#onesource
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As I heal part of myself,I heal you.
As you heal some part of you,you heal me
As we keep on healing,we are closer to inevitable union.
As we unite,so does this universe❤️
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One source.
One love.
One consciousness.
Infinite possibilities.
Our website has many free resources like discovering your authentic gifts, as well as sharing success strategies of the super elite, you'll also tune up your mindset. Just by taking a look there you will optimize your potential.
https://www.successloops.com
#onelove#onesource#Oneconsciousness#infinitepossibilities#connection#inspiration#success#motivation#successloops
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“What does it look like to see crime lord!kiyoomi blow up at someone threatening the reader?”
cw: mention of bathroom (reader has to number one lmao), character death, death by suffocation
wc: 2.4k
His head immediately turns when he hears your voice calling out for him.
You’re breathtaking in your ball attire. Glowing under the balmy haze of ballroom crystal lights as you duck into his gaze. You’re radiant, and It’s a chore to look anywhere else as Kiyoomi scans the large hall, leaning in to get a better listen at your voice. “What’s up, angel?”
“Can you come with me to the bathroom?” You whisper. “I’m too nervous to go by myself.”
Kiyoomi pauses to delegate a pensive moment. He was supposed to mingle with OneSource’s people to check in on his annual contract bonding. ‘Course there’s no reason to think that anything has changed - they’d have a death wish to pull out from something like Sakusa Enterprises - but it’s etiquette, and it’s still important to maintain general communication. At the very least uphold his reputation as a studious businessman.
He traces the fullness of your eyelashes from where you look up at him. “Mhm.”
Kiyoomi reaches for your hand and leads you to the laboratory.
He’s not the least bit embarrassed to be leading his wife into the otherwise empty women’s bathroom. And even if it weren’t, he doubts he’d be any less unfazed. - Impassive still as he watches you glide your way into the cleanest stall and close the door behind you. Kiyoomi leans against the sink as he waits for you to finish your business.
“Can you turn the sink on? I don’t want you to hear me tinkle.”
“Tinkle?” Kiyoomi snorts as he fishes his phone out of his pocket. “Baby, I hear you tinkle every day in our bathroom. Just let it out.”
“Yeah, but this is a public place,” He can hear you pout. “And I’m already nervous. I don’t want you to make fun of me for spotting.”
Spotting. He quietly titters again. I mean, he’s brushed his teeth with you planted on the bowl before, a little piss staggering wouldn’t even faze him. But still he grabs a paper towel, and uses it to turn the nodule on one of the sinks.
“Thank you!” The better portion of your dress lifts over your heels.
It’s only a few moments that it takes till he’s hearing the telltale sound of an automatic toilet whir into the room. Even with his eyes planted on his phone, he sees you neaten your dress back down in his peripheral. Dark blues turn velvety in the bathroom lights, and pretty spaghetti straps fall loosely on your shoulders; and with the way your hair so lively shines as you walk, he’s nearly convinced that you’re an angel.
His eyes light up with familiar adoration as you approach him at the sink, the smile you pass him is enough to turn his cheeks flowery. “How long is this party gonna last for?”
“Till two, but we can leave earlier than that if you want.”
“Are you having fun?” The soap in your palms audibly squishes as you lather your hands.
Kiyoomi sighs through his nose. “I’m making good connections, but you know me. Huge crowds like these start to break me out in hives. The sooner we can get out of here, the better.”
You ring your hands in the sink. “That makes you and I both then. There’s so many important people here that I can’t help but worry. I don’t want you or anyone else to get hurt just cause some bastard has a vendetta.”
You move for the air dryer on the side of him. “I saw Onslaught and Shinobu wandering the halls together. Those two dudes make it desperately apparent that they despise us.”
“They’re attention seekers, angel. They - No, don’t use that.”
You look at him curiously as he moves you by the arm to the paper towel dispenser. “Those things are disgusting, they’re riddled with germs.”
He snatches a few out for you. “I doubt anyone here has ever bothered to disinfect these.”
You simper as you finally wipe your hands down. “Oh. Well, thank you for looking out for me, baby.”
“Always.”
Kiyoomi slides his phone in his pocket as you move for the mirror again. “They’re attention seekers,” He starts again. “They know what my status is, they know that you and I are the most prevalent family running the underground business nowadays. Anybody who’s anybody should know that the Sakusa’s have owned the better half of Asia for decades. - It’s easy for them to stay relevant when they’re feuding with the most powerful empire in the game; regardless of what risk they’re putting on their lives by doing that.”
You eye yourself in the mirror. “They’re cockroaches. They’re just feeding off us for a little bit of business talk. What will it take for them to understand that business doesn’t even exist if it doesn’t come from you in some way.”
The little boost to his ego already turns him pink, but the way you spin in the mirror has his lips curling over his teeth. “Yeah? You’re absolutely right.”
His reflection mirrors the way he reaches out for you, pulling you closer in his direction, and softly pinching your cheeks with his calloused fingers. “But it’s nothing you’ve gotta worry your pretty head about, huh? - You’re really cute..”
You pout up at him. “What if they pick a fight with us?”
Kiyoomi kisses his teeth. Uncoupling the little grip he has on your cheek to smooth it over with his thumb, and let his blithe gaze settle on the dip in your lips. “As if they’d be so stupid. Self preservation reigns, angel. They all know better.”
You give him somewhat of an unimpressed look. “Death isn’t the price you pay for slighting us, Omi.”
“You’re right,” He hums. “It’s the price they pay for slighting you.”
You lean into the kiss Kiyoomi presses gingerly onto your lips. “I love you.”
“I love you too, Omi.”
“So much.”
“Show me.”
He leans in for another one. A little firmer, somewhat tailed by a quiet hum but the way you move forward to deepen it has him openly sighing into your mouth. Long, savory, tender lip smacking. - Smoothing his grip under your jaw till you’re all but making out like a couple of teenagers. That’s how you make him feel - like a teenager. Jittery and palm sweaty. Meekend as you moan into the kiss and he’s rapt by butterflies. Breathless when you part from him and still overdosing on that contact high.
God, “I love you so fucking much.” He sighs.
“I love you so much more.”
Kiyoomi doesn’t think something like that could be remotely possible.
_____
Kiyoomi pushes your seat in for you as you both take your spots at the grand table.
There are many very important faces here. From the face of your renowned husband, to well known yakuza leaders, - High ranking members of The Sinaloa Cartel, Solntsevskaya Bratva, Sun Yee On, and so forth. With this many dangerous people at one table, most controlling near global power, it isn’t unheard of to feel a little out of your wits. You can’t show your fear as much as you want to, sitting at this table with your husband means sharing the collective power he has - and representing it as well. Much like the other wives and spouses sitting with their respective criminal lovers, you keep your cool with a natural grace. Still pretty even as your palms start to sweat.
Ken Shōhei, leader of the sixth generation yellow fangs, raises his glass to propose a toast. He glitters with shined jewels and gaudy rings as they reflect in the chandelier light. You glance at his wife before glancing at him. Catching a less than friendly evil eye that chills you straight to the blue bone. If you had to guess, they’re friends of Onslaught. If you had to guess again, you’d say it’s probably upsetting to realize you’re not the hottest foreign wife in the room anymore.
“Beautiful people of this nation - of your respective nations,” He begins. “Let us take this moment to reflect on the novelty of such business making and our untaintable honor. To the choices we’ve made thus far that has led us here. The chances we take that - understandably shouldn’t work out in our favor - but has. Our fortune, our hard work, the allies we’ve made today and the friends we’ll make tomorrow. I propose a toast to us. To our virtues, and to our decency. Let us all come together and celebrate ourselves.”
His wife smiles as she picks up her glass. “To ourselves!”
The rest of the table brandish their cups and follow suit. “To ourselves!”
The chatter continues as most of them take a quick sip to their glasses.
Or well, all except for you and Kiyoomi, who’s got the flute halfway to his lips before you stop him in his tracks. “Wait, baby.”
“Hm?”
You lean in to whisper softly. “These glasses don’t smell clean.”
“Hm?” Kiyoomi furrows as he dips his nose in his champagne flute. “They don’t-? Oh. Ew.”
He reaches for your glass. “Don’t even touch that. We’ll sanitize our hands after they-“
Someone’s choking.
Someone’s hacking and gasping for air right in front of you. Loud enough to startle as your head whips in the direction of whoever it is coughing up a lung across the table, and Kiyoomi instinctively reaches for you - pulling you by the bicep as he prepares to step out of his seat.
It’s an appropriate knee jerk reaction for what actually unfolds in front of you. Kiyoomi forces you to your feet as Shōhei’s body crashes into the fine cloth of the grand table and sends the majority of their plates crashing down with him. His shrill wheezing cuts into the silence that befalls the group of leaders as they stare down at him. Twitching and flailing before finally seizing up and you all watch in horror as he eventually goes limp.
You all watch in dread as his wife follows. Nithya, Maciej, Jalmari, Takashi, and Yuina, dropping to the floor in similar fashion. Some fall back in their seats in an effort to save themselves, some face plant into their plates before unceremoniously hitting the ground, but they all meet the same fate. Foaming at the mouth and blue from asphyxiation, all poisoned by something lethal likely slipped into their drinks.
Kiyoomi is the first to break the long stunned silence, calling over one of his underlings to meet him at the table.
He shoves his drink in his face. “Drink this.”
The man does so without hesitation.
After a few long moments the faceless scout looks generally unharmed which immediately raises red flags, but it isn’t over yet.
He hands him his wife’s drink. “And this?”
Another sip, another few long moments.
And then he’s falling to the ground.
You both stare in sickened shock as he flails on the ground just as the other victims did. Gasping for air as his spit foams over and the vessels in his eyes burst from suffocation. He’s dead within a few tortuous minutes, and Kiyoomi all but turns blue.
He nearly breaks his back with how quickly he turns for you, already frantically cupping your face in his hands. “Did you eat anything on the table? Have you eaten anything?”
There are tears in your eyes, rightfully. “N-No.”
He’s shaking. It’s a rare moment of weakness for the revered kingpin. One of the most frightening, if not the most frightening man in all of Asia - glassy eyed at the realization of his lover coming so close to death. He’s pink under eyes, pupils twitching back and forth as he frantically scans your face for any sign of change. The men and women surrounding the two of you take pause. It’s clear this is a shock to you both. That the man in question would rather kill over than put his wife in harm’s way, especially one so gruesome. ~ But there’s layers to this collective suspension shared among the room. Shock, confusion, apprehensity.
Fear.
As expected Kiyoomi’s reaction is less than pleased.
“Miya!”
At the sound of Kiyoomi’s booming voice, Atsumu races into the ballroom and up to the table. “Boss- Whoa, holy shit.”
“Bring me the heads of everyone in the kitchen,” His voice is vitriolic. It sends shivers up the spines of every living body in here. “All except for the chef. Pack him up in the shuttle.”
The boldness of the demand knocks Shinobu out of his daze, he’s kissing his teeth not even a moment later. “Don’t just start giving orders like you-“
“Shut the fuck up, Shinobu. Be thankful I don’t start picking from the table!”
One of the other businessmen at the table speaks meekly. “W-Wait. Let’s just... Everyone just-“
“Enough!” Kiyoomi narrows his eyes. And even to the most lethal of men in the room do they quaver at the venom in his voice. Sakusa Kiyoomi is not known for being an angry man. A spiteful man, sure. Cold and callous and cruel, on his worst days a little psychotic. There’s a scowl on his face more often than not, a sneer almost in the way he speaks to his adversaries and enemies alike. He’s known for being a mean son of a bitch - the meanest, really. But not angry. Not down right irate. Not so wrathful in the way he addresses the crowd around him.
“Someone here,” He breathes. “Has made an enormous lapse in judgment. If not to the leaders we just lost at this table; than to threaten me - to threaten my wife, my family,”
He’s firm yet earnest in his efforts to keep you behind him, nearly yanking you back by your arm but you bump into his firm back with one of his hands fastened over your waist. “You must’ve all forgotten that there is no one on this earth who I can’t get my hands on - especially for something so despicable. Whether they're in that kitchen or in this room, every second of their worthless life is borrowed from me. - Goro!”
The host of the ball swallows as he answers quickly. “Yes, Sakusa-san, sir?”
“Get me the names of everyone who’s been in or out of this place within the last forty eight hours, not a minute short.”
“Yes, of course.”
Kiyoomi nods his head for his men to follow as he drags his wife out by the hand.
#crime lord!sakusa kiyoomi#crime au!kiyioomi#sakusa kiyoomi#hq sakusa#sakusa kiyoomi x reader#haikyuu x reader#haikyuu!!#hq x reader
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Over Tea & Silent Letters (Farrier x Reader, Modern AU)
Genre: Romance, Fluff, Angst, Modern AU
Pairing: Farrier x Fem!Reader
Word count: 3.6K
Warnings: Allusions to PTSD, a sliver of melancholy
Summary:
Being engaged to a soldier isn't as romantic as some people make it out to be. It requires a lot of patience, faith, and going days if not longer without contact. No matter the company that might take their place for the time being, there's a gap that can't be filled by anyone but them.
This is especially tangible during the Bank holidays. The first year of having to spend them alone is fine. The second is alright. But after the third it gets lonely.
And it's been eight years.
Whereas others find solace in the local church, the bakery is your source of comfort, work your religion.
However, this Good Friday makes you wonder if perhaps there is a God out there after all.
Author's Note: I've kept the portrayal of PTSD and combat stress fairly general, relying on the information shared by Military Onesource.
TH Masterlist
Tag list: @hecatemoon87 @zablife @potter-solomons @solomons-finest-rum @wandawiccan60 @babaohhhriley @buttercupsandboys @liliac-dreamer @vir-tual @rose-like-the-phoenix @dreamlandcreations
I envy the customers, how they get to sit so calmly over a cup of tea and talk without restraint. After all, there’s nothing to touch them, to tear their luck and happiness away. Their conversations have no subjects that are tiptoed around, the stories associated with them carefully locked away in an unreachable place. I dare to bet their nights know no nightmares or screams as the past repeats itself because it has dug its claws deep inside the heart and mind you hold dear.
He always refuses to go back to bed once he’s awake. At least that’s better than on the nights I watch him wandering aimlessly around the yard or cross the fence into the grounds beyond. Fortunately, the latter hasn’t happened in a long while. However, there’s still the hiding beneath the bed because of loud sounds. New Year’s Eve is nothing short of hellish for Charles. Yet, nothing comes close to the blank gaze in his eyes as he stares out the window, numb. Not even the anger outburst that might have triggered it comes close to the anguish I feel whenever it happens, stuck in a motionless world with a stiff body while his is spinning out of control.
I especially envy the customers who get to sit together, the couples old and young.
The way we used to.
His name is a ghost on their lips. Sometimes I wonder if they know him better than I do. Nevertheless, only the tea leaves and coffee stains in the cups at the end of the day can confirm or deny the suspicion.
But they remain silent.
I clear the last of the tables and, tray in hand, join my co-worker behind the counter. As soon as he notices me approach, Leo perks up and gestures for me to hand him the dirty dishes so he can turn the dishwasher on.
He recently moved into town, living with the girl who inherited the big cottage in the outskirts. Way I’ve heard it from her and from what little he tells me himself, he came here from Russia after trouble that’s only partially related to the war with Ukraine. His English grows better by the day, though we do still have our misunderstandings at times. All the same, he’s a hard worker who’s passionate about the job.
Although, it’s not far-fetched to say he’s a listener with a natural healthy curiosity about the people around him too. “Y/N, can I ask you something?”
“Sure.”
He dries his hands on the tea towel tucked into the pocket of his jeans. “I’m sorry if I cross boundary, but you have ring on your finger. Yet, I’ve never seen your hus- partner.”
“That’s because it’s been a very long time since he’s been home.” Lips pulled into a wistful smile, I look down at the emerald in the middle of the thin silver band around my finger. It’s as blue as his eyes, bright as they were when he proposed the last time he was here. Truly home, without having to go abroad. If memory serves me well, that was now fourteen years ago. Twelve if I’m being lenient and dismiss the various training sessions he had to give to the armies of other countries. “This was not what I had in mind when I became Mrs Farrier.”
“Where is he now?”
“Iraq, though he could also be in Syria. Charles is a good teacher, skilled at air combat, but he can’t sit still. I’ve no doubt he’s convinced his general he’s over another bout of combat stress.’’
‘‘But you don’t think so? There is more. He is lying.’’
‘‘I wouldn’t necessarily call it lying, more a case of downplaying the situation.’’ Despite the pain in the back of my throat, I swallow. ‘‘I’m no psychiatrist, but even I can see we’re far past that stage. I hate what the army’s done to him.”
“What is he like?”
“You actually remind me of him. You two kinda look alike. Charles is a little older than I am. Well, it depends on who you ask, but I’d say we’re relatively close in age.” Leo opens and closes his mouth, hesitant to ask the obvious question. “I’m twenty-eight, he’s forty.”
“Fairly close.”
I let out a breathless laugh. “Anyway, we met after he returned from the Iraq War, in 2009. You should’ve seen the villagers when he rode into the town square. They hailed him like a hero. It’s safe to say it made quite the impression, especially on me, who had just moved here from Nottingham. As for our first proper meeting, I wish I could tell you something romantic, but I’m afraid I can’t.”
“Why not?”
“Because I tripped over my own two feet and spilled tea and clotted cream on him.” Leo snorts. “To be honest, I expected him to lash out at me, but instead he helped me to my feet and told me over and over it was alright while trying to calm me down. I was a sputtering shivering fool, though, unable to stop apologising. That is, until we made a deal.”
“Must have been good. You have ring.”
“It was. I was to give him my name and he’d pick me up later that night for a beer at the pub.”
“Did he show up?”
“With a large bouquet of wildflowers. Shame I couldn’t enjoy them.” I tap the side of my nose. “Hay fever. Charles was then the one to start apologising profusely, but he fell silent when I grabbed his hand and pulled him inside. We started seeing each other more often after that. We’d go on trips on his motor and have picnics in the countryside or at each other’s place if the weather was too rotten. I taught him how to bake, which he’s still terrible at, and he told me about life in the army. Two years later, he went abroad for the First Libyan Civil War and came back more scarred than he already was.”
“It’s not his fault. War is awful. Harms the mind more than the body.”
“Is it wrong of me to say it also harms the minds of those around the soldier?”
“No, because it does.” His expression darkens, a scowl on his lips. It might be the fatigue of another long day at work, but his canines seem longer than average.
After a moment of impenetrable silence, Leo somewhere I can’t reach him, he grimaces and clears his throat. “It does.”
He turns away, unconsciously allowing the shadows to hide the tear which rolls down his cheek. Although he tries to regain his composure by casually swiping his sleeve over the side of his face, it’s once again clear that his at times solemn attitude stems from a heavy loss.
However, each of us respects the other.
And so we don’t ask questions.
‘‘Tea?’’ he asks, meekly pointing at the porcelain cups he forgot to put in the dishwasher.
‘‘That’d be lovely.’’
‘‘Then one second. Also, please continue.’’ Leo turns on the tap and puts a bit of soap on a sponge. ‘‘I am listening.’’
Arms crossed, I lean against the counter. “Right, anyway, we got engaged before he went to Iraq to help out with Operation Shader. I know it’s a huge deal, a terribly big fight against IS but… I miss him.”
Even the screams, his big shivering frame in my arms afterwards when he finally calmed down, unable to get back to sleep and afraid of what he’s capable of despite being unconscious. He’s left the room or even the house on more than one occasion, too afraid of what he’d do to me should he experience a flashback or his irritability take over.
The overflowing ashtray on the bench in the yard. Charles always forgets to empty it and remembers to do so when I’ve already done it.
The freshly baked croissants he’d get from the bakery and a fresh pot of coffee to apologise or treat me, depending on the night before.
“How long has it been since he was home?” Leo asks while filling up and putting on the kettle, the cleaned cups next to it. Today we have apple cinnamon tea, prepared from the apples he’s grown in his garden.
“Eight years.” I clench and unclench my fists as a wave of bleak dread washes over me, swallowing me whole like the nearby lake on a stormy night. I’ve told myself time and again to be realistic and prepare for the worst. Yet, how can one prepare for the depths of a familiar despair? “I wake up every day praying I won’t hear the doorbell and have a general on my doorstep to tell me he’s dead. His best buddy, Collins, tried to convince him to get discharged too but Charles wouldn’t do it. He’s always been a man of honour, much to his detriment.”
“Uhm, what does that mean? To his dre- detri-’’
“Detriment. It means something can be a cause of harm or damage. Charles’s sense of honour causes him more harm than good, is what I mean.”
“Ah, I see. Thank you for explaining. Please. Continue.”
“Right,” I take a deep breath and slowly exhale in an effort to quell the sobs festering in my chest, eager to get out. “He wouldn’t come home, no matter how much Collins or I pleaded. It’s been quiet on his end for five months now, Leo. Five months.”
A shiver runs down my spine, all warmth slowly seeping from my body. My breath grows shallow as my chest grows heavy and tight with loathsome images and the voices of various newsanchors chanting words like torture and execution. “He can’t be dead. They wouldn’t have captured him, would they? I have to believe he’s fine, training soldiers and safely on the base. If IS gets him- If- If those bastards- No, he isn’t dead. One day he’ll come home.”
It’s too silent, lonely like the cemetery at night.
The empty kitchen, filled before by our laughter.
The cold bed, devoid of the warmth of his body.
The canvas sheet over his motor, static since he left eight years ago.
The war may have left his marks on him, but I am scarred by his absence.
“Why hasn’t he come home?” Leo wraps his arms around me, awkwardly petting my hair while I clutch his shirt. Under his breath, he mumbles what I assume to be words of assurance in Russian. However, his intonation is a bit odd, almost purr-like. Leo has his quirks, but that is one of the most notable. I’ve come to notice he especially tends to do it whenever he’s speaking with his housemate. It’s nice, though, like a balm on the aching yearning tearing me apart. “Why hasn’t my Charlie come home yet?”
Nonetheless, Leo can’t silence the voice is my head, can’t erase the words that keep repeating themselves.
He’s dead. Died in the field.
“He’ll come home, Y/N. Your partner sounds like good man. Take it from former soldier, silence doesn’t always mean an end.” He cradles my head and rubs my back. “He will return.”
And those words I cling to.
If only to keep myself alive.
We used to eat hot cross buns together. Charles would make tea while feigning patience because he was, no, is practically addicted to them. The twenty minutes or half hour they needed to cool off were torture to him, so I’d send him to the garden for his morning cigarette. There was plenty of time, after all. No need to rush.
The last Good Friday we spent together, it wasn’t raining. It was pouring. Nevertheless, the calm expression on his face as he nipped his coffee and nibbled on his third bun was as much of a comfort to me as the sound of the rain on the windows of the sun room. He’d also managed to go a week without headaches, an accomplishment he then just started to achieve more often.
It was a good day.
One which hasn’t known a repeat since he left.
And it seems this year isn’t any different.
It’s prime time after mass. This is usually the case, but it’s during Bank Holidays the whole of Baron’s End and neighbouring towns pop in for tea and coffee. Miss Goodwin is the one to kick rush hour off with Mrs Harris, both elderly ladies looking for a cup of chamomile and honey tea to soothe their throats. They’re part of the choir and sing the hymns most beautifully. Their preferred spot is in front of the old fireplace.
Soon after, Mr and Mrs Blackwell cross the threshold. They’re a married couple in their early to mid-thirties. Olivia is a florist, located in Cirencester, and makes sure the bakery has fresh bouquets every week. Leo has taken an interest in the language of flowers recently and she’s been teaching him as well as giving him gardening tips. Her husband, George, is a jeweller. He’s the quiet type, but gets along with Charlie quite well. Then again, they’re both silent forces. That is, until they’re put together. George and Charles somehow always find a way to natter for hours on end. I wager there’s a single silence whenever they go out walking together.
Went out walking.
I wonder if and how he’s affected by Charles’s absence. He certainly makes a lonely impression whenever I see him hike around the area.
I noticed neither of us comes close to the cemetery.
One by one, the villagers drop in for a cup of coffee or tea with a pastry or some other baked good. Leo’s Ptichye Moloko has become very popular as of late, though his Sharlotka has been popular from the start. He makes it according to his grandma’s recipe, which he refuses to share with anyone because it’s somewhat of a family heirloom. Fortunately, anyone who asks and hears his response, respects it. After all, it must be nice to have something, however small, personal in a country not your own.
Around noon, Collins drops in for our annual Good Friday lunch. He doesn’t mind the drive down from Gloucester to see me, insists on it even, and I’m grateful for his company.
Leo nods at the blond-haired man in greeting when he crosses the threshold. He gives my upper arm a small nudge and ushers for me to take a break and join the pilot in the usual spot. By the window overlooking Baron’s End’s main street.
Looking on as everyone continues living.
After hanging my apron on the hook in the kitchen, I place the lunch I’ve prepared for us on a tray to serve. Though normally steady on my feet and certain in my movements, I revert to that insecure clumsy eighteen-year-old when he drops by during this time of the year. Although, perhaps it’s not a regression to a person I once was.
No, it’s an act which falls apart.
We both notice it, but remain silent.
There’s no use in remarking upon the hurt of the other. So he doesn’t say anything of the tremble in my hand and I willfully ignore the badly feigned warm smile he musters.
Tray returned to the kitchen, I sit down across from him and take a small sip from my orange juice. “Any word from Charlie?”
“None. It’s been quiet on his end for months,” Collins answers in a strained voice between bites of his smoked ham sandwich. For a moment he hangs his head like he’s lost his appetite. He might very well have, considering he puts the sandwich down and cleans his hands on a napkin. “I can only imagine what it’s like for you.”
“At least we can wait together.”
Because aside from writing unanswered letters, that’s all we can do.
“It seems we aren’t the only ones. I heard Moira pray for Charlie, for him to come home soon. It worries her you’re spending yet another Easter alone.”
Moira is Collins’s old neighbour from when he still lived in town. She’s the mayor’s wife and stops by weekly for a cup of orange earl grey. I wager she’s somewhere in her mid-seventies, but I know for certain she likes to sit in the corner of the bakery. Aside from being a talented seamstress, she also often knits clothes for her grandchildren or works on embroidery.
“That’s sweet. I’ll make sure to thank her next time I see her.”
“How are you holding up?” He takes a sip from his apple juice, his features softening out with the sweet taste of it. “I can imagine this is harder on you than me or anyone else.”
“The best I can. Work keeps my mind off of things, though, which is nice. But then I come home and…” I scoff at myself, a wistful smile on my lips. “I didn’t realise the house is as big as it is. Nor so cold.”
“Wherever he is, I’m sure he’s thinking of us. You know Charlie, can’t sit still for a damn minute. But he also can’t stop gushing about you.”
“Are you sure were talking about the same man?”
“Oh, we are. Man’s real chatty when it comes to you. I’m surprised no one’s tried to tape his mouth shut.”
“Probably because he’d knock them out.”
Collins lets out a breathless laugh. “True. But when he isn’t talking, he’s reading your letters over and over. I kept having to tell him to turn off the light and go to bed. I don’t know how he managed to function with as little sleep as he got.”
“Everyone has their secrets.”
And Charles is full of them.
The rest of the day passes by fairly fast, full of serving warm drinks and food while fragments of various overlapping conversations resonate in my ears. Leo and I take turns washing the dishes when the piles in the sink threaten to become too tall, though I mostly leave them to him. Not out of reluctance or prejudice, but because he wants his quiet moments in the kitchen. There are only so many people he can handle. Tough as he may look, he’s actually very introverted.
Because of Good Friday, the bakery closes an hour earlier, at four instead of five. I send Leo off early despite his protestations, scurrying him out the door with his housemate. “Don’t keep her waiting. Shoo!”
“But, the kitchen-’’
“Shoo!”
“C’mon, Leo.” His housemate tugs on his sleeve, which immediately pulls his attention. She musters her most charming smile, evidently having sided with me. “You heard Y/N. Let’s go home.’’ Then she turns to me. ‘‘Oh, and in case we don’t see you, happy Easter!”
“We will drop by for tea,” Leo cuts in. “And something to eat. Loneliness is not good. We will keep you company.”
“Well, it seems we will see you regardless,” his housemate chuckles.
“Monday, then?” I propose. “I have some things to sort out this weekend.”
“Monday is fine,” Leo and his housemate answer in unison.
“Alright. I’ll see you both then. Now, go on. Don’t let me keep you any longer.”
They turn and head out the door, walking closely side by side. Leo holds the gate open for her, closes it after passing through it himself, and continues to walk on the street-side of the pavement.
In the meanwhile, I watch them from the doorway.
Alone.
Nonetheless, the silence is nice. There’s no one to require my attention, rushing to get dishes cleaned and dried, nor the need to keep up the act of being fine. This is a moment solely for myself, precious time to work out my thoughts and come up with a plan for how to survive tomorrow when I’ll wake up in a cold bed again.
Just as I’m done cleaning all the tables and rinsing the cleaning cloth in the sink, the door opens. I wring the water from it and turn towards the entrance. “I’m sorry, but we’re-’’
The heaviness of the past years falls from my shoulders, the relief of the huge stress leaving me without the strength to stand. My breath hitches, finally released from the icy chill of the winter he left and moving into spring. However, my mind lapses into chaos, full of questions that likely won’t all get an answer today if ever. There is one, though, I am desperate to get an answer to.
Clutching the counter, I stare at the sight of a familiar fur-lined dark brown leather jacket over a wool white turtleneck. The sun has left him with a tan, though the military operation has left him pale enough to make his complexion seem healthy. The dark circles beneath his haunted eyes tell of little sleep, though what little he might have had was likely plagued with nightmares.
“Charlie.” His name falls from my lips, a shivery flicker of a ghost. I swallow hard, throat constricted with barely suppressed sobs. I throw the cloth into the sink and slowly approach him, my movements languid and calculated. Terrified the merest surprise move might break the spell, prove I’ve gone insane and am in fact talking to a mirage. “When- How did you-’’
The corners of his full lips slowly curl into a shy smile, glad to be home yet distant. Part of him is still there.
But most of him is here.
As we close the distance between us, a tender warmth fills up the dull emptiness in his eyes, their natural brightness stolen by war. “I know you’re closed, but think there’s a chance for a cup of tea?”
I grab a hot cross bun off the plate on the counter and wedge it into his mouth. “I’ll put the kettle on, highflier.”
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jwlindquist: That’s a wrap! We raised over $1.4M last night at the DAP Health The Chase - 29th Annual Steve Chase Humanitarian Awards! Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor Eisenhower Health and Platinum Sponsor Amazon.com and all of the other wonderful sponsors as well as the over thousand guests who attended last night and showed their support. It was an amazing evening of entertainment with Darren Criss, Saycon Sengbloh, Nick Adams, and the amazing DJ Modgirl. Congratulations Donna Karan and Conrado Barzaga for your well deserved awards.
Thano you to all of the volunteers, board, staff and my team for your hours of hard work. Thank you to our co-chairs Scott Nevins, Kevin Bass, and Lauri Kibby for your passion and commitment.
Thank you Kelsey Anglin, Juliana Sloper, Hanah Orloff and everyone at OneSource Strategy for your vision and teamwork and to Dale Johannes - my friend our journey has been long and I’ve loved every moment of it. Thank you for helping me getting connected to DAP Health in the first place and for your awesome work at raising $$ (love ya!)
Until next year …
#thechase #daphealth
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Ethan's day ..
OOC -
We are getting together today to celebrate our second annual day of mur-der to honor our departed friend Alandon/Damous/Ethan.
This is our second Annual Day of Mur-der(pvp) so slap on your Arathor tabard and get to killin'! Don’t forget to yell FUCK if you lose. (We made it into a sticker for those who cannot yell) - you don't have to join us but if any of you want to slap on the tabard just to throw some good vibes into the universe, that would be awesome. Send pictures!
Sticker:
The tabard <- link
On a serious note - Suicide takes our friends and family too often and it is up to our love and support to help protect them. Getting help doesn’t make you weak, you also need to protect yourselves and it takes a strong person to do that. Here are some links to help:
Suicide Prevention | Suicide | CDC
Lifeline (988lifeline.org)
You don’t even have to call! They have text and chat options also.
Depression Test - Free mental health tests from Mental Health America (mhanational.org)
Military suicides just hit differently, they see and do so much that the rest of us will never see or do in our lifetimes. There is a thought that suicide is planned, but I don't believe it is. It takes one super low moment - check on your friends.
Military Suicide Awareness & Support | Military OneSource
Veteran Suicide Prevention | Veterans Affairs (va.gov)
Stop Soldier Suicide - Get Help -
Check on your friends.
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Military OneSource Provides Options to Military Spouses, Family Entrepreneurs
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Military OneSource Provides Options to Military Spouses, Family Entrepreneurs
April 25, 2024 | By C. Todd Lopez
The Department of Defense, in partnership with other federal agencies, has options available to help budding entrepreneurs within the military community start and maintain their businesses.
Most families in the U.S. — military families included — want two breadwinners in…
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A big thanks to Onesource Worldwide Logistics Pvt. Ltd for providing an appreciation letter for our flyer designing. Your greetings arrived at a perfect time, and they were a source of comfort and encouragement.
Thank you once again for your valuable appreciation.
#fresa | #freightsolutions | #freightforwarding | #import | #g2reviews | #HighPerformerWinter2024 | #LeaderAsiaWinter | #LeaderAsiaPacificWinter | #LeaderSmallBusinessWinter | #LeaderIndiaWinter | #LeaderEMEA_Winter | #logistics | #supplychain | #transportation | #freight | #trucking | #ERP | #freightforwardingsoftware | #flyerdesigning | #customersatisfaction | #customerfeedback | #happycustomer | #clientappreciation | #Onesource
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The Wobbly World of Gelatin: A Delectable Dive into Market Trends
The Jiggly Numbers:
The global gelatin market, not to be confused with your grandma’s wobbly dessert, is forecasted to leap from a cozy $5.52 billion in 2021 to a whopping $13.13 billion by 2030. That’s a gelatinous growth rate of 10.1% — stick that in your jelly mold!
Why the Stir?
Consumer awareness is stirring the gelatin pot, with folks realizing it’s not just a wiggly delight in desserts. Gelatin’s collagen boost for joint health and its role as a stabilizer and thickener in the food and beverage industry are causing quite the stir. The market is on a sugar high, thanks to the rising demand for clean-label and natural ingredients. Move over, artificial gunk — gelatin is taking the stage.
The Gelatin Symphony: Type A, Type B, and a Dash of AB:
In the gelatin orchestra, Type B takes center stage, hogging the limelight with its versatility and applicability. It’s the Leonardo DiCaprio of the gelatin world — always in demand. Meanwhile, Type AB is the dark horse, quietly blending the best of both A and B. It’s the gelatin equivalent of a perfect mixtape — you didn’t know you needed it until you tried it.
Sourcing the Jiggly Goodness:
Bovine-derived gelatin is the kingpin, ruling the market with its ubiquity and cost-effectiveness. However, swimming up fast is fish-derived gelatin, riding the wave of alternative and sustainable sources. Move over, land-dwellers; the sea has something wobbly to offer too.
Geography of Gelatin Gobbling:
Asia-Pacific is the gelatin gourmet, chomping down the lion’s share due to its thriving food and pharmaceutical industries. North America, on the other hand, is the fastest-growing gelatin glutton, fueled by health-conscious consumers and a penchant for all things wobbly.
The Gelatin Drama: Lights, Camera, Gelling Action!
The gelatin market has its own drama — the clash between traditional gelatin and the rise of plant-based alternatives. It’s a gelatin showdown, with vegans and vegetarians bringing their A-game. Will traditional gelatin crumble like a poorly set jelly?
For More Information: https://www.skyquestt.com/report/gelatin-market
Meet the Gelatin Maestros:
Behind the scenes, gelatin production is a dynamic symphony led by industry players like Rousselot, Darling Ingredients, and Gelita AG. It’s not just about wobbles; it’s about mergers, acquisitions, and innovations, with companies jazzing up their offerings to meet consumer demands.
The Grand Finale: Gelatin Gossips and Juicy Developments:
In March 2023, Darling Ingredients completed its acquisition of Gelnex — a major player in the gelatin and collagen arena. Meanwhile, Strides Pharma Science is spinning off its soft gelatin unit into a company named OneSource. Gelatin is not just wobbles; it’s a business rollercoaster.
Conclusion: A Wobbly World of Infinite Possibilities
As we wrap up our gelatin escapade, one thing is clear — the gelatin market is not just a wiggly dessert delight; it’s a dynamic world of growth, challenges, and intriguing developments. Whether you’re a gelatin enthusiast or a casual observer, there’s no denying the wobbly charm of this market. So, grab a spoon and dive into the jiggly adventure!
About Us-
SkyQuest Technology Group is a Global Market Intelligence, Innovation Management & Commercialization organization that connects innovation to new markets, networks & collaborators for achieving Sustainable Development Goals.
Contact Us-
SkyQuest Technology Consulting Pvt. Ltd.
1 Apache Way,
Westford,
Massachusetts 01886
USA (+1) 617–230–0741
Email- [email protected]
Website: https://www.skyquestt.com
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Text
The Wobbly World of Gelatin: A Delectable Dive into Market Trends
The Jiggly Numbers:
The global gelatin market, not to be confused with your grandma’s wobbly dessert, is forecasted to leap from a cozy $5.52 billion in 2021 to a whopping $13.13 billion by 2030. That’s a gelatinous growth rate of 10.1% — stick that in your jelly mold!
Why the Stir?
Consumer awareness is stirring the gelatin pot, with folks realizing it’s not just a wiggly delight in desserts. Gelatin’s collagen boost for joint health and its role as a stabilizer and thickener in the food and beverage industry are causing quite the stir. The market is on a sugar high, thanks to the rising demand for clean-label and natural ingredients. Move over, artificial gunk — gelatin is taking the stage.
The Gelatin Symphony: Type A, Type B, and a Dash of AB:
In the gelatin orchestra, Type B takes center stage, hogging the limelight with its versatility and applicability. It’s the Leonardo DiCaprio of the gelatin world — always in demand. Meanwhile, Type AB is the dark horse, quietly blending the best of both A and B. It’s the gelatin equivalent of a perfect mixtape — you didn’t know you needed it until you tried it.
Sourcing the Jiggly Goodness:
Bovine-derived gelatin is the kingpin, ruling the market with its ubiquity and cost-effectiveness. However, swimming up fast is fish-derived gelatin, riding the wave of alternative and sustainable sources. Move over, land-dwellers; the sea has something wobbly to offer too.
For More Information: https://www.skyquestt.com/report/gelatin-market
Geography of Gelatin Gobbling:
Asia-Pacific is the gelatin gourmet, chomping down the lion’s share due to its thriving food and pharmaceutical industries. North America, on the other hand, is the fastest-growing gelatin glutton, fueled by health-conscious consumers and a penchant for all things wobbly.
The Gelatin Drama: Lights, Camera, Gelling Action!
The gelatin market has its own drama — the clash between traditional gelatin and the rise of plant-based alternatives. It’s a gelatin showdown, with vegans and vegetarians bringing their A-game. Will traditional gelatin crumble like a poorly set jelly?
Meet the Gelatin Maestros:
Behind the scenes, gelatin production is a dynamic symphony led by industry players like Rousselot, Darling Ingredients, and Gelita AG. It’s not just about wobbles; it’s about mergers, acquisitions, and innovations, with companies jazzing up their offerings to meet consumer demands.
The Grand Finale: Gelatin Gossips and Juicy Developments:
In March 2023, Darling Ingredients completed its acquisition of Gelnex — a major player in the gelatin and collagen arena. Meanwhile, Strides Pharma Science is spinning off its soft gelatin unit into a company named OneSource. Gelatin is not just wobbles; it’s a business rollercoaster.
Conclusion: A Wobbly World of Infinite Possibilities
As we wrap up our gelatin escapade, one thing is clear — the gelatin market is not just a wiggly dessert delight; it’s a dynamic world of growth, challenges, and intriguing developments. Whether you’re a gelatin enthusiast or a casual observer, there’s no denying the wobbly charm of this market. So, grab a spoon and dive into the jiggly adventure!
About Us-
SkyQuest Technology Group is a Global Market Intelligence, Innovation Management & Commercialization organization that connects innovation to new markets, networks & collaborators for achieving Sustainable Development Goals.
Contact Us-
SkyQuest Technology Consulting Pvt. Ltd.
1 Apache Way,
Westford,
Massachusetts 01886
USA (+1) 617–230–0741
Email- [email protected]
Website: https://www.skyquestt.com
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Career Expo Opens for Military Spouses
A Key Opportunity for Career Advancement
Empowering Military Spouses
The Defense Department's Spouse Education and Career Opportunities program, in collaboration with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Military Spouse Association, is set to co-host a virtual career expo. Scheduled for January 31, 2024, this event represents a significant step in supporting military spouses' career aspirations.
A Bridge to Federal Employment
- Event Details: The expo, running from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. EST, aims to connect military spouses with federal employment opportunities, offering insights into the hiring process from over 20 federal departments and agencies.
- Importance of Flexibility: Federal jobs offer the flexibility and portability essential for military spouses, often faced with frequent Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves and unique challenges of military life.
Advocating for Military Spouses
Amy Rodick, director of the Office of Military Family Readiness Policy, underscores the valuable contributions of military spouses in the workforce. The expo is seen as a platform for them to access rewarding and well-paying job opportunities.
Military spouses can learn more and register for the event at https://myseco.militaryonesource.mil/portal/events/live/federal-interagency-military-spouse-career-expo.
Addressing Unemployment among Military Spouses
In collaboration with USDA, the expo is part of broader efforts to address the 21 percent unemployment rate among over 594,000 military spouses. The Military Spouse Career Accelerator Pilot (MSCAP) program, a 12-week fellowship, has seen significant success, with 80% of participants securing full-time employment post-completion.
Expanding Employment Support
- Military Spouse Employment Program (MSEP): This initiative has increased the number of partner members, expanding job opportunities and raising corporate America's awareness of military families' economic security needs.
- Enhanced MyCAA Eligibility: The My Career Advancement Account (MyCAA) financial assistance program has extended its eligibility, offering up to $4,000 in aid for qualifying military spouses.
What to Expect at the Expo
The virtual expo will feature booths from various departments and agencies, providing networking opportunities, insights into open positions, and a deeper understanding of the federal hiring process. Additionally, attendees can explore a wide range of resources and information.
A Collaborative Effort
Launched in 2022 by the USDA Military Spouse Association, the Federal Interagency Military Spouse Career Expo has evolved into a joint initiative with the DOD. This evolution reflects a strong commitment to military spouse employment in the federal sector. Furthermore, military spouses can learn more and register for the event at the official website, ensuring they have access to valuable career opportunities and support.
Supporting Military Spouses Beyond Employment
- Spouse Education and Career Opportunities Program: This DOD initiative offers comprehensive resources and tools, including free career coaching, to assist military spouses in achieving their career and education goals.
- Military OneSource: A DOD-funded program providing information and resources on all aspects of military life.
A Step Towards Inclusive Growth
The Federal Interagency Military Spouse Career Expo is more than just a job fair; it's a testament to the ongoing efforts to integrate military spouses into the workforce effectively. This event symbolizes the recognition and support they deserve, contributing to their personal growth and the strength of the military community.
Sources: THX News & US Department of Defense.
Read the full article
#FederalMilitarySpousesCareerExpo#MilitaryCommunityandFamilyPolicy#MilitaryFamilyReadinessPolicy#MilitaryOneSourceServices#MilitarySpouseCareerAcceleratorPilot#MilitarySpouseEmploymentOpportunities#MyCAAFinancialAssistanceProgram#SpouseEducationandCareerSupport#USDAMilitarySpouseAssociation#VirtualCareerExpoforMilitarySpouses
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"Unveiling Strides Pharma's Game-Changing Move: OneSource Contract Manufacturing Business Breaks Free!"
Strides Pharma has announced that its board has approved a scheme of arrangement among its group entities to establish a separate contract development and manufacturing entity called OneSource. This strategic move aims to create a specialty pharmaceutical CDMO (Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization) powerhouse, with capabilities in various areas such as biologics, oral soft-gels,…
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OneSource Roofing and Restoration Voted a Neighborhood Fave in Nextdoor’s 2023 Local Business Awards - EIN News
http://dlvr.it/St3vGL
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Benefits Account Manager at OneSource Virtual
OneSource Virtual (OSV) is the Workday partner that has helped more than 1,300 companies with everything from deployment to maintenance to payroll and more—all to make the day more doable. Founded in 2008, OSV pioneered Business Process as a Service (BPaaS) and has become the leading provider of automated solutions for organizations of all sizes using Workday, delivering services with…
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