line and drops his eyes to your picked over plate. You rub the tines back and forth against the ceramic rapidly, “Just say it, come on, Franklin.” 

He glares at you, half joking, and scoffs, “You know that’s not my name,” then he reaches across the table, trying to snatch the utensil from you hand, “And I’m gonna take that goddamn fork away-”

“The fuck you are,” you laugh as you pull it away from his reach, then try to coax him to complete his thought, “While we’re living together, you think maybe…?”

“I think maybe we shouldn’t have other people over,” he tells you quietly, sitting back in his seat with a sigh, meeting your eyes for a moment before dropping them to the table. 

“What do you mean by other people?” you search his face. 

“Dates, you know, like,” the muscles in his face tense as he clenches his jaw and grinds his teeth together. 

You drop your fork on the plate and cross your arms, “Like the guy I went out with last night? Like you don’t want me to date other people while you’re living here? Really?”

“Like I don’t want to hear you getting fucking railed-”

“This is my fucking house, Francisco, and we are not dating,” you bite off, “Just because you’re jealous doesn’t mean I have to be abstinent-”

“I’m not asking you to take a fucking vow of celibacy, I’m just saying I don’t want to see or hear that shit when I’m here,” he argues. 

“Because you’re jealous,” you state. 

“Sure,” he shakes his head, “Whatever.” 

“You’re such a fucking hypocrite,” you spit. 

“What?! How?” he barks, throwing his hands up at his sides. 

“Do you know how many times I had to see you and Angie kissing and holding hands and making fucking goo-goo eyes at each other?” you grind out, shaking your head in disbelief, “But I can’t have people I’m dating in my own house? Ok, Frankie.”

“That is not the sa-”

“Bullshit,” you lean into the word as you hurl it at him, then scoff and tell him, “When I went to Australia with you guys, I heard you fucking her every single night. Did you know that?” 

His eyes flick to yours. He’s scowling like a sullen child. 

“Then you would wait until she fell asleep and- and you would come to me,” you feel the pain from this buried memory surfacing in your chest, burning behind your eyes, “And you smelled like her, and I was-” a sob bubbles up your throat. Tears roll hot down your cheeks, and you meet his eyes so he can understand, “I was so fucking in love with you, Frankie.” 

His face softens and his shoulders sag. 

“So I really don’t want to hear how uncomfortable my love life makes you while you’re living here,” you sniffle, then wipe your eyes with your hands. He searches your face, but doesn’t say anything. You bite down on your tongue and hold it for a moment, then ask, “Did you ever think about how it was for me? Seeing you two together?” 

His adam’s apple bobs in his throat. He shakes his head. 

“I didn’t think so,” you mutter, looking down at your half-eaten plate and pushing it away with a sigh, “I won’t have sex with anyone when you’re here. But I’m not going to ban people I’m dating from my own house just for your sake.”

He nods, “Ok.” 

Both of you stew in this silence, soaking in the words that were exchanged. It’s not uncomfortable, just heavy with the weight of the conversation.

“Why didn’t you tell me earlier?” Frankie looks up at you. 

You search his somber face, “Tell you what?” 

“That it hurt to see me with her,” he presses his elbows into the table, clasping his hands in front of his mouth, “I mean, obviously, I should have known, but…” 

“I didn’t wanna lose you,” you shrug loosely, gather all of your guts in a bundle and tell him, “If I told you, it would come down to choosing between me or her. And… you’ll choose her every time.” 

He sits with this information, staring down the hallway to his bedroom, but so much further. His chest expands with a deep breath, and he exhales, “I’m sorry for hurting you.”

You fight the urge to comfort him and tell him it’s ok. Instead, you nod in acknowledgment. 

“I was really shitty to you for a really long time. And- and you’re right. I’m a fucking hypocrite,” he furrows his brow and rolls his head on his shoulders to look at you, “Why did you even agree to this?”

“To be fair, this is not what I thought was going to happen when I bailed you out,” you chuckle, then release a heavy sigh, “But, I mean… I probably still would have done it if I knew. I care about you. And I want you to get better.” 

The corners of his lips curl upward just a little, eyebrows lowering as he murmurs, “Thank you.” 

“You’re welcome,” you smile warmly and wait a moment before stretching the smile out wider, “Ralph is gonna be so proud of us.” 

Frankie laughs, his dark eyes folding into crescents, and nods, “He’s gonna put a gold star on my worksheet tomorrow.” 

You push your chair back and stand up, yawning as you stretch your arms towards the ceiling. 

He gets to his feet, too, grabbing his hat off the floor and putting it back on before piling dishes from the table into a stack, “You going to bed, or you wanna puzzle it up?” 

“I’m down to puzzle,” you grin, “As long as we don’t fall asleep on the couch again, my neck is fucking killing me.”

“You’re tellin’ me,” he snorts, taking wide strides to the sink, “I’m gonna do the dishes, but I’ll be there in a minute.” 

With a nod, you tiptoe into the living room and kneel before the coffee table, examining all the fragmented parts of the puzzle still left to put together. Slowly but surely, it’s starting to resemble a bigger picture. 

You’ve always found puzzles to be comforting. 

Something about the heap of jigsawed pieces when you open the box. All of them broken and indistinguishable in their own right. How you put them together, bit by bit. Proceeding even when it seems impossible. How, eventually, they all come together to make something beautiful. 

[ Next Chapter ]

#designated person #frankie catfish morales #frankie morales x reader #frankie morales x f!reader #frankie morales #frankie morales fic #frankie morales x you #francisco morales #triple frontier fanfiction #francisco catfish morales #triple frontier fic #pedro pascal fanfiction #pedro pascal characters #pedro pascal character fanfic #pedro pascal

[pencil-peach]

G Witch Onscreen Text: Prologue

I'm going to try my best to transcribe all of the (relatively important) text that appears on monitors and screens throughout the show, and talk about what they mean. Because they put WAY too much work into them just for them to be completely ignored. And also because I can.

More Under the Cut awooo awooOOooooOOOooo

TEXT: CONFIRM THRALL >>> LP-03

Not very important, clarifying communication is active between THRALL (Control) and LP-03 (Lfrith Prototype 03)

TEXT: PMET LINK REGRESSION TEST. INTERCONNECT

Device and Program Supporting Selection for Control Test

STATUS: READY

Just a Pre-Test status screen to make clear it's ready for the Permet Link Test

TEXT: GUND FORMAT [DISCONNECT] ERROR PHASE

Here we see the error message that's displayed when the Layer 33 Callback Test fails.

TEXT: PRESS BRIEFING: MS INVESTIGATION COMMITTEE OFFICIALS WARN ABOUT GUND FORMAT INTERPLANETRAY NEWS NETWORK

Here we see the news station (INN) reporting on the ongoing investigation by the Mobile Suit Investigation Committee into Ochs Earth and the Gund Format.

TEXT: (Top Left) SPACEFLIGHT OSTEOPENIA

(Bottom Left) MICROGRAVITY MUSCLE ATROPHY

(Top Right) SPACELIFE-ASSOCIATED NEURO-OCULAR SYNDROME

(Bottom Right) EQUILIBRIUM DISTURBANCE

(Middle) IMPAIRED SPATIAL ABILITY

(Bottom) HEALTH THREATS FROM COSMIC RAYS

This is a graph showing the various health risks humans suffer from prolonged exposure to cosmic rays in space, which is one of the issues the GUND Format was originally created to solve.

TEXT: BIOINFO INTERACTION SCORE per Second

DATA STORM OCCURENCE MAXIMUM: 4.89888 BACKFLOW: 187.69

WARNING: DATA STORM could damage GUND linker.

This graph is displayed when the reporter is speaking about the appearance of physical damage to GUND pilots emerging as a problem. It's difficult to tell exactly what this graph means, but I'll give my best deduction:

The graph is measuring the amount of interaction a pilot is currently having with a data storm, measured in seconds. The higher the Interaction Score, the greater a pilots exposure to the data storm. Thresholds of exposure are called "Stages" (as seen in the second image.) Based on the coloring, the higher the current stage of exposure, the more danger a pilot is in.

TEXT: WHAT ISSUE DO YOU WANT POLICY MAKERS TO SPEND TIME DISCUSSING?

(Left)

[Earthian Issue] Yes Poverty Reduction 95% Fair Trade 89% Educational Gap 89% Taxes 85% Employment 83% (Right)

[Spacian Issue] Yes Defense/Security 98% Free Competition 92% Infrastructure 90% Energy 87% Welfare 86%

I actually really really like this graph because of the stark difference between Earthian and Spacian issues. The issue of Gundams and defense doesn't even break the top 5 of what Earthians NEED policy makers to discuss. It's even more depressing when you realize the prologue is set 21 years before the main story, and not only have these problems not been addressed, they've actually gotten worse for the Earthians.

TEXT: HAPPY BIRTHDAY

It's Eri's BIrthday :3

There's zero way to deduce what the text on the whiteboard or the laptop in this picture could mean, but I really love this picture of Cardo and Elnora, so you should just look at it anyway.

TEXT: INSTALLATION COMPLETED C03_DISCONNECT TIMER

What this means is hard to pinpoint exactly, but presumably this person is working for Delling, and has uploaded a file into the main server of Folkvangr that will disconnect it from the network, so that there will be no way for anyone in the institute to call for help once the massacre begins.

TEXT: CONFIRM YOUR INTERNAL PMET SYSTEMS LINKED DEVICE AND PROGRAM FOR SUPPORTING SELECTION FOR CONTROL TEST

Just the screen that appears when Eri is linked to Lfrith. Presumably this screen appears for anyone who links to it.

TEXT: NO SIGNAL Code: CO4 CONNECTION IS LOST.

The Disconnect Timer we saw installed onto the Folkvangr server has just gone off.

TEXT: GUND FORMAT INTERCONNECT

ERICHT SAMAYA LAYER 34

The scene where Elnora sees that Ericht has not only gotten a callback from Layer 33, but has gone even further.

What I really like about this scene (and maybe I'm reading too much into it,) but look at the way the text is formatted on the screen. It's distinctly different than how it was when Elnora was trying to get a callback from Layer 33, specifically because, for some reason, it's displaying Eri's name. It didn't display Elnora's name earlier in the episode, and so the only way that makes sense is if, when Eri was talking to Lfrith and introduced herself by name,

It was listening.

(You can even see this during this shot. The display on screen is reacting to her voice)

Bonus: We can't see what the display on Nadim's Lfrith is saying when he goes permet score four cause he's currently having his brains melted out of his skull, but I'm gonna assume it says something along the lines of "You are currently having your brains melted out of your skull."

That's all for the prologue ! This will probably take me a long time to finish. But eh, I'll have fun with it.

Click here to move on to Episode 1! >>

Click here to go to the Masterpost!

#g witch #gundam the witch from mercury

[preemploymenttest]

Providing Constructive Criticism

How often should you provide constructive criticism? There are two types of feedback: positive and negative. Positive feedback helps us improve our performance, whereas negative feedback motivates us to change our behavior. The problem is, that sometimes we don’t realize when we’re providing negative feedback. This leads to resentment, frustration, and even anger. Learn more: https://blog.hirenest.com/providing-constructive-criticism-to-employees/

When giving feedback, focus on the positives. If you want to motivate someone, give them only positive feedback. In this case, I was trying to help him understand why he wasn't getting any responses from his audience. He had already tried to figure out what was wrong by himself, but it didn't work. So I pointed out the obvious mistake (he forgot to include the "?") and told him not to worry about it because people will forget things like that. It's just part of being human.

What are Examples of Constructive Criticism?

The first step in any writing project is to write down what you want to say. Then edit it so it makes sense. If you don’t know where to start, try brainstorming ideas. Once you have some ideas, narrow them down into a list of topics. You can find out more in our article: https://blog.hirenest.com/providing-constructive-criticism-to-employees/

How do I avoid being too critical? When giving feedback, focus on the positive aspects of someone's work rather than criticizing mistakes. Instead of saying "You're wrong," say something like "I think this could be improved by..."  

How do I give constructive criticism? The best way to give constructive criticism is to ask yourself if you would benefit from the information. For example, if you notice that a colleague has a habit of leaving his desk at lunchtime without telling anyone, then you might consider asking him why he does this. It may not seem like a big deal but it could help him improve his productivity.

In order to achieve success, we must take responsibility for our actions. This means taking ownership of our decisions, instead of blaming others. It also means accepting accountability for our failures.

Why is Constructive Criticism in the Workplace Important?

It helps us improve our performance. If we don’t hear feedback from others, we may not know what we’re doing well or where we could improve. This means we might miss out on opportunities to grow and develop. I think it’s important to give honest feedback. But if someone criticises me too harshly, they risk making me feel defensive and resentful. That will lead to them losing respect for me, which will affect our working relationship.

Benefits of Constructive Criticism in the Workplace

The most important thing I learned from this experience was to never give up. If you want something badly enough, you will find a way to achieve it. A lot of people think they don't know anything about business management, but if you're willing to study, you'll quickly realize that you do know quite a bit. In order to succeed at work, you must first understand what motivates you. What makes you tick? Why do you wake up every morning? What keeps you going through all the stress and pressure of life? Once you figure out why you do what you do, then you can start working towards making those things better.

It's not just about the money. There are many reasons why someone would choose to become self employed. For some, it's because they enjoy being their own boss. Others may prefer to work independently so they can set their own hours. Some like the flexibility of having their own schedule. Whatever the case may be, becoming self employed means taking control of your future.

Providing Constructive Criticism to Employees

The first step in providing constructive criticism is to identify what needs improvement. This may seem like a simple task but it’s often difficult because people don’t want to hear negative feedback. They might feel they’ve done something wrong or that the person giving them the feedback doesn’t know anything about their work. If you do decide to provide constructive criticism, try not to focus too much on the negatives. Instead, focus on the positives. For example, if you notice that someone has made mistakes in the past, ask them how they plan to improve next time. Or, if you see that a particular area of weakness is causing problems for others, explain why this is important so that they understand the impact of their actions. 

Provide Feedback to Your Team Members. Once you’ve identified areas where improvements could be made, give your team members specific examples of what you noticed. Don’t just say “you did a bad job”; instead, describe exactly what went wrong and offer suggestions for how they can fix it. Be sure to include any positive aspects of their performance.

Tips on How to Give Constructive Criticism

The first step is to identify what you like about the person. This will help you avoid criticizing something they don't care about. For example, if you're talking about their appearance, it's better to say "You look great today" than "Your face looks terrible." If you want to criticize them, focus on one thing at a time. It's easier to give constructive criticism if you keep things simple.

Next, think about why you feel this way. Is it because they did something wrong? Did they do something right but not enough? Was it just bad luck? Or maybe you dislike them because they remind you of someone else who was mean to you. Whatever the reason, try to understand where it comes from before deciding whether or not to share your thoughts. The first step in giving constructive criticism is to identify what needs improvement. This means being specific and clear about what it is you want to see changed. For example, if you notice that someone has trouble following through on assignments, say so directly rather than saying something like “I don’t think you did enough work this week.”

If you find yourself getting frustrated by a colleague’s lack of progress, try not to take things personally. Instead, focus on the task at hand. Ask yourself whether you could do better, then ask yourself why you might not be able to. It may help to write down your thoughts.

Conclusion

If you want your employees to improve, then constructive criticism is one of the best ways to go about doing so. This article provides some great tips on how to provide effective feedback to your team members. When providing feedback to your employees, make sure you are being as specific as possible. It's easy to give vague feedback, but when you're trying to help someone improve, you need to be more direct with what needs to change. Don't just say "you should work harder" or "I think you should try something new." Instead, tell them exactly what you mean by those statements. Be clear about what you expect from them and why.

Feedback is not always positive. Sometimes it may feel like you're criticizing your employee, which could lead to defensiveness or resentment. Try to avoid this situation by making sure you're giving honest feedback. While you don't want to hurt anyone's feelings, you do want to encourage growth and improvement. Make sure you're focusing on areas where they can grow rather than things that aren't working well. If you want to know more about Defining Recruitment Skills + 10 Top Skills to Have in 2022, read this article: https://blog.hirenest.com/providing-constructive-criticism-to-employees/

#hirenest #bloghirenest #hirenestblog #pre employment assessments #pre-employment screening tests #pre-employment assessments #hirenest blog #pre-employment screening assessments #blog hirenest #recruiting #pre employment tests #pre employment screening #pre employment screening tests #Constructive Criticism

[classificationhell]

I am insanely curious of how the Lucifers, Fizzmodeous, Vox, and Alastor would react to a MC being a sex worker (porn/stripper/prostitute) either worker for Val or not. I feel like Fizzmodeous would be kinda chill but behind that I am desperately curious!

In order for Reader to be an Omega Little I don't think they could be a sex worker for Valentino because they'd be easily caught and then their rights would be removed. However, if they were a freelancer who flew under the radar for Valentino, which would be a feat in and of itself because he sniffs out any potential money losses like a blood hound, most of the Caregivers would be okay with their past but prefer it to not be their future.

Alastor

Look, it's not that he finds you personally disgusting. He loves you. If he didn't, he wouldn't be giving you a thorough bath to clean you of another's filth. He is firmly in the territory that this isn't something you can keep doing both for your safety and because he feels you're better than that, and also hed never admit he was too possessive. If you want a job, he could use an assistant or they could use another cleaner at the Hotel. You have options now darling don't be too prideful to use them. Will kill any of your clients if they try and come back for another session.

Vox

He reacts moderately better than Alastor, but still insists this stops, not necessarily because sex work is beneath you in his opinion, though it is, or even that is isn't safe he doesn't want to ever have to share you. Will likely kill or enslave anyone you've ever taken to bed.

Lucifer

Is fine with it, can respect the hard work you've put in and won't demand it stop as long as you take proper precautionsand use the Hotel for your hook ups.... buuuut if you don't he will always be questioning whether or not he's good enough for you and might go into something of a depressive spiral.

Mourningstar-

Well you literally just fell into hell so I guess you could've been a sex worker in your past life? Anyway he doesn't care, but you are never ever ever going to do that again. His delusional mind will twist anything you say about your old profession to reflect that you actively hated it and therefore are happy you don't have to do that here with him.

Fizzmodeus

They don't mind and will encourage you if this is something you wish to pursue, but there will be precautions being taken. Asmodeus will act as your employer and Fizzarolli will pre-screen clients for diseases or any concerning temperments or whatever before sending them to you. You'll have regular check ups and tests for any diseasees that you could pick up. They trust and love you enough to know this isn't some slight against them or that you aren't any less committed to the relationship.

#ask response #memes #hazbin hotel memes #classification hell au #unfunny memes #classificationhell #thank you #lore adjacent #reactions #lucifer mourningstar #lucifer reaction #yandere lucifer #well one of them is yandere #alastor meme #alastor reaction #vox reaction #fizzarozzie #fizzmodeus

[kenneth-omega]

The Fear of Falling in Love

// Part 1 // Part 2 //

A Kenny Omega Short Fic

**EDITED 27/08/22**

Pairing: Kenny Omega x Female Reader

Summary: You’re a family friend of The Young Bucks who, like Matt and Nick, also became obsessed with wrestling from a young age. During Kenny’s absence from screen you were sourced into AEW by the Bucks and brought into the Undisputed Elite faction. Following the recent fall out between Adam Cole/reDragon and the Bucks over the upcoming Trios tournament you finally get to meet the great Kenny Omega. You eventually become locked into a storyline that starts out fun and harmless but soon turns sour at the prospect of real feelings being hurt and relationships tarnished.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE ADDED TO A TAGLIST IN FUTURE PARTS WHEN THEY’RE POSTED PLEASE LMK

Warnings: swearing (there will be more warnings to come in future parts), pure panting over kenny fuckin’ omega tbh

Word count: 1.9K

A/N: In honour of our wrestling lord and saviour ✨Kenneth Omega✨ returning to our screens this week on Dynamite I’ve decided to pull my dusty forgotten ass out of the shadows and write for him.

This short fic will have 5 parts in total!! (In this fic I am pre-empting what I think is gonna happen during the Trios Tournament and some things ((such as certain wrestlers currently off injured)) aren’t accurate to the current events, so please be gentle with me! 😊 Just think of this as an AU if it helps.)  Also, reader’s wrestling name is Cori but is called Y/N when not being referred to as Cori. There will be some personal names used but I’ll add these for each chapter where relevant like I have done below!

For Reference:

“All Ego” Ethan Page is Julian

Cori “The Alpha” Dacre is Y/N

You were excited to meet him. Understandably.

Despite your constant friendship with Matt and Nick which had remained alive for the many years since you’d moved to Canada as a teenager, you had never had the time nor the need to meet their current ring buddy and long-time pal Kenny Omega.

When you got the call back in December of last year from Matt asking if you’d want to sign with their own company All Elite Wrestling you had no idea just how ingrained into the company and their little faction you would become. Following your leave from the indie promotion you’d been wrestling for in Ontario, you hopped onto the first available flight down to Texas where their Wednesday night show Dynamite was being taped.

Matt had organised you a hotel for the night, with Nick arranging for you to meet the CEO Tony Khan.

“We’re not gonna throw you into a match, honestly, this is just a taster for you to come down, check out what we’re about and speak to Tony. Who’s a really great guy when you eventually get to meet him.” Matt reassured you down the phone the evening before.

Even though AEW was co-created by your friends, you were still extremely nervous. This would be the biggest company you had worked for, should everything go smoothly.

You hadn’t had much time to dwell on the details and the complications of coming back to the US to wrestle, having made most your career in the promotions back in Canada you were truly an indie darling.

“Which is why the fans are gonna love you even more.” Nick had patted you on the back encouragingly as you walked backstage at the show, heading towards a skinny, curly-haired man with a large headset on and a tablet in his hand.

From there on you’d shook hands, made small talk and watched the show beside Tony Khan and the Bucks. At the end of the show Tony had extended to you an offer of employment with AEW after seeing your interest.

From then on you’d started out with a couple of test matches on AEW Dark which had gained you decent praise and reactions from fans. With Tony satisfied in your capabilities and your talent, he gave the green light to get you straight onto Dynamite. Your debut came on the first Dynamite of the new year, where you cut yourself a sweet and short promo calling out Jade Cargill following her win over Ruby Soho.

There you introduced yourself under your new persona, having decided to shed the indie nickname from back home.

“And just who the hell do you think you are to come at that bitch on my show?” Jade sneered down the mic, her retained title belt proudly slung over her shoulder.

With a roll of your eyes and a determined grin, you spoke clearly into your own mic. “I’m Cori Dacre. The Alpha of the women’s division and soon to be the new TBS Champion.”

---------

“Cori! Hello?!” A hand waves in your face impatiently. Snapping from your stupor you gaze up to see who had rudely pulled you out from your daydreams. It was Ethan, holding his plate of breakfast from the hotel’s self-catering buffet.

“Hello Julian.” You chide as he takes a seat beside you. Your own plate didn’t look as appetising as his, with a bland portion of porridge and some pieces of jam covered toast.

“Wow, who pissed in your coffee this morning? You hardly ever call me that unless your upset, angry or just trying to wind me up.” Ethan counts on his fingers as he reels off the list, looking at you with an eyebrow raised in silent question.

“No one, I’m just...nervous.” You grumble, poking the wobbly gruel with your spoon and scrunching your nose up in disgust. It had practically solidified at this point and was past salvageable, you sigh and pick up one of the slices of toast instead.

“Remind me to note nervous down on the list for future reference,” Ethan jokes, catching a deathly glare from you. “...So who’s making you nervous? Want me to go beat ‘em up?” He offers, although he seems far too absorbed in his breakfast to be of any use for beating up people.

You shake your head, partially in response to him and partially due to the fact that the cold piece of toast was scratchy and tough going down your throat.

“Who said it was someone making me nervous?” You scoff, getting up from the table with your plate and heading back to the buffet, ditching the half-attempted breakfast for favour of a clean plate.

Scanning the different trays and pots of hot food you settle on some scrambled eggs, beans and another coffee.

“Are you seriously gonna try and lie to me Y/N?” Ethan’s voice echoes right beside you, causing you to fumble with your plate that you have balanced on one hand as you try to pour your coffee with the other.

“Fuck!” You hiss, keeping the plate steady and giving Ethan a look that could kill. “How about next time you wait for me to come back to the table instead of scaring the soul out of my body whilst I’m handling hot things!” You shove the plate in front of his face in a furious gesture.

Ethan grins and takes the plate from you, taking it back to the table as you grip onto your newly poured coffee like Gollum.

“I could have, but you would have just tried to move on from the subject and try distract me with new toys or something else equally as interesting. Besides, you know I’m always here for you, whether it’s back in good ol’ Canada or here in AEW. If someone’s bugging you then you can tell me.” He offers a gentle hand on your arm as he sets your plate down, before taking his seat and continuing with his own plate.

You slump into your chair and cast a steady eye around the room, mindful of the other talent that were here. Many were just minding their own business and no one seemed the least bit interested in you right now.

“I'm...meeting Kenny Omega today.” You mutter, waiting for Ethan’s response.

He raises his eyebrows as he chews on a mouthful and ponders your statement for a few seconds.

“You’ve not met Kenny before? I would’ve thought that being from Canada and what with you and the Bucks it’d have happened already.”

You shake your head, just as surprised yourself that it hadn't happened either.

“You know how much I’ve enjoyed this year right? The whole storyline with the Undisputed Elite has been great fun and me being recruited into the faction by Matt and Nick has given me such an amazing boost. But...what if Kenny hates me? What if I don’t fit into the Elite with him coming back and he wants me out?”

Ethan nods slowly as you begin to spiral into a tirade of self-doubting questions that you had yet to ask aloud to anyone. You couldn’t even bring yourself to speak to the Bucks about this.

“Are you sure you’re not just nervous about being around him? I know you’ve never met the guy but you’ve always spoke very admirably about him...as a wrestler, obviously.” Ethan adds the last part when he notices the narrow-eyed stare being cast his way.

“Obviously.” You repeat, not wanting to entertain the thought of your nerves being related to anything else other than professional. “Of course I’m nervous about that but-”

Ethan slaps your shoulder with the back of his hand repeatedly, his attention firmly focused on something to your right and no longer on the conversation. You follow his gaze and feel your heart soar with adrenaline and fear when you spot who is walking towards you.

A mess of brown and highlighted curls frame a rugged, unshaven face, with steely, blue eyes boring a hole into yours. You would never admit it to a single soul, but Kenny Omega was an extremely attractive man. An extremely attractive man who was also walking straight towards you.

Before he reached the two of you, you felt Ethan nudge your leg with his knee beneath the table and his muttering comment of “Be calm, he’s just a human, he’s gonna love you.”

Not wanting to seem like a deer caught in the headlights you match Kenny’s smile with a welcoming one of your own. When he reaches your table, you actually notice that Matt and Nick had entered the room with him, but the two of them had decided to bypass you completely and head straight for the food. You catch Nick’s watchful eye as they pass, him trying to subtly observe the two of you interact for the first time.

Bastards.

“Sorry to interrupt your morning, I just wanted to stop and say hi.” Kenny admits to you and Ethan, his eyes flicking back and forth between the two of you. His voice is inviting and warm, a lot deeper than you’d expected, despite having watched countless numbers of his promos. You look over to Ethan who appears extremely interested in his food at the moment, leaving you the only person to talk.

Bastards, the lot of them.

“Oh! Um, hi. I’m Cori.” You extend a hand out to him politely, praying that it doesn’t feel clammy or too warm when he goes to take it. Maybe it’s because the hotel’s carpeted and it’s just a static shock, but when Kenny grips your hand in his you could’ve sworn that you felt a crackle of electricity pass between you both.

His hand feels large in yours and the rough skin on the pads of his fingers matches your own, a tell-tale sign that he’s recently been getting back in the ring. You knew this of course, having been told a few weeks back by Nick and Matt that Kenny would be returning onscreen this week.

Today, in fact.

You notice that both your hands stopped shaking a while ago and now you’re both just holding onto each other. You decide to break the contact, unsure how to feel under his captivating gaze as his hand engulfs yours in a comforting way.

“I’ll not bother you two any more than I have, but I really thought it was time I get to know the wrestler who Matt and Nick have been raving about endlessly to me. I’m looking forward to working with you Cori. See you later this evening?” Kenny shoots you the question, although really it could’ve been more of a statement.

You would of course be taking up the Elite’s corner tonight in the main event, acting as an insignificantly small part of Kenny’s immense return to the ring.

A short nod from you is all you can muster, still feeling slightly star-struck by the man in front of you. Kenny’s eyes have an almost mischievous twinkle to them as a grin passes across his face before he leaves. Were it not for the fact you were completely spaced out following the interaction, you wouldn’t have caught him looking back over his shoulder at you and giving you a tiny wave. A small gesture, but one that sends your veins thrumming as you realise he must’ve caught you staring.

A few seconds pass before Ethan lets out a low whistle.

“Talk about floundering, you couldn’t barely string a sentence together in front of him! This is bad!” He laughs, looking at your slightly dazed expression, cheeks a raging shade of pink.

“Fuck off Julian.”

---------

A/N: Short first chapter, sorry!! (I wanted to test the waters with me getting back into writing) I hope that this fic is interesting and people want to read more as I’ve got this story pretty much mapped out already! It’ll be a short fic but I can’t say for certain how many parts to this there’d be (estimate would be around 6/7? IDK I’m so bad at working this stuff out 🙃), although the future parts will be longer than this one.

Also, I am planning for there to be SMUT in future parts so just a lil’ wink wink 😉 for y’all and also a warning to under 18′s (I will be mentioning in the warnings where there is anything NSFW).

#kenny omega #kenny omega x reader #kenneth omega #one winged angel #tyson smith #aew #all elite wrestling #wrestling #ethan page #all ego ethan page #wrestling fic #fanfic #kenny omega fanfiction #aew dynamite #aew imagine #aew fic #aew x reader #aew all out #the elite #matt jackson #nick jackson #the young bucks #young bucks #being the elite

[dot-24]

Driving Success: Mastering DOT Drug Testing for Transportation Entrepreneurs

As a transportation entrepreneur, navigating the intricate landscape of DOT drug testing is not just a regulatory requirement but a crucial step in ensuring safety, reliability, and compliance within your business. In this blog, we'll explore the ins and outs of DOT drug testing, its importance, challenges, solutions, and the role of technology and service providers in simplifying compliance. Let's dive in!

Why DOT Drug Testing Matters:

DOT drug testing isn't just about following rules; it's about safeguarding lives. By ensuring a sober workforce, transportation businesses mitigate the risks of substance-related accidents, protecting employees, passengers, and the public. Compliance with DOT regulations fosters a culture of safety and responsibility, essential for maintaining trust and credibility in the industry.

Who Needs to Comply:

Understanding who falls under DOT drug testing requirements is essential. From commercial truck drivers to aviation personnel, railroad workers to mariners, employees in safety-sensitive positions across various transportation sectors must adhere to strict testing protocols to uphold integrity and reliability within the industry.

Testing Procedures and Requirements:

DOT drug testing involves screening for a range of substances, including marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, phencyclidine, and alcohol. Testing procedures follow rigorous guidelines, from sample collection to laboratory testing, review by Medical Review Officers (MROs), and follow-up protocols in case of positive results.

When Tests Are Required:

DOT drug and alcohol tests are mandated in various situations, including pre-employment, random testing throughout the year, reasonable suspicion testing, post-accident testing, return-to-duty testing after a violation, and follow-up testing for employees undergoing substance abuse treatment.

Practical Tips for Compliance:

Staying informed about DOT regulations, educating your team, partnering with reliable testing services, implementing clear policies, and providing support for employees struggling with substance abuse are vital steps in ensuring compliance with DOT drug testing requirements.

The Importance of Compliance:

Compliance with DOT drug testing regulations isn't just about adhering to government rules; it's about cultivating a safety culture, maintaining reliability and trust, avoiding legal and financial consequences, mitigating insurance and liability risks, and promoting long-term business health.

Implementing a Drug Testing Program:

Establishing a comprehensive drug testing program involves understanding DOT regulations, selecting qualified service agents, crafting clear policies, conducting pre-employment and random testing, managing post-accident and reasonable suspicion testing, and ensuring confidentiality and record-keeping compliance.

Challenges and Solutions:

While DOT drug testing poses challenges such as managing costs, ensuring privacy, and handling positive test results, practical solutions such as negotiating discounts, maintaining confidentiality, and establishing clear policies can mitigate these challenges and ensure effective management of drug testing programs.

The Role of Technology and Service Providers:

Technology and service providers play a crucial role in simplifying DOT drug testing compliance through digital scheduling and management systems, electronic chain of custody forms, integration with HR systems, mobile apps, expert guidance, comprehensive testing services, training, legal assistance, and compliance support.

Conclusion:

Navigating DOT drug testing is a multifaceted endeavor that requires diligence, expertise, and strategic partnerships. By prioritizing safety, reliability, and compliance, transportation entrepreneurs can ensure the well-being of their workforce, passengers, and the public while maintaining a competitive edge in the industry. Embrace DOT drug testing as a cornerstone of your entrepreneurial journey, and pave the way for a safer, more responsible future in transportation.

FAQs

1. Who needs to comply with DOT drug testing regulations?

Businesses in the transportation sector, including trucking, aviation, and public transportation, among others.

2. What substances does DOT drug testing screen for?

Typically, the test screens for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, phencyclidine (PCP), and amphetamines/methamphetamines.

3. How often should DOT drug tests be conducted?

It depends on various factors, including the specific industry and whether the testing is pre-employment, random, post-accident, or other types.

4. What happens if an employee fails a DOT drug test?

The procedures can include removal from safety-sensitive duties, a mandatory evaluation by a substance abuse professional, and completion of a return-to-duty process.

5. Can small businesses afford to comply with DOT drug testing?

Yes, there are cost-effective solutions and service providers that can help small businesses manage the requirements efficiently.

#drug testing #transportation #truck #employees #employer

[milesdarobot]

Death sounds more appealing than anything right now….

Nowhere that im applying is coming through…..

I applied somewhere nice… i aced the employment test, and pre evaluation screening, and nothing…..

Art isnt seling…..

I cant do anything…..

I woke up to a bank account in the negatives…. Wtf… idek where this came from…… i thought i was doing better

I don’t want to be here anymore…

I want to die… life sucks….. i just dont want to be here anymore….

Nothing matters anymore… i dont want to try anymore…. Everything sucks…. Im not enjoying life… whats the point….

Im never going to…. Nothing matters…. I just dont want to keep going….

Nothing is going well anymore….. nothing is working… i just cant keep doing this….

I dont want to be here anymore…

[liquidgravity]

trans things happened today at my pre employment screening. first for a drug test a nurse lifted the toilet seat but I need it down. then a different nurse reminded me of facial hair regulations for N95 masks. it's the small things that remind me of my passing that I'm still not used to but greatly appreciate and get excited about

#trans #trans ftm #right energy wrong function #my baby face isnt coming in monday with a beard i promise

[have-a-treato]

i'm complaining about personality tests and autism under that thing

My boss had us all do this assessment that is backed by my job's "career enhancement/learning center" place.

Surprise surprise, the autistic person is labeled as the analytical robot. "You should be more personable, consider other people's feelings, don't reject new ideas right off" OF COURSE

But context doesn't matter, right? Let's all just put each other in little boxes, nothing else matters.

Autistic people can't be anything other than cold and analytical, think too logically, can't empathize with anyone. In reality I'm quite a warm person. I've just been taken advantage of one too many times, so now you have to earn that warmth from me, especially in a workplace environment.

There's been plenty of investigation into these types of tests for pre-employment screening (because of obvious legality issues) but I also feel that these assessments in general are just insanely negative for neurodivergents.

I don't know if I'll say something during the meeting tomorrow or not, but it certainly has pissed me off. Fuck ableism.

#autism #actually autistic #not bg3