#i can't take good photos on purpose only by accident

[skelliko]

Tokyo revengers |°- random head cannons that I had stored

๑ Hanma ironically and out of nowhere 'sang' twist by Korn next to kisaki to get his reaction which caused kisaki to immediately whip his head over at the doofus with genuine fear in his eyes, he took a step backwards from Hanna, hands up and everything. but after a few seconds of staring at the 'possessed' specimen he just annoyingly does a "what the fuck is wrong with you..."

๑ ran doesn't crack his bones/knuckles often but if someone's around him that absolutely despises the sound of cracking bones he'd do it continuously without a care and finds major enjoyment in watching the person's face scrunch up in discomfort, sometimes he snickers too

๑ while chifuyu was in his 'major delinquent era, thinking he's better than everyone else' he was walking down the school stairs all cool and trying to be intimidating but then slipped on one of the stairs and fell on his butt. only one person saw but the amount of embarrassment he got from that when they made eye contact made him want to disappear from earth -this caused him to always be slow and actually look out for the steps so that it doesn't happen again.

๑ seishu finds it hilarious to fake a laugh at someone's awful joke for a second or two but then immediately go dead silent and just stare at the person with no seen emotion at all

๑ seishu is amazing at cooking, he's like a chef. but where'd he learn all this from? he doesn't answer, it's basically a mystery. but in his room he hides written down recipes that he copied out from books and other places

๑ when Baji was younger he decided to try and cook his own food for himself but accidently set a kitchen towel on fire by mistakingly setting it on top of the wrong oven circle -out of panic he got rid of it by quickly throwing it out the window in a panic making it land on someone's car windshield

๑ kazutora is actually quite close with Baji's mom. at some point he slipped up when calling out for her and accidentally called her 'mom' and sure enough he got embarrassed real quick and by a lot. ryoko took pride into that title tho, knowing that she mistakenly got called mom by someone else other than her own son made her feel oddly happy - although she mentioned that kazu is fine in calling her 'mom' he never did it again cause he still finds it embarrassing

๑ kazutora secretly takes photos of his friends crushes and sniggers about it while showing it to his friend. it's basically his little thing whenever he's told that someone has a crush, he doesn't do it to a big extent but just one of two pictures and it's usually just from the back or the side. he's been told multiple of times to quit and delete them but secretly they all knows he's doing them a favour cause when kazu sends them the photos they don't delete 'em

๑ peh holds grudges against people just for the sake of it, if he met someone and they had accidentally done something like step on peh's shoe then the next time they see eachother he would death stare them until they walk past and out of eye view, sometimes he just randomly feels like making enemies even despite being on 'silent and mutural' terms with someone.

๑ when akkun first had the thought of becoming a hairdresser he attempted in cutting his own hair and it actually turned out pretty good, cause of this he ended up cutting makotos hair however akkun had purposely cut his hair badly out of revenge for leaving 'filthy magazines' in akkuns room where his mom had found- making him to be unintentionally framed by makoto

๑ kisaki has a shit tone of books about manipulation and how to read people, how to carefully plot plans and use everything and anything to his own advantage even if things don't work out

๑ the reason why shion get frequent stomach aces is cause he has a bit of sweet tooth, he doesn't get hungry often so he forgets to actually eat a propper meal sometimes but when he sees something sweet and colourful he can't help but take more than a peck at it.

๑ at some point mitsuya accidentally knocked over a massive jar of beads over at the sowing club and took 2 hours collecting each one

๑ when taiju first started mending to his restaurant he had a bit of a high temper and would crack easily to his new employees if they spilled something or cut up a carrot with incorrect sizes, but after getting used to owning a business he somehow became the 'best boss' and grew to be pretty chill even if someone does a mistake - unless if it's a continuous mistake, then he'll get pissed

๑ taiju had a massive fixation with sharks and cool, colourful looking fish when he was younger. going to aquariums on a daily basis and as a kid he had collected little figurines of sharks, orcas and killer whales that he displayed. up till now he still have one of the shark toys displayed on a shelf since it was his all time favourite.

๑ yazuha hates bugs (cannon) and at some point she saw a weird looking incest in the bathroom and was begging hakkai to kill it or simply get it away for her but even he was disgusted by it so they kept on going back and forth about what to do about it before they both decided to team up and tackle it together. yazuha put a cup over it but while doing so the cup got knocked over from her shaky hands causing the both of them to scream as the bug started to move about but hakkai quickly put the cup back over it. they had to take a small breather and relax a little from the nerves before following through any more.

๑ Hina has a small collection of cute keychains, some of them are small plushies and a few are her favourite characters and others are random, small objects. she has some hanging on many different bags, her keys and a few hanging on thumb tacks that are stuck in a cork board on display

๑ Hina is really confrontational about anything that bothers her for other people's sake, in class most people try not to say anything rude about other people knowing that she'll over hear and they'll get their ear bitten off by her. cause of this she's kinda like the school hero against the bullies.

 ♡---

#tokyo revengers #tokyo revengers headcanons #tokyo revengers fluff #kazutora hanemiya #baji Keisuke #hanma shuji #kisaki tetta #ran haitani #matsuno chifuyu #seishu inui #inupi seishu #peh yan #makoto suzuki #atsushi sendo #shion madarame #hakkai shiba #taiju shiba #yazuha shiba #hina tachibana #mitsuya takashi

[melodicdragon97]

A lot of people don't play Zelda games for the story, and that's perfectly fine. But I think we all have to admit that a good story can only make the game better, right?

1) the story beats in almost all 3D Zelda games are happening throughout the game. This gives you motivation to both keep playing (because now you're given a task to complete) and so you can see what happens next.

2) the story beats (memories) in BotW and TotK take place in the distant past. And you can beat the game without ever seeing them, so they don't really make a difference to the gameplay or your desire to keep playing.

3) the memories can be gotten in any order, so you might end up spoiling yourself by accident.

BotW saved the final memory until after all of the previous ones were found, so it was fine in terms of spoilers.

TotK didn't do that, and the key for the order of the memories isn't outright said to you, they're pictures on a wall that 1) you might miss, 2) might delete the photos you took of them on accident if you're filling out your compendium, or 3) you may not even have the camera app when you come across it (I was too chicken to go into the chasm at that part in the game, so I thought I could do the dragon's tears first, but I didn't have the camera so I did them out of order thinking the spoilers would be saved for last like in BotW. Nope.)

BotW's plot with the divine beasts wrecking havoc on the world was good. I liked their effects on the neighboring environments and the races who dwell there. The threat of a great flood, a neverending sandstorm, a volcano's constant eruption, and the Rito being potentially maimed if they fly too high. You prevented disasters and helped save people, and you gained useful abilities from the characters who used to be fight alongside, which ties them into the memories. The Master Sword in BotW was what let Zelda know Link could still be saved, and retrieving the Master Sword as a means to beat Ganon was mentioned after every dungeon, stressing the importance of it as a weapon that can't be broken.

All in all I liked BotW's story because of this.

But there were only four divine beasts (excluding DLC), so it was short lived compared to how massive the game is in every other regard.

TotK handled the dungeons better, but it had a similar problem, and some of the plot just doesn't make sense. As Yunobo would say: "Why'd you do it?!" Fake Zelda getting the Gorons addicted to marbled rock roast serves what purpose, exactly? It just makes them lazy?

Zelda turning into a dragon to restore the Master Sword serves what purpose, exactly? We saw in the beginning cut scene that dehydrated Ganondorf could shatter it, so what good is that weapon against a fully powered Ganondorf?

The sage abilities you get in TotK are cool, but they're mostly passive, so you're not in direct control of what the sages avatars do. Activating 3/4 of their abilities requires you to interact with them by pressing A, which is hard to do if you're in the middle of life and death combat and they're running away with you. In BotW the abilities were tied to buttons you could press at any time without this issue.

TotK followed the exact same route as BotW: find shrines, find memories, and beat dungeons. The dungeons also follow the same exact route as BotW by needing to activate terminals to reach the boss.

TotK had better gameplay mechanics with the building options and the amount of dungeons and their designs. But the story just doesn't make sense, and then it's shoved down your throat after each dungeon. It's even worse if you try to see where it fits into the timeline, it's like they went from not caring about the timeline to directly contradicting it with the founding of Hyrule. Especially after they advertised Skyward Sword HD and TotK to have some sort of tie-in.

TotK is easily the Zelda game with the least amount of thought/care put into its story, and no matter how cool the gameplay is, the story is a huge detriment to it.

#zelda #loz #legend of zelda #rant #tears of the kingdom #totk #breath of the wild #botw #main series #story #criticism

[deadbydangit]

Could we get another part of accidentally walking in on reader changing, but with some killers this this time?

-Anony🩵🍄

Guess that was really popular, because I got another request for this. I'll choose three killers. Please enjoy.

Accidentally walking in on the S/O Reader changing. SFW and NSFW

Mastermind, Trickster, Legion (Joey)

Mastermind

SFW

He doesn't need to knock.

He's been with you for years, why would he?

What could you possibly be doing that you have to close the door?

You don't need to hide anything from him.

But when Wesker walks in on your half naked, he's a bit more embarrassed.

He's too ashamed to look you in the eyes.

While this is rather awkward, he'll at least let you know of his presence by clearing his throat.

"Forgive me. I should've knocked dearheart."

His voice becomes so timid and quiet that you probably won't recognize it.

"You look very nice today."

The poor man's cheeks are so pink.

He's now considering getting a lock for the door.

"I'll be out in the hall if you need me."

And he will stand there till you come out.

He's always one step ahead. So being caught off guard is humiliating.

Make sure he doesn't take it too hard.

Thank him for the compliment and go on with your day.

He'll be a lot more careful from here on out.

NSFW

Now that he's much more aware of when you're changing, he's going to be taking advantage of it.

So, when he is in the mood, he'll walk right in.

"Oh, dearest where are your clothes?"

And he knows you were changing.

He's doing this completely on purpose, but acting like it was an accident.

He's also installed a lock on the door.

No one will be interrupting.

No one is allowed to see you like that except him.

"Perhaps I'll join you then."

And he'll strip, slowly and sensually.

You won't be able to resist.

There are other times when he'll get straight to the point.

"There you are. All ready for me. Perfect."

Occasionally, he'll dip into a little dirty talk.

"You little whore. Just waiting for someone to come in, are you? Leaving yourself wide open for anyone to fuck you? Well, I'm here. So let's get started."

You know he's only messing around.

Seeing you so exposed and helpless lights a fire in him that only you can.

Trickster

SFW

Another one who doesn't bother to knock.

He lives here, why should he have to knock?

And, if he walks in on your changing, he doesn't understand the big deal.

He might even leave the door wide open when he enters.

Make sure to get him to close it.

You'll probably get an eye roll.

He's done photo shoots where he's completely nude among other risque things.

Just for his idol gig.

So seeing you without clothes doesn't seem to phase him.

The only reason he doesn't walk around totally naked all the time is because it isn't good for his skin.

And he loves fashion.

Can't look as stunning when you aren't wearing anything.

He also likes to keep everyone wanting more, only to realize that they can't have it.

He will, however, make you change what you were going to wear.

It doesn't suit you.

He's just looking out for you.

But, Ji-Woon will compliment you before hand.

His eyes will flutter and he'll sigh with content.

"And to think, you're all mine."

NSFW

There's another reason he won't walk around nude all the time.

It's because no one should get to see his glory but you.

And he believes it's the same for you.

No one gets to see you but him.

So when he walks in and he's in the mood, you'll know because he's practically drooling.

At times like this, he will lock the door.

You're his.

"Just know, that this is your fault. Looking like that."

To make sure you get excited too, he'll do a strip tease.

And by God is he good at it.

Emphasis on the tease part.

Even before he touches you you're already unravelling.

"Can't wait any longer?

He'll smirk before giving you what you really want.

Legion (Joey)

He has his headphones in.

Not even paying attention.

Kind of jamming out.

This was the first time this had happened.

So when he finally looks up to see you nearly naked, he freezes.

The door is still wide open.

And so is his mouth.

Snap him out of his trance and get him to close the door.

It's like he's never seen this before.

Like some holy grail fell from the sky.

He's that memorized.

If you want him out, say it.

And he'll burst out the door while muttering a bunch of apologies and curse words.

"Holy shit I'm so sorry. Shit shit, fuck I didn't mean it."

You might find him later talking to the rest of the Legion.

They're obviously giving him shit.

And he's obviously really embarrassed.

Make sure to joke about it.

Let him know that it isn't a big deal and you aren't upset.

But feel free to give him a little grief about it.

It was pretty funny.

NSFW

He knows better now.

Joey will knock before he enters the room.

But, if he is in the mood, he'll sneak in.

Holding back all his laughter.

When you aren't watching, he'll start removing all of his clothes.

Look back to see him rock hard with a smirk on his face.

"What? I thought we were getting naked?"

Like he has no idea what's going on.

But he's going to start laughing.

And you'll probably start laughing too.

He has the most contagious laughter.

"What, you're just going to tease me with that sexy ass of yours? No fair."

Again, still playing around.

He's the type to grab you and throw himself and you into bed like he's jumping into a pool.

This silly sweet boy just can't get enough of you.

#dbd imagines #dbd ask blog #dbd x reader #dbd killer #dbd trickster #dbd joey #dbd mastermind

[mejomonster]

Imma be real being bi is intrinsically tied to how I am experiencing the yakuza games and I have No Fucking idea how this feels for straight women or men to play

As a bisexual I feel like it's so self indulgent (either on purpose or accident) and so like I'm having a great fucking time! I go on a date with my lesbian Bestie! I help her with girl trouble, I go on a date with goromi! Goromi kicks my ass! I go on a date with some other hostesses and just hear life stories. Majimas tits are out nonstop and it's glorious. Another hot man just ripped off his shirt and now I'm drowning in eyecandy. Oh there's an erotic photo taking minigame? Well I'm gay. Oh kiryus an erotic photo model? Well I'm gay and I get to make him pose like a tiger. Phenomenal. Oh earth mama loves us, well i love her. Oh nishiki was our dear bro whom I the player loved and now has deep pain? Well I'm in love with the villain. Oh yuki our childhood to adult friend went in hiding, stole 10 billion from the yakuza and a corrupt politician and is about to destroy it? I'm in love with her. Oh we have adopted a child now, and a puppy, wooh.

Like I'm obviously not referring to the drama angst city tragedy portion of the story which appeals to all audiences I think fairly similarly as some action suspense sad drama thriller. But like the other parts like. You are best friends with some host guy hotties. You save his life. You run a cabaret club and think of them as family. I'm guessing maybe ur supposed to crush on Said cabaret girls but you also play dress up with them and make them look super Cool. Now ur befriending them. Oh your head girl definitely has a crush on the cabaret owner lady u work for. Head girl may be bi. Join the club babe it's me and majima and we are having a phenomenal time.

Like? If you're straight I gotta imagine half of this self indulgent shit is?? What bizarre or something? If ur a straight guy then there's just SO much eyecandy. Yakuza pretty much codes who's good ish or not by how hot a man they are, with only a few exceptions. Ryuji Goda is a man u wanna RIDE and ur telling me a straight man sees him and isn't overwhelmed with facing how HOT ur new enemy is? Then there's daigo the typical hot guy of 2006, Again Majima who's just walking nonstop eyecandy flirting with you the player character. Stripping for you even. There's even a hottie for various ages, Kazes energy alone was angling for Attitude and ripping off his shirt, Nishitani is a Lot but part of its magnetism even Majima got charmed by and wanted to copy. If u like men it is a nonstop fest of hotties. Then if you're a straight girl? While like I said there's a parade of hot men, there's also a Lot of cute girls. While kiryu is fairly non romance centric which I find really nice (saying you can go out on a date with a friend without being in a relationship, the entire cabaret minigame with him tending to involve befriending and getting slice of life stories more than anything else, his adamance to reject any romantic proposal generally in sidestories) you're still hanging out with a ton of cute girls. Even if you ignore the cabaret minigames completely (which I like the girls life story plots so :/ you'd have to skip those and the fun dress up games) then there's still the erotic video and photo places which just throw boobs at you to no tomorrow. And some of that's not optional if you wanna do certain sidestories (tho tbh a lot of its funny in a detached way when ur feeling like kiryu and going ??? What do you mean an anteater can eat a human that can't be true?!).

Just like. As a bi person I'm like ah yes gratuitous fanservice everywhere all over the place. But if ur straight wtf is it even like? I Assume it's like... 50 percent fanservice and then 50 percent just kinda pushing thru the sexy bits absolutely not aimed at u. You'd think tje sexy men would be easier to ignore but I cannot overstate how much ALL the main cast is generally hot men, and if u want full enjoyment of the game u let urself pick up on the homoerotic overtones shoveled on there as well as just fully appreciating they made someone as pretty as Tachibana, and just like. Fuck. The way one of the goals is digging into masculinity and how it's defined and questioning it and what it means to who, means even fuckers like Sagawa you're forced to realize what majima may admire about him, Kaze you're forced to admire what kiryu acknowledged as admirable of him to be so tenacious. That odas horrific but kiryu still grew emotionally close to him. That Tachibana was loved as dearly in kiryus way, as makoto was cared about by majima. That the way kiryu loves nishiki and yuki is deep and life long for him. That the way majima cares about his cabaret girl family is likely similar to how he feels about his valued underlings now. That kazamas a fucking monster but he also had a kind of love for all his kids that happened imperfectly but affected everything. How daigos feelings of his dad, of his rivals, affect him now and all of tojo clan. How ryuji used to care so deep for barely friends so his upfront brutality has to have a fucking motive. How even rhe cops I could care less for, the writing itself is trying to dig into who they love, what drives them, what defines every fucking man on screen (and sayama who's in a way parallel to kiryu, nishiki, yuki, and a lot of the orphan with murdered parents the games like to parallel). This game is SO driven by what men love and care for and their feelings, it's the center of the more dramatic heavy story portion. That like idk if you're trying so hard to only interpret it in the least caring way with the shallower of relationships, you're missing so much.

In short like I know majority audiences are probs straight and so these games manage to appeal anyway. Just like being bi and playing it is like nonstop nice story and/or fanservice without much break. And its odd to me that like that amount of indulgence is my experience but who knows for who else. (Then there's also the matter of I don't think it's intentionally made to appeal so much so that's luck almost but also another topic entirely)

#yakuza #yakuza kiwami 2 #lb #feel free to ignore me lol ToT

[violetsareblue-selfships]

From @fandomsandshipping1

Let's do, 8: When is a time you’ve been protective of them?, 9: What’s a picture that reminds you of your relationship?, and 10: What do they do to get you flustered on purpose? What do they say when they do?

Hello. We'll be answering these questions for you, alright? - Ei

Question 8:

Ei: A time I've been protective of April... Back near the beginning of our relationship, any time I sent a request that she come to Tenshukaku, I would send some Shogunate soldiers to walk her back. Maybe it wasn't necessary - the townspeople liked her well enough and they wouldn't hurt her, but I didn't want any enemies of the Shogunate getting any ideas about hurting her.

Miko: Hehe, she humored you so well with that. As for my answer... Let's go with one when it was just April & I, so when Ei was having her tantrum in the Plane of Euthymia, heh. Honestly, that whole period I was fairly protective of her since we only had each other. But there was one incident when there were some particularly strong yokai that were going wild. I can't recall what caused it and it was only a temporary thing, but I did have to protect April during that little issue. She had my back then too, of course. We've always been a pretty good team.

Question 9:

Ei: So, we've decided on a joint answer that reminds us of our relationship. You can see the image here. But April's loved taking photos of us since she got her Kamera, a fairly recent development, sure, but a welcome one. She tends to catch us cuddling up, snaps a quick photo, and then joins us soon after. Miko and I have been trying to steal her Kamera to do the same - it's a little unfair that all the photos are of Miko & I and not many with April in them... Who knows? Maybe the Traveler would be open to taking a picture of the three of us...

Question 10:

Ei: As I've mentioned... Miko and April love to team up to fluster me. But if it's just April... She'll offer up some sweet compliment to me while looking at me so softly. It's usually accompanied by a kiss or her brushing hair out of my face. How could I not get flustered? When it's just her, her response is to smile at me. Clearly, she finds it adorable but she doesn't voice it so as to not tease me further.

Miko: For me... She's definitely gotten better at flustering me as we've dated. I guess it comes with the territory of knowing me well. If she's truly aiming to fluster me, and it's not some lucky accident, she'll scent me in some way. I.e. rubbing her cheek over my hand, my own cheek, my shoulder, literally anywhere. Ever since she's started taking the form of a fox more often, she's retained some of the instincts that I have, so I know it's her fox wanting to keep some kind of mark on me. It's usually so innocent too, how could I not get flushed at a show of affection like that? Especially one that appeals to my vulpine nature.

#self ship #self shipping #f/o #romantic f/o #fictional other #poly self ship #f/ovember #f/o takeover #our love shines eternal 💞🌸 #((ei's so sweet <333 and miko - i adore her <3))

[runawayballista]

fe13 wawa au keeps sprawling and most of it is in scattered twitter threads or just floating around my brain. time 2 put it all in one place before i start forgetting the good stuff. i love to hyperfixate

this started out as a morgan-centric AU for the purpose of cute & funny morgain/owain (and eventually also cynigowaingan) and then ofc i got WAY invested in the backstory of robin & morgan being escapees from a modern-day wellness spirituality cult who only recently lost their memories. when i tried to figure out what all the adults were doing tama suggested "chrom is robins work buddy from the 7/11" and then i decided Everyone Works At Wawa. thank you tama for that big-brained seed of an idea it is growing into a beautiful and unwieldy tree

*just to be clear this is called "wawa AU" but they work at a super wawa. ok. thanks

MORGAN & ROBIN are escapees from the modern day cult of grima, which is a fringe religious cult wrapped in a vaguely synanon-esque wellness cult wrapped in an herbal supplement MLM a la herbalife and YES it is called grimalife. the deeper you go, the weirder and more controlling and isolating it gets. it started out as a weird religious cult in the southwest US, but fueled by the sheer power of "well, no one's stopped me so far", validar starts grooming his only child into a protege he can eventually manipulate to gain further influence beyond the cult. folks, that's programming

the grima family's surname is grimason. rhymes with "freemason"

robin has her major "ah fuck, i really was raised in a cult" breakthrough and escapes with morgan when he's around 9, and with the help of some old friends, flees to the other side of the country and starts a new life for them under new identities as robin and morgan jones. they're able to live their lives in relative peace, uninterrupted by validar or anyone from the cult. it seems like they've actually escaped for good. fast forward several years when they are in a car accident and wind up with identical presentations of near-total amnesia: they can't remember anything about their lives except each other. they're only able to learn so much about themselves from the available information and can't explain why they don't have any photos from before when morgan is 9. robin finds out she's a faculty member of a local university of moderate prestige (field: game theory) where she started working around the time they apparently moved here, but when she tries to research how she got the job she winds up with mostly dead ends. the university is like hey… you should take a sabbatical… take some time off to be with your family and recover. also, you can’t remember your own syllabus so how are you going to teach right now anyway

as far as they can tell robin’s been homeschooling morgan his entire life, and he’s 16 now, so robin’s like hmmmm. i think maybe you should start going to a regular school this fall. it’s important that you get a good education and i’m not sure an amnesiac academic should be responsible for your curriculum and you should probably uh. be around kids your age? morgan is fine with this! the idea of going to school is actually really exciting. ALL of this is so exciting. in fact he really wants to try going to the summer camp they found a brochure for in the kitchen! robin is so immensely relieved to have a kid with this outlook because she is Struggling with the existential implications of not remembering anything from before you were 40.

unfortunately you can't just tell people like robin and morgan to "take it easy and relax", and eventually robin gets so bored and stir crazy that the third saturday in a row morgan emerges from his room to find that his mother has turned the den into an escape room he's like "mom this is so cool but i think you really need to get a job" so. while morgan is off at summer camp, robin gets a job at the super wawa

(ROLL CREDIT TITLES)

uhhh fuck i have no idea how to organize the rest of my thoughts on this. morgan goes to summer camp with owain where they become insta buddies, they spend a lot of time larping in the woods and then on the last day of camp they kiss in a tree, and owain falls out of the tree and breaks his arm. Classic camp experience. when he gets home from camp he will NOT shut up about the new friend he made, who inigo is convinced doesn't actually exist. what, you mean like your girlfriend in canada

smash cut to the first day of school and guess who is in their home room class!! haha it's wild owain and morgan spent so much time coordinating playing an online game together that neither of them thought to ask where the other one lived

i have not figured out everyone's Deals yet but most of the shepherds work at the wawa. chrom is like, technically the general manager here but let's be real, frederick is the one running the show. sully & sumia work the food and drink bar, sumia makes your milkshakes with a smile and sully glares at you when you ask if shes SURE theyre out of bacon (theyre married). cordelia also works there bc despite getting her masters degree she follows chrom to every customer service job he works. lissa also works there but her wife maribelle is currently working on her law degree. maribelle has never worked at the wawa and she never will. her wife has nothing but respect for her for dealing with the unwashed masses all day and still coming home with a smile, but there simply is not enough money in the world to convince maribelle to put on a mass-produced polo and visor

cordelia is married to gaius, who is constantly getting people caught up in little scams, just for fun, but also, there isn't enough good dental insurance in the world. he has been up in MULTIPLE MLM schemes because he knows how to work them and get out. he absolutely sells some GrimaLife brain pills for a while and even gets hooked on the kids gummy supplements until he realizes how many of these contain lead. severa learned to shoplift from watching you, dad

virion does NOT work at the wawa. he is inigo's dad and some kind of rich dude, its not important what kind, its only important that that cherche is the head of his legal counsel department and she represented olivia in the divorce :)

THE REGNA FEROX CIRCLE K is simply my new favorite combination of words to say. the shepherds are the wawa, and regna ferox is the lone, weirdly displaced circle K in the murky PA/NJ realm this takes place in. olivia has worked for basilio & flavia since she was a teenager after they were kind enough to give her a hand when she really needed it!! she quit when she married virion. she was rehired immediately after the divorce

lon'qu also works at the regna ferox circle K, similarly got a job there as a Troubled Youth and basilio kind of took him in, although for a while he wandered off on his own to go somewhere no one knew him. that's where he met robin! they're married! were married? he's morgan's dad but hasn't seen his wife OR kid in over 10 years. i think that may be a separate post because this is getting so long. lon'qu's only hobbies are working out & woodworking

#fire emblem awawakening #まとめ #fe13 #fembles #oh there's SO MUCH of this rattling around in here

[wendystales]

Memories - lrh (Chapter Four)

Memories (also on Wattpad)

Chapter Three ※※※※※ Chapter Five

I absorbed and enjoyed the silence that was hovering around my house. I grabbed a glass of juice and sat down on the couch on the balcony. My mom left early for work, and Leah even tried to take me along for a photo shoot she was going to do in Venice. But, honestly, I'm not in the mood for dragging plaster casts around under the sun.

Not to mention that it is good to have moments alone to get my head straight. I know that in a little while it will be even harder to escape from these outings, I mean, I know I have to get back to my routine, but as long as I can avoid it, I will.

I put the juice on the table and pick up my diary. Unlike yesterday, I open it to the first page, like a book, and start reading. I go through a few pages about my feelings, about what I planned about my future, about my parents' divorce.

"I know it was inevitable. Anyone could tell how distant they were, I just didn't want it to be like that, that she suffered the same way I did. And I didn't want to feel that anger from him. But deep down, I know it's for the best.".

A few more pages telling about the scout who had seen me at the mall, the first photo shoot, the first runway show for a small clothing brand. Then arriving at the day I met Ashton.

"That one nobody expected/imagined/sought for. Ashton Irwin is my yoga partner!!! Mm-hmm, mm-hmm. Oh my gosh, I never would have imagined that. I was dying of nervousness about being the new student, then he comes and offers to be my duo and oh gosh, he's amazing. Super fun and nice. AND HE CALLED ME UP FOR COFFEE ON SUNDAY.

" Ashton and I sat at a table on the sidewalk. Under the table, I snapped my fingers in nervousness as I read the menu.

- Do you already know what you are going to order? - he asks. I pout and nod my head in denial.

- All I know is that I don't want espresso. - I comment.

- Can I recommend one? I think you'll like it, it's whipped with cream and chocolate, very sweet. - He points to the menu after I accept his suggestion.

- It amazes me how good you are at coffee. - I joke, making him laugh.

- I like coffee. I once took a tour of a coffee farm in the countryside right here in California.

Coffee becomes our first topic. Because he knows and understands coffee, Ashton convinces me to do a tasting at a promising coffee shop in Brentwood the next morning. It was not the kind of program I am used to doing, but everything is different now, my life has changed and so have my types of programs.

- You are lost being my friend, I will call you all morning for breakfast together. - Ashton comments as we drive along the sidewalks of Los Angeles.

My body shakes when it hears the word "friend". I still wasn't sure if I could consider Ash a friend, but now, I'm happy to know that I can and that he considers me too. "

The memory warms and cheers me up, giving me more desire to read and remember.

I don't realize how much I was smiling until my cheeks start to hurt. After that day, his name becomes very frequent, until it joins Leah's.

"I don't know how to explain this girl. She came in so confident and nose to nose, I was sure she would be insufferable, then she opened her mouth and all I could think was 'where has she been all my life? ' And I don't want to get my hopes up or be a pain in the ass, but she's also a model and she talked about me going to her father's agency and if that works out? it's one of the biggest agencies in the world, I'm going to take off. God, if this is your will...".

I laugh at the following narrations that already involve Ashton, Noah and Leah. I can't remember what is written, but my imagination gives me a warm, happy feeling in my body. And if the reality has been as fun and nice as what I imagined, then it was very good.

I feel my body shiver and a chill take over my stomach when I see Luke's name for the first time. I cut the pace of my reading, preparing myself for what was to come. I reach for another glass of juice, buying time and even courage to read the rest.

"I had already noticed him looking at me, I just didn't want to believe he was looking at me, and it was perfect like that, until Ashton brought him in. It's one thing to know who Luke is, it's another to talk to him. In the end it wasn't so bad. I guess. I just stared for the first hour at anything but him, but I guess he must have missed it. Now I'm in the dilemma of if he liked me, I mean, we spent four hours talking and nothing, no kiss, no phone exchange. NOTHING."

I laugh at myself. I can perfectly see myself being embarrassed by him and not being able to look him in the eye.. If I could go back in time, I would tell this Marnie that Luke really liked her, even though I only had a basis in videos and pictures.

I pick up my cell phone and open insta, going to the date that marked my diary. 07/06/18. It was Ashton's birthday party. I flip to the side and see a picture taken in Hawaii, with the caption "The one where we got lost". I turn the page and find that trip.

"I know I am committing one of the biggest follies of my life and deep down, I don't even know why. That's a lie, I do, but that's not the point. In fact, it is, but that's not what I'm going to talk about. Again, it is. The point is: I can't believe that at the last minute I agreed to go on a trip to Hawaii with a bunch of people I barely know. Except Ash, Noah and Leah. And P.S. Monday is his birthday. It only gets better.”

Apparently things between Luke and me went pretty quickly. I read a few more pages seeing that on his birthday, we had our first kiss and from then on everything happened too fast and messy.

I write about many fights and reconciliations. Both he and I, didn't want anything serious, but both he and I, couldn't stay away from each other and there was my reason.

"There is a good big part of all this blocking that I believe is because of what happened and because of me trying to pretend it didn't happen. Dr. Prescott says that if I don't put it out there and don't talk about it, it will consume me. 'Talking about our fears, worries and problems makes them smaller and easier to defeat.'

Besides my parents, no one else knows about that day."

I run my eyes quickly down the page, seeing that that one was about Stephen's cheating.

I close the journal in fear. I don't know what is coming, and I don't know if I have the courage to read it. It is one thing to hear about it from others, from their view and opinion, even if it is not on purpose. It's another to hear about it from my view, from what I've been through.

I have no doubt that there are things in these next pages that maybe even my parents don't know. Things and feelings that I have kept solely and exclusively to myself and I don't know if I am ready to face this, again.

I put down the diary and go in search of something else. Luckily for me, my guardian angel, aka Leah, calls me.

“Are you busy? I thought we could have lunch together. What do you think?” she bombards me, not letting me say hello.

“Hi to you too. No, I'm not busy, just reading my diary.” I run my hand over the cover, keeping in the back of my mind what awaits me. “ I'll take lunch.”

Before Leah can answer, I hear a muffled argument on the phone and wait for the fight to end.

“Sorry, but Noah is asking if he can come along.” she asks, without patience.

“Of course he can.” I hold my laughter, imagining the two of them fighting on the other end of the line.

“Okay, in a few minutes we'll be there. Kisses.”

I say goodbye to her and decide not to read the diary again. The doctor himself told me not to force myself into anything. I set the table and wait for the two of them to arrive.

After forty minutes, the doorbell rings. I make way for my friend and analyze the tall, muscular man behind her. Unlike my memory, the Noah of today has his hair well shaved and brunette, like his sister's. His green eyes fill with tears when he sees me crack a smile, and like his twin, he doesn't wait for permission and hugs me.

“Don't ever do that again, young lady. What a shitty world this would be without you!” he squeezes me before showering me with kisses, all over my face.

Leah turns and pulls him away from me, making me laugh. I follow them both into the kitchen and look at the bags they brought, excited.

“We made sure to stop by The Palm and pick up your favorite dish.” I didn't even know that I had a favorite dish at The Palm. But when Leah opens a box and I feel my mouth water when I see that noodle with shrimp, I realize how little I know myself.

“Have I ever told you that I love you?” I ask softly, with a smile.

We start lunch and today my attention was on Noah, after all he was the new thing. I listen to him tell about the day we met, when he began to advise my career with his sister, and how things have been going since the accident.

“You don't have to give any interviews if you don't want to.” he assures me once again.

I still don't know how to deal with this "public figure" business, but deep down I feel a need to give a "satisfaction" to everyone who knows me. Noah has already sent some notes about my condition, but I know that I will have to appear on some channel in the future.

We changed the subject and started talking about my amnesia. Noah was not very happy that my first memory was his hair fiasco. I commented that I was reading my diary and asked about some events.

“Are we really lost in Hawaii?” they both started to laugh and agree.

“That day I wanted to hit Mark. I was getting very angry that he could not accept that he was reading the wrong map. Not to mention the car dying and us pushing," Noah comments.

“Mark was never good with maps. He says himself that he was a lousy Boy Scout.” Leah says before drying her third glass of water.

“Who is Mark?” I question.

“Mark is an ex-lover of mine. At the time we were chatting and he had the house in Hawaii. One thing led to another and in the end he went along.” Leah ends with a frown.

“And why did we let him drive then?” I ask, full of curiosity. They look at me as if I know the answer. Or, as if I should, but I just raise my eyebrows, saying nothing.

“Because it's Mark.” Noah shrugs. “He likes to be in control of everything.”

“The one who was definitely happy with us there was that guy who owns the coconut stand.” Leah says.

So there it is, the little wooden stand, with a pile of coconuts in front of it. A short man, probably about 50 years old, laughing at our misfortune while selling the fruit to us. Images begin to form in my mind.

" “- Look there.” Kyleen and I focus on the little man laughing as he takes the money from Michael's hand. “He sure is very happy with us standing here.” Leah says.

“Of course he is. We already bought twelve coconuts from him. Bad little man.” I make a face.

“We're not lost. It's just a shortcut.” we cut off eye contact with the stand and focus on Mark arguing with Noah and Ashton.

Leah looked at her lover in total disbelief at what she had gotten herself into. If regret could kill. The next moment Mark stomps his foot on the floor, like a child with a temper tantrum. At that moment, Calum looks at me with wide eyes.

I look away so that he doesn't see me laughing. Kiki, who was behind me, slaps me to stop, but this only makes me want to laugh more. I hide my face in her arm and in the end, my laughter gets out of hand. Both she and Calum start laughing with me, causing the boys to look at us curiously.

It takes no more than five minutes for Mike to join in the laughter with us and soon everyone else was laughing except Mark. Even the little bad man was laughing. It was the worst thing about us being lost, but that's what was happening and it couldn't be anything but comical, even though it was sad too. ”

“Of course he was happy. He sold about fifteen coconuts for us.” I don't even try to control my smile. Once again I remembered, and this is more than great.

The twin couple in front of me crack a big smile too, and soon they are clapping their hands and stamping their feet on the floor, making noise. I clap my hands with them in celebration.

“She is coming back.” Noah comes around the table, hugging me from behind and again showering me with kisses.

I was never one to have many friends. Usually it was just Bethany and Stephen, and a girl in my music class, but I don't know if I can consider her that, after all, we only talked during class and it was all very unrelated.

The point is that I have always envied those people who managed to have a large number of friends, and friends really, not just colleagues. Friends who call you for everything, who are always by your side, who enjoy your company, and who consider you family.

In this moment, with just Noah and Leah, I can see that I finally have these friends that I have wanted so much and without having to pretend to be something that I am not, without having to buy their attention, as I felt I needed it with Bethany. And if I'm happy like this with just the two of them, I can't wait to see the others.

“So, you said you were reading your diary, did you remember anything else?” Leah asks excitedly.

All the happiness and euphoria that had surrounded my body disappears. The bloody page with the bloody day comes back into my mind. They both notice my mood drop.

“I remembered a day when I went to have coffee with Ash, but…” I play with the edge of my cup, trying not to get too much into that energy. “I found a day where I tell about what happened.” I look at them, who are serious and attentive.

“Do you want us to read it with you?” Leah holds my hand across the table, gently patting it.

I shake my head positively and point to the notebook on the coffee table in the living room. I watch her return with the notebook and hand it to me. I open it to the marked page and stare at my handwriting again.

"I haven't had the courage to tell either Ashton, Leah, or much less Luke. I can't tell if I'm ashamed of it or just afraid of it happening again. The problem is that it's really starting to get to me, to the point where I get irritated when I see Luke and Leah talking and it shouldn't be like that. So I need to get it all out so that I can start over.

It was our anniversary. I snuck out of my work to see Stephen at his house. I wanted to deliver his gift soon. Two streets before his house I ran into Noelle, his mother, and told her I wanted to surprise him, so she told me to get the key under the third vase and go in.

Maybe it would have been better just to ring the doorbell and not have to see it. I was very quiet so as not to be discovered, and in the end, I was the one who discovered something."

My racing heart hurts from beating so hard. I can't keep my breathing normal, holding it at various times. I feel like it's a suspense book where no one wants to find out what's behind the door of the abandoned house, but needs to, in order to continue the story.

I notice in some letters and words the ink smudged and I know it was from my tears and it only hurts me more.

"There is no word to describe the disgust, pain, and anger of seeing him and her in bed naked. My until then boyfriend, and my until then best friend.

And what only made it worse was that she didn't even try to explain herself, didn't show an ounce of regret, even if it was a pretense. Nothing. While he tried to say it was nothing like that, Bethany still says it had been going on for a long time."

I close the journal angrily and throw it away, stopping on the other side of the long table. The lump in my throat gets bigger, but I don't want to cry, not for this and not again.

Deep down, I have always had a flea behind my ear with the two of them. The countless rides Stephen insisted on giving her. The way she always motivated me to fight with him, for reasons I thought were small and insignificant. But it was my first serious relationship, what did I know about dating, right? Bethany, on the other hand, had dated seriously twice.

It had always been there, I just didn't want to see it.

“I always suspected it and never, never wanted to believe it. After all, he was my boyfriend and she was my best friend. They wouldn't be able to.” I let out a humorless laugh.

The twins look at me fearfully, as if I were a mother scolding them.

“But you know what the worst part is? I believed him. He looked me in the face and said that nothing happened. That Luke was to blame for our breakup! How stupid of me!” I shout, picking up the diary and throwing it further away, as if it would hurt Stephen.

“Wait, what?” Leah speaks loudly.

I look at her startled and realize what I said. I open my mouth, but nothing comes out. I didn't want anyone to know about the meeting.

“You met with Stephen? When?” she turns the table around, coming closer. I swallow dryly.

“Yesterday morning," I begin softly, but it was enough for Leah to cover her eyes with her hands and snort. Noah laid his head on his arms, sighing as well. “I was confused and needed to hear and see him.” I start to defend myself.

“After everything your mother told you about him?” Leah asks.

“And you think I would believe her? Would you? With amnesia on account?” I retort. Leah takes a deep breath and denies it with her head, giving me reason.

“But you could have told, or asked, I don't know.” Noah ponders.

“Nobody would have let me, I know nobody likes him and rightly so.” I give in.

“That explains a lot.” Leah comments softly, but loud enough for me to hear.

“Explains what?” I ask confused.

She looks at Noah, who nods, giving her the green light. Like me, she swallows dryly before she begins.

“Explain why Luke is so grouchy and weird. Not wanting to come see you.” he answers, poking at the seam of the chair.

NO! No! No! No! No! Please, no. He can't have seen.

“You have to take me to his house.” I ask, heading for the hall.

“What?” the two shout following me.

“I need to talk to him. Now!” I shout the last part, putting on a jacket with some difficulty.

“But why?” Noah helps me.

“Because I think he saw something that wasn't supposed to happen and got it wrong.” I open the door, going to call the elevator.

“Oh, no!” they understand and soon follow me.

Things between Luke and me may be messed up, but the last thing I want him to think is that I cheated on him.

#5sos #5 seconds of summer #5sos blurbs #5sos fanfic #5sos fic #5sos imagine #5sos smut #5sosedit #5sosfam #9 years of 5sos #ashton irwin #ashton fletcher irwin #afi #ashton 5sos #calum hood #calum thomas hood #cth #calum 5sos #michael clifford #michael gordon clifford #mgc #michael 5sos #luke hemmings #luke robert hemmings #lrh #lukey #luke 5sos #luke hemming imagines #luke hemmings fanfic #luke hemmings fluff

[jenliliscripts]

Chapter 217

June’s POV

I honked softly, letting Lia know that I'm outside. A few moments later, she rushed out of her door, throwing her poise away as she ran to the passenger side. She climbed in, frantically fixing the ends of her hair.

"Have you been waiting?" she inquired while checking her face using her front camera.

I observed her from my seat, not wasting the chance to look at her. She looked gorgeous in her black long sleeved dress. It definitely complements her striking features, giving her a more fierce look. "No, I just got here."

"Sorry. I can't pick what to wear. I couldn't find anything good in the shops that I went to earlier today—"

"You look fine. Stop worrying."

I reached for her hand in attempt to calm her down. She flinched as soon as my fingers grazed her skin, her eyes instantly darting towards me. I expected her to withdraw her hand, but instead inserted  her fingers in between the spaces, locking our hands together. "We're different people, remember? We can be whoever we want to be. We can do whatever we want."

So has she been wanting to do this? Hold my hand, I mean. The question fades into the back of my mind.

I knew better not to voice out my questions. I just have to enjoy the night and deal with everything later. For now, I must keep my mind clear.

I nodded lightly. "Yes, we are. For today, we can be."

Our hands were clasped as I drove to the restaurant. I occasionally stole glances while she was quietly sucked in by her thoughts. I broke the silence and began asking her about her day to which she answered as if she was a completely different person as we had agreed and I followed suit when she fired the questions back to me.

Although this is all an act, some stupid condition I made, I still like the idea because for a short time, we can momentarily forget that we're in a muddled situation. There are a couple of things we need to iron out, but I shall set that aside for now. I just really want the old Lia tonight—the caring and thoughtful Lia, the Lia that would say that she hates me but looks at me with utter tenderness.

"Music?" I suggested, stroking her thumb in a steady rhythm

"Yes, please. It's a need. Mild traffic up ahead according to your navigation app."

I let go of her then pressed the play button on my steering wheel. I looked over to her side in search for her hand and Lia was quick to recognize it, extending her arm to take mine. She carefully laced them together, earning a smile from me.  

"I know what you're looking for," she declared rather proudly, her fingers playfully tapping the back of my hand.

"I want to go to another place after dinner. Can I take you with me?" I asked, biting my lip right after. "It's okay if you don't—"

"Sure. Let's go. You can have me all night, Junie."

Junie. Ah, hearing her say it endearingly, melts my heart. It's a golden melody.

Silence followed, only the soft music from the speakers can be heard. My palm got sweaty from holding her hand. I was going to take it back so I can wipe off the sweat but she clutched it tighter. "Don't. Until the end of the night, you're not allowed to let go."

With those simple words, my heart started hammering in my chest. Oh, Lia. What have you done to me? I am subdued by this overwhelming amount of love I have for you. I smiled convincingly, making it seem like I don't feel uneasy—as if my insides aren't uncomfortably twisting.

"I like that," I replied in an amused tone. "I certainly approve of that."

Not long after, we reached our destination. I got down of the car first and Lia followed suit. Jamie and I had already planned the entire night so it's safe to be seen in public. I met her on the other side and instinctively intertwined our fingers. She looked at me, a puzzled expression on her face.

I gave her a reassuring smile. "It's okay. It's all been arranged. There's won't be news about this tomorrow. I can hold your hand as much as I want to."

Leading her in, she squeezed my hand upon seeing the place packed with people. "Aren't they going to—"

"They don't mind. We are sitting with elites. They only care about themselves," I tugged her forward. "We're trying to be normal and it would defeat the purpose if I bought out the whole restaurant tonight."

"Right. I'm trust you on this. Let's go."

We were guided to our table on the far corner. We didn't waste time and scanned the menu. "I suggest you make room for dessert."

"Okay, but there's no dessert on the courses here."

I put down the menu, tilting my head to the side. "We're not eating it here."

"Then where?"

"In an ice cream parlor in downtown Manhattan."

We placed in our orders and patiently waited for the food to be served. As we did, I asked her what others would consider trivial questions, but for me, those are the facts about her that I would love to know.

"Favorite ice cream flavor?" I inquired randomly, earning a frown from her.

"Vanilla. Is this like a fast talk?"

"Yes. Just answer. You can ask me anything too."

"Hatest childhood memory?" she asked.

"Oh that's a good one." My eyes wandered for a brief moment. "Ah! When my mom wanted to send me abroad for school. We fought everyday because I would break my luggage and throw out the the things inside so they'd have to pack my clothes again."

"That's intense. You're really a troublemaker, aren't you?"

I puffed my chest, flashing a proud smile. "That's what you call fighting for what you want. Yours?"

"When I crashed my bike when I was riding down a steep road. I got all sorts of scratches and I broke my wrist. I never rode one since that day."

"You're accident prone, huh? Last time you almost sprained your ankle. Unbelievable. You should be treated like a fragile object."

"Psh." Her face turned smug. "I don’t need extra care. I'm fine on my own."

As our conversation went on, we finally warmed up to each other, and it felt like the two of us from months ago. Bickering, laughing in between, and then the cycle repeats. I'd like to believe we both forgot that there we had unspoken issues. Dinner proceeded smoothly, thank God. If it had went the other way, I would have to suffer more sleepless night thinking of what went wrong.

Lia stood up after I paid for the bill, but I asked her sit for a while. "Why? Is there a problem?"

"Can I take a picture of you?"

Her brows met in the middle, confused by the unusual request. "You don't ask. You just take it. Go."

I pouted, trying to act cute. "Of all the photos I have of you, you only smiled once."

She groaned, throwing her head back. I, on the other hand fished for my phone from my purse and waited for her to tell me she's ready. She propped her elbows on the table, then cupped her cheeks with her palms. "How do I do this?"

I snapped a photo of the most breathtaking sight that's sitting right in front of me. She wasn't doing anything yet I am completely smitten by her beauty. When I thought I couldn't fall deeper in love, I was proven wrong. Lia Kim, you're taking everything that I have without even trying. I love you. I love you and I can't keep my feelings at bay. I want to tell you everything. I'm tired of pretending that I'm okay that you’re not mine.

"June?" she called my name and I immediately diverted my attention to her.

"You ready?"

She didn't answer and instead tilted her head to the side. She smiled, showing her teeth and I did too. "Perfect. That's beautiful, Lia."

She fixed her posture, her smile fading soon after. "Can we get ice cream now?"

"Of course. Let's go."

[papergirllife]

Chasing The Flames

Chapter 7 : Beautiful Accidents

I'm so sorry this took so long. I hope the long hiatus was worth it with this outcome. Love y'all.

" You're going to be assisting in both Jeno and Jaemin's individual photoshoots with Allure Korea and Grazia Korea because they're currently understaffed due to the corona outbreak. "

" Okay? "

" You'll be fine, with the training I've given you, you just need to supervise if needed. "

" Alright. Can I have time and address? "

" Jaemin's having his tomorrow at 2pm. I'll send you the address and details about Jeno's shoot afterwards. "

When you got to Allure's head office, Jaemin was already sitting at the vanities.

As he noticed me coming his way, he took the nearest thing he could find to cover his face.

" Why are you covering your face? "

" You've never seen me barefaced before, don't want to scare you. "

" Bullshit. "

I lowered the magazine held up against his face to reveal Jaemin's face clean of make up.

" Perfect as it always has been. "

Jaemin turned his chair to my direction, and gave his full attention.

" I'm envious of your confidence. "

" Me? I'm not confident. "

" You are. You don't cover your face with foundation. You only use make up purely for its positive intention, that is to enhance one's features. "

" I'm just lazy, is all. "

" You should be thankful to your laziness then, because I am. "

I could feel my cheeks heat up at Jaemin's sweet words.

" Since it hasn't begun, I'm going to Starbucks for take away, you want your usual Americano right? "

" 4 shots please. "

" No. You should be grateful that I'm letting you have any caffeine. "

Jaemin ceased his pouting and smiled brightly at me.

" Can we share a muffin down stairs after we finish? "

" Whatever you say, sweet talker. "

When you finished the shoot you guys head into the deserted coffee shop as per Jaemin's request and shared a muffin.

" I can't believe you're making me eat a blueberry muffin. "

" It's nice. It's my comfort food, especially in the cold winter. "

" Okay, okay. But we're eating chocolate chip next time. "

" Deal. "

The both of you savoured the sweat taste of the muffin in silence, making you recount the things that happened today.

" I'm envious of your confidence. "

" I'm not as confident as you think I am. "

Jaemin tried looking into your shying eyes, wanting to understand the thoughts running through your mind.

" I have a scar above my left eyebrow, I got it when I was young in a water theme park by accident. I've started having bangs at highschool because of it. "

I lifted my hair to let him see what I hid away for most of my life. Jaemin just had that effect on me, willing me to open up to him.

I don't know if it is his caring eyes or sweet smile, but it just gets me every time.

Jaemin took a close look at me, purely observing, no judgement or whatsoever written on his face, he wasn't like the others.

" I could barely see it. And it doesn't matter, whether you have scars or not. Look at Taeyong hyung, he has a scar beside his eye but all seasonies love it. You shouldn't assume the fact that everyone wouldn't like it. It's the imperfections that make us flawless, irreplaceable. So you have nothing to hide Y/N, scar or no scar you're beautiful. "

" T-thank you. "

This is the first time someone has ever reduced me to happy tears about my scar, Na Jaemin is truly one in a million.

That evening, many thoughts were clouding my mind.

Why is Jaemin being so emotionally understanding?

Instead of plain flirting, he's flirting with real emotions. Zero intentions of gaining purely my attention, but also comforting me.

This side of Jaemin is like a puzzle piece that you just don't know how it goes in the bigger picture.

He's in a relationship with Jeno, but he's interested in me?

Or am I just reading into this too seriously?

He's probably only being a good listener.

Right. Nothing to worry about.

I still have to assist in Jeno's shoot two days later.

Time for bed.

Manager hyung said Y/N is going to be sitting in for this Grazia shoot, as she did with Jaemin's.

The biggest problem is that Jeno can't find anything to wear that will impress her but isn't too over the top.

What classifies as good looking to her, but not too over the top for a casual outfit?

" My, my, my Lee Jeno struggling to dress up for our dear Y/N. "

" Jaemin I'll let you have all my attention later, I'm busy right now. "

" Who says I came in to annoy you? I'm here to help. All your jackets are fine, just make sure you wear a white t shirt and black ripped skinny jeans underneath. "

Jeno looked at Jaemin with both his eyebrows raised.

" How are you sure that's what she likes? "

" I heard her complementing Kai sunbaenim's latest airport fashion, and that was it. But if you really want to make a lasting impression, it's time you bring out your black leather jacket. "

Jaemin's advice did work, because when Y/N stepped into the office lobby, both her eyes were on him.

" Hi. "

" Hi, I got you hot chocolate and a donut. "

Y/N's eyes lit up at the sound of food. Oddly, at that moment Y/N reminded Jeno of Jaemin.

" Thank you. "

Jeno noticed that Y/N was constantly shy when she's alone with him.

She can't even look him in the eyes for more than a millisecond.

Did he look too intimidating? He made sure he smiled today.

" Should we go up? "

Y/N nodded while sipping her hot chocolate.

' She's the cutest ', Jeno thinks.

Jeno held the door when they stepped into the elevator.

Jeno was just about to strike a conversation to fill in the emptiness when suddenly the elevator stopped moving.

Jeno grabbed the railings with one hand and held Y/N arm with the other as Jeno noticed that Y/N was wearing heels.

Once everything came to a final halt, Jeno let go of Y/N's arm, not wanting to cross any lines.

Y/N let out a loud sigh.

" I can't believe we're so unlucky. Just when I thought today was going to be okay. "

She teared out a few pages of her newspaper and sat down, tearing more afterwards and patted it, signalling for Jeno to sit down.

When Jeno took a seat, Y/N opened the brown bag, the sweet aroma of the donut covering the stale smell of disinfectant.

She tore half the donut and passed it to Jeno.

Jeno happily took it and quickly put the donut in his mouth to cover up his large smile.

Jeno looked sideways to see Y/N munching away happily like a tiny hamster, her round rosy cheeks stealing all his attention.

" Can I ask? Why are we sitting on newspapers? "

" So that we won't be exposing ourselves to any sort of viruses, and that includes our clothing. "

" You sound like Renjun. "

" No I don't! It's my job as a staff to make sure that idols of the company I'm working in aren't in any sort of harm. "

" Is that the front you're using as being caring? "

" Who says I'm caring for you? "

Y/N stood up to check up on the situation through the telecom to avoid letting Jeno see the blush dusting her cheeks.

" Hi, we're just wondering if someone is going to get us out here soon? "

" Our apologies Ms Y/N and Mr Jeno, the staff of this elevator's company is currently busy with another case and it might take a while for them to finish it up. If they take too long we'll call the fire fighters. "

Y/N slumps back on her make shift cushion with a pout on her face.

" Hey, don't be upset. Let's play dance charades, I'll start first. "

Although, Jeno purposely chose the songs that Y/N knows to let her win, Jeno can't help but mirror Y/N's smile whenever she gets the right song.

Soon enough it was Y/N's turn to dance and Jeno's turn to coo at her dancing.

After a few turns, the both of them for tired and opted to listening to music.

Y/N's head was laid against Jeno's shoulder, slowly being lulled into slumber by the soft music from Jeno's phone and the warmth radiating off him.

Their peaceful moment was however, interrupted by loud banging from the elevator doors.

" Stay away from the doors, we're going to open them! "

The doors were being forced open and the fire fighters told them to climb up as they were stuck between two floors.

Jeno sensing Y/N's discomfort in the situation climbed up first.

After Jeno got up, he beckoned Y/N to lift both her hands, and he lifted her up.

Y/N crashed on top of Jeno, their bodies against each others.

Jeno could feel Y/N's rapid heartbeat beating against his chest.

He could see the blush on her cheeks, the way her arms are wrapped around his shoulders.

Jeno didn't know why was he feeling such heavy emotions, all he knew that he wanted to keep feeling them.

As Y/N regained her senses, she pushed herself up, waking away without another word.

Jeno caught up to her and they walked into the studio that they were assigned to.

But because of the long wait on the elevator, the only photographer available in the company left, citing that she was a senior staff and that she doesn't revolve around things.

The only other empty slot that Grazia could give was taken up by Jeno's other activities.

So Y/N had to take up the job, browsing through Jeno's old shoots for reference.

The shoot went by smoothly, and Y/N it's even getting paid per photo.

" Why do you look at the camera differently at other shoots? "

" Because I was looking at you, not the lens. "

Jeno swear he loved it when your jaw dropped at his flirty remark.

When Y/N was driving home all she could think of was that Jeno was definitely flirting with her and that she does not want to be a home wrecker in his and Jaemin's relationship.

#nct fluff #nct smut #nct drabbles #nct 127 #nct angst #nct imagines #nct dream #nct scenarios #nct soft imagines #nct u #nct dream chenle #nct dream mark #nct dream jisung

[lladyariall]

Badgerclops literally falls in love with Mao Mao at this point (officially) because this is probably the most touching moment he has ever had alongside the grumpy hero. The cyborg's intentions are pretty clear that Badgerclops does have a small crush on Mao Mao, since he is bisexual in this series, throughout the entire start of the show, and he deals with quite a bit of neglect and bad tantrums from his boyfriend- I mean, best friend.

To start off, Badgerclops wants to be physically closer to Mao Mao.

Badgerclops has a new family now that he believes he can try to find new ways in this life to settle down a little more, and according to research, natural ways Badgers show their mates they care by providing a secure den to share kits with or hibernate. Sure, they didn't give birth to Adorabat, but adoption is still as thick as blood, so these two are kicking it in to high gear when it came to welcoming this little girl in their lives. Both heroes already settled to being Mao Mao as a dad figure/hero trainer and Badgerclops has the mom figure/positive role model in their family.

Badgerclops is super ready to have a family, by now. It shows that Badgerclops see's his chance to find someone close to him (besides Adorabat) since after finding Bobo-chan; yet, he catches unto this big maternal instinct to go raise a monster baby.. by himself. He grew waaay too attached to that creature too fast, too soon without thinking of the consequences. He already has a child but he doesn't feel like he has a legit family since Badgerclops and Mao Mao keep faltering their relationship, sometimes. Hell, even when he could have done more to prevent from Bobo letting be adopted by Badgerclops, not even Mao Mao argues any further to ditch off the baby; which, for SOME reason, he just let's Badgerclops be happy as a pretend mother to the point of holding Adorabat back from attacking the two. It's crazy how Mao Mao may not want Badgerclops to touch him all that much, but he's okay with letting his boyfriend- friend go off on his just so he can be happy? I think in the end of every episode, Mao Mao sees more and more how his friend's feelings are, in small and big ways, that only adults can see and Mao Mao is not acting on them, for a reason.

To be fair, I think that Badgerclops has been giving off hints to Mao Mao, and it just goes way past the little guy's comfort zone; it seems like he grew a bad case of needing his personal space every social encounter he has that Badgerclops and Adorabat both try to break, and he will guard his body to prevent from anyone touching him (especially the Sweetie Pies.) Buuut we forget how "persistent" Badgerclops can be when it comes to provoking Mao Mao on purpose VS him laying down a few attempts to be able to, well, touch the sheriff cat. He wants to be physically closer to Mao Mao, which is not working out; but there is a twist to this. I think Mao Mao notices these touches quite often (after all, he is always on duty for action) that he allows it from time to time, and yet he probably never touched Badgerclops unless it was a time or moment that he forgot to keep his emotional guard up. He doesn't cherish Badgerclops as much as he should because he believes that so much could take his reputation away, and even ditches off his boyfriend's feelings from being so high-strung to be beside his abusive dad. Wow. That's.. that's harsh, right there.

These two are super duper close as best friends go. They just don't know where to truly talk down their feelings for each because the pressure of Mao Mao's actual wants and desires are stronger than having a stable relationship right now. It's crazy how much they cherish each other to the point of interacting as a legit cartoon couple; from the bickering, to the small challenges they engage with each other, giving each pther compliments, trying to make the other jealous, having a lot in common, being each other's ying and yang, small touches, adopting a child, never giving up on their relationship, sharing a home, and I could keep going but I would take up this entire paragraph. So, Badgerclops shoves it all down; the feelings he tries to hide from Mao Mao, and they slip up from time to time, because he thinks he has the emotional stability to let Mao Mao lean on him, like how the black feline sort of leans on their daughter. But the grumpy sheriff can't take Badgerclops that seriously if he has to admit he's wrong, going back on what he believes, and crashing a lot of reality on him at once.

To be fair, I think since they crashed by accident in the Ruby Pure Heart, maybe they are emotionally being more open and Mao Mao is having a small crisis in his mind that he could already be living the life of a full time husband and father; and that freaks him out. Mao Mao doesn't truly adore labels, unless they're heroic ones, and his one goal in life is to hear his dad say the words he wants to hear. And Badgerclops can't fill that hole. I think the deep pain in Mao Mao's heart is too great to let him move on and grow up emotionally for him to find a stable relationship with anyone. Badgerclops can deal with Mao Mao and his hard personality, unless given a reason to, from their recent history; but.. what if Mao Mao actually knows he just isn't capable of working a relationship out with Badgerclops, is because he makes him a better person when he wants the one who HURT HIM to take that pain away until he's ready to mentally find himself inside? I think he hides out from Badgerclops' advice because he doesn't want to hear a dad, he wants to hear a boyfriend/co hero be able to support his childish decisions (since he practically raised himself) but Badgerclops is only trying to be a little hero in Mao Mao's beliefs and save his confusion from getting any worse; which it normally does.

If Badgerclops knows his friend well enough, becoming a legendary hero is not going to be put aside because of some relationship they love each other in. It probably is on Mao Mao's list of what a hero should and shouldn't do, and sadly, it's probably a "should not date your co hero" priority. I think Mao Mao does have feelings for Badgerclops and I will talk way more about that in my future blog, but he rejects everything Badgerclops physically offers and even advice is from being unable to admit he might be the best fit for his soft-hearted companion.

Final thoughts about Badgerclops having a crush on Mao Mao is that if it comes to not getting off the couch at all, the large mammal will not give up on Mao Mao. To him, Mao Mao is more worthy doing whatever can make him happy (or stop bitching) and he can't push any further to court the cat, until Mao Mao comes around through his past issuses. For his own emotional support, Badgerclops has found a perfectly comfy spot to be in between a good friend as well as letting out a little love when he comforts Mao Mao. He even gets him to listen in the very end, sometimes, and throughout the series, Mao Mao listens to Badgerclops more and more from every experience they share as a family. It's truly touching how much Badgerclops gives a lot of his life to be around Mao Mao. He doesn't have to stay with him or Adorabat, at all. He can leave at ANYTIME and he freaking doesn't!

Like, if you really think about it, Badgerclops is almost a better fit for a legendary hero if he put all his energy into bringing down Mao Mao, and the Pure Heart Valley Kingdom, he could rule the world. He has the smarts, the tools, and the strength to out live this evil idea but he doesn't because being beside Mao Mao.. is what makes him truly happy. (I'm pretty damn sure if you have the cherishable locket to Badgerclops, a photo of him and Mao Mao meeting is what will probably pop up.. just saying. Lol) He doesn't want to live up to Mao Mao, he wants to be by his side throughout of the rest of their lives. Badgerclops made his choice to live forever beside this stranger he once almost got his ass kicked by, and now they're raising a little girl. Huh.

These two are going to get closer somehow. I hope they become canon as soon as possible. They belong together and if they could be a little more able to talk about their emotional feelings without too much critism than I'm pretty sure they would be making out, by now. Lol. Oh well, we'll have to wait and see :)

#mao mao #badgerclops #adorabat #heroes of pure heart #blushy blush #badgermao #maoclops #mini blog #i guess #i need sleep #sorry if it is hard to read

[jesicablogs-blog]

"How to be a Responsible Generation Z"

Generation Z are born after 1995 and consider as a technology driven individuals. So this generation preferred using and internet everyday. The life of individuals at this age revolves around their cellphones, computer and laptops. From the internet to social media,to apps,games telephones and other technology which is essentially became part of our life. Some individuals at this age doesnt experience in some community activities because they are more expose on the field pf clicking, scrolling and facing to the monito. It is also the time where the voices of teenagers that cames out of their mouth is that they can't live without wifi or there's and electric energy. We consider also technoly as a part of our life. Some tenager also at this age enjoys social life such drinking, taking drugs and sex. The life at this generation is so differant for the past generation where the life of our ancestors revolve in hunting and gathering and some are engage in some household chores. Many of us doesnt experience playing recreational activities due to the fact when they are at the young age their parents allow them to hold gadgets rather than enjoying childhood days.

Being at this generation doesnt indicate that Im just a mere individual living in some corner of the society. I have also a great role and responsibility. So being at this generation I must be aware and understand not just in a place where I've live in but in a wider scope. Many people say that youth is hope of our nation and it is my priveledge to contribute even a little things in making the society as well as the country develop.

Being a responsible genereation Z for me first must have a discipline on my self. Discipline is the foundation of being a responsible. It also makes my society great and builds a glorious replete with majority and grandeur. Right direction and right action are possible only when the action of a certain have a self-discipline. Being a good citizen does not require doing more effort and spend much money , the fact is that we can still a better citizen in doing little things such as conserving energy which help attain the development of our community.Through following the 3rules can help preserved countrys natural resources such as throwing garbage anywhere which can contribute a variety of pollution such as water population. Avoid throwing anywhere is such a great help because it is not just merely preserved our countrys resources but we also help preserved the habitat of others species. Reserving our natural resources is such a great help because it helps promote our countries tourist spot that can attract citizens from different country to visit the place.

Second, this generation is a computer driven so I must be responsible towards my actions in using some social media account such as instagram, facebook, and fb lite. Being mindful towards my action includes being aware and considering the feelings of other. I will make sure that my statements or post wont appear rude and arrogant. This mean that before I am going to post some photos or, videos or status I will analyze first if my post is very essential and cant offend the feeling of other people. Through social media accounts it is very easy for now to spread issues due to the fact where social media became a channel were information flow. I must also used gadgets on its right purposes which includes educational, business,communication and many others.

Third, Avoid using prohibited drugs and drinking alcoholic drink. Generation Z is a time in which youth engage in drugs and alcoholic fo the first time. Alcohol is one of the vices that teenagers engage. They are engage in this because they thought that it can escape from reality, expection, family problem, peer-pressure, and low self-esteem and it helps them forget the problems at home and in society.So as a responsible generation I should avoid those things because it is prohibited by law. I will also encourage my co-youth to join community services ans programs rather than going to the parties.

Fourth,a responsible generation Z follow the laws and its responsibility of the country such as voting ,paying tax snd respecting public and private rules.If one must follow and do its responsibility there is no such conflicts and if there is, it is just a mild one.Voting is a right and responsibility of everyone.In this, the vote of one person is such great help to choose leaders for tommorow.Voting also helps me to realize the importance of citizenship. Many people do not vote thinking one vote will not make a change, but as a matter of fact, it does. So as a teenager, I must vote not with the influence of money but I will vote the person who I think he/she is responsible to the position. I will also respect private and public rules such as crossing the pedestrian line. Crossing along the pedestrian line is one way of being a responsible teenager,where in fact it contribute to the society which I can l reduced the accidents happen along the street . Through this also I an influence my lazy classmate or friends to cross in a proper manner which they can apply it in their entire life.

Lastly, I must be an honest in words and in deeds. The different examples or ways that I've enumerated above must be put into action not just saying and thus it ends.Being an honest isa an important principle that must govern our life.Being a youth of a country is a quite lucky opportunity Many people wants to live long but they have no chance and thats why it was a very great experience to reach at this stage. So, as long as we live we must learn to do our very best to help our country develop.

#JesicaM.NabasBSA11

#3C's(Choose-Chance-Change)

#Choose the Chance to make a Change

[ahopkins1965]

Spiritual Growth and Encouragement for Christian Women

 

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10 Things I Have to Tell Myself Everyday

Aretha Grant

2020

21 Aug

“This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success.” (Joshua 1:8)

Meditating on the word of God is essential to Believers. With all the negativity we're seeing in the news today, we must meditate on the scriptures and speak them over our lives. When we study His word, meditate on it, and apply the verses to our lives, we'll see spiritual growth and renewed strength. Further, meditating on the word will guard our hearts against anger, hatred, unforgiveness, etc.

Let’s take a look at 10 scriptures that we can speak over ourselves daily.

Photo Credit: © Unsplash/Nathan Dumlao

1. I am a child of God.

“The Spirit Himself testifies with our spirit that we are children of God.” (Romans 8:16)

Beauty is vain, but being God’s child is not. Beauty fades, but being God’s child is forever if our names are written in the Lamb’s book of life. Your adoption into God’s family is much more important than what you look like, the amount of money you make, or the family into which you were born. It’s both an honor and a privilege to be one of God’s precious children. Daily remind yourself of your relationship with the Creator of the universe.

2. I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

“I will give thanks to You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; wonderful are your works, and my soul knows it very well.” (Psalm 139:14)

I've come across many people who belittle themselves because they were born out of wedlock. We can't control how we were born, and quite frankly, it doesn't matter. You were fearfully and wonderfully made. If you ever feel like your birth was an accident, remind yourself of how you were truly created: by God.

Photo Credit: © Getty Images/fizkes

3. Beauty is vain.

Proverbs 31:30 teaches, “Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.”

All of us want to be beautiful, but idolizing physical beauty is vanity. Christian girls and women should focus on who we are in Christ instead of outward beauty. When we focus on Christ and our relationships with Him, we're strengthened and encouraged. And we'll stop comparing ourselves to the vain standards of beauty that society dictates us. It's time to break free from the bondage of comparison and live freely in the liberty that's ours in Christ Jesus. One of the best ways to walk in that liberty is by reminding ourselves of who we are in Jesus.

4. I am filled with God's Spirit.

“And do not get drunk with wine, for that is dissipation, but be filled with the Spirit.” (Ephesians 5:18)

God the Father, took of His Spirit, and placed it inside His children. You carry greatness. Think about that for a second. God loved you so much that He gave you the Comforter to help you walk the Christian walk. Whenever you feel down about yourself, remember that you're filled with the Holy Spirit.

Photo Credit: © Unsplash/Alexandru Zdrobau

5. I am a doer of the word.

“But prove yourselves doers of the word, and not merely hearers who delude themselves.” (James 1:22)

The word of God means a lot to God's children. We don't merely hear the word; we strive to do what the word commands. Although you may not get it right every time, God honors your desire to obey His word. We need to remind ourselves about that. We may not be perfect, but we are being perfected and transformed through God's word.

6. Pray for my enemies.

“But I say to you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” (Matthew 5:44)

This verse cuts like a knife every time I read it, but I’m determined to obey it. And I’m sure you are too. We must remember the importance of praying for our enemies. We don’t have to treat our enemies the way they treat us. We don’t have to seek vengeance. We don’t have to retaliate. We can and must pray for them. This is an important scripture to remember today with so much hatred in the world. Pray for your enemies.

Photo Credit: © Sparrowstock

7. I don’t have to be anxious.

“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” (Philippians 4:6)

Children of God don't have to be anxious. We can relax in God. We can trust Him and rely upon Him. We don't have to stress ourselves out about anything we're facing. Indeed, we can walk in a peace "...which surpasses all comprehension" (Philippians 4:7).

8. This is working together for my good.

“And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

God's children can rest assured that the trial or test they're facing is working together for their good. Although the trial is harsh, God can use it to produce good fruit. We should remind ourselves of this scripture every day, regardless of the intensity of the obstacle we’re enduring.

Photo Credit: © Unsplash/Jeremy Perkins

9. I can do it!

“I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” (Philippians 4:13)

I started exercising and eating healthfully last month. Every time I want to give up and throw in the towel, I have to remind myself that I can do it. Whenever you want to quit, remember that you can do anything through Christ who strengthens you.

10. Put on the full armor.

“Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.” (Ephesians 6:13)

The devil is busy, but God didn't leave us unprepared or defenseless. God is our protector, and He tells us in Ephesians 6:13-18 how to combat the enemy. We should remind ourselves every day to guard ourselves against the devil. We mustn't let down our defenses. We must remind ourselves to put on the full armor.

Photo Credit: © Unsplash/Sammie Vasquez

11. Jesus came to give us abundant life.

“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10)

We mustn’t forget that Jesus came so that we can have an abundant life. Our lives can be filled with joy, peace, love, forgiveness, and hope because Jesus came and died to give them to us. No matter what you face, remember, the abundant life is yours.

12. I’m not who I used to be.

“Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things have passed away; behold, new things have come.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Daily we must remind ourselves and the enemy that we aren't who we used to be. We are new in Christ. We must learn to use our pasts only as a testimony of God's healing and delivering power. We mustn't allow our pasts to control us or hold us in bondage. Your past has passed away. You're new in Jesus.

These aren't the only scriptures on which you can meditate daily. The Bible is filled with encouraging verses that will guard your heart and mind against the tricks of the devil and strengthen your relationship with God and your fellow brothers and sisters-in-Christ. Whenever you experience difficulties, remember who you are in Christ and the power in the Word. You can and will overcome.

Photo Credit: © Getty Images/Merlas

Aretha Grant serves her local church as a bible teacher and elder. She loves writing and is the author of Overcomer: 25 Keys to Walking Victoriously. Aretha resides in Hagerstown, MD with her husband and two youngest children. You can read Aretha’s blog at www.arethagrant.com.

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Our brains can't quit our gadgets—that didn't happen by accident

New Post has been published on https://nexcraft.co/our-brains-cant-quit-our-gadgets-that-didnt-happen-by-accident/

Our brains can't quit our gadgets—that didn't happen by accident

Google and Apple are two of the biggest technology companies in the world. They’ve made their fortunes—and gained global dominance in the process—by encouraging us to spend as much time as possible on our smartphones, laptops, and other devices. But in the spring of 2018, both companies announced plans to help users spend less time glued to their screens.

In May, Google announced it would be making over its entire suite of products, with many changes made in the name of moderation. “Great technology should improve life, not distract from it,” Google said in its announcement of a new Digital Wellbeing initiative. The upcoming Android P software update will introduce dashboards that give users daily insight into the amount of time they spend on their phone, including data broken down by specific apps. It will also allow users to set limits on how much time they get in a given app before the screen goes greyscale. YouTube, which is owned by Google, will soon have “custom breathers” that users can schedule at various intervals to remind them just how long they’ve been watching.

Meanwhile, Apple announced the iOS 12 will have a “Screen Time” feature, which provides similar tools. As with Android’s dashboard, iOS users will get more hard data on their usage and habits, as well as the ability to limit app usage, and customize notifications so that they are “deliver[ed] quietly” to the notification center instead of the lock screen.

Both of these initiatives sound great and they very well could help consumers take back their time. But experts in the field of addictive design are quick to note that the very companies offering Screen Time controls and Digital Wellbeing advice are the same companies that have spent decades commercializing our attention and advancing the real and vibrant field of addictive design.

Dramatic pauses

To see the success of addictive design, look no further than your home screen. Each month, more than 330 million people, including the president of the United States, login into Twitter, a social media app built around 280 character “tweets.” If Twitter’s only priority was ease of use, a user’s feed would load automatically. But instead there’s a short delay: The iconic bird logo flutters on a blued-out screen as you wait for the timeline to load. Even when you’ve entered the app, Twitter serves you an older version of your feed—roughly dated to the last time you opened the app—and users have to manually push a “See new Tweets” button or scroll to rise to see the most recent tweets in the semi-chronological feed.

Most people don’t consciously register this short delay. Others who do might blame it on connectivity issues. But user experience (or UX) designers say the delay is actually perfectly designed. For many users, the delay subconsciously creates a sense of anticipation. It’s not dissimilar to a slot machine, which is intentionally designed to run through a series of possible combinations (cherry, 7, bells) before finally delivering the gambler’s results.

This sense of anticipation has well-studied effects on the brain—at least in the context of casinos. Since the 1980s, scientists have known that the neurotransmitter dopamine is a sort of chemical reward for taking action, encouraging us to anticipate rewards. Gambling is known to trigger a release of dopamine as people put money on the table, unsure they’ll be getting it back. Nicotine and heroin are two common artificial sources of dopamine, which is thought to be a major reason why these substances are addictive for many users. Humans also get a surge of the good stuff from less contentious activities, like sex and exercise (there’s a reason they call it “runner’s high”).

Recently, experts have begun to argue that substance-free activities like gaming and social media can also create cycles of reward and dependence. Increasingly it seems everything from the colors of Candy Crush to the confidence boost of a new “like” on Facebook is subtly reshaping our brains.

Infinite content

Numerous other UX tricks serve the same purpose. Instead of automatically loading the newest content, many apps require users pull down to refresh their feeds. Loren Brichter, the former Twitter engineer who created the pull-to-refresh, which operates much like a slot machine lever, says he has come to see the dark side of his invention. “Smartphones are useful tools,” he told The Guardian in October 2017. “But they’re addictive. Pull-to-refresh is addictive. Twitter is addictive. These are not good things.”

Similarly, the creator of the infinite scroll has soured on his own invention, despite creating it with the best intentions. “Infinite scroll… is the ability to keep scrolling and never having your brain to have the chance to catch up with your impulses,” Aza Raskin tells PopSci. “What I thought was good user experience—you know, in the sense that, every time you ask a user to make a decision they don’t care about, you fail as a designer—in reality, it wasted quite literally hundreds of millions of human hours.”

Psychologists, neuroscientists, and others are still working to establish the biological mechanisms behind addictive UX, with research focusing on dopamine and other chemical processes. But the effects of addictive design are already clear.

Adam Atler is a professor of marketing at New York University and the author of Irresistible: The Rise of Addictive Technology and the Business of Keeping Us Hooked. “As to whether [addictive design] can be effective, the data are incontrovertible,” Atler told PopSci in an email. “We spend a huge amount of our time in front of screens, dominated by the time we spend on social media platforms and other social apps.” And even when we’re not actively looking at our devices, vibrations, dings, and lit up screens try to pull us back into this digital world.

The numbers vary widely, but it appears that on average we touch, swipe, or tap our phones more than 2,000 times a day, according to a study from consumer research company dscout. Some 81 percent of Americans admit to looking at their phones during dinner, according to a 2015 survey by Deloitte. We spent approximately 5 hours of every day on our mobile devices in 2016, according to a report from the analytics firm Flurry. And most of us don’t have to think too hard to recall a situation where we’d spent more time on our phone than we’d initially intended.

Variable rewards

One “dark pattern”, as UX designers call these subtle methods of manipulation, is based on a psychological concept called variable rewards. In the mid-20th century, B.F. Skinner, the legendary behavioral psychologist, found that pigeons would press a lever more often if food appeared irregularly, instead of on every push.

In the context of Facebook, variable rewards can mean the difference between your post being a well-liked hit, or an invisible miss. In the context of Twitter, it might mean the difference between a cornucopia of good tweets you’re excited to read and a session where nothing makes you laugh, cry, or retweet. Either way, the unpredictability itself is thrilling, earning it comparisons to slot machines, where players mostly lose but occasionally win.

It’s also unavoidable: Even if you went to LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter just to post your own content, you have to go through the newsfeed, as none of these sites load your profile page directly. This ensures you interact, however marginally, with the content people in your network have created.

Can’t not complete

Another way to play with users is to capitalize on completionist tendencies. While some people are content to leave 20 calls unanswered or 2,000 emails left unopened, data shows that lingering reminders of unfinished business are a good way to keep people interacting with an app or game. Unless you have modified your notification settings, Instagram will send you push notifications if someone in your network has recently joined Instagram, for example. This is rarely useful information, but the push notification is nonetheless sure to draw a user’s attention as it flashes across their smartphone screen. Even if they ignore the push notification, nagging reminders in the form of numbers in small red circles rack up until Instagram is finally opened and the notifications resolved. And, of course, people don’t typically just resolve the notifications and leave. They peek at their feed and like a photo or two.

Farmville, the Facebook-based game that was notoriously boring, capitalized on the same impulses, albeit with a side dish of social pressure. The game entails “neighbors” sending each other gifts or pitching in plowing the field. These actions send notifications to users and keep Farmville players in a “loop of reciprocity,” according to an essay by the game designer A.J. Patrick Liszkiewicz. Even if you were willing to break your social obligations, the notifications kept on coming.

Like so many features, push notifications were developed to do good. Blackberry, once the leader of the smartphone pack, started sending users notifications to their home screens when new emails arrived. Prior to this advancement, people had to manually check their phones for updates. At the time—2003, also known as the dawn of the UX revolution—Blackberry saw this as a net good. Push notifications would, in theory, reduce people’s time on their phones (much like the Screen Time and Digital Wellbeing services being promoted today) and save battery life in the process. Instead, Blackberry and its peers found that notifications pull us back in.

Autoplay all day

Once you’re there—phone in hand, swiping through an app—the cycle starts again. On Instagram, for example, you may get a ping notifying you your friend who hasn’t posted in awhile is suddenly back with a new photo. But on their way to look, users inevitable come across new Instagram stories, the short videos or passing photos that users transmit to their followers for 24 hours.

Stories live at the top of the app and reappears at various intervals throughout the Instagram news feed. Seeing what your friends are up to in near-real-time is a draw on its own, but UX designers have sweetened the deal with a small psychological trick: The circular buttons used to play the stories are highlighted in pink until they are played, when the circle turns white. The next time the app updates, played videos are gone, and ever more pulsating pink stories are waiting to be played.

The stories feature also has an autoplay function. While you might consciously click to watch a video uploaded by your close friend, the stories keep playing, until you’re watching videos by your enemies, distant cousins, and advertisers. Other video platforms, like YouTube and Netflix, work much the same way.

Moving forward

The strategies UX engineers use to keep us engaged may seem appropriate, even positive. After all, we want our social media, games, and other technology to be engaging and these designs help to ensure that’s the case. But increasingly, experts are urging caution. Unlike many other forms of entertainment—movies, for example—smartphones don’t have a finite end point. The credits roll after approximately two hours, but you can swipe, tweet, or play until you die.

Even more concerning, most of these clever UX efforts remain largely invisible to users. As a result, people are unable to make informed decisions about how they want to interact with social media. “Knowledge is a start, as it is with any self-control problem,” Atler wrote via email. “You don’t even try to resist what you don’t recognize as harmful.” But to truly improve our relationship with our most-used devices, Atler, Raskin, and others say the next step will be to put the phone down and devise a plan to replace these engineered impulses with healthier habits we’ve crafted ourselves. Whether that involves Screen Time, Digital Wellbeing, or throwing your phone in a river is up to you.

Written By Eleanor Cummins

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