So I'm in the interview process with a finance company and will eventually need to pass a background check including employment. I have no criminal records but I worried about the employment part. I lied on my resume to get the interview because I was an exotic dancer for the last several years, and I didn't think saying that would get me an interview. I put on my resume that I was a waitress at the club but I used the legal name/parent company not club name. This got me to my initial interview and I am moving on to the next one. They already mentioned the extensive background check that will be done once I get an offer. I realize why they are so thorough in this part and this job is licensed. Looking back, I wish I had put independent contractor which is true, I was never an employee for the club. I was a 1099 worker. The job is entry level customer service so I thought putting waitress would help me get hired as it is customer service heavy. Dancing is still heavily stigmatized but the skills are similar to service industry.
What exactly happens when they do an employment background check? Will I have an opportunity to explain myself or will the fact that I lied automatically disqualify me? I'm trying to obtain a record of my employment but having no luck figuring out how to do so online. I tried the work number site from Equifax and they could not verify me.

Are you a student in Germany looking for work opportunities to support your studies? Part-time jobs and internships can be excellent avenues for gaining experience, earning extra income, and expanding your professional network. In this article, we'll explore the various work opportunities available to students in GermanyAre you a student in Germany looking for work opportunities to support your studies? Part-time jobs and internships can be excellent avenues for gaining experience, earning extra income, and expanding your professional network. In this article, we'll explore the various work opportunities available to students in Germany, including part-time job options and internships, along with essential tips for finding and excelling in these roles.

Part-time Jobs for Students in Germany

1. Retail and Hospitality

One of the most common part-time job sectors for students in Germany is retail and hospitality. Positions like sales associates, baristas, waiters/waitresses, and receptionists are often available in retail stores, cafes, restaurants, and hotels. These roles offer flexible hours, allowing students to balance work with their studies.

2. Tutoring and Language Teaching

If you excel in certain subjects or are proficient in languages, tutoring can be a lucrative part-time job option. Many students seek tutors for subjects like math, science, languages, and test preparation. Additionally, teaching your native language to non-native speakers can be another rewarding opportunity.

3. Administrative and Office Support

Students with strong organizational and administrative skills can find part-time roles in offices and administrative departments. Tasks may include data entry, filing, answering phones, scheduling appointments, and assisting with basic office operations.

4. Freelancing and Online Work

With the rise of remote work opportunities, students can explore freelancing and online jobs in various fields. From content writing and graphic design to virtual assistance and digital marketing, freelancing offers flexibility and the chance to work on projects that align with your skills and interests.

5. Research and Academic Assistants

Universities and research institutions often hire students as research assistants or academic support staff. These roles involve tasks such as literature reviews, data collection and analysis, assisting professors with research projects, and supporting academic departments with administrative tasks.

Internship Opportunities in Germany

Apart from part-time jobs, internships are valuable for gaining hands-on experience in your field of study and building professional connections. Here are some internship options for students in Germany:

1. Company Internships

Many companies in Germany offer internships to students, providing them with practical insights into their industry. Internship durations can vary from a few weeks to several months, and some companies may offer stipends or allowances to cover expenses.

2. Research Internships

For students interested in research and academia, research internships at universities or research institutions can be highly beneficial. You'll work alongside experienced researchers, contribute to ongoing projects, and gain valuable research skills.

3. Non-profit and NGO Internships

Interning with non-profit organizations and NGOs allows students to engage in meaningful work related to social causes, environmental issues, humanitarian efforts, and community development. These internships can provide a sense of purpose while enhancing your resume.

4. Startup Internships

Germany has a thriving startup ecosystem, offering opportunities for students to intern at innovative startups. These internships often involve diverse responsibilities, exposure to entrepreneurship, and the chance to work in dynamic and creative environments.

Tips for Finding and Excelling in Work Opportunities

1. Networking: Attend career fairs, networking events, and workshops to connect with potential employers and professionals in your field.
2. Online Platforms: Utilize online job portals, university career services, and professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to search for part-time jobs and internships.
3. Tailored Applications: Customize your resume and cover letter for each job or internship application, highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
4. Professional Development: Seek opportunities for skill development, such as online courses, workshops, and certifications, to enhance your employability.
5. Time Management: Prioritize your academic commitments while effectively managing your work schedule to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
6. Seek Feedback: Request feedback from supervisors and mentors to continuously improve your performance and professional growth.

Conclusion

Work opportunities for students in Germany encompass a wide range of options, from part-time jobs in retail and tutoring to internships in companies, research institutions, non-profits, and startups. By leveraging networking, online resources, and professional development, students can find rewarding work experiences that complement their studies and future career goals. Stay proactive, persistent, and adaptable in your job search, and make the most out of these valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth.
, including part-time job options and internships, along with essential tips for finding and excelling in these roles.

Part-time Jobs for Students in Germany

1. Retail and Hospitality

One of the most common part-time job sectors for students in Germany is retail and hospitality. Positions like sales associates, baristas, waiters/waitresses, and receptionists are often available in retail stores, cafes, restaurants, and hotels. These roles offer flexible hours, allowing students to balance work with their studies.

2. Tutoring and Language Teaching

If you excel in certain subjects or are proficient in languages, tutoring can be a lucrative part-time job option. Many students seek tutors for subjects like math, science, languages, and test preparation. Additionally, teaching your native language to non-native speakers can be another rewarding opportunity.

3. Administrative and Office Support

Students with strong organizational and administrative skills can find part-time roles in offices and administrative departments. Tasks may include data entry, filing, answering phones, scheduling appointments, and assisting with basic office operations.

4. Freelancing and Online Work

With the rise of remote work opportunities, students can explore freelancing and online jobs in various fields. From content writing and graphic design to virtual assistance and digital marketing, freelancing offers flexibility and the chance to work on projects that align with your skills and interests.

5. Research and Academic Assistants

Universities and research institutions often hire students as research assistants or academic support staff. These roles involve tasks such as literature reviews, data collection and analysis, assisting professors with research projects, and supporting academic departments with administrative tasks.

Internship Opportunities in Germany

Apart from part-time jobs, internships are valuable for gaining hands-on experience in your field of study and building professional connections. Here are some internship options for students in Germany:

1. Company Internships

Many companies in Germany offer internships to students, providing them with practical insights into their industry. Internship durations can vary from a few weeks to several months, and some companies may offer stipends or allowances to cover expenses.

2. Research Internships

For students interested in research and academia, research internships at universities or research institutions can be highly beneficial. You'll work alongside experienced researchers, contribute to ongoing projects, and gain valuable research skills.

3. Non-profit and NGO Internships

Interning with non-profit organizations and NGOs allows students to engage in meaningful work related to social causes, environmental issues, humanitarian efforts, and community development. These internships can provide a sense of purpose while enhancing your resume.

4. Startup Internships

Germany has a thriving startup ecosystem, offering opportunities for students to intern at innovative startups. These internships often involve diverse responsibilities, exposure to entrepreneurship, and the chance to work in dynamic and creative environments.

Tips for Finding and Excelling in Work Opportunities

1. Networking: Attend career fairs, networking events, and workshops to connect with potential employers and professionals in your field.
2. Online Platforms: Utilize online job portals, university career services, and professional networking platforms like LinkedIn to search for part-time jobs and internships.
3. Tailored Applications: Customize your resume and cover letter for each job or internship application, highlighting relevant skills and experiences.
4. Professional Development: Seek opportunities for skill development, such as online courses, workshops, and certifications, to enhance your employability.
5. Time Management: Prioritize your academic commitments while effectively managing your work schedule to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
6. Seek Feedback: Request feedback from supervisors and mentors to continuously improve your performance and professional growth.

Conclusion

Work opportunities for students in Germany encompass a wide range of options, from part-time jobs in retail and tutoring to internships in companies, research institutions, non-profits, and startups. By leveraging networking, online resources, and professional development, students can find rewarding work experiences that complement their studies and future career goals. Stay proactive, persistent, and adaptable in your job search, and make the most out of these valuable opportunities for personal and professional growth.

ABOUT ME
I wrote a money diary in October 2022. Since then, my boyfriend P. has been upgraded to fiance (we are getting married in July!) and my beloved Trash Cat has had enucleation surgery (we now call the vet “The Eye Snatcher”). I still work as a technology specialist in higher education. In December 2023, I discovered HR input my salary wrong when I first started my current job—the contract I signed stated my salary as $65,000, but they input it as $60,000. I got a hefty portion of back pay. I am currently making about $67,000/year.
P. and I still split expenses 50/50 (somewhat imperfectly) and do not have any combined accounts. We input shared expenses into this spreadsheet and then settle the difference once a month. His salary is about $75,000. He recently cashed out about $15,000 from a 529 plan he never used (he didn’t go to college) and will be creating a CD ladder with this money to save for a down payment.
ASSETS & DEBT
Retirement balance: $6,542.66 in my 403(b) and $2,688.03 in my Roth IRA. In my last money diary, I felt guilty about my retirement balance because I didn’t really start until the age of 25 and for a year my contributions went uninvested. I feel much better about it now. This summer, I’ll qualify for employer-matched contributions to my 403(b), which will improve my progress even more.
Equity: maybe one day????
Savings account balance: $1,291.23 in an emergency fund, $160.32 in a recently-started down payment fund.
Checking account balance: $3,052.37
Credit card debt: $4,651 on credit card 1, $0 on credit card 2. Unfortunately, I’ve had 3 major setbacks in recent months: Trash Cat’s surgery ($2,200), new tires/maintenance on my car ($2,300), and an unexpected hotel stay when P.’s nephew passed away just before Christmas ($1,000). P. and I split Trash Cat’s surgery and the hotel stay, so the total I’ve put on my card in recent months is $3,900. I was down to about $800 in debt prior to all this fun stuff.
Student loan debt: $75,000 in public loans for a bachelor’s degree in Education and a master’s degree in English. This was technically a “bad choice” because I did use my loans for living expenses during grad school, but I honestly do not regret it. I LOVED grad school, even though most of it happened online due to the pandemic, and I sincerely believe it made me a better, more thoughtful, and empathetic person. Since the university I work for now is a certified non-profit organization, I will eventually qualify for PSLF if I stay here or within the field of accredited higher education.
Car debt: I owe $2,754 on my Toyota.
INCOME
Income progression: I have worked steadily at part-time jobs since age 16. I’ve been in educational tech for 3 years; my starting salary was $18/hour as a customer service associate, which was around $42,000 annually with overtime. When I started my current job almost 2 years ago, my salary jumped to $65,000 (which ended up being funky, see ABOUT ME above). My current salary, after it was adjusted and I received a 3% raise, is now $67,000.
Monthly take-home pay: $3,355.90 after deductions
Side gig income: None. I quit tutoring because I started taking night classes back in the fall.
Parental Support: As I mentioned in my money diary last year, my parents contributed about $22,000 to rent/car expenses during my “adult” (college) life. My dad is also paying for our wedding “reception,” which is a private dinner at a restaurant for 15 people (estimated cost $5,000). I hinted heavily at Financial Trauma in my last diary, an issue I’ve mostly overcome thanks to my incredible therapist. I might write a more detailed post on healing Financial Trauma and my experience with it…let me know if you’d be interested in reading something like that :)
EXPENSES
Rent: $787.50 (P. and I split rent 50/50; our total rent is $1,575)
Renter’s & car insurance: $1,321/year, which averages out to $110.83/month (not split).
Health insurance: $394.46/month before tax for health and dental. Once P. and I get married, I am hopping on his insurance.
Retirement contribution: $257.50/month pre-tax into my 403(b). I also transfer $50/month into a Roth IRA.
Savings contribution: $200/month to emergency fund, $50/month to down payment fund
Debt payments: $260/month for my car payment, $60/month for my student loan payment (this is wildly low because I am on an income-driven repayment plan. Due to the ongoing Federal Battles, I have not had to recertify my income, so this payment is based on my 2019 income. I also pay at least $500/month towards my credit card debt. Since this is a three paycheck month (and my third paycheck will be a “deduction holiday”), I am paying $1,000 towards it this month. P. does not contribute towards my debt.
Utilities: P. and I split internet, water, electricity, and trash evenly: usually about $175/month for my half, $350 total.
Cellphone: $65/month (we each pay for our own phones).
Subscriptions: Spotify for $10.99/month, Hulu for $7.99/month, Monarch (web budgeting app) for $50/year (this is a discounted price; it will jump to $80/year next year). None of these expenses are split.
Gym membership: $36/monthly for gym membership; $500/quarter for personal training (not split).
Pet expenses: P. and I split this expense; generally $100/month for my half, $200/month total.
Therapy: $25/week (not split).
MONEY DIARY
DAY 1: FRIDAY
😴 7 AM: P. shakes me awake. I reluctantly get up, go to the bathroom, and change into leggings and a sweater dress. After I give Trash Cat his morning medicine, I kiss P. goodbye and I’m out the door. I listen to the Sinisterhood podcast on my drive to work and try to stop for coffee, but the drive-thru line is backed up into the street and causing traffic, so I skip it.
💄8 AM: I put on my makeup in the bathroom at work; this has become my new routine since I was diagnosed with sleep apnea because the extra few minutes of sleep are now a medical necessity. I use Covergirl skinmilk foundation, elf lash and roll mascara, and elf instant brow pencil. Sometimes I use elf lip stain (big elf fan over here) but don’t bother today.
😈 9 AM: I meet with the university’s academic technology team to help them set up a feedback survey for a new grading tool they piloted this semester. We also bitch a little about some difficulties we’ve had this week with faculty. An important thing to know about me is that I am a hater to my innermost core.
🥪12 PM: After spending most of the morning replying to emails, updating tickets, and watching budgeting videos on YouTube, I realize I forgot my lunch at home. Since digging myself back into credit card debt, I’ve made a conscious effort to bring my lunch to work and spend less on convenience food, so I’m pretty annoyed with myself. A quick trip to the library cafe yields a turkey sub, a green smoothie, and a giant cookie ($14.47). I eat at my desk while making some money moves (it’s payday!). $200 goes to my credit card to cover my therapy copay and the pair of Hokas I bought my mom for her birthday earlier this week. I also transfer $500 to my savings account. $214.47
👣5 PM: I pack up and make the short drive over to my friend’s apartment. It was a spectacularly unproductive day; if I’m being honest, I’ve been feeling burnt out and need a break, but I’m trying to save my vacation days for our wedding. My friend and I walk around one of my favorite neighborhoods in the city and catch up. We also go to Whole Foods before she heads to the gym. I grab some specialty canned beans, tofu, tortilla chips, Chomps, and some Poppi sodas ($35.23).
🐱8 PM: I eat one of my favorite lazy meals for dinner—refried beans mixed with quinoa, salsa verde, and shredded cheese with tortilla chips—and watch a few episodes of Home Economics on Hulu. I get sucked into TikTok for a little while before brushing my teeth and taking my meds. I go to bed around 10:30 PM while snuggling Trash Cat.
Daily Total: $249.70
DAY 2: SATURDAY
🚿 8:30 AM: Quick shower before changing into a blue sundress and a white button up. I do my makeup and feed Trash Cat. I’m out the door a little past 9 AM to head to book club.
📚10 AM: This month, we’re having book club at an adorable little tea room. We read Romancing Mr. Bridgerton and obviously love a ✨theme✨ so the four of us spend an hour talking about the book, eating tiny finger sandwiches, and drinking approximately 5 gallons of tea. One of my good friends from grad school, R., started this book club a few months ago and it has been such a joy to get together with awesome women on a regular basis. We also commiserate over family problems—R does a dramatic reading of an outrageous text from my dad before we go our separate ways ($38.10).
💍12 PM: I received an email yesterday from our jeweler that my wedding ring is done and realize I’m much closer to the jewelry shop than I am to home. I call P. to ask if he’d be okay with me picking it up. He is. I swing by the shop and try on my ring; it is so beautiful and fits perfectly! I wear it on my drive home and can’t stop admiring it. P. put down $400 when we met with the jeweler a few months ago, so I pay $821.88 to take it home. P. sends me that exact amount on Venmo. (technically, I pay nothing).
😵2 PM: I eat more of my refried bean lazy meal and watch some episodes of The Rookie on Hulu. The rest of the day is spent fielding calls and texts from my sister, brother, and sister-in-law about my mother’s birthday dinner tomorrow. It is bringing up ✨trauma✨ for all of us.
😴9 PM: A very lazy night routine of brushing my teeth, taking off my makeup with a wipe, take my meds, and drinking water while listening to a podcast as I fall asleep.
Daily Total: $38.10
DAY 3: SUNDAY
🎁10:30 AM: Roll out of bed, make some Kodiak protein waffles, and call my youngest brother, who is 22. He and I are very close, but I still carry a lot of guilt about how much I couldn’t—and can’t—protect him from. I offer to pick out a gift for Mom “from him” since he has to head to the airport to retrieve our parents and he agrees.
🧀12 PM: I go to a gift shop in the next town over and pick out a pair of gold vermeil earrings. They’re $225. I buy them and tell my brother to Venmo me $175 (so technically I spend $50). After, I pop over to Wegmans, which is in the same shopping plaza, and pick up quesadillas, seltzers, fried rice, and spicy chicken for lunch ($41.55 total, $20.77 for my half). $70.77.
🧼1 PM: P. and I eat lunch on the couch while watching YouTube. Afterwards, I channel my irritation into cleaning the apartment. I vacuum, swiffer, put away dishes, and wipe down the bathroom. P. takes out the trash and recycling and starts some laundry.
🍾4 PM: We meet my other brother (I have two—this one is also younger but closer in age to me, 27) and my sister-in-law at a bar to pregame for Mom's birthday dinner. Is this healthy? Probably not. Does it work? Yes. I pay for all our drinks ($112.02)
🙄5 PM: Dinner time. A bunch of my aunts and uncles are there, too, so we sit at the “kid’s table” with my siblings and one of my cousins. I order Jameson and ginger and a fancy cheeseburger. Maybe it’s the liquid courage, or the fact I went into this with extraordinarily low expectations, but I have a surprisingly good time…until my dad starts to fight with the waitress about separate checks for the separate tables. He didn’t mention it at the beginning of the meal, and considering we have 17 people at three different tables, the waitress understandably says no. It gets to the point where my brother just hands her his credit card to put an end to it. He doesn’t tell me how much the total bill is; P. and I venmo him $100 each ($100).
🍋7 PM: The fun isn’t over! We head back to my parents’ house for cake and presents. I eat lemon cake with ice cream and give my mom the Hokas I bought her earlier in the week. She loves the earrings from my brother, and he thanks me for helping him.
💤11 PM: We finally leave. I fall asleep on the way home. I thank P. for being such a supportive partner, take my meds, and promptly fall asleep again.
Daily total: $282.79
DAY 4: MONDAY
🤕8 AM: I make it out of bed and over to the computer. I respond to emails, update a few tickets, and purchase a knee brace from Amazon ($24.01). I LOVE going to the gym and I’m trying to lose weight for health reasons, but the past few days my left knee has been stiff and achy to the point that it hurts to go up and down the stairs. I have a doctor’s appointment this week so I can tell my primary care physician then, but I want to go for a walk to clear my head. I drink a Liquid IV.
🍜11 AM: P. picks up brunch from one of our favorite local restaurants. Their biscuits and gravy bowl is incredible. ($27.58 total, $*13.79 *for my half).
🥟4 PM: I jump in the car and run to Petsmart to pick up pill pockets and food for Trash Cat. Even though he came from a dumpster, he has decided he’ll only eat the fancy cat food. ($64.78 total, $32.39 **for my half). Then I go to Wegmans for some more groceries: tomatoes, cucumbers, frozen dumplings, lettuce, seltzer, onions, brussel sprouts, and turkey burgers. ($68.22 total, $34.11 **for my half).
🍅6 PM: P. and I eat dinner while watching the John Oliver episode on libraries (stop banning books, losers!!!!). It’s one of our other favorite lazy meals: quinoa with fancy canned beans with chopped up peppers, onions, and tomatoes. I drink a seltzer with dinner and then do some chores and take a shower.
🦷10 PM: Stayed up later than I meant to scrolling TikTok and Reddit. Whoops! I brush my teeth and turn off the lights.
Daily total: $104.30
DAY 5: TUESDAY
🧇8 AM: Roll out of bed and walk 5 steps to my computer. After checking email and signing in, I make protein waffles for breakfast and put on my new knee brace that was delivered last night.
💩10 AM: I take a quick break from writing technical documentation to fold some laundry and tidy up the kitchen. I give Trash Cat some treats and clean out the litterbox. He is a stinky boy.
👨‍💻1:30 PM: I run a meeting with my boss and grandboss about the documentation project I’m currently spearheading. We are migrating into a new (and easier) documentation system, which means I need to export, update, and organize all our current documentation. They’re both pleased with my progress and the next goals I’ve outlined. Maybe I am good at my job? Afterwards, I eat some refried beans with tortilla chips and a seltzer.
🤬4:30 PM: I get a very rude email from a faculty member saying he cannot access a file a student shared with him (and grades are due tonight). He sends me a screenshot and it turns out…he’s clicking the wrong button. I explain the correct steps and attach the student’s file, but I’m so agitated that I sign out early and go for a walk. The weather is beautiful, and I try not to think about the email, but I keep stewing over it. The worst part of working in higher ed is the entitlement - I am often treated like “the help” by the Impossibly Busy Big Brained Professors Who Don’t Have Time For Glitches (FYI, glitches do not care whether you have time for them or not).
📱6 PM: P. and I eat leftovers of our fancy canned bean bowls for dinner and feed Trash Cat. I numb out by scrolling for about 3 hours.
🙄9 PM: I go to bed, but keep thinking about that damn email and then beat myself up for being so sensitive and giving that professor so much of my mental energy off the clock.
Daily total: $0
DAY 6: WEDNESDAY
🥯7 AM: Get out of bed, throw some clothes into my gym bag, get dressed, and run out the door. I stop at Dunkin on the way to work to get an iced coffee and some stuffed bagel minis ($5.45).
🧘‍♀️10 AM: I log into my virtual therapy appointment from my office and talk for 40 minutes straight about everything I am struggling with: my routine is out of whack thanks to my mom’s dinner; I’m mad at my parents, my sister, and my job; my knee is killing me so I can’t work out; I have been a shitty partner and cat mom this week; I am scrolling to numb out instead of reading or relaxing in a meaningful way. My therapist helps me come up with an action plan. I put my phone on bedtime mode to turn it to black and white, make plans with P. for a cozy date night at home this weekend, and bookmark a few jobs to apply for. She reminds me I am a supportive sister and partner and relationships are not 50/50 every single day. We end with a meditation about releasing anger.
☁️11 AM: I meet with a staff member in admissions over Zoom to discuss file back-up in preparation for his new computer. He is actually already synced to our cloud system, meaning that all files are backed up, so the meeting is easy. He asks a few questions about the cloud system and how it works and also provides feedback on some of the tools he feels need guidelines or best practices for usage.
📽️12 PM: Lunch is the last of the fancy bean bowl leftovers and a seltzer (I am a creature of habit). While I eat, I watch budgeting videos on YouTube. I get an email that my credit card has been charged for my therapy copay ($25).
🙃3 PM: I meet virtually with a professor who is, technologically speaking, extremely high-need. I watch her rename and organize files for about an hour. Inevitably, she moves them to the wrong place, accidentally deletes the entire file name, etc. On the bright side, she is very sweet and appreciative of my guidance.
💪4:45 PM: I duck out early to drive to the gym. I let my trainer know what is going on with my knee, so we decide to hit upper today. I only started weightlifting in November and I’ve found I love it so much I am willing to shell out for personal training. After doing my best not to side-eye the men with terrible form (if you need to use your knees to complete a bicep curl, the weight is too heavy), I stretch out and grab dinner from Qdoba: a chicken bowl for me and a steak burrito for P ($24.66 total, $*12.33 *for my half).
🤙7 PM: I call my youngest brother while eating dinner. He is the only one living at home with my parents and needs to vent about what’s going on. I do my best to validate his feelings and remind him he can stop by our apartment whenever he needs to. I wish I could do more.
🚿8 PM: I pack my Qdoba leftovers for lunch, take a shower, and crawl into bed with some sleepy tea and a book.
Daily total: $42.78
DAY 7: THURSDAY
🦶5:30 AM: P. wakes me up by tickling my feet. It is not enjoyable, but it is highly effective. I grab my leftovers and head to the gym.
🚲7 AM: I finish up my cardio workout on the bike, take a quick shower, and change into my work clothes. It’s a little unfair that exercise actually does make you feel better. On the way to work, I stop at Dunkin for iced coffee again but resist getting a snack ($3.31).
🥤9 AM: My morning work consists of emails, tickets, and updating some website pages. I also find a job listing on LinkedIn at another university which is a step up from my current position. A quick look at Glassdoor shows it has a higher employee satisfaction rating than the institution where I work now, and the salary range for this position is at least $10k higher than my current salary. I spend a bit of time fine-tuning my resume and drafting a cover letter while researching the university. It has a much nicer fitness center and a smoothie bar? I know, I know, the grass is always greener…
📚10 AM: Quick walk over to the library for an appointment with the archival specialist. We discuss how to back up her files in preparation for her new computer. She gives me a tour of the rare book collection - first editions of Jane Eyre and David Copperfield, plus a copy of the Nuremberg Chronicle from the fifteenth century. Very cool. For about five minutes, I consider going back to school to get a master’s degree in library science.
🌶️11 AM: Early lunch of my Qdoba leftovers, tortilla chips, and seltzer since I didn’t have breakfast.
🖥️2 PM: I meet with my manager to discuss the documentation project and a new hire initiative in collaboration with HR. The spring semester is officially over, so we have more time on our hands to do some maintenance, clean-up, and proactive support.
🧀5 PM: Work is over! I stop at the grocery store to buy brie, crackers, oat milk, toilet paper, paper towels, and a cup of macaroni. My period is coming and I always crave cheese ($49.55 total, $*24.77 *for my half).
🍴6 PM: P. and I eat a dinner of brie, crackers, and brussel sprouts while watching a few cooking videos on YouTube. We talk about how “emotionally charged” I’ve been for the past few days (P. uses the phrase—he never, ever calls me crazy, irritable, moody, etc.). Eating cheese makes me feel better. Trash Cat and I watch a few episodes of Brooklyn 99.
💊8 PM: Quick shower, meds, and podcasts. I start to doze off.
📞9:30 PM: My brother calls me. I’m confused and groggy, so I miss the call but text him immediately asking if everything is okay. He lets me know he will be fine and I promise to call him tomorrow. It takes me a little while longer to fall asleep; P. comes to bed around 10 PM for cuddles.
Daily total: $28.08
WEEKLY TOTALS (edited)
Total Spent: $745.45
Food + Drink: $375.95
Fun / Entertainment: $38.10
Home + Health: $49.01
Clothes + Beauty: $0
Transport: $0
Credit card: $200
Gift: $50
Pets: $32.39
REFLECTION
This was an above-average spending week for me with my mom’s birthday. Emotionally, it was also not a great week for me, and I often tend to spend more money when I’m upset, although I’ve apparently channeled that compulsion into grocery shopping. I am also trying to test out if smaller, more frequent grocery trips are better for us, since weekly shopping often means we throw out produce or meat.
I’m working on a) digging myself out of credit card debt and b) regulating my emotions, especially when it comes to my family. This particular stressor, and its effects on my finances, waxes and wanes throughout the year - birthdays and holidays tend to bring out the worst in both. However, even with the debt, I still feel like I am pretty financially stable (definitely more so in comparison to where I was as a kid, teen, and younger adult).
Thanks for reading 😼 Let me know if you have any questions!

this is kind of a quest to force myself to let this out and connect with people. It is been couple of months I have been bottling things and not even able to put it words to ask about it here. I feel vulnerable about it, I was scared it will come of little mental and will get in the opposite of responses I was needing. I had previous depression and anxiety experience but I never was in a situation I really do not know how to express this or label it.
My brain shows extreme resistance to write/unpack what happened last 4-5 months. I feel emotionally freezed, in a very loving and lucky relationship but try not to share everything with him and everytime I try to unpack and process myself I freeze, feel extreme pain and resistance to have any progress.
So I made a quest to myself to at little ask for help anonymously. What actually happened last months were mix of job loss, financial problems (as I live alone abroad as international had more problem to navigate), health problems (went to ER in the US for first time in my life, had kidney stones procedure), well more financial problems which I am completely ignoring at that point, feeling extremely lonely or people I tried to connect with as friends were self-centered and did not care what I am going through.
Since our relationship is quite new, I tried to bring these least as possible and probably still more than I should. I feel blockage about finding researching a new therapist, responding to a friend about giving feedback to her resume and these keep ruminating in my brain. I had anxiety and depression experience before but the sabotage or mental problems that are I am creating by myself is extreme.
The last thing happened, was the bf's friend, a woman calling herself "protective" started to badmouth about me. She thinks I am telling bf to meet less often (?), or I am not nice cause I held a cat wrong way the other day :D crazy stuff. So the week before last week it turns out she came at a waitress in a bar and they had to cut the fun and last week she came at me in a bar. two times, yelling and swearing. Sunday I was able to humor her as crazy but Monday my brain went to complete shut down. I really feel full and do not know how to empty my cup. I am at least proud I was able to put these words out here.
I guess my question, how you were able to empty/release experiences after a bad period (although I had worse periods this one put me in complete freeze) or did you go through something similar you cannot even write about it and cannot handle the wave of sadness, what tools worked for you?

Just moved to Fort Lauderdale and looking for a job to keep me busy. But when I apply on indeed it’s been like a week and out of 40 applications no one has even viewed my resume haha. I have a lot of experience as a waitress, barista, and a therapist for special needs children. Just curious if anyone knows of any places I can walk into and ask to apply in person.

I finally f*cking did it. I got hired to an entry level basic job after 5 months of applying to nearly 500 places.
I moved to Australia from the US 5 months ago to be with my Aussie fiance. I am very VERY qualified when it comes to retail, customer service, hospitality, service, etc (5+ years experience with all) and even after hiring people to perfect and manage my resume, I was unable to even get a single interview for 5 months, applying to 20+ basic retail places, entry level reception roles, waitressing positions, cashier positions, etc a day. I would tailor cover letters for each position. I had to get a job by next month or else we were fked because I wouldn’t be able to apply for leases to new places to live.
Two weeks ago I was so fed up, I cried in the shower. I decided then and there that I would print out 30 copies of my resume, put on some makeup and something cute to wear, and march down to the local shopping mall down the road to hand out resumes. Every single place I walked into and introduced myself was happy to take my resume, and I ran out of resumes within an hour.
That week I received FIVE callbacks asking for an interview to get me started. All places I walked in physically. I did great and got a job offer for all but 1. I was able to cherry-pick the one I wanted the most. I start tomorrow training to be a server and floor staff at a popular chain sit down restaurant for 27$ an hour.
I am telling you, please if you are desperate for anything, go in person with a nice resume looking spiffy and walk into places to ask if they are hiring and hand in your resume. I promise you that managers are biased, they will hire the good-looking applicant who took the time to come in and introduce themselves, over pixels on a screen. Online application job sites like Indeed and seek have gamified, hammed up, and saturated the market so much that it’s become a circus. Just. Walk. In. (And of course I’m referring to basic jobs like retail, cafes, etc. This won’t pan out as well for degree level jobs.)

Basically title. I have no relevant "legal" work experience, internships or fancy-looking jobs. I just have retail, nannying, waitressing, and things like that. Is that going to hurt me? Or is it irrelevant? I have almost always consistently had two jobs throughout the entirety of my undergrad so I feel if I highlight that it could work in my favor.
Does it matter or am I stressing too much? I'm going into my senior year and also wondering if I should find some sort of legal volunteer work I can put on my resume but it may be too late at this point and my free time would be better used studying for the LSAT or my regular schoolwork.

I'm 24F and I've been hostessing and waitressing since I was 18. I have severe social anxiety along with ADHD, so this was never an ideal path for me. However, I barely graduated high school which made me feel like I couldn't further my education without wasting money and failing out, so as a result I ended up in the food industry. Honestly, besides my reliability and friendliness, I was never a good employee at any of the restaurants I've worked at. I'm awkward and shy which is obviously not the ideal personality type for this line of work and I've made many mistakes due to my forgetfulness and anxiety. In February, I had a pretty bad mental break and ended up quitting my job on the spot after working there for years. I'm aware that this was a huge mistake and I deeply regret it now, but in addition to feeling like I was bad at my job, I had a coworker that was saying some pretty nasty things about me and I let my emotions get the better of me.
After putting in countless applications to various different restaurants, I finally got hired at a new one a few weeks ago only to realize this work is too stressful for me and quit that one too. The only other experience l have besides food service is working at a dispensary for a few months, which I inevitably couldn't handle due to the high pressure and constant social interactions that I couldn't really use a "script" for.
I feel like such a failure for not being able to be a server and I have no idea what I could handle if i can't even do that. I have next to nothing to put on my resume; no references, no skills, nothing. I've blown through almost all my money and I just desperately need suggestions on what to do next. I want to work. I want to so badly to be able to support myself. I just don't know how to make it happen.

Let me preface this by saying I do not think Agatha Christie intended him to be autistic, or that he would have been autistic back in those days. Just that she may have based his traits on real life people with autistic traits when creating the character. I thought it was very interesting so I am sharing! Here are some excerpts from the book.
A) Talking about how he was sentenced to death by the jury -
"Unprepossessing sort of fellow. Nervous manner. Can't look you straight in the face. Has a sly sideways way of perring at you. Worst possible sort of manner for a jury. Sometimes cringing and sometimes truculent. Blusters in an inefficient kind of way. [...]."
"He does not sound attractive, your James Bentley."
"Oh, no, he isn't. Nobody could like him. But I don't want to see him hanged for all that."
B) Talking about how he can't get a job -
"Well-educated man, but no special qualifications or aptitudes, and, as I say, an unprepossessing manner. Didn't find it easy to get anything." [...]
"Gave him a good reference and all that. He didn't get another job, though. No pep. Made a bad impression on people"
C) Talking about how he found the dead body but did not call the police -
"admitted that he had gone into the room. [...] He'd bent over and touched her, he said, to make sure. And then he'd lost his head. He'd always been very much affected by the sight of blood, he said. He went to his room in a state of collapse and more or less fainted.[...]"
"A very fishy story."
"Yes, indeed. And yet, you know, it might well be true. It's not the sort of thing an ordinary man - or a jury - can believe. But I've come across people like that."
D) The waitress in the cafe in Kilchester where he usually had lunch said that he always chose a table where he could look into a wall or a corner and not see people.
E) "He did it alright. I never did like the looks of him. Wandering about muttering to himself. [...] But she said he was quiet and obliging and didn't give trouble. No drinking, she said, and he didn't even smoke."
F) "I liked him very much. He was gentle and polite - and he knew a lot really. Things out of books, I mean. [...] We used to talk sometimes. But after he left here, he - I - I didn't see much of him. I wrote to him once in a friendly way, but he didn't answer."
G) He was furtive, embarrassed - almost sly glance. Not straightforward, not a man whose word could be trusted - a secretive, sly deceitful fellows with and ungracious, muttering way of talking... That was the impression James Bentley would give to most superficial observers.
H) and he said his old landlady kept her spare money under a floorboard. He said: I could help myself any day to it when she's out. Not quite as a joke, he didn't joke, more as though he were really worried by her carelessness."
I) He used to mutter, you know." said Robin. "Walking about in the lanes. I've often met him. And really, definitely, he looked frightfully queer."
J) Mind you, I've always thought he was a bit daft. And no doubt about it, these daft ones do turn nasty, sometimes. My uncle had a feeble-minded boy, and he could go very nasty sometimes. Didn't know his strength. Yes, that Bentley was daft alright, and I shouldn't be surprised if they don't hang him when it comes to it, but sends him to the asylum instead."
K) Poirot talking to James. "You knew Miss Williams. You had worked with her and talked with her and sometimes had meals with her, and once went for a walk on the downs. And when I mention her, you do not even remember her name!" [...] "I implore you, try to think. You want to be free again, do you not?"
"Free?" Bentley sounded surprised. "Yes. free. I - yes - I supposed I do -."
"Then think! What did Mrs. Ginty say?"
"[...] I really don't know... I just formed the impression. She had been speaking of X - and then I lost interest and didn't listen. [...]"
Poirot sighed. [...] "It is preposterous to think they if you are hanged it will be because you do not pay proper attention to the people with whom you converse..."
L) Poirot talking to James. "You knew them? The mother? The father? The daughter?"
"Not really. It was the dog. A Sealyham. It got caught in a trap. She couldn't get it undone. I helped her."
M) Indeed, he had James Bentley, a pathological case if there ever was one, a self-centered creature who had never thought of anyone but himself. A man ungrateful for the efforts that were being made to save himm - almost, one might say, uninterested in them.
Bonus: This book also has an ADHD character, Maureen Summerhayer! It's not the first ADHD character from Agatha Christie, I also think Lucy from The Hollow has ADHD.
A) Mrs. Summerhayes [...] was usually in a distracted state of putting things down, or else looking for them.Mrs. Summerhayws flung herself down in a chair and began slicing beans with a frenzied energy and considerable awkwardness.
B) "What about this new fellows, Maureen? Look a bit peculiar to me. What's his name again?"
"I couldn't remember it just now when I was talking to him. Had to say Mr. Er-um. Poirot"
C) "And I can't find the Ministry of Agriculture form". continued Maureen. "i've looked everywhere." "The spinach is on the sofa" Poirot offered helpfully.
Maureen was not worried about spinach. "The form came last week" she mused "And I must have put it somewhere."
She swept over to the bureau and started pulling out the drawers. Most of the contents she wept on the floor ruthlessly. It was agony to Hercule Poirot to watch her. Suddenly she uttered a cry of triumph.
"Got it!". Delightedly she rushed from the room. Hercule poirot sighed and resumed meditation.

Just for a bit of context, I originally wrote this story for Odd_directions which is a fiction subreddit. We're doing an event over there called Monster May where we write stories about giant monsters. I thought it would be fun to try writing one in a kind of analog/found footage transcript style. I'm pretty sure you can call my story analog horror. I'm basing that on the fact that people put No Thorugh Road in that genre so I think it qualifies.
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This story took me about a week to write. You can consider this to be more experimental on my part because I want to continue this style except with a longer narrative as opposed to this one-off story here. Anyway, let me know what you think of it and I hope you enjoy.
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On May 22, 2008, a wrecked Honda Accord was found on the Alaskan-Canadian border at approximately 5:30 AM. According to the witness who reported this to the authorities, it seemingly appeared out of nowhere, somehow ending up on its roof in the middle of the road. No driver or passengers were present in the vehicle. The only thing found of note was a video camera, the footage of which revolves around a family of four.
Kent Morris: Owner of the vehicle as indicated by the certificates found in the dashboard. Age: 38
Charlene Morris: Wife to Kent and mother to their children. Age: 36
Lena Morris: Daughter. Estimated Age: 7-8
Deb Morris: son, Estimated Age: 1-2
The following is a transcript of the footage.
It begins with the camera turning on with Lena smiling into it.
Lena: I think I got it working!
Kent: How can you tell?
Lena: Um, the red light is on.
Charlene: Lena, turn that thing off! That’s supposed to be for your cousin’s wedding.
Lena: But I’m bored!
Kent: Alright, we’ll tell you what. You can turn it back on when we get near your aunt and uncle’s town. Okay?
Lena: Okay.
The footage ceases and resumes several hours later. A sign reading “Welcome to Silverwright. Come stay for a while” is shown. Deb is then heard crying which is recorded.
Lena: Mom, Deb won't stop crying!
Charlene: Aw, it's probably just his toothaches.
Some funny faces by her and Kent in the rearview mirror help calm Deb down. Now, he laughs and smiles. The next 30 minutes of footage consists of the surrounding forest area and local businesses.
Kent: Hey, I'm getting hungry. Who wants to grab a bite?
Charlene: I could eat.
Lena: Me too! I'm starving!
Kent: Alright, now the question is where can we stop?
Charlene: Margaret was telling me about a new place that opened up in this town a week ago. I think it was called Betsy's.
Kent: What kind of food does it have?
Charlene: Meat and seafood.
Kent: Sure, that should work. Did Margaret tell you where in town it is?
Charlene: No, sorry.
Kent: No big deal, we'll just keep an eye out for it.
The Morris family does come across the restaurant. The building has a cabin-like exterior with a sign showing a crab holding a fish with Betsy's name over it in green neon lettering. They park and exit their vehicle. Lena films the surrounding area. The sound of buttons on the camera being pressed can be heard.
Presumably, this is her trying to figure out more features about it. Lena activates the zoom function. Upon doing so, some figures can be seen moving amongst trees in the distance. The shadowing makes it difficult to discern, but there appear to be at least three or four, wearing hooded black robes.
Kent: Lena, come on!
The camera zooms out and Lena follows her family into the establishment. The inside is bustling with patrons.
Charlene: Lena, why did you bring that inside? I don't want people looking at us funny.
Lena: But you and Dad said I could use it.
Kent: I mean, she's not wrong.
Charlene gives her husband a look of annoyance. The family then gets a booth. Lena sets down the camera which is angled at the window they are seated in front of. They then make their orders.
Waitress: Alright, just to double check that's going to be one surf and turf plate, an order of stuffed crabs with hush puppies, and two kids' chicken tenders with fries, correct?
Charlene: Yes, thank you so much.
Waitress: And the drinks?
Lena: Coke!
Charlene: No, we can't have you bouncing around our hotel room all night.
Lena: But Mom!
Kent: Listen to your mother, sweety.
Charlene: She'll have a Sprite. I'll have an iced tea, heavy on lemon.
Kent: And I'll have a rum and Coke.
Waitress: And dessert?
Charlene: Baked Alaska.
Kent: Let's see. I could go for some apple pie.
Lena: Strawberry Ice cream!
Charlene: Okay, but you're giving some to Deb.
Lena: Why do I have to?
Charlene: Lena, learn to share.
Lena: Yes, Mom.
While waiting for their food, a ringtone sounds. Kent pulls out his cell phone.
Kent: It's Johnny.
He answers.
Kent: Hey, what's up? No, it's fine. We're about to eat. We're at that new place you and Margaret went to. Yeah, that's the one.
How's Sindy been? Nervous, I bet. Hopefully, it goes well. Brett seems like a good guy. What?
Kent covers the phone and looks at Charlene.
Kent: “Hey, Johnny says Margaret wants to talk to you.”
Charlene agrees and is handed the phone.
Charlene: Hi, Margaret. No, the ride wasn't too bad. Deb and Lena actually behaved better than we thought. What do you need? I mean I could, but it's kind of short notice. It's in a few days. How has she not decided on one yet? I know it's her big day, but at some point, she needs to accept that not everything about it is going to be perfect.
Kent: I can attest to that. Always limit the number of drinks people can have.
Charlene gives Kent another glare before continuing her conversation.
Charlene: Alright, if no one else can, I guess I can make a little time while we're here. Okay, see you soon then. Bye.
Charlene hangs up and hands the phone back to Kent.
Charlene: They want me to help pick out a dress for Sindy.
Kent: This close to the wedding?
Charlene: I know. That girl is smart, but it feels like she can't make a decision to save her life.
The food arrives at the table and the waitress tells them to let her know if they need anything else before leaving. The next hour consists of the family eating.
Kent (while chewing): They weren't kidding. This place hits the spot.
Charlene: Don't talk with your mouth full. It sets a bad example for the kids.
Kent: My bad.
Charlene: The food is great, though. Are you enjoying it too, Lena?
Lena: Yep!
After some time, Charlene excuses herself to go to the restroom and tells Kent to watch their children. Kent lets Lena sip some of his Coke.
Kent: Shit, your mother's coming back. Also, don't say that word.
Lena: Shit?
Kent: No, don't! Yes, Lena, that word.
The meal continues. Something to note here is captured through the window. Once again, this relates to the forest. This time, different colored distortions can be seen, similar to digital glitching. Further analysis of this segment shows that the top of the trees appears to bend slightly.
While this could be due to a camera malfunction, it is unclear why this was condensed to such a small distant area. Upon concluding their meal, the Morris family has the rest of their food to go and exits Betsy's, heading to their hotel, a place known as Salt River Inn. Once inside their room, Lena starts jumping on one of the beds.
Charlene: Kent, did you let her have some Coke?
Kent: No, maybe.
Charlene: I said not to. Lena, get down from there this instant!
Lena is presumably too occupied to hear her mother's command.
Kent: Don't worry. I think I know what might help.
Kent turns on the TV, flipping through the channels until finding that Mulan by Disney is playing, having just begun. Lena stops jumping and sits on the bed, watching the screen tentatively.
Kent: See? No problem. Anyway, I'm heading in the shower. Want to come?
Seeing that their children are occupied, Charlene agrees. Mulan continues playing. The parents exit the bathroom around the movie's climax. Just then, the film is interrupted by a screen reading “Silverwright Weather Service” and an EAS beep sounds from the speakers.
Lena: Hey, where did the movie go?
Below is the message as heard.
[Attention residents of Silverwright, hazardous conditions are expected shortly.]
Kent: Johnny said the weather was supposed to be clear. Damn news people don't know a snake hole from their-
Charlene: Kent, be quiet! I want to hear this.
[For your safety, staying inside and away from windows is recommended. Shut off all lights and unplug all electrical devices to prevent damage due to strong currents.]
Charlene: At least it doesn't sound too serious. Hopefully, this will pass by morn-
[It is also advised that battery-operated devices be turned off as well. This includes cell phones, portable gaming devices, and even calculators. If you must have something on, a radio is most suitable for up-to-date information. Be mindful of volume should you choose this. Conditions are projected to last through the next several nights. We now return to your regularly scheduled program.]
Mulan resumes after a McDonald’s Happy Meal commercial.
Charlene: I wonder if Johnny and Margaret saw this too. Maybe we should give them a call?
Kent: No, I bet they’re sleeping already. You know how they are. Even an earthquake couldn’t wake them.
Charlene: Okay, are you keeping your phone on?
Kent: I don’t see why I shouldn’t.
Charlene: What about what the alert said?
Kent: How should I know? It’s probably like having your phone on airplane mode during a flight. It doesn’t mean anything.
The movie finishes. Charlene tells Lena to get ready for bed. She obeys and afterward lays down to sleep.
Charlene: Lena, did you remember to turn off that camera?
Groggily, Lena turns over and tries to shut it off. In her attempt, she accidentally hits the zoom button on the camera again and knocks it on its side, making it face the window. The red blinking light of a radio tower can be seen far away. Someone is climbing it. This is believed to be one of the hooded figures seen earlier in the video.
They reach the top and seem to raise their arms to the sky in a sort of welcoming gesture. The earlier digital-like distortion appears again. Something comes out of it, either a limb or appendage, and lifts the person, out of view. The distortion then pulses violet and rapidly spreads, soon making the sky above Silverwright the same color. Two hours later, Kent’s phone rings.
Charlene: “It’s after midnight. Who’s calling us now?”
The sound of the bed creaking can be heard.
Kent: Johnny again?
Charlene: I bet Sindy's freaking out that the wedding might be canceled. Answer, but tell him whatever it is will have to wait.
Kent: Hey, Johnny, listen. Wait, Sindy?
The bed creaks again as Kent sits up.
Kent: What? Hang on. I can’t understand you. Let me put you on speaker.
Sindy (sobbing): Mom and Dad are gone. I think something’s happened to them.
Charlene sits up as well. Kent replies to Sindy in a leveled tone.
Kent: Okay, Sindy, I want you to listen closely. Are you somewhere safe?
Sindy: I think so. Brett and I got into an argument earlier. My parents said I could come over. We talked for a while and then I fell asleep on the couch. I woke up about an hour ago to grab something from the fridge. I heard something weird coming from upstairs I wanted to see what it was.
Kent (pausing before replying): What did you find?
Sindy: It sounded like my parents were up so I decided to check on them, but they didn’t respond when I knocked on their door. I decided to try opening it and it was unlocked. They were just standing in front of the window. I think they were staring at something.
Kent: Were you able to see what?
Sindy: No, but the only thing near the house is the woods and that radio tower. Wait, maybe that’s what they were looking at. Their radio was acting weird before it happened.
Kent: Before what happened?
Sindy: Kent…I don’t think I’ll ever be able to comprehend what I saw. There was a purple flash and then their windows were busted in. Something grabbed them. I don’t know what it was. It reminded me of a giant hand only dark like a shadow. They didn’t even scream or anything while they were being pulled away. It was like they were okay with what was happening.
Charlene is the one who replies.
Charlene***:*** Sindy, sweety, tell us where you are in the hose right now and we’ll come get you.
Sindy: I’m in the basement. I figured that would be the safest option. Wait, what is that?
Noises akin to a tornado hitting a home sound through the phone speakers.
Sindy: Oh, god, it’s lifting everything! It’s massive! Wait…Its eyes. I understand everything now. I know I’ll be with my parents again soon.
Charlene: Sindy?
Sindy laughs.
Sindy: It’s so beautiful!
The call ends.
Charlene: We need to leave.
Kent: Leave? What about Sindy? What about Johnny and Margaret?
Charlene: We need to get them some help.
Kent: Okay, let’s try calling the police first.
He attempts and the phone keeps ringing.
Kent: Are you fucking kidding me right now?
Charlene: They must be busy.
Kent: What do we do then, go somewhere else to get help? The nearest town is hours away from here.
Charlene: I don’t see what else we can do.
Kent: I guess you’re right. We better pack.
Charlene and Kent repack their belongings. Charlene grabs the camera and carries Deb while Kent has Lena. Then the family exits the hotel room. The hall and lobby are full of people also trying to reach the exit.
Kent: We're never going to get out of here at this rate. Come on. This way.
They go to an emergency side door and push it open, causing the alarm to go off. Upon reaching their vehicle, there is a sound similar to when a microphone is held up to a speaker. Kent and Charlene let out yells of pain.
Kent: Where the hell is that coming from?
Charlene turns. A figure can be seen floating in the sky above the radio tower. Its appearance is reminiscent of a person's shadow that's been stretched out. Beams of pink light come from its eyes that scan the town below. It has an anomalous effect on whatever it touches. Inanimate objects and people alike vanish, the instant contact is made.
Charlene (voice trembling): What in God's name is happening, Kent?
Lena and Deb can be heard waking up with the latter crying. Their parents put them in the car. The camera is placed on the seat between the two children. Lena rubs her eyes.
Lena: Dad, why are we out here?
Charlene and Kent close their doors. The latter starts the car.
Kent: It's nothing, sweety, we just need to go on a little drive.
He backs out of their parking space and exits the lot, speeding down the road.
Lena: But I want to see Sindy!
Kent: We can't right now.
Lena: Why not?
Kent (voice raised): We just can't, alright?
Lena sobs slightly, but suddenly stops when she notices the camera.
Lena: Um excuse me.
Kent sighs. Charlene answers instead.
Charlene: What is it, honey?
Lena: I accidentally left the camera on.
Charlene: Don't worry about that right now. Just stay quiet and let your father drive, okay?
Lena: Okay.
Charlene: Good.
Lena picks the camera up and faces the back windshield. The creature seems larger than before.
Charlene: Kent!
Kent: I know. I see it in the mirror.
He accelerates.
Lena: Mom, Dad, what's that big thing?
Charlene: Something bad?
Lena: Is it gonna get us?
Charlene: No because we're playing a game with it, tag and if we can outrun it, we'll be safe. If you can help, try to calm your brother down.
Lena: I'll try.
The camera pans over the car floor. The head of a teddy bear sticks out from under the passenger seat. Lena grabs it and hands it to Deb. He stops crying.
Lena: Mom, I did it!
Charlene: That's good, sweety.
Kent continues speeding. On the sidewalk, the pink light washes over pedestrians. They freeze and then raise their arms in the direction of the being before vanishing.
Lena: Where did those people go?
Kent: We don't know.
He sharply turns a corner and goes onto a road that leads out of town.
Charlene: Is that it? Are we safe?
Kent: I think so. I don't know who we can go to about this. We'll try, though.
Lena: Dad?
Kent: Yes?
Lena: What's that thing doing?
The creature is rapidly scanning the area back and forth. Then it stares in their direction. The radio bursts to life with its cry from earlier, causing Kent to nearly go off the road.
Charlene: Keep it straight!
Kent: I'm trying!
The entity rips up several buildings and focuses its light on those areas. It grows and then levitates itself in the air. Its next action is technically flying. Although, its movements are more resemblant to swimming. The noise on the radio increases.
Charlene: Faster, Kent!
Kent: I don't think I can!
Lena: It's gonna catch us!
It dives, going out of view.
Kent: Huh? Where did it go?
Charlene: Kent, the road!
Lena focuses the lens on the front windshield. In the center of the road ahead, the being rises, tall enough to reach the sky. Kent tries sharply turning the steering wheel. It's assumed he is about to attempt a U-turn. Before he can, it shoots its lights at them, making them wash over the car.
It lifts off the road, freezing midair.
Kent (laughs): I get it now.
Charlene: Yes, Sindy was right all along.
Lena: Mom? Dad? What are you talking about? I don't like this.
Charlene: Don't worry, honey. It'll be okay soon.
Nothing else changes at first. Then both parents' bodies began to flatten and stretch out. They laugh as this happens. Deb and Lena begin crying.
Lena: What's happening to you guys?
Charlene: It's okay, honey. It won't hurt soon.
Lena looks at Deb who is also starting to go through the same process. She checks her hands and sees that she is as well. Both shriek as their parents' laughter turns into cackling. Simultaneously, all four family members disappear. The car hits the road and flips several times before coming to a stop.
In the months following the discovery of the Honda Accord, its tag number was used to trace back to the address of the Morris family. This lead went cold because the people who were living there had no idea who they were. By using the address of that home, we determined the possible location of Silverwright. According to our calculations, it should have been on the border going into Canada, but when we went to investigate, it was as if nothing had ever been there.
It's unclear whether the town belonged to the US state of Alaska or the Canadian Province of Yukon. However, as far as the two governments are concerned both Silverwright and the Morris family have never existed.

On May 22, 2008, a wrecked Honda Accord was found on the Alaskan-Canadian border at approximately 5:30 AM. According to the witness who reported this to the authorities, it seemingly appeared out of nowhere, somehow ending up on its roof in the middle of the road. No driver or passengers were present in the vehicle. The only thing found of note was a video camera, the footage of which revolves around a family of four.
Kent Morris: Owner of the vehicle as indicated by the certificates found in the dashboard. Age: 38
Charlene Morris: Wife to Kent and mother to their children. Age: 36
Lena Morris: Daughter. Estimated Age: 7-8
Deb Morris: son, Estimated Age: 1-2
The following is a transcript of the footage.
It begins with the camera turning on with Lena smiling into it.
Lena: I think I got it working!
Kent: How can you tell?
Lena: Um, the red light is on.
Charlene: Lena, turn that thing off! That’s supposed to be for your cousin’s wedding.
Lena: But I’m bored!
Kent: Alright, we’ll tell you what. You can turn it back on when we get near your aunt and uncle’s town. Okay?
Lena: Okay.
The footage ceases and resumes several hours later. A sign reading “Welcome to Silverwright. Come stay for a while” is shown. Deb is then heard crying which is recorded.
Lena: Mom, Deb won't stop crying!
Charlene: Aw, it's probably just his toothaches.
Some funny faces by her and Kent in the rearview mirror help calm Deb down. Now, he laughs and smiles. The next 30 minutes of footage consists of the surrounding forest area and local businesses.
Kent: Hey, I'm getting hungry. Who wants to grab a bite?
Charlene: I could eat.
Lena: Me too! I'm starving!
Kent: Alright, now the question is where can we stop?
Charlene: Margaret was telling me about a new place that opened up in this town a week ago. I think it was called Betsy's.
Kent: What kind of food does it have?
Charlene: Meat and seafood.
Kent: Sure, that should work. Did Margaret tell you where in town it is?
Charlene: No, sorry.
Kent: No big deal, we'll just keep an eye out for it.
The Morris family does come across the restaurant. The building has a cabin-like exterior with a sign showing a crab holding a fish with Betsy's name over it in green neon lettering. They park and exit their vehicle. Lena films the surrounding area. The sound of buttons on the camera being pressed can be heard.
Presumably, this is her trying to figure out more features about it. Lena activates the zoom function. Upon doing so, some figures can be seen moving amongst trees in the distance. The shadowing makes it difficult to discern, but there appear to be at least three or four, wearing hooded black robes.
Kent: Lena, come on!
The camera zooms out and Lena follows her family into the establishment. The inside is bustling with patrons.
Charlene: Lena, why did you bring that inside? I don't want people looking at us funny.
Lena: But you and Dad said I could use it.
Kent: I mean, she's not wrong.
Charlene gives her husband a look of annoyance. The family then gets a booth. Lena sets down the camera which is angled at the window they are seated in front of. They then make their orders.
Waitress: Alright, just to double check that's going to be one surf and turf plate, an order of stuffed crabs with hush puppies, and two kids' chicken tenders with fries, correct?
Charlene: Yes, thank you so much.
Waitress: And the drinks?
Lena: Coke!
Charlene: No, we can't have you bouncing around our hotel room all night.
Lena: But Mom!
Kent: Listen to your mother, sweety.
Charlene: She'll have a Sprite. I'll have an iced tea, heavy on lemon.
Kent: And I'll have a rum and Coke.
Waitress: And dessert?
Charlene: Baked Alaska.
Kent: Let's see. I could go for some apple pie.
Lena: Strawberry Ice cream!
Charlene: Okay, but you're giving some to Deb.
Lena: Why do I have to?
Charlene: Lena, learn to share.
Lena: Yes, Mom.
While waiting for their food, a ringtone sounds. Kent pulls out his cell phone.
Kent: It's Johnny.
He answers.
Kent: Hey, what's up? No, it's fine. We're about to eat. We're at that new place you and Margaret went to. Yeah, that's the one.
How's Sindy been? Nervous, I bet. Hopefully, it goes well. Brett seems like a good guy. What?
Kent covers the phone and looks at Charlene.
Kent: “Hey, Johnny says Margaret wants to talk to you.”
Charlene agrees and is handed the phone.
Charlene: Hi, Margaret. No, the ride wasn't too bad. Deb and Lena actually behaved better than we thought. What do you need? I mean I could, but it's kind of short notice. It's in a few days. How has she not decided on one yet? I know it's her big day, but at some point, she needs to accept that not everything about it is going to be perfect.
Kent: I can attest to that. Always limit the number of drinks people can have.
Charlene gives Kent another glare before continuing her conversation.
Charlene: Alright, if no one else can, I guess I can make a little time while we're here. Okay, see you soon then. Bye.
Charlene hangs up and hands the phone back to Kent.
Charlene: They want me to help pick out a dress for Sindy.
Kent: This close to the wedding?
Charlene: I know. That girl is smart, but it feels like she can't make a decision to save her life.
The food arrives at the table and the waitress tells them to let her know if they need anything else before leaving. The next hour consists of the family eating.
Kent (while chewing): They weren't kidding. This place hits the spot.
Charlene: Don't talk with your mouth full. It sets a bad example for the kids.
Kent: My bad.
Charlene: The food is great, though. Are you enjoying it too, Lena?
Lena: Yep!
After some time, Charlene excuses herself to go to the restroom and tells Kent to watch their children. Kent lets Lena sip some of his Coke.
Kent: Shit, your mother's coming back. Also, don't say that word.
Lena: Shit?
Kent: No, don't! Yes, Lena, that word.
The meal continues. Something to note here is captured through the window. Once again, this relates to the forest. This time, different colored distortions can be seen, similar to digital glitching. Further analysis of this segment shows that the top of the trees appears to bend slightly.
While this could be due to a camera malfunction, it is unclear why this was condensed to such a small distant area. Upon concluding their meal, the Morris family has the rest of their food to go and exits Betsy's, heading to their hotel, a place known as Salt River Inn. Once inside their room, Lena starts jumping on one of the beds.
Charlene: Kent, did you let her have some Coke?
Kent: No, maybe.
Charlene: I said not to. Lena, get down from there this instant!
Lena is presumably too occupied to hear her mother's command.
Kent: Don't worry. I think I know what might help.
Kent turns on the TV, flipping through the channels until finding that Mulan by Disney is playing, having just begun. Lena stops jumping and sits on the bed, watching the screen tentatively.
Kent: See? No problem. Anyway, I'm heading in the shower. Want to come?
Seeing that their children are occupied, Charlene agrees. Mulan continues playing. The parents exit the bathroom around the movie's climax. Just then, the film is interrupted by a screen reading “Silverwright Weather Service” and an EAS beep sounds from the speakers.
Lena: Hey, where did the movie go?
Below is the message as heard.
[Attention residents of Silverwright, hazardous conditions are expected shortly.]
Kent: Johnny said the weather was supposed to be clear. Damn news people don't know a snake hole from their-
Charlene: Kent, be quiet! I want to hear this.
[For your safety, staying inside and away from windows is recommended. Shut off all lights and unplug all electrical devices to prevent damage due to strong currents.]
Charlene: At least it doesn't sound too serious. Hopefully, this will pass by morn-
[It is also advised that battery-operated devices be turned off as well. This includes cell phones, portable gaming devices, and even calculators. If you must have something on, a radio is most suitable for up-to-date information. Be mindful of volume should you choose this. Conditions are projected to last through the next several nights. We now return to your regularly scheduled program.]
Mulan resumes after a McDonald’s Happy Meal commercial.
Charlene: I wonder if Johnny and Margaret saw this too. Maybe we should give them a call?
Kent: No, I bet they’re sleeping already. You know how they are. Even an earthquake couldn’t wake them.
Charlene: Okay, are you keeping your phone on?
Kent: I don’t see why I shouldn’t.
Charlene: What about what the alert said?
Kent: How should I know? It’s probably like having your phone on airplane mode during a flight. It doesn’t mean anything.
The movie finishes. Charlene tells Lena to get ready for bed. She obeys and afterward lays down to sleep.
Charlene: Lena, did you remember to turn off that camera?
Groggily, Lena turns over and tries to shut it off. In her attempt, she accidentally hits the zoom button on the camera again and knocks it on its side, making it face the window. The red blinking light of a radio tower can be seen far away. Someone is climbing it. This is believed to be one of the hooded figures seen earlier in the video.
They reach the top and seem to raise their arms to the sky in a sort of welcoming gesture. The earlier digital-like distortion appears again. Something comes out of it, either a limb or appendage, and lifts the person, out of view. The distortion then pulses violet and rapidly spreads, soon making the sky above Silverwright the same color. Two hours later, Kent’s phone rings.
Charlene: “It’s after midnight. Who’s calling us now?”
The sound of the bed creaking can be heard.
Kent: Johnny again?
Charlene: I bet Sindy's freaking out that the wedding might be canceled. Answer, but tell him whatever it is will have to wait.
Kent: Hey, Johnny, listen. Wait, Sindy?
The bed creaks again as Kent sits up.
Kent: What? Hang on. I can’t understand you. Let me put you on speaker.
Sindy (sobbing): Mom and Dad are gone. I think something’s happened to them.
Charlene sits up as well. Kent replies to Sindy in a leveled tone.
Kent: Okay, Sindy, I want you to listen closely. Are you somewhere safe?
Sindy: I think so. Brett and I got into an argument earlier. My parents said I could come over. We talked for a while and then I fell asleep on the couch. I woke up about an hour ago to grab something from the fridge. I heard something weird coming from upstairs I wanted to see what it was.
Kent (pausing before replying): What did you find?
Sindy: It sounded like my parents were up so I decided to check on them, but they didn’t respond when I knocked on their door. I decided to try opening it and it was unlocked. They were just standing in front of the window. I think they were staring at something.
Kent: Were you able to see what?
Sindy: No, but the only thing near the house is the woods and that radio tower. Wait, maybe that’s what they were looking at. Their radio was acting weird before it happened.
Kent: Before what happened?
Sindy: Kent…I don’t think I’ll ever be able to comprehend what I saw. There was a purple flash and then their windows were busted in. Something grabbed them. I don’t know what it was. It reminded me of a giant hand only dark like a shadow. They didn’t even scream or anything while they were being pulled away. It was like they were okay with what was happening.
Charlene is the one who replies.
Charlene: Sindy, sweety, tell us where you are in the hose right now and we’ll come get you.
Sindy: I’m in the basement. I figured that would be the safest option. Wait, what is that?
Noises akin to a tornado hitting a home sound through the phone speakers.
Sindy: Oh, god, it’s lifting everything! It’s massive! Wait…Its eyes. I understand everything now. I know I’ll be with my parents again soon.
Charlene: Sindy?
Sindy laughs.
Sindy: It’s so beautiful!
The call ends.
Charlene: We need to leave.
Kent: Leave? What about Sindy? What about Johnny and Margaret?
Charlene: We need to get them some help.
Kent: Okay, let’s try calling the police first.
He attempts and the phone keeps ringing.
Kent: Are you fucking kidding me right now?
Charlene: They must be busy.
Kent: What do we do then, go somewhere else to get help? The nearest town is hours away from here.
Charlene: I don’t see what else we can do.
Kent: I guess you’re right. We better pack.
Charlene and Kent repack their belongings. Charlene grabs the camera and carries Deb while Kent has Lena. Then the family exits the hotel room. The hall and lobby are full of people also trying to reach the exit.
Kent: We're never going to get out of here at this rate. Come on. This way.
They go to an emergency side door and push it open, causing the alarm to go off. Upon reaching their vehicle, there is a sound similar to when a microphone is held up to a speaker. Kent and Charlene let out yells of pain.
Kent: Where the hell is that coming from?
Charlene turns. A figure can be seen floating in the sky above the radio tower. Its appearance is reminiscent of a person's shadow that's been stretched out. Beams of pink light come from its eyes that scan the town below. It has an anomalous effect on whatever it touches. Inanimate objects and people alike vanish, the instant contact is made.
Charlene (voice trembling): What in God's name is happening, Kent?
Lena and Deb can be heard waking up with the latter crying. Their parents put them in the car. The camera is placed on the seat between the two children. Lena rubs her eyes.
Lena: Dad, why are we out here?
Charlene and Kent close their doors. The latter starts the car.
Kent: It's nothing, sweety, we just need to go on a little drive.
He backs out of their parking space and exits the lot, speeding down the road.
Lena: But I want to see Sindy!
Kent: We can't right now.
Lena: Why not?
Kent (voice raised): We just can't, alright?
Lena sobs slightly, but suddenly stops when she notices the camera.
Lena: Um excuse me.
Kent sighs. Charlene answers instead.
Charlene: What is it, honey?
Lena: I accidentally left the camera on.
Charlene: Don't worry about that right now. Just stay quiet and let your father drive, okay?
Lena: Okay.
Charlene: Good.
Lena picks the camera up and faces the back windshield. The creature seems larger than before.
Charlene: Kent!
Kent: I know. I see it in the mirror.
He accelerates.
Lena: Mom, Dad, what's that big thing?
Charlene: Something bad?
Lena: Is it gonna get us?
Charlene: No because we're playing a game with it, tag and if we can outrun it, we'll be safe. If you can help, try to calm your brother down.
Lena: I'll try.
The camera pans over the car floor. The head of a teddy bear sticks out from under the passenger seat. Lena grabs it and hands it to Deb. He stops crying.
Lena: Mom, I did it!
Charlene: That's good, sweety.
Kent continues speeding. On the sidewalk, the pink light washes over pedestrians. They freeze and then raise their arms in the direction of the being before vanishing.
Lena: Where did those people go?
Kent: We don't know.
He sharply turns a corner and goes onto a road that leads out of town.
Charlene: Is that it? Are we safe?
Kent: I think so. I don't know who we can go to about this. We'll try, though.
Lena: Dad?
Kent: Yes?
Lena: What's that thing doing?
The creature is rapidly scanning the area back and forth. Then it stares in their direction. The radio bursts to life with its cry from earlier, causing Kent to nearly go off the road.
Charlene: Keep it straight!
Kent: I'm trying!
The entity rips up several buildings and focuses its light on those areas. It grows and then levitates itself in the air. Its next action is technically flying. Although, its movements are more resemblant to swimming. The noise on the radio increases.
Charlene: Faster, Kent!
Kent: I don't think I can!
Lena: It's gonna catch us!
It dives, going out of view.
Kent: Huh? Where did it go?
Charlene: Kent, the road!
Lena focuses the lens on the front windshield. In the center of the road ahead, the being rises, tall enough to reach the sky. Kent tries sharply turning the steering wheel. It's assumed he is about to attempt a U-turn. Before he can, it shoots its lights at them, making them wash over the car.
It lifts off the road, freezing midair.
Kent (laughs): I get it now.
Charlene: Yes, Sindy was right all along.
Lena: Mom? Dad? What are you talking about? I don't like this.
Charlene: Don't worry, honey. It'll be okay soon.
Nothing else changes at first. Then both parents' bodies began to flatten and stretch out. They laugh as this happens. Deb and Lena begin crying.
Lena: What's happening to you guys?
Charlene: It's okay, honey. It won't hurt soon.
Lena looks at Deb who is also starting to go through the same process. She checks her hands and sees that she is as well. Both shriek as their parents' laughter turns into cackling. Simultaneously, all four family members disappear. The car hits the road and flips several times before coming to a stop.
In the months following the discovery of the Honda Accord, its tag number was used to trace back to the address of the Morris family. This lead went cold because the people who were living there had no idea who they were. By using the address of that home, we determined the possible location of Silverwright. According to our calculations, it should have been on the border going into Canada, but when we went to investigate, it was as if nothing had ever been there.
It's unclear whether the town belonged to the US state of Alaska or the Canadian Province of Yukon. However, as far as the two governments are concerned both Silverwright and the Morris family have never existed.
​
Author's Note: I hope you enjoyed my entry for Monster May. If you did, consider checking out my other stories here, my articles here, and lastly, how you can support me here.

Title: The Perfume
Genre: Horror, Mystery
Word count: 4400
Synopsis: It's about a perfume that presumably charms women.
Feedback: General impressions, anything and everything, especially if negative! Was it fun, was it fast? Please give me your opinion!
Link: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1mHhAScXxqljvhsfxPYuh58AMMlaUGBkx1DqgM6qQxZQ/edit?usp=drivesdk
Here's the first scene only:
The Perfume
It was half past eleven in New Venture and the moon was shining brightly. Mr. Hennessy entered the crowded, stuffy restaurant and took a deep breath.
“Ah, yes… The frowsty smell of simple people!”
Montelli’s looked like any other cheap third-rate restaurant in a small town on a Saturday night - too many small groups of visitors, seated at oblong tables, placed too close to each other. As a result, the blaring music struggled with the din, the laughter, and the ringing drop of a fork, glass, or swear word. Hennessy rolled his shoulders under his black silk suit, cracked his neck, and pulled at his jacket with both hands to stretch it out even more. He made his way to the single lone gentleman in the far left corner of the establishment.
He didn't look like he wanted company. He sat at an angle to the table, his legs stretched forward, and his gaze fixed on the laminated floor. He wore a gray suit and a white shirt with the top three buttons frivolously unbuttoned, so that the skin on his chest glistened with sweat. His right hand lazily shook a glass of amber liquid, and his left clutched a half-smoked cigar.
Mr. Hennessy stood beside him with his hands clasped in front of him and waited a moment to attract his attention. The man looked at him blankly. His close-cropped hair was thinning on either side of his forehead.
"What do you want!?"
"I'm Mr. Hennessy."
"And I don't care!"
“On the contrary, Mister. I can help you.”
"I don't even need..."
“Oh come on, Mister. We all need help with women!”
Hennessy smiled with closed lips, pointed at the adjacent chair and settled into it without asking permission. The man watched him.
“Now...” Hennessy looked at his silver Rolex. "I don't have much time, Misteeer?"
"Jenkins. Tom Jenkins.”
“Mr Jenkins. I'm going to make you an offer you won't be able to resist. Now...” Hennessy held up his hands in a stop sign. "I know it's going to sound weird, I know it's going to be crazy, but..." He leaned across the table, staring at his companion, and spoke quietly, without moving his lips, as if chewing on the words, "What if you could have every single woman?" And dropped back in the chair. Jenkins grinned and sipped from his glass. The waitress came, a girl maybe in her twenties, with too tight jeans and a weary expression.
“You want something?” She asked Hennessy.
His dark eyes looked at her a second longer than appropriate.
“I’m still choosing, honeypie.”
She turned and went off.
“Look now, sir.” Started Jenkins. “I’m too old a man to believe in such things. I have some experience, you understand?”
“Of course, Mister. A negative experience, at that. But, what if you could charm a woman without fail? One specific woman named… Larissa? ”
Jenkis froze. “How do you know?"
"Doesn’t matter."
“Are you following me? I’ll call...”
"No. I'm just a small merchant, Mister.” Hennessy smiled.
"This is complete bullshit!" Jenkins stated and turned, looking for the waitress.
“Mr… Tom. Let me just demonstrate.” Hennessy said and pulled a small black glass vial from the inside pocket of his jacket.
"No. Time to leave my table!”
The waitress had seen him and was coming, and in the meantime Hennessy sprayed himself neatly twice, once on the left side of the neck, once on the right. That should have been more than enough.
"What would you ..." The girl began as she reached their table.
Tom Jenkins turned with a red face: "He would like to leave!"
Hennessy raised his hands. “Now, now! I'm sure it's some kind of misunderstanding.” He smiled.
And right then he noticed with delight how the girl's face contorted just as if she was about to sneeze, as if something was working its way up her nostrils and when it reached her brain, her face contorted again, but this time in a surge of pleasure. "There, there it is! Show me your love, and then to everyone else!”
She looked at him as if seeing her long lost love.
"I'm sure there was some kind of a mistake! How can I be of service to the gentleman?” She asked with a smile and waited like a puppy, eager to play with its master.
Tom Jenkins, with a look of complete stupor, suddenly turned and baring his teeth in distaste, asked him:
"What in the Lord’s name did you do to her, you bastard?"
"Let's not involve Him, Tom. Relax."
Jenkins seemed startled though, and that made him mean. He leaned across the table and hissed.
“Listen you maggot, I carry a Colt 357 on my hip. The hole it's going to make right here in your skull," and he pointed between Hennessy's eyes, who was looking at him with a tight smile, "will blow your brains out of the place."
Once he was done, Jenkins leaned back in his chair, deliberately exposing the Colt and licking his bottom lip nervously. Hennessey started clapping and shook his head.
“Wow, what a speech, Tom! What a speech, my friend! Surely this is how you charm women?” People from the near tables had turned to them and were talking quietly among themselves. It didn't matter, at least it wouldn't soon. Hennessy waved the puppy away with a languid gesture and looked at his watch again. It was about time.
“Okay, Tommy... I'm running out of time, so I'm giving you one last chance. And the best one!”
Jenkins laughed and shook his head. "You're a crazy son of a bitch, you know that?" And he sipped his whiskey.
Oh, you have no idea, pal!
“Here's the deal.” Hennessy told him. "I'm giving you this vial," he held it up between the thumb and forefinger of his left hand, "and you're shaking my hand?" And extended his right one.
“Pfff…” Jenkins rolled his eyes.
The tumult in the restaurant had resumed, everything was as before, except for the young waitress over there by the bar. If Jenkins had caught a glimpse of her face, he would have never accepted the deal, but alas...
“Shit, what the heck!” He finished the remaining whiskey in one gulp. "Since you want it so much, I give in, I'll take your stupid perfume. That`s a deal!” Said Jenkins and squeezed his hand.
“Just in time... pal,” Hennessy thought, smiled contentedly and held the outstretched sweaty palm a second longer than was appropriate.
"Now, here's the perfume." He placed it in front of him on the table. "As a gesture of goodwill, you can go, I'll settle the bill. Go to your Larissa, spray yourself a few times, and,” Hennessy leaned across the table and mouthed each of the next words with delight dripping from his tongue, “have a night to remember, if you can!”
Jenkins gave him a scornful look, smiled wryly, and grabbed the bottle as he stood up. "Goodbye, Mr. Hennessy!"
If only he could turn around and see his face…
“Goodbye, Mr. Jenkins. Good deal,” muttered Hennessy .
He waited ten more minutes for the perfume to spread everywhere, for everyone to inhale it, and for everything on the tables to be eaten greedily. One minute to midnight read his Rolex. At last, he looked at the waitress at the bar with a smile. She was staring at him with saliva running from her mouth and dripping down her blouse. Hennessy stood up, stretched out his jacket, and with an aristocratic stride left the silent restaurant. The icy night air and the milky rays of the moon that had taken over the firmament washed over him. Behind him he heard the shouting, the smashing, the screams... If one were to look at his thin, slender figure, one would see it cross the street with a wide stride and how it seemed to flicker, to dissolve into the blinding moonlight and . . . To disappear into the night.

I recently obtained an Associate's Degree in Business and Entrepreneurship in the Chicagoland Area. (I plan to obtain my Bachelors in Marketing soon)
I have great strengths across the board and find it hard to show that to employers through my resume as my experience currently is Waitressing and Barista which was to pay for my courses. I was looking to see if anyone had any tips or tricks on obtaining a full-time job in the Marketing/Advertising/Social Media Analytics field.
I have skills in Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Suite, Canva, and various other skills. I work so very hard and need to get a step into the industry I'd like. I really can complete any job efficiently, timely, and perfectly thanks to my OCD so I'm super eager to apply my skills to something more beneficial.
Many positions in the area provide base pay of roughly $40,000 a year with some commissions. I get told by others not to take a commission position and wanted some insight on that as well.
Not too many others around me understand or are in my field of interest so any help, guidance, tips, or leads is much appreciated!!
I was told to provide this post in this community, thank you.

This Scammer used the name “Lara Collins” This is what they will send you:
Hi (Insert Name),
As per your phone conversation, you have been scheduled for an appointment for a server position interview on April 30th, Tuesday at 10 AM. The office is located at Jay Suites - 30 Broad Street on the 14th Floor.
When you get to the 14th floor please tell the receptionist at the desk that you were sent to see Collins for an interview. Please bring with you your ID so that they will let you in through security. Come dressed in appropriate attire, and bring a physical resume, and the $80 for the class registration in either cash or money order….
Do not reply to this email because this is an Automated Message. Any responses cannot be seen. If you have any questions please call the main phone number at 646-389-3537.
Red flags:
The job Offered a 21$hr Wage (As a Waiter!)
The Email Address is The Same as the location.
The interview for the waitressing job being held in a separate location that’s not the restaurant.
Requesting money either cash or money order
They asked for my ID as of it was a requirement.
The interview is held in a rented space.
PLEASE NOTE: She had my phone number and full name but not my email address , which suggests that my information may have been gathered from my resume with the use of A.I.

Once again, thank you to u/SpacePaladin15 for creating this universe in which we can all spread our imaginative wings in, and thank you to u/Acceptable_Egg5560 for taking me on as co-writer. Sorry for the late upload, we've both been quite busy, but we should have the next chapter ready on time. Speaking of, this is the penultimate chapter before the reveal happens, so hold on to your pants for that! We have a lot planned >:)
[First]-[Prev]-[Next]
Memory Transcription Subject: Vekna, Investigative Journalist. Date [Standardized Human Time] October 31st, 2136
I have to admit, I’m surprised at just how fast Leraninro arrived to our aid. I’m not about to complain, any time less spent there is a blessing, but it does make me wonder just how fast his ship can really go! Either that or he can somehow teleport!
“You got here fast,” Sharnet comments at my side, bringing voice to my thoughts. “Thank the Stars you did, though. We can’t thank you enough, we would’ve been stuck in there otherwise.”
“Of course!” Leraninro responds, the lower portion of his body wriggling in what I hope is excitement, “I…don’t really get calls like this often, it’s a new experience for me honestly. How did you get my number, anyways?” He turns to me as he asks that, his head tilted in what I assume to be a skeptical look.
“Oh! Right that, I, uh,” I start, trying to figure out a way to phrase it so that I don’t sound like a creep. However, nothing comes to mind, so I sigh and prepare to bite the bolt. “I might have parsed your device’s contact ID while I was on the shuttle? I didn’t know when to ask because we were so busy so I just kind of did it.”
From Leraninro comes a waverly chitter, prompting me to believe that it’s a laugh. I hope it is anyway. “Well, that certainly explains it! Next time, you can just ask me. I would’ve told you if you’d asked!”
We’re led through the main gates, left hung wide open in Vane’s escape, by Leraninro. “Where’s your ship?” I ask, craning my neck to try and get a glimpse of the incredible vessel. “I don’t see it anywhere around here.”
“Well yeah, that’s the point,” Leraninro counters as he takes an abrupt turn, heading around the side of the hill Vane’s manor is built atop. “If the guards saw me approach, they’d probably throw me right in with you both! Of course, all the guards went with Vane, but I didn’t know that. I- I didn’t know that!” He says that last part…strangely, as if elated by his lack of knowledge.
“Well you had to have landed somewhere close in order to make it to us so quickly,” Sharnet reasons, walking slightly faster to be reintroduced to Leraninro’s field of view. “Close enough to a drainage hatch that you could just slither on in, but also not in the view of Vane or the guards since they would be on alert.”
She speaks as if working out a puzzle in her head, and I find myself doing the same. Okay, Vane’s mansion’s on the top of the hill, casting a shadow down over most of the yard and road. That's what allowed it to be cool enough for the plants to stay green. And with a shuttle that the Fed’s are likely trying to suppress, Ler would want to use that shadow to make his shuttle a bit less noticeable. Combine that with Sharnet’s observations about the guards and drainage…
At almost the same time as her, I point over to a city network junction hut at the base off the hill that is caught in the partial darkness. “Is it over there? I can’t see it.”
“Yeah,” Sharnet adds, “that’s really the only place it could be without you landing in someone’s yard. But…” she squints, as if trying to look through the planet itself. “Wait, there’s some kind of wave in the air near it. Is that?”
“Yeah, made use of the heat mirages around here,” Leraninro rapidly states, ticking me off that something isn’t quite right. “The mirage will disappear when we get closer down the hill! C’mon!” It will disappear as we get closer?” That doesn’t make any sense to me, but he’s already slithering off through the dry dirt down the hill by the time I’m able to form a response.
Wait. Experimental ship, close parking, heat mirages…no, there’s no way it can actually do that, right? I decide to keep my hypothesis to myself as I follow Leraninro down the hill. My paws struggle to get traction once we enter the sands thanks to the incline, causing me and Sharnet to stumble occasionally due to the loose ground. Leraninro, by virtue of his biology, has no such issues, slithering through the sands as if he were born to them. What I’d give to move like that in a place like this.
“Almost there!” Leraninro calls over his shoulder before rounding into the shadows. As he disappears from view, I plant my paw on Sharnet’s shoulder, bringing us both to a gradual stop thanks to the terrain. Before Sharnet even gets a chance to open her mouth, I point towards where Leraninro went, hoping that my conclusion isn’t just wishful thinking. I wouldn’t have to hope for long, for as soon as we were both looking, we watched as the sleek shape of Leraninro’s ship appears from thin air, no mirages required. Hah! I knew it! A cloaking device!
I can barely contain myself as I start barrelling down the hill, leaving Sharnet in both the metaphorical and physical dust that I kick up behind me. I need to know how this works. Does it use a complex system of cameras and hardened screens to withstand the rigors of space travel? No, maybe it’s refractive nanomaterials that bend light around the hull! Something else?? Who knows?! I want to!! As I round the corner, I spot Leraninro craning himself to look around the corner, likely wondering where we had gone. “I knew it!” I cry as I trudge through the damp sand to approach the Smigli. I’m Not using the full species name.
“Wh- know what?” Leraninro asks, hints of a nervous chitter peaking in between his translated syllables. “I-uh, don’t know what you’re talking about.”
“Your ship has a cloaking device, I saw it!” I declare, “We stood still on the hill and it appeared right in front of us! No movement required,” I explain, confronting him with irrefutable evidence of his minor deception. I wish that he didn’t feel the need to hide such things from me, but given our similar situations, I most certainly understand why he wouldn’t. I’d do the exact same thing in his situation. “You’ve gotta tell me how it works! Nanomaterials? Screens? Something else even better?!”
“Whoa, hey, calm down!” Leraninro urges, placing his mitten hands in front of him defensively. “Alright, I admit that my ship has a cloaking device, but we can discuss how it works later. Don’t you two have somewhere to be? That Vane guy could’ve gone anywhere!”
“Not anywhere,” Sharnet pipes up from behind me, holding up my pad in her grasp. Wait, wasn’t that-? I pad down my pack, only to find a distinct lack of pad inside it. I didn’t know Sharnet was so slight of hand. “I planted my holonote on the underside of Vane’s transport to track his location. Good place to hide it, I don’t even think he could reach down far enough to dislodge it. Our initial plan was to scare him back to Malcos, but you already saw how that went.”
“No plan survives first contact with the enemy,” Leraninro declared with a chitter, taking on a strange tone as if he were quoting something. “Sun Tzu said that, I think.”
“Who?,” Sharnet and I ask at the same time.
“I-nevermind,” Leraninro says, shaking his head rapidly. “You said you could track Vane using your note. Where is he now?”
“Let me see,” Sharnet muses as she raises my pad and opens the tracking function. A small map of the city is displayed shortly thereafter, building silhouettes rising up a minute distance above the frame of the device. In the middle, a pulsing yellow dot blinks at us on the edge of the city, next to what looks like some kind of establishment. Sharnet is quick to access the information on the building and scoffs. “‘The Governor’s Kitchen,’ of spehking course. How vain does someone have to be to tell us exactly where they’re going before an escape?”
“Well in the human language, that is his name!” Leraninro chitters before recomposing himself. “So I suppose I should drop you off somewhere close to that place, then?”
I’m about to agree before Sharnet holds a paw out. “Wait. We still don’t know where Vane is going after this. If we pick the wrong option, we’ll be too late to turn around. We need to get him out of there somehow,” she posits as she narrows her eyes.
“Well, apparently the sight of you two wasn’t enough to do it the first time,” Leraninro thinks aloud, “no guarantee that this time would be any different, even with the circumstances.”
“Maybe we could just wait until the evacuation is about to start?” I offer up as a suggestion. “I mean, if we can get everyone in one place, we can just sabotage their ships and have them already pre-packaged for the Exterminators, bow and all.” As the words leave my mouth, I remember something dreadful. “No, wait, Vane probably has the entire office here underfoot, they’d just let the launch happen.”
“We’ll definitely need to call on one of the neighboring districts for the actual capture squad,” Leraninro says, “No use in getting them all together if you can’t even capture them afterwards, right?”
I’m about to agree when, once again, Sharnet suddenly moves, this time snapping her head up and locking gaze with Leraninro. “Vekna said your ship has a cloaking device, right?”
“Uh…yeah?” The Smigli answers reluctantly, “Why do you ask?”
With a familiar glint in her eye, Sharnet responds. “Does it also have an external speaker and a microphone? As well as some kind of directional spotlight?”
“What ar-ooooooooh,” Leraninro trails off, his body starting to wriggle with excitement again. “If you’re suggesting what I think you are, I’m so in.”
“What?” I ask, seemingly out of the loop regarding what the both of them had already come to a conclusion on. Damn my condition, if I actually had some empathy, I’d probably know, too. As it stands, though, I still don’t, so I’m forced to ask for clarification. “What exactly do you have planned?”
“Isn’t this city famous for its Temple to Solgalick?” Sharnet asks, the smirk of her tail more than evident. It takes me only a moment to put the pieces together for myself after that, my tail beginning to wag once I finally get it. Sharnet seems to notice my understanding as well, as her own tail speeds up significantly. “I knew you’d get it! Come on, ‘daylight’ is wasting.”
{-Attention: Multimedia Annotation Recommended-}
{-Initialize External Program? (Y)/N -}
{-OPENING “OAGU Archival Browser”-}
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(Welcome to the Orion Arm Grand University Archival Browser!)
(Video Clip Link Accessed. Play? [Y])
(Playing…)
Archived Closed Circuit Security Video - Establishment: The Governor’s Kitchen - Date Recorded (ST): OCT 31, 2136 - Timeframe (ST): 03:06 - 03:11
Shown is a moderately busy dining area. Fans can be heard running continuously from the atmospheric conditioning system due to the desert-like climate outside. The majority of the patrons are Venlil, almost all the staff noticeable for having brown wool. A white and gray pair sit beside each other at a table with their tails interwoven. A young waiter balances a large tray of alcoholic drinks as they make their way to a table of ten. This satisfactory attitude continues for thirty-three seconds.
The Venlil standing at the greeters desk pins their ears back. They flick their tail to grab the attention of a waiter, pointing out the front window. The waiter's ears fall in turn before they reach under the greeting desk. They bring out a bundle of sticks and dash into the main serving floor. They grab their co-workers' attention as they do so, flicking their ears urgently.
The front door slides open after the waiters gather out of sight within the kitchen. A massively obese Venlil walks inside, wearing mobility leg braces multiple sizes too small and wielding a cane in one paw. A reverberating thumping noise can be heard to the greeters desk, corresponding with slight vibrational disturbances in the recording.
“Greetings, my good sir!” The massive Venlil says. The greeter has a forced welcoming expression. “Let your staff know that Ambassador Vane has returned to dine within this fine establishment!”
The greeter gestures into the eating area with a noticeably stiff forward flick of their ears. “Of Course! Your window side table is still open so I may guide you right over.”
Vane’s tail wags upon confirmation of his seat, however restricted by his extreme morbid obesity. “Excellent! My investment in this place was truly not mistaken!”
Vane is led to a well-separated table from the rest of the dining area, presumably one which has been occupied by him before. A waitress with brown wool exits the kitchen shortly after Vane is seated, their body language clearly negative with their ears so flat. A member of the ten-person table takes notice of where the waitress is heading and signs sympathy to her. This act is copied by the rest of the table as they also take notice.
This show of support emboldens the waitress, who straightens her features to convey professional neutrality and walks to the self-confessed “ambassador.” Vane is seated upon two chairs once the waitress approaches, his attention now rapt upon her.
“Greetings v- Ambassador Vane,” she bows. “I will be your waiter today. Would you like a menu or have you already decided on what you’d like for your meal?”
“Besides the meal for my eyes with you?” He whistles and sways his ears. The woman’s ears subtly twitch in discomfort, Vane does not seem to notice. “Just let the cooks know I will be having my usual five courses, and add in you sat across from me so I might experience pleasure in both taste and sight~”
With a stiff flick of h-
(Media Paused)
{Don’t you dare.}
<…okay but like, c’mon. That last part? Goddamn.>
{…We need to get you a Findr profile stat.}
(Media Resumed)
With a stiff flick of her ears, the waitress signs understanding and types something on her data pad. “Of course sir, and do you wish to see our alcohol selection?”
“I’ll have the bottle of [30 year] old Ipsolnus, a wonderful brandy I would say! Perhaps you could pour it into my waiting mouth when you return! Now please, hurry along! My appetite is eager to be satisfied!”
The woman flicks her ears forward and returns to the kitchen. Vane’s eyes clearly follow her rear for as long as he can before casting his gaze outside. Once out of sight, the waitress visibly shudders and speaks under her breath. “Solgalick, help me.”.
The camera shakes, blurring the image. A roar can be heard from outside the building as the patrons and staff stumble, including those in their seats. Ears and tails all signal fear and confusion before a blinding light floods into the building from the front window. Everyone freezes and stares at the wall of light. The roar subsides to a continuous low rumble.
After a few seconds pass, the wall of light begins narrowing towards a concentrated beam. Many patrons still shield their eyes due to the intensity of the light. One man with white wool physically shields another from the light while still attempting to look. The beam finishes narrowing and settles over where Vane is sitting.
The rumble grows louder after the beam stops moving. The obese outline of Vane jolts back in his seat upon being caught in the light beam. He looks to be desperately trying to shield both his eyes from the light and his ears are laying flat in fear. A voice booms from the sky and quickly peaks the built-in microphone.
"Vane, born râd T’Valro! Behold, duguð betlic Solgalick has judged êower sins abhorrent ongêanweard sîn innumerability! Know ðês, sifeða mîn hæft is unge−endod! My fers ûplic! No intinga yonder êow oðrîdan, êow shall nâwa ûtâslêan dôð wrecnes ben¯æman ðurhwunian wrought ofer êower unæðele feorh!"
Vane collapses out of his chairs and falls to the floor as he attempts to crawl back. The beam tracks him like a spotlight. Vane turns around and manages to pull himself to his feet after two failed attempts. He proceeds to waddle as fast as he can through the dining area towards the rear exit. Mechanical whines are heard during Vane’s escape, corresponding with thin wisps of smoke coming from Vane’s mobility assistance devices.
The beam follows Vane as he beelines out of the restaurant’s rear. Once he throws open the back door and bolts into the alley, the beam lingers a few seconds more before disappearing in an instant. The waitress who had attended to Vane previously falls to her knees and assumes a fervent praying position. A select sample of the other customers do so in turn and a prayer chant can be heard.
(Video Clip Concluded.)
(Return to Previous Program? [Y])
…
{...I hope I’m not the only one thinking divine intervention.}

{Not so far, but the message has been seen. It’s only a matter of time. Heh, matter of time.}
<...Can you give a joke negative points? -2 points for that.>
…
{-Please Rate This Annotation-}
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{-Resume Transcription? Y/(N) -}
[First]-[Prev]-[Next]

Thanksgiving was wonderful, pure bliss. Luke spent it with his mother and her second husband along with Kevin and his girlfriend, Kaylee. Brooke’s mother and stepfather were away and her father liked to keep to himself, even on holidays. So, it was just two of us — both Thursday and Friday. Which for me, at least, was perfection. I know it may be difficult for some to understand, but times such as this made up for all of the far more numerous days of humiliation and servitude I endured. For me, quality has always been more important than quantity. And having Brooke to myself— a sexually satisfied (because of Luke, of course), happy, playful, indulgent Brooke — was the ultimate in quality time. The rareness of the occasions when it was just the two of us together since Luke’s emergence on the scene made them more special still. When Brooke was content, the two of us had incredibly intimate, fun and happy times together. To me, it seemed that the humiliation I suffered on a more routine basis was the price I had to pay to have this exceptional, beautiful, sexy, complex woman in my life, as my wife. Call me pathetic, call me spineless if you will (and I’m sure many of you will— that, and much worse), it was a price I willingly paid.
One of the things that made this Thanksgiving particularly enjoyable was that Brooke and I had been able to persuade Luke to allow her to fully control my chastity until he returned on Saturday. This concession had been won the prior evening and, like most things with Luke, did not come easily.
Brooke and I approached him on the couch while he was watching ESPN. She sat down next to him, as I brought him a glass of Gentleman Jack. Wearing nothing but skimpy, light blue, nylon panties, I presented him the glass on my knees, holding it out steadily on my upturned palms pressed together.
“May I massage your feet, sir, while you watch TV and enjoy your bourbon?”, I volunteered, after he took the glass.
He picked his large socked foot up from the floor and pressed it against my face, eliciting a giggle from Brooke. Not wishing to have his sock inserted into my mouth, I inhaled visibly, as I knew was expected. He had worn the socks all day, so the odor was pungent, though they were dry at least, thankfully.
“You must want something. I can tell the two of you are up to something. Pull my socks off with your mouth. Then start with my right foot.”
“Yes, sir.”
Brooke started kissing him passionately as I worked on his foot. She said in between kisses, “Babe, could I please have my copy of Walter’s chastity key back while you’re away? He’s been such a good boy lately, and he needs something to be thankful for on Thanksgiving.”
“I knew it. You two are pretty obvious. What do I get out of it?”
Meanwhile, Brooke had started rubbing his cock through his jeans and it began to tent out the denim. “Pretty please, baby! He lost his two pounds this week and has done all of his chores.”
“Sir, I will wash and detail your car. I’ll clean all of your footwear.”
“But you do all those things for me anyway, prof. What is something extra that you can do?”
“I’ll make your favorite dinner on Sunday night, sir.”
By then, Brooke had unzipped him and worked his now mostly erect cock out from his underwear and started gently licking his shaft.
“Again, all I have to do is to tell you to make it, and you will. You need to think of something above and beyond.”
“Babe, stand up for a minute and take off your jeans and underwear, so I can give you a proper, mind blowing blowjob,” Brooke said.
“Well, if you insist,” Luke replied, smiling.
I paused in my massage until he removed his pants and sat back down on the couch. I then pressed into the ball of his right foot with renewed vigor.
“Do you need anything done around your house, sir? May I clean your garage?”, I asked. Brooke had resumed her oral worship of his enormous, now fully erect cock, beginning to suck on its head.
“Same category, prof. I tell you what. Kevin’s truck is a mess. It’s white, but it almost looks black with all the grime and road salt. If you wash and detail his truck, that might convince me.”
The thought of having to wash the truck of the arrogant brat who ratted Brooke and me out the last time I had a release from my chastity was abhorrent to me. That fact notwithstanding, I didn’t hesitate in my response.
“Yes, sir. It would be my pleasure to wash your brother’s truck. I will make it look like brand new.”
“That feels good baby,” he said, wrapping his fingers in Brooke’s hair. To me: “You will treat him with the same respect you give me, of course.”
“Without question, sir.” I then began sucking his big toe, slurping on it in the manner I knew he liked, hopeful that this surfeit of oral attention would convince him to give Brooke her copy of my chastity key back.
“Alright, I’m feeling generous today. I’ll tell Kevin you’ll wash and detail his truck on Monday afternoon. The weather forecast is good. It’s supposed to be in the upper 60s. I guess one benefit of you both having your mouths full is I don’t have to listen to any bullshit about climate change. You can have the key back, for tomorrow and Friday at least. Now lick my ball sack while your wife services my cock.”
I did as he commanded. While not the first time I had done so, I found this task distinctly unpleasant, whether more because of the intense humiliation of it or the physical repugnance of it is difficult to say. At least Luke was a big believer in manscaping, so I didn’t have to contend with hair. Our lips only inches apart from each other, Brooke and I continued to work until he ejaculated, into her mouth and onto my face. We then cleaned him off with our tongues. When he went to the bathroom afterwards, Brooke and I high fived each other, the taste of Luke in our mouths and his sticky semen drying on our faces and in our hair. Absurdly, we laughed, giddy at our hard won, minor victory. That is how Brooke and I won my freedom on Thanksgiving day.
Together we made a fairly simple dinner (limited to turkey with gravy, stuffing, cranberry sauce and brussel sprouts) and ate it together with a nice bottle of red wine. Afterwards we gave each other pedicures and then cuddled on the couch while watching Roman Polanski’s Bitter Moon, she fully dressed and me wearing a pair of navy blue tights. Before the movie started, she took my chastity key off her anklet and unlocked me. The relief at being liberated was intense, as was the anticipation about what lay ahead that evening. During the movie, especially during the scenes when Mimi humiliates Oscar, she teased me my rubbing her nyloned feet against my balls and cock, nylon against nylon. It took real concentration (as well as skill on Brooke’s part to not go too far) for me not to erupt right then and there on the couch. After the movie, Brooke indulged me by allowing me to worship her feet for 30 minutes. Knowing how the commingled scent of leather, nylon and her feet drove me absolutely insane (in a the best possible way), she had worn black, sheer stockings and her long brown boots all day.
When she was ready to let me worship her, she said, “Okay, my meek, duteous knight. It is time for thou to humble thyself at thy lady’s feet. Strip to thy tights and kneel before her. Thou may now remove thy lady’s boot and freely partake of the aroma of her flawless feet.”
After removing her boot, I brought it up to my face and inhaled it deeply and repeatedly. The scent was exquisite. After I did the same with the second boot, she placed both of her moist, stocking-clad feet up against my nose and allowed me to inhale her scent and gently nuzzle her feet with my face. She then ordered me to lay prostate at her feet, and placed both of them over my face. Over the next 20 minutes or so, she moved her feet with delightful restlessness, sometimes gently mashing my face, other times rubbing her feet through my hair (practically giving me a scalp massage) or over my nipples, and still other times inserting her toes into my mouth to suck. I was in ecstasy.
And that was before we ascended the stairs to the bedroom. It had been quite some time since I had last spent the night with Brooke in my old bed (as opposed to sleeping at the foot of the bed on the floor or being called onto the bed for some brief cleanup duty before being dismissed by Luke). When we lied down on it she started kissing me with passion. She then got on top of me, pulled down my tights and inserted me into her. She squeezed my nipples as we made love. What can I say? I did the best I could. After a few minutes of her bouncing on top of me, I ejaculated into her. She didn’t look completely bored; I think she actually might have even enjoyed it a little. Maybe?
In any event, I then went down on her, bringing to her to a point that she unambiguously enjoyed before we spooned each other and drifted off to a peaceful sleep. As I said, pure bliss. In that moment, I was as happy as I could be. Friday was similar in many ways, except we went out to a romantic dinner at an excellent French restaurant in town.
But all good things must come to an end, sadly.
Things got off to a bad start on Saturday at my weekly weigh-in when I registered a 2 pound gain. Thanksgiving dinner, the bottle of wine and Friday dinner at the French restaurant (with yet another bottle of wine) had done its damage, despite my attempts to limit my portion sizes. I had recognized this was a danger even as I was eating the meals and drinking the wine, but I was simply enjoying my time with Brooke too much to really care at that point.
I cared that Saturday, however, when Luke tapped the cane against my bottom as a prelude to administering my correction. Brooke, no doubt, must have felt conflicted at that moment. As much as she was turned on by watching Luke punish me, she knew how much I dreaded the cane, and I’m sure she felt somewhat complicit in my weight gain that particular week given our last couple of days of shared indulgence. Accordingly, she tried to intervene on my behalf.
”Babe, don’t you think you can make an exception this one week because of Thanksgiving? Everybody gains some weight after Thanksgiving dinner. I know I did.“
“Stop making excuses for him. When you’re on a strict diet, you’re on a strict diet. It’s his responsibility to show some discipline. And since he didn’t, I intend to.“
“I understand, and you’re completely right. But don’t you think maybe you could at least give him the belt or the strap instead of the cane? Just taking into account that everybody goes a little overboard on Thanksgiving. And you know how I like watching you take off your belt and give it to him.”
“I feel someone’s always trying to talk me out of using the cane when I know it’s the most effective way of keeping him in line.”
She rubbed her body seductively against his and said, “But it’s just so hot to watch you take off your belt and punish him like he’s a naughty child. Come on babe, please. Do it for me, and then when you finish, please take me upstairs. It’s been three days. I need your cock.”
“You really can’t get enough of Big Luke, can you, you little slut?”
“No, baby, truly, I can’t.”
“Alright. I swear I’m getting soft. The belt today. But the next time he puts on weight, it’s the cane. I’m tired of him going up and down on the scale like a yo-yo. Neither of you had better even try to talk me out of it. Do you understand?”
“Yes, sir..” We said in unison. “Thank you, sir” I added.
Such is what I had been reduced to, thanking the man who was about beat me savagely with a belt. Which is exactly what he did. I then was ordered to stand in my penance position for 30 minutes as Brooke and Luke went upstairs to the bedroom. Surely, with both of them on the floor above, loudly fucking, I would not stand in the uncomfortable, stressful position in the corner of the living room? Surely, I would cheat? Well, I didn’t cheat. I stood there the entire time, probably even longer than 30 minutes, until the two of them came back downstairs, naked. That’s what I had truly been reduced to. The fear at being caught disobeying (hidden camera?, spying Kevin? I knew not what…) won out over my discomfort and my desire to rebel.
“Look at the lovely red glow you gave him,” Brooke said , laughing as she caressed my tender bottom through my panties.
“You are dismissed, cuck. Run along and get me another glass of bourbon.”
Things didn’t improve the next day when Brooke and I accompanied Luke to his final home game of the season as his personal cheerleading squad. What made this Sunday worse than any of the previous ones, humiliating as they were, was that Luke had invited Neil and Laura to attend this game.
Both were sitting on the bleachers when Brooke and I walked over in our humiliating uniforms, pom-poms in hand. As I mentioned previously, Brooke was a few years older than Laura and, as one of the more experienced waitresses, was somewhat senior to her at the restaurant. I got the sense from Brooke that Laura looked up to her. Which was completely unsurprising given Brooke’s looks, intelligence and poise. Therefore, I had to imagine that it must’ve been somewhat humiliating to Brooke to be dressed in her skimpy, degrading uniform in front of her friend. I certainly knew that it was beyond humiliating for me to appear in my uniform in front of Neil. But, of course, I had already been in very compromising positions vis-a-vis Neil (had in fact been paddled by him), whereas this was somewhat of a new experience for Brooke.
Nevertheless, she seemed to take it in stride.
“Hey Neil, hi Laura,” Brooke said with a smile as she walked up to the section where they were seated. Both were dressed sensibly in sweaters and jeans.
“Hey, sexy,” said Laura, looking Brooke up and down. I could see Brooke’s nipples erect through her top, more so than usual I thought. I had to wonder whether the humiliation of appearing before Laura and Neil in her uniform had contributed to her obvious arousal. Having not been locked back up in my chastity cage since Thanksgiving, I knew for certain that our friends seeing me in my uniform contributed to mine. I was rock hard in my tight cheerleading pants, very conscious of the small, if unmistakable bulge created by my treacherous cock.
“Hi guys,“ I said, sheepishly, hoping they wouldn’t notice.
However, I could see the two of them scrutinizing me with the same intensity with which they had regarded Brooke.
“Look at you two!”, said Laura, laughing. “Such enthusiastic cheerleaders!”
“Hey, pal,” said Neil, trying to suppress a laugh. “How could Luke have anything other than a great game with you two cheering him on?!”
And, of course, he did. Luke’s team won 28 to 6. Luke had five sacks, several open field tackles and even intercepted the ball, running it in for a touchdown. He was the undisputed MVP of the game. Consequently, Brooke and I cheered our asses off, much to the amusement of everyone in attendance. It was another unseasonably hot day, and Brooke and I were both sweating quite a bit by halftime.
Luke walked over to say hello to Neil and Laura, sitting comfortably on the bleachers. The halftime score was already. 21-3. Neil got up off his seat and walked down to shake Luke’s hand warmly.
“Incredible game, Luke. You’re dominant out there. You’re all over the field,” Neil told him.
“Not a bad way to end the season. Now we just gotta keep it up for one more half,” Luke replied.
“I have no doubt you will. Their team is totally outmatched,” said Neil.
“You guys must be thirsty?”, said Luke.
Laura said, “We have a bottle we were sharing, but it’s empty.”
“There’s a vending machine next to the locker rooms over there,“ Luke said, pointing across the field.
Laura said to Neil, “I’ll go get us a couple of bottles of water.”
Luke replied, “Don’t be silly. You’re both my guests. Brooke, get them a couple of bottles of water from the machine and get me a Gatorade. Walter, I have spare pair of cleats in the back of my truck. Go get them.”
“Yes, sir,” I replied before running off to the parking lot.
Brooke and I got back to the bleachers about the same time. I watched her walk up the bleachers with the bottles of water.
“Here, sir. Here, miss,” Brooke said with a smile, as she handed Laura and Neil the bottles. She even lifted her minuscule skirt and gave them a little curtsy.
“What service!”, said Laura. “I like it!”
After the game, Neil talked to Luke in the locker room as I collected the soiled uniforms and towels of his teammates to take home to launder. One of the cornerbacks snapped my ass with his wet towel as I bent over to gather up some towels. It hurt and I yelped in surprise. I looked up to see Neil regarding me with amusement and the running back who called out my lack of dignity last game look at me with an unfiltered expression of disgust and contempt. At least we weren’t asked to publicly massage Luke’s feet this time, I thought to myself.
However, shortly after the four of us returned to the house, Luke ordered me to to remove his cleats and provide relief to his aching feet. He then volunteered my services to Neil, who exhibited not the slightest hesitation in accepting. My colleague and friend seemed to be increasingly at ease in Luke’s company and in accepting my acts of subservience. Meanwhile, Laura sat in the kitchen talking to Brooke as she began prepping for dinner. After spending over an hour on the two men’s feet, I washed my hands and joined Brooke in the kitchen in preparing dinner.
Luke insisted that Brooke and I remain in our cheerleading uniforms throughout dinner. But it was I who served all the dishes, poured the glasses of wine, cleared the table and loaded the dishwasher. More humiliating still, Luke ordered me to cut my portion of steak in half and to return my baked potato to the serving plate, as he shared the “unacceptable” results of my weigh-in the prior morning. One could almost hear Neil say “tsk tsk,” as he regarded me with sadness and disappointment. I was acutely conscious of my servant status as I removed everyone’s dirty plates and rinsed them off in the sink. It was shameful, and yet…
Yes, my day wasn’t the only thing that was hard.

So I'm going through a long and exhausting job hunting process with not much jobs being available where I live. It's in the capital of country where my parents moved us years ago, so it wasn't my choice to get here. After high school I was forced to get higher education, and I'm a year from graduation and getting my possibly useless diploma.
I consider moving somewhere where I have family members, but at the moment I have a partner here and my siblings are still with my abusive parents, and I have to look after them because no one else will protect them.
I tried being a waitress, working at a call-center, I posted and sent many resumes for different types of jobs, went through interviews, all this for nothing. I was able to get an interview through the people I know, but there's no guarantee that I will be hired even part-time. They should reach out to me with their decision today.
So there are two options left on my mind if I won't get this job. A babysitter and a cleaner. I'm good at being a nanny and cleaning ("thanks" to being parentified). It's still going to be a small pay for the amount of work, around $540 a month, I could rent a cheap room or bed in the hostel with this money. I don't know if those jobs are good for a person with CPTSD? Cleaning actually seems nice. All you have to do is keep a place clean, and you don't have to interact with people for the most part.
Also it seems like everyone else except for me "made it", like everyone else around me is successful, while I'm a piece of shit, an idiot and a pig, as my father called me (I dunno what's wrong with pigs, they're quite cute and smart creatures). I also don't want to depend on my partner in the future, but this exact future seems very bleak. I won't earn a lot of money anyways.
I'd really appreciate some support/advice/shared experience 🥲🥲🥲

I graduated from college May 2023. I've had trouble finding a job in my field, so I've been doing paid internships since then. However, I am still having trouble finding a job in my field, so I am looking for a waitress job now.
I am looking from some advice or perspective from other people who have been in this position. I am trying to keep a positive attitude and think this will be a good opportunity to meet more people, make money, and become more involved in the city I moved to to intern. But I can't help but being disappointed that my degree and internship experience have not landed me an office job yet.
In addition, I am looking for practical advice. I am assuming I should rewrite my resume to include job experience from high school/college when I was working in pool/country club snack bars (I have no direct waitressing experience). Do you recommend applying to restaurants online? Or calling? Or showing up in person with my resume? Do I even need a resume? For reference, I am in a major East Coast city.
Thank you!

Applying for a job after University. Or even while IN University
First and foremost I would like to say. Congratulations on graduating.
Now that you have the diploma its time to get to work. And remember that even if you plan to continue in University, it’s a great idea to get some real world skills in your career choice. So getting a job will be crucial in your continued Ed.
Getting a job means applying and applying means needing a resume. Now I know you have heard a lot of people call a resume a CV and I want to briefly mention that.
A CV is a history of your academic history and not your work. A Resume is a history of your work. However a Resume usually has the basics of your education as well. If you have gone well past the path of just a 4 year ( Bachelors ) degree then you might want to keep both handy.
Or if you also happen to have an education history that might help inform the potential employer of your skills. Meaning that you went to a trade school or certificate program and will now be working in the same or related trade. Otherwise the resume should do just fine.
Most people who have graduated University have some sort of work history. And while it may not be a glamorous one you still need to let potential employers know about it. And there are ways to do that so that you are telling the potential employer about your skills.
So now the question becomes. What do Employers want to see on your resume?
Below is a short list of skills you might want to showcase. And even if you don’t think you have them you just might, because surviving University has helped you with a lot of them. And even if the school did not, your friends and peers did.
Communication Skills
Scheduling and time management
Project Management
Analytical thinking
And most of all, Flexibility.
Only you can evaluate these skills as you put together your resume so you kind of need to think outside the box.
Lets say that you worked in a coffee shop. You were a waitress or waiter. How can you state that you have some of these skills.
NOT A good way to state the obvious. “ I worked in a coffee shop taking orders and delivering food and drinks. “
Better way to state the obvious. “ Responsibilities included: Organizing the customer experience from start to finish while maintaining constant contact with the customer and fulfilling unexpected needs with multiple communication lanes available. “
Good keywords to use would be: Organized, Experience, Communication, Fulfilling etc.
Time management is another thing that employers want to see. So make sure to touch on that as well.
NOT A good way to state the obvious: I was always on time to work and did my job.
Better way to state the obvious: Keeping a punctual schedule allowed me to maintain service above and beyond that expected by most customers. Delivery of orders and or changes made in a prompt fashion helped the customer to understand their importance.
Yeah I know. Some of you guys are thinking. “ Why do I need to say all this flowery bullshit? “ well you don’t. But if you want to excel in the future. If you want that job you have dreamed about or earned. Then you need to go out and take it. And trying to take it without the proof that you can do it wont help you. And the proof has to be a LOT more than your University diploma. You need to show your skills.
Skills most sought:
Communication skills
Time Management skills
Leadership Skills
Team Work Skills
Influence skills ( no I don’t mean Instagram or Tik Tok )
Analytical thinking skills
Flexibility.
Of course there are others but this is a short list that you can use to make your resume stand out.
If you have other tips and tricks to share please post them below.
Remember also that a resume is to apply for a specific position. And that means you want to list relevant positions you had before that you feel directly relate to what you are applying for.
If you have only worked as a waiter or waitress then it may not be relevant to working as a laboratory tech. However if you have nothing in your work history that is relevant then usually listing the last three places of employment is best. Also make sure to explain any gaps in employment and why you left the previous position.
If you are currently employed and don’t really want them to know about your application to somewhere else you can always put. Start date and end date as current. Then put. Only contact for reference after hire.
Meaning if you don’t plan to hire me for the position. Don’t contact them. And most if not all employers wont screw you on your current job.
Also make sure to provide specific details of your current work and why you feel its relevant to the position you are applying for. Keeping in mind of course some of the wording we talked about above.
Don’t list irrelevant skills like pottery making or kite flying. Its not important unless the position has something to do with that. But do make sure to be complete in everything you say and make sure to proof read what you plan to submit.
One of the last things a resume needs is a list of references. These are usually personal and more about character than work history. So put those on a separate sheet of paper and only give them to the company you are applying for if they ask.
Here is a Very important topic to me and I do hope that this sticks in your head.
With a degree the positions you will be applying for are a lot less standard. Meaning that the process will most likely be more in depth and also the stakes will be a lot higher. With everyone now days saying they don’t make enough money I want to leave you with this.
In 99% of Salaried positions which is what you will most likely be working. The interviewer will ask you what your salary expectations will be or are. Simply reply.
“ MAKE ME AN OFFER I CAN NOT REFUSE! “ This way you don’t undercut what you may have gotten. If they offer less or way less then counter with more and see where it goes. But do counter with a reasonable amount over.
If you have any tips or tricks that you have used in the past to get a new position please list them below. It will help others and maybe someone else will share something that also helps you.

My mind is gone. I see him everywhere I go. I see him in every reflection, in every dark corner, and in the eyes of every person I see. My mind is gone, my life is over. Before you get the wrong idea, this isn’t THAT kind of post. I’ll still be alive for a long time after I post this. Afterall, once I do die, I’ll be in his clutches. There is no escape, there is only delaying the inevitable.
For those who read my last post, the “him” I’m talking about is the man with the weirdly shaped head that tormented my dear friend, Violet. The man who turned my friend into a murderer, and the same man who I suspect had a hand in driving Craig’s dad to kill those children. Now, these two cases seem to not have anything to do with each other at first glance. However, there is one connecting element: me. I’m the one drawing this creature to the people I love. I’m the lightning rod for this entity’s corruption. I tried my hardest to help put a stop to his machinations, however, there is no stopping him.
I’ll start where my last post left off. I had gone to visit my childhood friend, Craig. I had to go out of state to visit. By the time the trip had come up, I hadn’t seen the man in weeks. Craig and I met up at a small coffee shop. He had wanted to meet up at a game store, but I wanted someplace a little quieter and with less people. He found me pretty easy, the tattoo that Violet had given me made me stick out of the crowd somewhat.
If my experiences had molded me, Craig’s had shattered him. He was skinny, very skinny. His skin was covered in prison tattoos and his hair was buzzed almost to the scalp. He showed signs of prolonged drug abuse. His hand shook as he placed his deck on the tiny round table. It was hard to tell if he was currently using or not. His smile was warm and bright, it felt quite nostalgic in fact. His smile brought a smile to my own face, making my worries melt away like sweet ice cream. The two of us embraced over the table, almost knocking my half-drunk latte onto the floor. It had been 20 years since I had seen Craig, and my wait was now over.
We sat down and I ordered a mocha for Craig. His smile faded as he leaned in, getting serious. “I’m not up for talking about what happened when we were kids, as you can see, it fucked me up big time. I know you might be looking for some kind of closure, but I’m not mentally capable of giving it right now.”
I felt deflated, but I understood. He had answers, but those answers came from living with a monster since the day he was born. I can understand why he wouldn’t want to talk about what happened. I nodded. I intended to respect his wishes. Still though, I needed answers, I would need to get them elsewhere.
“I heard about your friend, Violet, I’m sorry. I read about it in the newspaper,” Craig said.
The image of Violet, drenched in blood and regurgitated ink flashed in my mind. I had almost forgotten it when I had been reunited with Craig. I stared into the coffee as the waitress brought over Craig’s drink. “I didn’t know you could read,” I said, I had hoped my joke would make Craig fee like I was doing better than I was.
Craig was certainly caught off guard. He chuckled and remarked, “yes, I can also count all the way up to eleven-teen.” His joke did actually lift my spirits a bit. I started looking over his tattoos, they were crude. I wasn’t into criminal culture, so I didn’t know the significance behind most of them. All I really knew was teardrop meant murderer, which Craig, thankfully, didn’t have. As I was gathering my thoughts, Craig pulled out his Magic the Gathering deck.
Craig and I started playing. He whooped my ass hard. We talked about how things had been going in our lives. Apparently, Craig had gotten into programming. That put a point to Craig having made that hack. I asked if his dad was a programmer. His face got stern. Right, he didn’t want to talk about that. He gave me a terse nod before resuming with his turn. His dad was one too, so either of them could have made it. The conversation was tense for a moment before I made another joke that made him snort mocha out of his nose.
Towards the end of our third game, my butt having been thoroughly kicked several times over by now, I showed Craig a drawing. It was a sketch of the man I had done while I was on the plane. He glanced at it, his face showing no sign of recognition. Dejected, I put the picture away. Craig played a card and said “okay, I destroy all of your creatures.”
“Boy, if you’re gonna fuck me this bad, you should take me out to dinner first,” I remarked.
“Maybe I will,” Craig teased, bringing a slight flush to my cheeks.
I cleared my throat and pulled at my collar. I hadn’t expected that from Craig, nor that kind of reaction from myself. While a date sounded fun, I did have other things I wanted to do while I was here. I had signed up to test out a new sleeping drug, and needed to be at the lab in a couple of hours. It would give me a bit of money for me to use during the visit.
“SO ANYWAYS” I interjected a bit more loudly than I meant to, accidentally making the barista look our way, “watch any new anime?”
“Well, nothing new, but I did recently caught up on That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime,” Craig said, leading into a conversation that lasted a good long while.
After Craig and I parted, I headed to the lab. It wasn’t some extravagant building like you would see in the movies. It was just some small nondescript building that looked like it had once been a laundromat. The interior looked professional enough. When I went to the front desk and presented my identification number and flashed my state ID, I was greeted by an older lady in a lab coat. She identified herself as Dr. Garcia, she had a calming voice, she seemed like the kind of woman I wish had been my own grandma. I had been stuck with a racist, sexist, homophobic Southern cow who drove my grandpa to an early grave. Having a well mannered scientist as a grandma would have been pretty sweet.
Dr. Garcia walked me to a small curtained off area and talked me through the procedures. There were some speakers that were designed to disrupt my sleep, basically stress testing the drug. They would keep me until about 3 in the morning, after which they would wake me up and send me on my way. Hopefully my grogginess from the drug wouldn’t lead me to walk into the street and reenact the insurance fraud mission from Saint’s Row.
Dr. Garcia spent a frustratingly long time reviewing my medical information with me that I had already given over the phone when I first signed up for this. After this, she took my vitals, had me change into a hospital gown and put some sensors on me. Finally, she gave me a small cup with two white pills and a bottle of water. Finally, this had been boring as hell, I was half asleep by now anyways. I lay down, closing my eyes, and allowed sleep to overtake me.
I awoke in my childhood room, but it wasn’t my normal childhood room. It was my room as depicted in that Pokemon hack from all those years ago. I looked like the real me though. I walked around the room, running my hand over the pixelated sheets. I seemed in control, so it must have been a lucid dream. I looked out the window. I could see Craig’s dad’s bedroom window. I felt dirty, a shiver went through my body. It almost felt like he was looking at me right now. I thought about myself being in that basement.
I heard a familiar giggle, muffled by the closed door behind me. I turned quickly. It sounded like Violet. I ran to the door and opened it quickly. I heard footsteps running down the hall. I ran after, trying to catch up. I heard a splat as I stepped into the dining room. The floor was covered in blood, not pixelated blood like the rest of my surroundings, but real blood. My head throbbed. Whose blood was this? I heard Violet’s giggling coming from the living room. Then I heard her say, “he looks like he could be sleeping!”
The next voice made my heart literally jump up into my throat. “Yes, Violet, my dear. What would he be dreaming about?” It was Craig’s dad’s voice. It sounded more floaty and sinister than I remember, but it was unmistakable. I swallowed my heart back down into my chest, I would need that for later. I then burst into the living room.
Sitting on the couch was Craig, he both looked like how he did as a kid, how he does now, and his NPC form from the hack. I couldn’t tell if was subtly shifting between forms, was just all three stacked on top of one another, or if he was made out of different parts of his three parts. The image hurt my eyes. His throat had a deep gash, but the gash was mouthing words. I couldn’t understand what it was saying, I couldn’t read lips. Flanking each side of my childhood friend’s corpse were Violet, and Craig’s dad.
His dad looked at me through glasses he never wore when I knew him. His eyes hungered for me, making my skin crawl. He smiled, exposing his yellowed rotting teeth. Violet herself had blackened eyes, a strange ooze dripping from both them and her once ruby red lips. Violet skipped over to me, planting a sticky black kiss on my cheek.
I went over to Craig’s disorienting body. I put a hand on his chest, shaking slightly. At the bottom of my vision, I could see text appear: “It is a corpse.”
I looked at Craig’s dad. His smile spread wider and wider, exposing more teeth than existed in the human mouth. His mouth opened wide. Black ooze was gushing out of his mouth like a torrent of demonic ichor. From the darkness of his maw, I could see someone walking towards me. I turned quickly, my heart racing and threatening to burst out of my chest. I didn’t want to see who was coming for me. I ran faster and faster but I wasn’t getting any further away. Violet was laughing at me. Craig’s neck wound was laughing at me too. I could hear the footsteps getting closer and closer. I had to escape but couldn’t. I looked over my shoulder.
The man’s face was poking out from Craig’s dad’s mouth, staring right at me. His eyes were wide, as if staring into my soul. My heart burst out of my chest, showering Craig’s dad with viscera. I collapsed to my knees, staring into the man’s wide mad eyes. The man looked down at me. The man spoke with my own voice, “you’ve gone quite mad, Alice.” Finally, his jaw unhinged, as if to swallow my head whole. A distorted electronic alarm blared from his throat, finally awakening me from the dream.
I sat up in the bed, screaming loudly. Dr. Garcia came over and tried to comfort me. She ran me through some cognitive exercises to ground me back to reality. She reminded me one of the side effects of the drugs was the possibility of vivid dreams. I was huffing and puffing for a solid ten minutes before I finally calmed down.
After I got dressed, I called up Craig. I didn’t know if he was at work or asleep. I hoped either way I wasn’t disrupting him. He answered after a couple rings. He had been doing some online gaming. I asked if I could crash on the couch. I needed to see him in person after that dream. Every time I closed my eyes, I could see that disturbing visage of Craig. He agreed to come pick me up.
Dr. Garcia had given me a bunch of forms and a few other sleeping pills. It wasn’t enough to overdose, just enough to continue the test in my everyday life. They knew I was on vacation, it was actually part of why they chose me to be part of the test. They wanted to see how the pills would affect people in unfamiliar environments.
Craig soon arrived in his beat up shit-mobile. I’m not a car guy, I just know it had four wheels, and a lack of mirrors and lights where there should be those things. We got back to his place, which was basically a broom closet with a gamer setup. Craig asked me how the test went. I told him he didn’t want to know given the warning he gave me earlier. He was taken aback by that but after a bit he relented.
“I understand that what happened to you must have messed you up too,” Craig said, “if you want to tell me, tell me.”
I was silent for a while, during that time the entirety of Korn’s Freak on a Leash song played on Craig’s cracked phone. I eventually told him all about the dream. The description left him speechless. I could see a twinge of guilt in his eyes. He put a hand on mine. I doubt he knew what to say, I know I wouldn’t if I were in his shoes. I squeezed his hand, appreciating the gesture. We spent the rest of the night playing Street Fighter, eventually passing out on the bed around 6 or so. My sleep was dreamless, thankfully.
The next afternoon, Craig headed into work, leaving me on my own. While he was gone, I started doing some research on the man with the weirdly-shaped head. All my research kept bringing me back to Violet and the murder she had committed. She was still on the run. I called my parents, making sure they were okay. While my mom and brother were at work, my dad answered and put my fears to rest.
I decided to take a walk to clear my head. I thought back to the man. I thought back to seeing him after Violet went on the run. Who was he? I thought about how Craig’s dad seemed to almost birth the man in my dream. Was he seeing the man when he went mad? He had to have, when I knew Craig’s dad, he didn’t seem like a monster. Surely something was messing with him, causing him to do these things. No way a monster like that could raise someone like Craig.
The days passed, I took the pills over the course of that time. However, each time my sleep was dreamless. I kept hoping to go back into that dream and talk to the man again. The only slight dream I had during that time was on the second night when I saw a rabbit for a fraction of a second before dreamlessness.
As I spent more time with Craig, we grew closer. Even with his skinniness, him coming out of the bathroom in a towel made my heart flutter. I tried to remedy his skinniness with my home cooking. The money I was getting from the test was helping me pay for the meals. I almost felt like a househusband for a bit, a thought that made me a bit giddy.
On the fifth night, we were playing Street Fighter again. Craig had a few beers, I wasn’t drinking because of the test. I was down to my last dose. Spirits were high. We caught each other’s gaze as I finally got a victory against him. He made the first move by kissing me deeply. The kiss led to another thing, I think you can guess. Afterwards, the two of us lay in each other’s arms, breathing heavily. I didn’t know these feelings had been bubbling between us when we first reunited. However, for the first time since I lost Violet, it had given me hope. I fell asleep, listening to his heartbeat.
I had another dream.
I was in the pixelated living room. Craig’s corpse wasn’t there. Neither were Craig’s dad nor Violet. The blood was also gone. The only thing out of place was the phrase “very very late” written on the wall in ink. I looked around the house. No one was here. Where the hell could he be? I put a hand on my chest. There was still a hole in my chest from my last dream.
“Looking for this?” my own voice asked from behind me. It was him, it was the man, holding my heart in his hand. I reached out to grab it but suddenly it was gone. I stumbled as I phased through the man like he was made out of air. I turned to face him once again. Now he was on the other end of the room. With a blink, he was standing outside the window. Another blink, and I was awake, my face in Craig’s tattooed chest.
The test was over, so I turned in my paperwork that morning. Dr. Garcia talked over some things with me and gave me a phone number to call in case of emergencies. I received my final check. I decided to splurge and make some fajitas for Craig and I. As I walked around the grocery store collecting ingredients, I kept thinking back to the dream. The man seemed to be taunting me now. I had to see him again.
While the pills weren’t a guarantee, they did help get me into that dream realm, so I picked up some Benadryl to help me reach that state. I also picked up some beers for Craig and I to share. I thought about the night before. My plane ride home would be the next day. I didn’t want to go. Call it foolish if you want, but I wanted to stay there with him. Sure, it wasn’t glamorous, but there was something between us. So I did something reckless. I quit my job.
When I got back, I made dinner for the two of us again and we got to talking. Craig was certainly shocked by my news. We weren’t even officially together after all. I told him I wanted to change that, I told him I wanted to be with him.
“But we barely know each other. We haven’t seen each other in 20 years, we’ve only been back in touch for a week,” Craig said, seemingly wanting me to see sense. However, I felt then I was already seeing sense. We talked for hours, going back and forth. He agreed to give things a shot, but he wanted to take things slow. He wanted me to get my own place and to build my own life before getting more serious. I agreed to his terms.
That night was dreamless. So was the next night and the next. Each night I tried to get back into that dream realm but was met with failure. Benadryl wasn’t helping. I increased the dose. Still nothing, I would maybe hear some giggling right before waking up but nothing more. This was getting so frustrating, I needed answers from this man. I wanted to know why he was doing the things he was doing.
I had been putting in applications for dishwashing positions, eventually getting a job after a week and a half. Craig and I didn’t see much of each other after that. He and I both worked irregular hours. Though I think he appreciated having an extra income in the home. He was certainly gaining some weight from my cooking. He was starting to look healthy.
My family was super worried about me leaving so suddenly. They were rightfully freaked out, but they were glad things were seemingly working out for me. I had realized after a while this was certainly reckless as hell, but I felt confident regardless. I think when my mom heard what Craig wanted me to do, she gained a certain level of respect for him. I hate to admit it, but I think they were glad I wasn’t in town with Violet on the loose.
The new job was pretty nice. My boss wasn’t a total piece of shit, only a partial one. Sure, the waitstaff ignored me like they did at my last job. However, the cooks seemed to like me. The guy I replaced was apparently a lazy piece of shit so they appreciated my hard work. After my shifts, myself and the cooks would have “safety” meetings. If you know, you know. About a month into the new job, I told one of my new coworkers about my inability to dream. I told them about the experimental pills and my futile efforts to dream using Benadryl.
“Naw man, ya gotta use something stronger,” one of the cooks said. After making sure no one was listening, he talked about some medicine that would really get me into the zone. I knew exactly what he was hinting at. Given Craig’s history with drugs, I doubt he would appreciate me going down that road. I turned him down. That wouldn’t last long.
That night, I had another dream. It wasn’t lucid this time. I was a spectator. I saw a waitress I worked with tied to a chair. Craig, his dad, and Violet were standing over her. Craig was holding a knife. “You’ve got this son,” Craig’s dad was quietly egging on his son. I tried to scream and get Craig’s attention, but I had no mouth to scream with. I watched as Violet placed a knife in Craig’s hand, the one he had been holding having seemingly vanished. The waitress squirmed, her hair flailing wildly as she tried to escape. I tried anything I could to get Craig’s attention but I was pretty much a phantom pair of eyes. I watched in horror as Craig started cutting strips of flesh from the waitress’s arms, exposing muscle tissue beneath. Her screams of terror and agony were gut wrenching.
“See what beautiful music he makes,” I hear my own voice say. He is nearby, and his message is clear. I awoke and rushed to the bathroom to puke.
The next day after work, I told my coworker I wanted to take his offer. He sold me some prescription pills. I was scared to take them though. By this point, Craig had opened up and told me some stories of his low points with his drug addiction. Out of respect for him, I won’t mention them here. I’ll just say he struggled hard. I felt like I would be disrespecting him and his struggles if I voluntarily started going down that road. Still, I didn’t want him to become corrupted like Violet and his dad were. I would need to exercise extreme caution with these pills. I had seen From Hell, that movie with Johnny Depp. I saw how they COULD work, but also knew it was a slippery slope.
The first night didn’t give me any results. The next only brought me running down an infinite pixelated hallway trying to catch up to the man. This dream would repeat once a week, but it was dreamless the rest of the time. Meanwhile, Craig was getting more and more worried about me. He knew something was up. To ease off his suspicions, I would have nights where I don’t take anything. However, those nights were the worst. The dreams of Craig carving up someone would come up. The first dream had been the waitress, each repetition would bring up someone I was closer and closer to. After my brother appeared in a dream, I made sure to take at least one every night.
The pills were getting more and more expensive. My coworker, now my dealer, was jacking up the prices now that he had me by the curlies. I hated the pills, but I needed them if I was going to find a way to save Craig. I had to do this. The dreams would become less vivid, so I would up the dosage. Craig and I’s erratic schedules meant Craig didn’t see me at my worst normally, but he was definitely suspicious. We argued a lot. I had stopped cooking, he had to pick up the slack. I think he knew I was on drugs, he just didn’t want to admit it. I think he was in denial.
One day, I noticed my bottle of pills was gone from my bag. Craig had been through it. My heart raced. I knew what my dreams would be like if I didn’t have them. I knew what the man would do to Craig. I tore the apartment apart looking for them. Deep down, I knew he had flushed them. The empty bottle in the trash can solidified that for me. I screamed. I cried. I broke things. No, this couldn’t happen. I needed them. I had to save Craig.
“You’ve gone mad, Alice~” I heard my own voice say. The man was in the kitchen with me. His horrid head, it looked like his skull had unnatural angles in it.
“What the fuck do you want?” I snapped.
“Same thing you want, frankly,” the man said “to be happy.”
“And doing that requires you driving my loved ones insane?” I snapped.
“Of course not, Alice,” the man said, chuckling. He was starting to pace around me, hands behind his back.
“Then why did you do it?” I asked.
“I didn’t do anything, I’m just a figment of your imagination,” the man said, my own laughter escaping his mouth.
I stood there, trembling. My eyes widened. No way, this wasn’t right. He’s just a figment? What about Craig’s dad? What about Violet?
“Violet saw a man with a weirdly shaped head. I’m no psychologist so I couldn’t tell you why, but the human mind is wonderfully suggestive. She talked about seeing me so you started seeing me when your own mind started to go~” the man said in a sing-song voice, like this was incredibly amusing to him, “you made connections where there were none. You don’t even know if Craig’s dad was even seeing me. No, his madness didn’t come from hallucinations. His madness came from grief and loss. He wanted to replace his son, and I think you know that.”
“You’re full of shit, you’re warping their minds!” I snapped back. There was no way this entity was telling the truth. He couldn’t be trusted. He was lying.
“Oh? Let me guess, you think I’m some eldritch Lovecraftian god like Slenderman or something? No, if I were really that old, I wouldn’t be quoting Alice in Wonderland all the time,” the man said, sounding like he felt insulted “I mean, how cliche can you get? You couldn’t have picked a more obscure tale about going mad for me to quote? Or even make something else up? Put some effort into it, Alice.”
I fell to my knees. No, this couldn’t be true. Something more had to have been happening. It couldn’t be so simple. It had to be more. If it wasn’t, then all this was for nothing. If he spoke the truth. That meant I drove myself insane.
“Violet was dealing with her issues long before you ever knew about it, Craig’s father had been dealing with his issues before you and Craig ever met,” the man said. All sense of jovialness was gone from his demeanor. He was getting serious. He grabbed me by my shirt collar, “I’m not putting Craig in danger. You are.”
“Stop gaslighting me,” I said softly. This wasn’t right.
It was then I felt arms wrap around me. Craig had come home and saw me collapsed on the floor.
“It’ll be okay,” he whispered as he rocked me in his arms.
I’ve been writing this over the course of a couple days, under the advice of Dr. Garcia. Craig had called her number and she was helping me with my issues. Looking back at the earlier pages of this post, I find myself heartbroken that I put Craig through this. I think I was still going through some lingering withdrawal when I wrote those pages. I don’t know what I would do without Craig.
I stopped taking the pills and found a new job. I still crave them and my nightmares are awful, but Craig is always there when I wake up. The new job gave me a more steady schedule, and Craig started taking only the daytime jobs, so Craig and I are able to spend every night together. I started cooking again. Craig’s gained a good amount of weight. I find it so weird that this all started with a hacked Pokemon cartridge of all things.
I still see the man. Perhaps I always will, but things will be okay. I will be okay. Thank you, Craig, for being there for me. I love you.

Looking for examples of resumes where you hide your fancy school and former title if you just want or need to get a first waitress job! Redact your name and email. Im im 40s . Do i just say i was a math tutor for 20 years?
Also i understand white lies are common and idk how to do this. What do i lie and say

https://preview.redd.it/zvx11jhtxvtc1.png?width=1360&format=png&auto=webp&s=e2c892579a3036ec6d3181c3d51c5c1c4c325708
Stats: 175, 4.0, nURM, KJD, T4 softs
I didn't have any fancy internships or awards on my resume. I attended a large public institution for undergrad. I worked as a waitress throughout college, which is what my essays were about. I applied pretty much everywhere by the end of Novembeearly December. Wrote all supplemental essays, but didn't really emphasize "why X" in them. Maybe that's what came back to bite me. I guess we'll never know.
I interviewed with UT, Georgetown, Harvard, U Chicago, and Yale. Kind of blew the U Chicago interview but the rest of them went extremely well.
Though I am really grateful for the scholarships I was offered and am thrilled to be attending Harvard in the fall, I have to say I was bummed by all of the waitlists. I was kind of holding out for scholarship at one of the T-14s, given the fact that my stats were above almost every school's medians.