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Espagueti con queso y pimienta
Penne con tomate , aceitunas, anchoas y alcaparras
Berengenas con salsa de tomate, mozzarella y parmmesano
The ambiance was nice, great music overall. Service was nice as well, we really enjoyed the place. The food .. yum! Totally recommend the place!
Amazing food and service. Lovely cosy restaurant tucked away from the main drag. 100% recommend
Loved the atmosphere. Great cocktails. Made a reservation using Fork, seated immediately. We found this place randomly and decided to try it. So happy we did. The Cacio E Pepe is a favorite of mine and my new favorite is the Pappardelle with Boat Meat Sauce.
Everything was nice and food was good. Clean and fresh and the staff did a good job. Our cheese plate was the highlight.
very romantic and "chamber", local feeling, delicious dishes and very polite waiter
The lasagna could have used a bit more spices but was still delicious! As well as the carbonara! Really cute restaurant with a good atmosphere.
A real treasure. Small restaurant with excellent food. Owner is very friendly and small menus keeps the food at top quality. Atmosphere is very nice on the romantic side. Restaurant is a little hard to find in dimly lit alley ways of Gothic Barcelona.
Very friendly staff, excellent quality ingredients, acceptable prices ( and great prices with Fork,). I will come back. I had fresh bursts and steak. House wine was very good too
Excellent food. Great, relaxed vibe.
We has the cheese selection and absolutely loved it! The roast beef wasn't my favorite but still nicely prepared. I will definitely come back, especially for the cozy atmosphere.
The staff were friendly and funny. The food was outstanding. We were seated upstairs overlooking the restaurant. Perfect little spot in the Gothic Quarter to spend our birthday!
The environment was very welcoming and calm, good for a date! The pasta was not very well cooked imo, too raw, but the lasagna was perfect! Recommended.
Food was excellent, cant fault it. Will be booking this restaurant next time we are in Barcelona for sure.
Good food :)
Very good food, homenade pasta that tasted wonderful. The service was also very kind. With the discount of El Tenedor it was really recomendable!
excelente servicio, ambiente y sabor
Food was really good.Restaurant was very inviting and quaint.Wine reasonable and delicious. A nice evening had by all. Would visit again if I return to Spain.
Great no complaints
Comida: de 13:00 a 16:00 (sábados y domingos)
Cena: de 19:00 a 00:00 (de lunes a domingo)
Carrer d'Ataülf, 5, 08002, Barcelona, Spain
Las calles del barcelonés barrio del Gòtic albergan secretos culinarios que transportan a las especialidades más preciadas de la italiana región de la Toscana. Se trata del restaurante Cachaca, ubicado cerca de la plaza del Regomir.
El interior es coqueto y acogedor, decorado con buen gusto y consonante con el motivo gastronómico. El itinerario parte degustando quesos y embutidos italianos. Posteriormente, pastas como Spaghetti allo scoglio y Pappardelle al cinghiale representan placeres del mar y de la tierra, respectivamente. Tagliata con ensalada de rúcula, tomate y lascas de parmesano con patatas al horno, Bistec alla fiorentina y Bacalao alla livornese son oportunidades que no se pueden obviar.
A todo esto, que no es poco, el restaurante Cachaca suma postres caseros y tradicionales del país transalpino, además de una selección de vinos representativa de las zonas vinícolas más prolíficas de Italia. ¿Te lo vas a perder?
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€30 average price
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Score:9 33 reviews
€20 average price
Score:9.3 727 reviews
Free serviceImmediate booking


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Download Shatta Wale - Pull Wi Down Mp3Follow @Wapbaze_Com
Ghanaian dancehall king, Shatta Wale dishes out a new one this weekend titled â€œPull Wi Downâ€. We all know that of recent Shatta Wale has continued to release records after records and he basically sends this as a message to his haters.
Download And Enjoy...
|Sat 21 Nov 2015||108||KellyChi|
Wapbaze is an Entertainment website that deals in uploding of music tracks of any kind and letting her users download them in Mp3 formats of high quality. Wapbaze.com is the main website and Wapbaze.com/music/ is the folder for latest songs.

domain: entertainment


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Address: 10900 Jack Nicklaus Dr, North Palm Beach, FL Hours: Daily, 8 AM - 7 PM
John D. MacArthur Beach State Park boasts over 1.6 miles of pristine shoreline and dunes, as well as over 400 acres of other kinds of natural environments to explore.
This man-made island is full of white beaches with clear, turquoise waters. This location is particularly good for snorkeling.
Lake Worth Beach Park
Address: 10 S Ocean Blvd, Lake Worth, FL Hours: 9 AM - 5 PM
One of the best beaches for families, Lake Worth Beach Park features restaurants, shops, and an iconic pier. Lifeguards are regularly on duty for additional safety.
Juno Beach Park
Address: 14775 U.S. Hwy 1, Juno Beach, FL Hours: 7 AM - 7 PM
Juno Beach Park offers a wide array of amenities, including a 300 ft. guarded beach frontage, a 990 ft. pier that permits fishing, ample parking, picnic areas, showers, and more.
Ocean Reef Park
Address: 3860 N Ocean Dr, Riviera Beach, FL Hours: 7 AM -7 PM
This park features a playground and picnic areas for families, as well as on-site lifeguards. There are also several saltwater fishing areas.
Bicycling Trails in West Palm Beach
The most famous trail in Palm Beach, the Lake Trail runs for 5.5 miles and allows you to view public art displays, mansions, and Lake Worth Lagoon.
Hog Hammock Trail
The Hog Hammock Trail makes for a wonderful, leisurely cruise while you take in the sights of the Grassy Waters Preserve and visit historical markers along the way.
The Owahee Trail
If you are looking for a longer ride, this 16 mile gravel trail provides more of a challenge. The Owahee Trail is also a popular destination for those wanting to view the natural wildlife, so be prepared for there to be a decent amount of people along the way.
Kayaking in West Palm Beach
Paddle Boarding Palm Beach
4.5 / 5 stars on Google
Not only does Paddle Boarding Palm Beach offer top quality kayak and paddle boarding rentals, they also offer guided tours to Peanut Island and other great attractions near Palm Beach.
Perhaps the premiere touring company in West Palm Beach, Visit Palm Beach offers a host of guided excursions for paddlers of all skill levels. They also offer short and long term rentals of kayaks and paddleboards.
This family-owned and operated dive shop offers scuba and private charters, scuba instruction for all levels (including professional) and features equipment sales, service, and rentals. They go out of their way to help each trip be safe and enjoyable.
Featuring the largest scuba charter in West Palm Beach, Narcosis Dive Company offers charters, numerous private instruction courses, and top quality rentals paired with world-class service from their certified team members.
There are many reputable fishing charters in and around West Palm Beach, here are just a few:
Captain Eden - Great White
4.8 / 5 on Fishing Booker
Captain Eden White has over 36 years of experience, with over 20 years fishing the Palm Beaches full time. This charter accommodates up to 4 guests and offers all safety equipment and electronics needed for a memorable experience.
Big Buford Sportfishing is dedicated to helping guests create wonderful memories while fishing. Their 35' boat accommodates up to 6 guests and is child-friendly. They use a wide range of fishing techniques and support a ‘no fish no pay' policy based on the captain's recommendations.
Captain Blake with Absolute Action Sportfishing offers both offshore and inshore fishing expeditions. With a vessel that accommodates 6, he incorporates high tech and traditional methods to find success.
Operating north of us in Riviera Beach, Papa Bear's Fishing Charters specializes in providing thrilling deep sea excursions for their guests. They can accommodate up to 4 anglers and offer plenty of seating on their 28' vessel, including a fighting chair. They also can make a replica of your catch to mount.

domain: travel


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Decision to honor woman on US currency was long overdue
Who will she be? What great woman’s face will be seen regularly by virtually every American in the future – every time they reach into their wallets and purses and pull out a $10 bill?
Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew has said the $10 bill will be redesigned and will feature a woman’s picture replacing the current portrait of Alexander Hamilton.
Any number of possibilities come to mind: Abigail Adams, Jane Addams, Clara Barton, Shirley Chisholm, Helen Keller, Rosa Parks, Eleanor Roosevelt and Harriet Tubman are just a few possibilities.
Lew wants to get the public’s opinion and has invited Americans to submit suggestions for the woman to be honored on the new currency. That is appropriate – providing the decision is based on services to the nation and, possibly all humankind.
Political correctness and/or current popularity or notoriety should not influence the decision. The woman chosen should be someone who will be revered 100 years from now.
Again, there are many women, some long gone and known primarily to history buffs, who fit that requirement. That makes Lew’s decision appropriate and yes, long overdue. Americans should be eager to get the new $10 bills in their hands.

domain: politics


In patients with chronic left heart failure, the left ventricular volume will increase. Left heart failure leads to pulmonary congestion which results in clinical symptom of dyspnea. The extent of left ventricular dilatation is related to the severity of left heart failure. To monitor the progress of the disease an implantable ventricular volume sensor is highly desirable. If the ventricle is severely compromised, implantation of a left ventricular assist device (L-VAD) is necessary. In currently available L-VADs, equipped with a continuous flow pumps, no feedback is present to automatically adjust the flow level. In case the speed of the pump is low with respect to the actual need of the patient, the ventricle is not depleted properly and the ventricular volume increases. In the opposite case, the depletion is too severe and the two walls of the ventricle may collapse. Different volume sensors are described in the scientific literature, but there is a substantial lack of implantable sensors.The scope of our research is to test a new principle for implantable bionic ventricular volume sensors. The new sensors are minimally invasive and can exploit existing medical procedures and devices, could be used to monitor patients with chronic heart failure, or to inform the controller of an L-VAD. With proper volume measurements, the L-VAD controller could adjust the speed of the pump to fit the patient’s needs and optimize the ventricular volume.


Execs not yet ready to take one-year MBA break
The IIMs have seen a drop in the number of applications received for their one-year executive management courses. The IIMs are about to conclude the admission process which started in August. However, the numbers are not too encouraging. The IIM-Ahmedabad received 982 applications for the 2010 PGPX (post-graduate programme for executives) batch, a figure which is way below last year’s 1,300. Similarly, IIM-Bangalore’s post graduate programme, launched last year, so far has received 430 applications against 550 last year. IIM Calcutta too witnessed a decline in application for its post graduate programme for executives (PGPEX). The institute could not furnish figures as the admission process is not yet over.
The executive programmes churn substantial revenues for the IIMs. For instance, IIM-A, IIM-B and IIM-C charge Rs 19.35 lakh, Rs 18.75 lakh and Rs 14 lakh respectively. Interestingly, the number of company-sponsored candidates is insignificant, and most bear the expenses of the programme themselves.
“The number of applications has shown a decline this year. It appears that given the economic slowdown not many were willing to take a break from their jobs and undertake the programme. Another reasons could be that many applicants saw the value of their savings decline in the downturn and this reduced the availability of funds for pursuing the programme,’’ said Biju Abraham, chairman, PGPEX, IIM-Calcutta.
“Amidst reports of drop in average salaries of candidates who took up the course, people preferred to wait and watch rather than apply for the programmes,” said Shailesh Gandhi, chairman, PGPX, IIM-A, adding “Although, the numbers are less, the average profile of the candidates has remained the same.’’ The institute, about to finish admission process for the fifth batch, admits candidates with an average 10 years of work experience. Normally, between 35-40% candidates are those who have worked abroad.
IIM-Bangalore, which is yet to see the first placement for the course, said the decline in numbers has more to do with other factors including a change in admission process. “Last year, we had two rounds of applications and interviews. But this year, we had only one. This may have led to willing candidates unable to apply. Also, we have minimum requirement of seven years experience. This keeps the total number of applications lower than other IIMs,’’ said IIM-B PGPEX chairman Malay Bhattacharya.
The drop in application for the executive management programme is a global phenomenon, as per an applications trend survey conducted by the Graduate Management Admission Council (GMAC), the organisation that holds GMAT, the test required for admissions to the course. As per the GMAC survey, there was 51% drop in applications for executive management programmes.


Russian, Indian students creating friendship satelliteScience & Space August 16, 21:46
Zenit St. Petersburg loses 0:1 against FC Utrecht in first leg of Europa League play-offSport August 16, 21:34
Saakashvili plans to return to Ukraine on September 10World August 16, 21:23
Russian diplomat concerned over US and North Korean aggressive statementsRussian Politics & Diplomacy August 16, 20:32
Diplomat says US-made chemical weapons found in Syria prove West’s support for terroristsRussian Politics & Diplomacy August 16, 20:14
Russia’s St. Petersburg to host World Travel Awards in SeptemberSociety & Culture August 16, 19:37
Combat aircraft to make up over 50% in Russian state arms seller’s exportsMilitary & Defense August 16, 19:22
Poroshenko orders probe into reports about supplies of missile technologies to North KoreaWorld August 16, 19:08
Over 700 policemen to provide security at UEFA Europa League’s match in Russia's KrasnodarSport August 16, 19:02
DONETSK, May 27. /ITAR-TASS/. Curfew will be imposed in the city of Donetsk, eastern Ukraine, within the next few hours, the press service of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic reported.
“From 8.00 pm local time public transport will be halted until the situation normalizes. Besides, curfew is imposed in Donetsk between 10.00 pm and 06.00 am,” a source from the press service said.
He said getting out within this period of time “without emergency is dangerous for life”. “One must always carry ID documents,” the source added.
Besides, the leadership of the self-proclaimed republic asks people not to live personal vehicles on the streets adjacent to administrative buildings.


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Tom Goldman Tom Goldman is NPR's sports correspondent. His reports can be heard throughout NPR's news programming, including Morning Edition and All Things Considered, and on NPR.org.
Basketball: A Ticket Off the Reservation?
NBA's Bryant Rejects Sex Assault Charges
NBA Star Bryant Charged with Sex Assault
Pedaling Through Pain on the Tour De France
Vancouver Gets 2010 Winter Olympics
Swimming the Columbia River
Public Opinion Mixed on Iraqi Arms Issue
TV Networks Vie for Olympics Broadcast Rights
Slugger Sosa Apologizes for Using Illegal Bat
The Importance of the Basketball Point Guard
Funny Cide and the Belmont Stakes

domain: sports


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Know the advantages, uses and disadvantages of figs. Anjeer ke Fayde. Today we are going to tell you the benefits of eating figs (Anjeer ke Fayde) and the right way to consume figs is a type of fruit, figs are also used in home remedies for many diseases. Fig is a tasty and healthy fruit, its ripe fruits are eaten by people, they use fig fruit as a dried fruit in the sun and they also have figs in their favorite items found in the market. It contains vitamins minerals and antioxidants. That help people to stay away from diseases and get good health. How to eat fig fruit? If you have this question in your mind, the answer is, its fresh fruit is found, after drying it is also eaten and after drying it becomes good taste.
Benefits of eating figs – Anjeer ke Fayde
Figs can be consumed like dry figs at any time, it is believed that the use of figs in the morning is more beneficial. If you want to consume it for treatment, then the time and manner of eating it may be different. It contains high amount of fiber, digestive power is increased by its intake, which clears the stomach, you can eat figs directly or else soak it in a vessel at night and take the soaked figs the next morning.
Babasir or the patient of Piles also gets benefit from fig (anjeer ke fayde), constipation is a problem in the elderly and figs are very helpful in getting rid of constipation. Fig has benefits in removing physical weakness, it contains many essential nutrients that work to increase strength in the body, for this, eat dried fig with milk, it helps a lot in weight gain if fig Consume it with milk.
Benefits of figs-
Even in home remedies, fig (anjir) is very effective, due to its use, the skin is green, which removes the problem of stains. So it is also used to reduce high blood pressure, figs are also used for a sharp mind, it contains the amount of omega-3 that makes the brain sharp.
For the complete development of bones and to be strong strong, calcium is found most important in figs, fig (anjir) also helps in reducing the lack of blood in the body. Our body also has the ability to solve some small to big problems. Figs reduce obesity, throat pain and swelling are very much a problem, in such a way, medicines found in the market are also difficult to get out of the throat. If the throat is swollen, boil the figs and grind them finely and tie them on the swelling or lump of the throat. Give it quickly.
If asthma worsens more, it has to be suppressed throughout its life, in which case the beneficial effect of fig can reduce the effect of asthma.
Fig benefits for men
Couples also use figs to make sex life fun, there are many medicines in the market to increase virility and people resort to these medicines but with the help of figs, they can overcome physical weaknesses and treat it at home. You can find, to increase the capacity of birya, a man should drink hot milk with figs, within a few days you will feel the difference.
The properties of fig helps in removing free radicals from the body, the blood cells in the heart remain healthy, which also reduces the risk of heart disease to some extent, there are so many benefits of eating fig, you must include it in your diet. Do it
Disadvantages of FIG – Side Effects Of Anjir
Friends, these were the benefits of eating figs, methods of eating figs, how to eat figs, but there are also disadvantages of figs. If it is used excessively, it can cause side effects rather than benefits, it is hot.
Due to its excess temperature, the body heat starts increasing, there may also be a problem of blood, there is a lot of fiber in it, due to this, excessive intake can also cause the problem of loose motion. Eating too much of figs can also cause problems like intestinal pain and abdominal pain, especially diabetes patients should consult their doctor before consuming it.

domain: medical


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Here’s The Video Response From Pleasure P
Pleasure P released this statement to Allhiphop.com denying the rumors of child molestation:
“All of the recent rumors and accusations that are being circulated about me are 100% false,” the Atlantic Records artist said via his attorneys. “They are disgusting and vile; and they are being spread by individuals with their own sick agendas.”
“The purported documents that are also being circulated are forgeries,” continued the statement released by the offices of Meloni & McCaffrey, P.C. in New York. “I have never met or known anyone by the name of “AGoldstein” or Laura Goldstein or Ashley Goldstein, which I believe are fictitious names,” Pleasure P stated. “I have never been represented by an attorney named Goldstein. For someone to go to such depths to assassinate my character and slander my good name is truly criminal. My attorneys are investigating this matter and will take all necessary and appropriate action to protect my name and reputation.”
Some members of Pretty Ricky responded to blogger Necole Bitchie about the Pleasure P child molestation allegations. Group member Diamond Blue insists that the the group did not want the documents of his conviction sealed, but rather that it was P’s lawyers (obviously).
A girl, claiming to be the daughter of Pleasure P’s lawyer, took to Twitter yesterday and launched some serious accusations against Pleasure P. She claimed that Pleasure P was a convicted child molester who had been caught with a 4 year old child before he rose to fame in Pretty Ricky. She believes that he was kicked out of Pretty Ricky for this reason.
Now it’s easy to discount this as just a rumor. However, if you want to do that, then you should explain this Twitter exchange between AGoldsteinGirl and Iamspectacular, aka Spectacular of Pretty Ricky:
Like when one’s juvenile records are sealed after turning 18?
That would explain why nothing shows up when doing a search for Pleasure P’s government name, Marcus Cooper, on Florida’s sex offender registry site.

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domain: law


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7th Dec, Monday
“Hurry up, kid. We’re running late,” Yoongi hyung urgent and Jungkook rolled his eyes.
“It’s only seven-thirty, hyung.” Jungkook walked to the dining table, hair still wet from the shower, shirt unbuttoned and hanging loose around his shoulders.
Taehyung plated the food, offering it to him before occupying his seat and digging in. Though Jungkook had a car, he always rode with Yoongi to the office. This morning his hyung had woke him earlier than usual telling him that he had to be in the office earlier.
“You know there are some changes in the top management,” Yoongi said in between the bites. “Our Chairman’s son is taking over the business in a few weeks. The transition was supposed to start after the holidays but something happened. He’s taking over today. So we were requested to be in the office early.”
Yoongi hyung headed the marketing division, so it made sense. He was one of the key people of the company. So it meant he would be busy in the coming weeks.
Jungkook pouted. “Can I ride with Taehyungie hyung today? I really don’t want to be in the office that early.” Being early meant running into Yunho and his bitches. That was the last thing he wanted on a Monday morning.
Yoongi shrugged. “You can. Just don’t run into trouble.”
Jungkook rolled his eyes. “I’m not a kid, hyung.”
The youngest knew his hyung meant well. The others seemed to pick on him at any chance they got. Going with Yoongi help him evade some of the snide remarks. No one wanted to mess with the head of the marketing team who had great influence among the top management. After all, his hyung was the best at his job.
“Yeah, our Jungkookie is all grown up and he has a boyfriend now,” Taehyung supplied earning a scowl from Jungkook.
“You, what?” Yoongi’s brows shot up.
“It was just a date, hyung.” Jungkook scowled at Taehyung.
“Sure, bub,” Taehyung snickered.
“He’s really nice.” Jungkook smiled at the reminder of the soft kiss on his wrist. The skin tingled even now at the memory.
“I remember Taehyung telling me something last night, but I was too tired to listen. So, who’s this guy?”
“His name is Park Jimin and ah…he works for his father.” Jungkook suddenly felt conscious. He didn’t know much about Park Jimin other than his name and the fact that he worked for his father. Damn. He didn’t even make an effort to ask more questions.
“Park Jimin?” Yoongi dropped his chopsticks. “You went on a date with the Park Jimin?”
Taehyung perked up. “Do you know him?”
Yoongi cast a look of disbelief before fumbling with his phone and turned the display toward them. “This Park Jimin?”
Jungkook frowned while Taehyung confirmed, “Yeah, that’s him.” He shared a look with Jungkook. The youngest shrugged. How did his hyung know him?
“Is this a joke, kid? Park Jimin doesn’t date. Don’t you know what people say about him?” Yoongi’s face twisted in anger.
Jungkook shrunk in his chair. He hasn’t seen his hyung this furious in ages. The last time was when he fell from a tree and sprained his arm.
“You allowed him to take our Jungkookie out?” Yoongi’s fury was now directed toward Taehyung.
“What are you talking about? How do you even know this guy?” Taehyung countered.
Yoongi scoffed. “Does the name Park ring any bell?”
Jungkook and Taehyung shared another look before shaking their head.
Yoongi narrowed his eyes at them. “How can you not know who your boss is Jungkookie? Park Jimin is the son of Park Jihyun our fucking chairman.”’
“Huh?” Jungkook gasped. Shit. He thought the name sounded familiar, but his muddled brain didn’t put the two and two together.
Taehyung whistled low under his breath.
“Stay away from him Jungkookie. He is bad news.”
“But he’s nothing but sweet to our Jungkookie. If I’m correct, you haven’t even met Jimin in person. How can you know he’s bad?” Taehyung reasoned.
“Fine. Don’t trust me then.” Yoongi stuffed the remaining food into his mouth and stood grabbing his empty plate. “Just look him up online. You’ll know what I mean.”
Taehyung shared a worried look with Jungkook whose stomach was in knots. Was it true? Yoongi hyung had no reason to lie and he only had Jungkook’s best intentions at heart.
Taehyung put a comforting arm around his shoulder as Yoongi exited the room without so much as a goodbye. His hyung was pissed. “Don’t jump to conclusions, Jungkookie. We will talk more about this, yeah?”
Jungkook nodded absent-mindedly, his mind reeling. Did Jimin lie to him? Once in the safety of his room, he couldn’t help but type his name online and something uncomfortable lodged in his throat when several articles popped out. He skipped the articles and went to the photos, his heart slowly breaking with every image popped on his screen.
By the end of the day, Jungkook was convinced that his hyung was right. Park Jimin was bad news. His colleagues were particularly loud throughout the day, gossip mills ran restless and every piece of information shared about Jimin only tightened the knot in Jungkook’s stomach. To summarize, Jimin was this cold and arrogant asshole who changed girlfriends like he changed clothes. At least that was how the media portrayed him.
Now that wasn’t what bothered Jungkook the most. He couldn’t care less about his past flings. It was the fact that Jimin was seen only with females. None of his flings were males and to be honest, they were all models and celebrities. Was Jimin playing with him because of his reputation in the company? Was he a conquest? Jungkook had heard about men finding thrill in the chase. Was he a challenge?
His eyes stung with tears. He didn’t want to believe it, but when his hyung said the same, he couldn’t help it. What was real? The Jimin he met was none of those. He was kind and patient, always respecting Jungkook’s wishes.
As if on cue, his phone pinged with Jimin’s text. Jungkook didn’t dare open it. He hadn’t talked to Jimin since their date and he didn’t know how to confront Jimin with this newfound information.
It was just one date. He could be his boss but Jungkook didn’t owe him anything. He should be able to pretend none of this happened and call it quits. It wasn’t that complicated. Jimin himself said he would respect Jungkook’s choice. But why the thought of not talking to Jimin again is so painful?
Was he catching feelings for someone he barely knew?
With the shake of his head, Jungkook ignored the message and put the phone on his nightstand. His phone rang. It was Jimin. His heart ached and he almost attended the call, but couldn’t bring himself to do so. It was close to 10 p.m.
What would he tell Jimin?
The phone stopped ringing and there was another text from Jimin. It was just a goodnight and Jungkook nibbled at his lips deciding to ignore it for now. He will decide tomorrow. Yoongi hyung always said not to take any decisions when he was emotional. So he’d wait it out.
That should do.
With that thought, he settled under his covers unaware of the man sitting in the car in front of his apartment complex, hoping to see him once if he was awake.
10th Dec, Thursday
Two days had passed and Jungkook still hasn’t decided what to do with this situation. Jimin texted him every day and called at least once, which he ignored. He didn’t even open the messages fearing it would weaken his resolve.
He stared at the screen, his teeth sinking painfully into his bottom lip as Jimin’s name flashed on his screen for the third time that night. It was around nine-thirty and Jungkook sat curled on his couch in the living room.
Yoongi hyung had been too busy with the changes and Taehyung had asked him to talk to Jimin. But Jungkook didn’t know how to approach this subject. By now Jimin would have known he was avoiding him purposefully. What do I tell him? Why is talking so hard?
With a heavy heart, his finger hovered over the messages opening them. There were several messages from Jimin, asking if everything was okay, greeting him good morning and good night. The last one was sent just a minute ago.
We need to talk
Jungkook debated before sending a reply. Better to do things over text.
Open the door
Some rang the bell as if on cue and Jungkook swore, tumbling out of bed and into the living room to open the door. He paused for a second contemplating if he should pretend he wasn’t home at all. His phone vibrated.
I know you’re on the other side of the door
Open the door
Jungkook chewed at his lip before opening the door. He froze when his gaze found Jimin. He looked…pissed? More like disheveled. Not the sophisticated look he usually sported. His hair was out of place, sticking in different directions while his white shirt was untucked, the first few buttons open and tie hanging loose. In short, he looked as if he got into a fight.
“What’s wrong, Jungkookie?” His anger took Jungkook by surprise and he jumped slightly. “You have been avoiding me since our date night. Did I do something wrong? Or is it something I said?”
Jimin walked inside, his gaze pinning Jungkook in place. Jungkook suddenly felt self-conscious. He must look like crap with his baggy clothes and disheveled hair. He hadn’t bothered to do much because he was mopping for the past two days.
The door closed behind Jimin and he stood in front of Jungkook. The youngest looked down at his feet, guilt flooding him. He should have at least said something.
“Did I make you uncomfortable?” Jimin’s voice was now gentle. When Jungkook looked up, his features had softened.
Jungkook shook his head. He never did anything uncomfortable. That was the reason Jungkook was so conflicted. Jimin gave him no reason to believe those rumors. Suddenly, his eyes widened and his mouth fell open. Rumors.
He remembered Jimin telling him about having to watch the places he has to go to avoid rumors and stuff. Shame filled him. He didn’t even give me a chance to explain.
“Jungkookie?” Jimin was standing closer; he could now smell the other’s cologne.
“I-I’m sorry,” Jungkook blurted out.
Jimin’s shoulders slumped. He was still watching Jungkook intently. “You know I’d never force you to do something you don’t want to do, right? You could always say no and I’ll stop.”
Jungkook’s throat tightened. He knew.
“I don’t know what I did, Jungkookie. I thought you wanted this.” A defeated sigh left the elder’s lips. Pain etched his features. “Maybe I misread the signs. I’m sorry for putting you through this.” He was stepping back and panic coursed through Jungkook’s body. “I won’t disturb you if that’s what you want. I’ll leave you be.”
He was turning away, walking to the door and Jungkook could only stare. He had to stop Jimin. Fuck fuck fuck. Once he left the apartment, there was no going back. Before he knew what he was doing, he closed the distance between them, wrapping his arms around Jimin.
“D-don’t g-go.” His hold tightened on the elder and he felt Jimin going stiff. “P-please…” Jimin slowly relaxed in his arms.
Jungkook didn’t know how long they stood like that. He had unconsciously buried his face in Jimin’s shoulder, sniffing at the comforting scent and relishing the warmth.
“We need to talk.”
Jungkook nodded, letting go of him and stepped back. Jimin turned to face him before jerking his head to the couch. Jungkook followed Jimin, sitting beside him when the elder patted the spot beside him.
“What’s bothering you, Jungkookie?” Jimin leaned on the couch, resting an arm on the backrest behind Jungkook.
Jungkook fidgeted with his fingers. “I-I looked you up on the internet.”
The youngest bit the inside of his cheeks, his knees bouncing as he contemplated his words. “Um…I saw the photos.”
Jimin watched him intently, head tilted to the side.
“T-they…” Jungkook cleared his throat, picking on his nails. Fuck. This talking thing was harder than he expected. Why can’t he just vomit the words?
“They are all women,” the youngest mumbled suddenly feeling smaller. “Y-your dates are all w-women.”
Jimin sighed. “I’m bisexual.”
Jungkook whipped up, blinking owlishly as his words settled in. The tip of his ears heated up under Jimin’s intense gaze. Bisexual. Why didn’t I consider that as a possibility? He returned his gaze to his lap.
“And they’re not dates. I don’t date, Jungkookie. You’re the first.”
Jungkook felt like a heavyweight lifted off from his shoulders. When Yoongi hyung said Jimin doesn’t date, the weight was suffocating, but hearing the same words from Jimin felt different. Well, it was mainly because he said Jungkook was the first person he was dating. Earth to, Kookie.
“So, um… they-uh—” Jimin patiently waited for him to finish. “They, uh…are models. I-I’m—”
“Not everything you see is true, Jungkookie. I know I have this fuckboy image. I’ve had my fair share of one-night stands. But that’s all it ever had been. If you’re wondering if I slept with those models, the truth is no.” Jimin leaned back, crossing his legs. “People do stuff for publicity. We hang out a few times, the paparazzi click a few pics, our names are splashed on tabloids for a few days. Free publicity.”
Jungkook’s eyes widened. “T-that is… Why would you do something like that?”
Jimin shrugged. “I was only nineteen when this agency approached me. You see, I had just started working for my father’s US division. They offered a deal and at that time, the company needed a breakthrough in the western market. I don’t even know why they chose me. They said they needed a fresh face. This model was a popular name in the industry and our PR team thought it would help, so I went out with her. We met twice in a coffee shop. The result was amazing. And it became a thing. I didn’t realize over the time, they’d paint me as a fuckboy but it is what it is.”
Jungkook frowned, processing his words. “D-do you still do that?”
“No.” Jimin’s voice was soft. “Not anymore. Seoul is a fresh start for me.”
The youngest nodded. “I-I’m not good at handling my emotions.”
“You could have just asked me, Jungkookie. I’d have told you.” Jimin took his large hands into his smaller ones. “I promise. I’ll always be honest with you.”
“I…I didn’t wanna say something I’d regret later,” he admitted. “I, um…needed time.”
“Is there anything else that’s bothering you?” Jimin’s voice was so soft that Jungkook melted a little. How can someone call this gentle soul cold and arrogant?
Jungkook thought about the situation. He agreed he shouldn’t believe what others say, instead get to know Jimin himself. There was now one tiny problem. It shouldn’t matter, but… “You’re my boss,” he stated softly. If anyone in the office found out, they’d have a field day and Jungkook didn’t know how anyone would react. Will Jimin be okay with that? Why would he agree to go with him as a plus one for their gala?
“Yeah. I thought you figured it when you heard my full name.” Jimin’s voice pulled him out of his thoughts.
“I didn’t.” Jungkook chewed at his lips. “W-why didn’t you say something sooner?”
“Would you have even looked at me if I did?” Jimin asked and Jungkook shook his head. “Thought so. I wanted you to get to know me for the person I am behind all the titles.”
“B-but you’re still my boss.”
Jimin watched him for a long moment before standing. One of his hands cupped his face, tipping it so he could meet his gaze. “Are you having second thoughts, Jungkookie?”
Jungkook blinked. Did he have second thoughts? Yoongi hyung did say he was bad news. He will be furious if Jungkook kept meeting Jimin. And this was his chance to back off. Tell Jimin that he didn’t want anything romantic.
“I understand.” Jimin dropped his hand while a frown tugged at Jungkook’s lips. A pained expression crossed his features. “You know how to reach me if you changed your mind.” His shoulders were hunched when he walked away and Jungkook sat frozen for a moment.
He should just let him go. But why the fuck is it so hard? Why does it hurt so much to see him walk away?
Fuck the fuck.
Jungkook jumped to his feet. For the second time the day, he stopped Jimin from leaving. This time he caught one of his sleeves, another hand fisting with the hem of his baggy t-shirt. He should say something, but when did ever words help him? The youngest tried though. His mouth opened and closed but no words came out and he felt his mind go blank.
Jimin… He looked expectantly, a flash of hope in his gaze and it squeezed Jungkook’s heart. The youngest dropped Jimin’s sleeve and lifted the hand to Jimin’s mouth, baring his wrist to him, hoping he’d take the hint. He didn’t know why he did that. He just wanted to show him the things were good between them. That he wanted them to continue whatever they were doing.
His idea seemed to work because Jimin caught his wrist, pressing his plump lips over his pulse just like he did on Sunday. Only this time, when he flicked his tongue over his skin, it lingered. Jungkook flushed red, looking down to his feet, squirming under the intensity of Jimin’s gaze. It was just too much, yet too good.
Jimin released his hand only to circle his waist and pull him closer. Jungkook closed his eyes when he sensed Jimin’s breath hot on his neck. His lips feathered over the column of his neck before settling for a soft kiss at the crook of his neck.
“Good night, Jungkookie.”
Jungkook couldn’t speak. He could barely stand because his knees were weak from the kiss. Jimin backed away from him just like the other day, walking backward until he disappeared behind the door. The youngest released a breath he didn’t realize he was holding.
14th Dec, Monday
Jungkook got the first taste of Jimin’s other side on Monday morning. The CEO met every department head and a few important personnel from the department personally in his office. Monday was the Jungkook’s team. Jungkook had gone with his department head, his direct manager, and five other key people from the team. He could tell his direct manager wasn’t thrilled with his presence because Jungkook was a programmer. But Sungmin-ssi, the head of their department insisted he go with them.
However, the Jimin he met in the meeting room was stoic with an emotionless mask. Jungkook saw a few others beside him and recognized them as the key senior partners of the firm. He’d met Namjoon once for a project. As for the others, Yoongi hyung had told him about them. They all moved to Seoul from the United States last year. Each handled a region.
Jungkook bowed in their general direction before settling in the designated seat beside his manager and kept his head low for most of the time. But man…was it a good meeting? Absolutely. It was the best meeting ever solely because Jungkook witnessed his manager being roasted. The hardest part was where he had to bite the inside of his cheeks and hold the laughter.
He didn’t dare meet Jimin’s eyes even once during the meeting. But his stern voice kept ringing in his ears. He asked several questions related to their department and when he didn’t receive the expected answers he wasn’t pleased. It didn’t help that his manager took too long to respond. Jungkook learned Jimin wasn’t so patient when it came to the others.
“Hwang-ssi you’re wasting my time. If you do not have proper answers, you may leave.”
Hwang’s face had gone red as he squirmed in his seat. What followed was something Jungkook would cherish for years to come.
Hwang used to be nice to him initially, but ever since Jungkook helped Namjoon with that project, he started seeing him as an enemy. He always dumped work at Jungkook and made him stay late hours. The youngest never complained though. He did what was asked of him because that was how he continued to retain his place as the star programmer of their department month after month.
“You’re the manager, aren’t you? Why is it that you keep directing my question to your subordinates? Shouldn’t you know these things? If the others are going to answer them, then what are you doing here?”
Sungmin-ssi, the head of their department sported a knowing smile and did nothing to help Hwang. As for his manager, he deserved it for treating him like shit most of the time.
In conclusion, Jimin was hot. He was a whole package. It even surprised Jungkook that he could find Jimin hot under circumstances such as this. Maybe if he hadn’t met Jimin before this day, he’d be shaking in his seat too. But now Jungkook mainly admired the confidence of the elder and the commanding aura that radiated off him.
When Jimin dismissed them, they all scrambled out with Hwang being the first to exit the CEO’s office.
He stopped when the front office assistant called him.
“Looks like you forgot something.” She gestured him to the CEO’s office. “Please retrieve your item.”
“Oh.” Jungkook nodded. He didn’t forget anything. He did a quick pat over his pockets but thanked her before looking at Sungmin.
The head of the department just nodded and walked ahead. Jungkook took a deep breath before stepping inside the office. Why would Jimin call him back?
Jimin wasn’t in the office when he entered. He looked puzzled at the others, feeling conscious as he shifted on his feet.
“Ah, your Adonis is in there,” the one next to Namjoon said. His heart-shaped smile and bright features radiated warmth similar to that of Taehyung. “Just go in.”
Jungkook flushed red when he heard what he said. Without further word, the youngest rushed to the door the other pointed. He closed the door behind him and noticed it was a medium-sized room with a small bed, couch, a coffee table, and television. Jimin wasn’t inside, but his suit jacket was discarded on the couch.
The youngest heard the water running from the other end of the door and guessed it must be the washroom. They texted each other whenever possible after they talked on Thursday, but Jimin said he couldn’t meet Jungkook meet because he was busy.
As Jungkook stood in the middle of the room waiting for Jimin to come back, he didn’t know what to expect. Soon the door opened, revealing his boss. A grin lifted the corners of his mouth when his gaze found Jungkook.
“Jungkookie.” A bright smile lit up his face and he was walking to him, pulling him into a hug. “I missed you.”
Jungkook hid his face in Jimin’s shoulder, fighting the heat that was spreading on his cheeks. “I-I missed you too.”
Jimin released him and cupped his cheek. “Sorry I couldn’t meet you this weekend.”
Jungkook looked down at his feet. “It’s okay. I understand.”
Someone knocked on the door. “Minnie, the next meeting starts in five.”
“I’ll be there,” Jimin replied with a sigh. “Work is really crazy. I wish I could spend more time with you.”
“It’s okay, really.” Jungkook smiled. “I-I should go.”
Jungkook hesitated for a moment before lifting his wrist to Jimin. The latter’s smile was blinding when he gripped his hand, placing a firm kiss over his pulse.
“I’ll see you soon,” Jimin said, his free hand tracing the smooth contour of Jungkook’s cheek.
Jungkook smiled. “Okay.”
When Jungkook left Jimin’s office, he was sure he looked tomato red. And to his dismay, his manager Hwang and Sungmin-ssi were waiting for him near the elevator. A look of pity crossed Sungmin’s features while Hwang looked pleased. They must have probably thought Jimin chewed his ass. Jungkook bit his lip. How would they react if they knew what actually happened inside?
The skin on his wrist tingled. He could still feel Jimin’s lips on his skin. He kept his head down, Jimin occupying his thoughts for the rest of the day.
18th Dec, Friday
The next time Jungkook met Jimin was on Friday night. It was close to ten at night when Jimin showed up at his door, looking exhausted. The youngest was taken back to see the usually composed CEO so exhausted and looking like he was about to pass out. Jungkook led him to the couch.
“I just wanted to see you,” Jimin said, stretching his neck as he reclined on the couch, kicking up his feet on the small table.
Jungkook asked feeling bad for Jimin. He knew things were crazy at work. The meetings with different departments went on all week and it must be exhausting. The Park Corporation built software for banks and other sectors. They also had another chain of businesses and Jimin was now handling them all. They barely talked all week. Jimin was always busy.
“Yeah.” Jimin closed his eyes. “Mostly like a long week.”
Jungkook sat beside him, their knees brushing. Jimin cracked his eyes open, a soft, tired smile playing on his lips. “Um…Why don’t you, ah… freshen up? I’ll cook dinner.”
“We can order something.” Jimin groaned when he straightened, a hand clutching his neck. He checked the time. “It’s late. Why didn’t you eat sooner?”
“I had dinner earlier with Yoongi hyung and Tae hyung. I-I’m going to cook for you.”
Jimin smiled. “Okay. I’ll help.” He stood smoothing his pants out of habit. A hand went to rub his neck as he stretched to relieve some stress. It was obvious he was in pain.
The youngest jumped to his feet, wanting to make it better. Jimin was very caring when he got drunk, shouldn’t he at least return the favor? He made a split-second decision. He could care for Jimin just like he cared for him.
“No.” Jungkook rolled his eyes. The youngest wasn’t good with words but he could show it in his actions. He cared and he knew he wasn’t vocal about his feelings like Jimin. But he could show him if Jimin let him. “Come with me.” He took Jimin’s hand and led him to his room. “Take a hot shower. You’re staying here tonight.”
The youngest wasn’t sure what he wanted to do next but he went with his instincts. It felt like Jimin was the only one reaching out to him all the time. Taehyung had earlier scolded him that he wasn’t putting enough effort into this budding relationship. When Jungkook asked him to stay it was mainly because he was worried about Jimin. He couldn’t let Jimin drive at this state.
Jungkook didn’t wait for Jimin’s response. He strode to his closet and pulled a pair of sweatpants and a t-shirt. “Clean towels are in the bathroom cabinet under the sink. I have two new toothbrushes in the cabinet near the mirror.” He handed the clothes to Jimin. “I-I’ll be in the kitchen. My phone charger is on the bedside table.”
Jimin looked like he wanted to argue, but silently accepted the clothes and headed to the bathroom.
Jungkook went to the kitchen and started pulling the items he needed to fix a quick dinner. He settled for Jjajangmyeon and began to stir-fry pork belly.
By the time Jimin came out after half an hour, fresh from the shower, the food was ready. Jungkook topped the dish with julienned cucumber, scallions, and a fried egg.
“Smells good.” Jimin sat with an appreciative smile. His towel-dried hair was still wet and water droplets fell onto his shoulder. Jungkook’s clothes swallowed him but he looked so domestic in them. Jimin could wear rags and still pull it off like a runway model.
Jungkook grinned and placed the food in front of him. “I also have kimchi and rice if you want.”
“This is fine.” Jimin dug in, an appreciative hum leaving his mouth as soon as he took a bite. “Wow. This is so good, Jungkookie. Your Jjajangmyeon is better than the one Jin hyung makes. Don’t tell him I said that.”
Jungkook chuckled, feeling more at ease. He watched Jimin eating heartily and warmth spread in his chest. Jungkook liked to cook, but Yoongi hyung was the one who always cooked because his cooking was better. The feeling inside his chest was new and it felt good to take care of someone. Jimin appeared content and occasionally hummed while chewing the food.
“Do you want a beer?” he asked remembering Tae brought some this evening.
Jimin shook his head. “I’m good. Just wanna sleep.” He rubbed his neck again and stretched his back. “Thanks, Jungkookie. This is so good.”
“It’s nothing.” Jungkook shrugged. He grabbed the empty plate. “Sleep early tonight,” he said meeting Jimin’s half-lidded eyes. “Brush your teeth and get on the bed. I’ll give you a massage.”
Jimin lifted a brow but nodded with a tired smile. Jungkook washed the dishes and cleaned the kitchen quickly. When he went to the bedroom, Jimin was already under the covers, nodding off.
“Hyung…” He shook him gently.
“Rollover,” Jungkook ordered. “Remove your t-shirt. It’ll be easier that way.”
Jimin nodded and sat up pulling the t-shirt over his head before rolling to lie on his stomach.
Jungkook grabbed the baby oil bottle he brought along and settled on the bed beside Jimin. “Just relax. Do you have to be somewhere tomorrow morning?”
“No. I have to go only around 3 p.m.”
“Good. You can sleep in then. I’ll make sure you’re well-rested.” Jungkook poured the baby oil into his palms and rubbed them together before digging his fingers into Jimin’s shoulders, slowly working on to ease the tension in his muscles.
Jimin groaned, but went lax in his arms. The elder continued to relax and soon Jungkook heard his soft snore. A smile tugged at Jungkook’s lips as he continued to work on Jimin’s back.
Once done, Jungkook washed his hands and pulled the covers over Jimin. He briefly contemplated going to the guest room but decided against it. They already slept together on the same bed once. Well, Jungkook was drunk but now they were dating. It was okay to share the bed, right? Besides Jimin would have said something if he didn’t want to stay tonight. He only appeared to be relieved when Jungkook asked him to stay.
Jungkook climbed under the covers and ran his hand through Jimin’s blond hair. He looked so peaceful in his sleep. With a sigh, he snuggled closer to the elder slowly drifting off to sleep.
19th Dec, Saturday
“Heard the CEO chewed your ass on Monday,” Yoongi said as he drank from his cup of water. “Why didn’t you tell me this?”
Jungkook rolled his eyes. “Because he didn’t chew my ass.”
“At least not the way he’d have wanted,” Taehyung supplied helpfully and received a smack from Jungkook in response.
“Explain.” Yoongi’s eyes narrowed at him. “I heard he called you back into his office and when you came back, your face was red and you refuse to speak about it.”
“Don’t believe the rumors, hyung.” Jungkook grabbed the bowl, serving himself more food. “We just talked.”
Yoongi and Tae showed up at his apartment for lunch like they did every Saturday and they had cooked together. Jimin hadn’t stirred in his sleep and Jungkook conveniently ignored the truth from Yoongi and Taehyung. He still hadn’t spoken to Yoongi hyung about Jimin yet. Only Tae knew about it and he wasn’t sure how his hyung would react.
“Talked?” Yoongi quirked a brow.
Jungkook shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant under Yoongi scrutinizing gaze. “He said he just wanted to see me. I was there for like two minutes.”
“And he kissed his wrist,” Taehyung piped in. “Again.”
“Shut up.” Jungkook knew he was flushing red.
“It’s cute,” Taehyung chirped. “And romantic.”
“So you’re still seeing him. I hope you know what you’re doing, kid.” Yoongi wasn’t pleased, but he was never the one to dictate what to do or what not to do.
“He hasn’t given me a reason to not see him, hyung.” Jungkook met his gaze. “I…I trust him.”
Before Yoongi could respond, Jungkook’s bedroom door opened and a soft voice reached them first. Jimin was still in the clothes Jungkook gave him last night and he was talking on his phone. Jungkook was glad Jimin thought of putting on the t-shirt before walking out. Jimin hadn’t seen the others yet.
Yoongi’s surprised gaze flicked to Jungkook and the youngest ducked his head to avoid him. He went to grab another plate and wordlessly filled it with food.
“Oh.” Jimin halted in his tracks for a moment, gaze flitting between the three men on the table. “Hello Tae, Yoongi-ssi,” he greeted with a smile and sat on a chair.
“Did you sleep well?” Jungkook placed the food in front of him and took the seat beside him.
“Yeah, I slept like a baby. Thanks.” Jimin’s smile was relaxed, genuine and it brightened his features. Even with his bed hair and loose-fitting clothes, Jimin looked ethereal.
“Jimin-ssi, how’s your father’s health?” Yoongi asked handing him the chopsticks and poured water for him.
Jungkook blinked looked at his hyung and a frown tugged at his lips. Did something happen to Jimin’s father?”
“Call me Jimin. I’m younger than you. Dad is fine. They’ll transfer him to the room tomorrow.”
Yoongi nodded. They continued to eat in silence until Jimin’s phone rang again. He cast an apologetic look before taking the phone to the living room.
“What happened to his father?” Jungkook whispered furiously to Yoongi.
Yoongi gave him a pointed look. “Jihyun-ssi suffered a cardiac condition and had to go through surgery, which is why Jimin had to take over the business early instead of January as planned. You really do live under the rock, Jungkookie. Shouldn’t you pay attention to things like this?”
Jungkook frowned. Disappointment filled him. Jimin’s father was ill and he hadn’t known. Shit. They were dating for god sake and his hyung was right. If he had paid enough attention to the others, he’d have known about this earlier. He always tuned the others out when their conversation wasn’t related to work.
Taehyung put a hand on his thigh, squeezing it gently. He opened his mouth to say something when Jimin came back.
“Sorry, I gotta run.” He sat down, quickly shoveling the remaining food into his mouth. He finished the food and took the empty plate to the sink. “I’ll text you later.”
“It’s okay, hyung. Do you need anything else?” Jungkook asked following Jimin to his room.
Jimin grabbed his clothes and other things in his hands. “No. Thanks for letting me stay last night, Jungkookie. I’ll return the clothes later.” He came to stand on his tiptoes and kissed Jungkook’s cheeks, making the youngest blush.
“No, really. I haven’t slept that good in a while.”
“You can come over anytime you want,” Jungkook blurted out before he could think through and Jimin’s face lit up like a Christmas tree.
“I’d love to. See you soon, Jungkook-ah.”
When he returned to the dining table five minutes later, Taehyung gave him a knowing smile.
“He’s different with you,” Yoongi observed, now munching on a cake they bought. “He’s all stiff and stoic with the others, but he softens when he talks to you. I wasn’t expecting that.”
“Told you,” Taehyung chimed. “He treats Jungkookie so good.”
“I’m sorry I didn’t know about his father,” Jungkook admitted. “I feel so bad now. I didn’t even ask him how he is.”
“You didn’t know,” Taehyung said, ruffling his hair. “If you want you can visit him at the hospital.”
Jungkook frowned. “Is that okay? Can I visit him?”
Yoongi nodded thoughtfully. “You’re an employee. It shouldn’t be a problem. I’ll drive you. We can go together.”
“I’ll also come,” Taehyung suggested. “We can go shopping or just take a stroll around the streets after the hospital visit.”
“Sounds good to me,” Yoongi agreed.
That was how Jungkook found himself standing in front of the room in the hospital. Jimin wasn’t there when they arrived. Namjoon and Jin who were at the waiting area greeted them with a friendly smile and Namjoon had shown Jungkook to a room while Yoongi chatted with Jin. Thank God, he asked his hyung for more details about the top management and soon learned about Hoseok, Namjoon, and Jin. They were also supposedly Jimin’s hyungs.
Jungkook knocked on the door and entered after a moment. The room was spacious with a bed in the middle, two armchairs, and a coffee table near the window. A middle-aged woman who looked so much like Jimin looked up from her book. The youngest paused at the doorway unsure how to greet Jimin’s mother. Why would Namjoon send him inside?
“Come in,” her kind voice greeted. “Who are you?”
“Ah, um…” Jungkook walked over to her and handed her the flowers he brought. “My name is Jungkook. I…ah, work at your company.” He bowed and clasped his hands in front of him.
“Oh,” her bright smile reminded him of Jimin. Now he knew where his handsome suitor got his beauty from. “That’s so sweet of you to stop by. Please take a seat.”
Jungkook hesitated for a moment before sitting at the edge of the chair. “Sorry. I couldn’t come sooner.”
“That’s fine.” She waved her hand. Though she looked well put out together, he could see the dark circles framing her eyes. “It’s the thought that counts. We get so many flowers and other stuff but very less visitors. It’s good to know people care about us.”
Jungkook blushed. He didn’t know until this afternoon. But at least he was here to make up for his negligence. It’s the least he could do, offer her some comfort. He couldn’t imagine how Jimin handled everything this past week. He felt ashamed for causing some stress from his side because he believed the rumors. The youngest made a mental note to change his attitude toward such issues in the future. He would talk to Jimin no matter how hard it was.
He was fidgeting with his fingers not knowing how to carry a conversation, feeling so awkward when he noticed her swollen ankles. A deep frown pulled at the corner of his mouth.
“Your ankles are swollen,” he pointed out before he could stop. “You should rest more. Do they hurt? Of course, it should hurt.” He was already on the floor, taking her leg on his lap as he began rubbing his fingers over her ankle and the surrounding skin in smooth circle. “You shouldn’t stand on your legs for a longer duration. Are you taking enough rest?”
When he didn’t receive an answer, he looked up to see her smiling fondly. She reached to pat his cheek softly. “You speak just like my son,” she said. “I’m fine. The past week has been stressful.”
Jungkook nodded in understanding. He ducked his head and continued to massage her foot.
“You don’t have to do it, sweetie. I’ll ask Jimin once he comes back.”
“It’s okay. I do it for my mom all the time.” Jungkook shrugged. “Besides, Jimin-ssi must be busy with everything going on. I’m happy to help.”
She ran her fingers through his hair with a gentle nod. A soft groan left her mouth when he applied gentle pressure on her foot. “It’s good to meet my son’s friends,” she said after a while. “Is my son being a good boss?”
Jungkook offered a bright smile. “He’s the best,” he vouched. “He’s working really hard.”
The door burst open as he moved from her left foot to the right. “Mom, I made Japchae just the way you like.” Jungkook whipped his head up and Jimin halted when he noticed the male sitting on the floor in front of his mother. “Oh, Jungkookie? What are you doing here?” he asked, surprise evident on his face. However, his features softened when he noticed what Jungkook was doing.
“He came to visit your father,” his mother replied, her eyes gauging her son’s reaction.
Jimin placed the bags he was carrying on the table before pulling a tiffin box out. “Here, eat it before it grows cold. Hoseok hyung said you skipped lunch today.” His tone was so gentle when he spoke to his mother. Jungkook realized Jimin used the same tone while talking to him.
“I wasn’t feeling hungry, son.”
“That’s not a good excuse, mom. You need all your strength to look after dad. And you’re making me worry because you don’t take care of yourself.” He sat on the arm of her chair and handed her chopsticks, which she took with a soft smile. “Jungkookie, did you come here alone?”
Jungkook shook his head. “I-I came with my hyung. He was talking to Namjoon hyung.”
They sat in comfortable silence for a few minutes. Jimin’s mom ate silently while Jungkook continued to massage her foot. It was awkward when Jimin walked in. Jungkook briefly wondered if he was overstepping his boundaries. But his actions were genuine. His mom suffered from leg pain because her job required her to stand most of the day and he always massaged her legs at night so she could sleep. It just came out naturally.
He could feel Jimin’s intense gaze on him. Jungkook’s phone pinged with a text from Yoongi, providing a necessary distraction from the growing awkwardness because of the silence. “It’s ah…my hyung.” He placed her feet gently on the ground before climbing to his feet. “I-I’ll leave now. Please take care of your health and don’t stand for too long.”
Jimin’s mother nodded with a smile. “Thanks for visiting, Jungkook. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”
“Likewise.” He bowed before nodding to Jimin.
“I’ll walk him out.” Jimin jumped to his feet.
“Sure.” She turned to Jungkook. “Don’t be a stranger, Jungkook. I love your company. Feel free to visit whenever your time permits you to do so.”
“Yes, Ma’am.” He bowed again. Jimin placed a hand on his lower back as he guided him out of the room, making him stiffen a bit. “Hyung, your mom…” he whispered under his breath.
Jimin chuckled. “She already loves you. And if she already doesn’t suspect it, now she knows for sure.”
Jungkook turned wide-eyed toward him. “They know you’re gay?”
“Bisexual,” Jimin corrected him. “They know.”
“A-Are they okay with you dating a man?” Jungkook couldn’t help but ask. Jimin’s mother was so lovely and he already knew his father. Park Jihyun was a man he respected. He was a great boss.
“They’re happy as long as I’m happy,” Jimin answered.
“Oh. Um… Sorry I didn’t know until today. Yoongi hyung scolded me earlier.” He looked down at his feet. “I’m sorry I put unnecessary stress on you last week. I should have been there for you when you were having a hard time. I’m sorry.”
“It’s okay.” Jimin squeezed his hand. “You’re here for me now. That’s all that matters.”
Jungkook nodded thoughtfully. “Um… Is it okay if I visit again? I…I like your mom.”
“You can visit whenever you want to, Jungkookie. And mom loves you. She asked you to visit again, didn’t she?”
Jungkook nodded. “I’ll go then. Take care, hyung.”
Jimin nodded. “I’ll come over tomorrow. It’s my turn to stay at the hospital tonight.” He took Jungkook’s hand in his. “Hoseok hyung stayed last night.”
“It’s nice to have someone to help. If you need anything just let me know.”
Jimin nodded again. “I will. Thanks again, Jungkookie.” This time when Jimin kissed his forehead, Jungkook wrapped his arms around the elder and buried his face into his shoulder. It felt right.
“So, Jungkook, huh?” his mom asked when he returned to the room.
“Yeah.” Jimin smiled as he sank into the other chair.
“I like him. He’s so sweet. Namjoon had a lot of interesting things to say about the boy.”
Jimin rolled his eyes. “So you’re going behind my back now.”
A soft chuckle filled his ears and his heart warmed to see her relax for the first time in weeks. His father had been sick for quite some time. It was the main reason he came back. He was on his way home from his date when he got a call from his mother saying his father collapsed and was rushed to the hospital. His father had to go through surgery and he took over the position with little to no time. Fortunately, his hyungs were there to help him. But still it was no easy feat.
“You’re my son. I’ve always known what you’re up to.” She placed the now empty container on the table, slowly closing it. “I was a little worried about everything recently. You’re so young, Min. This is no age to take so much responsibility. Your dad had his father to guide him and he didn’t take over until he was in his late thirties. I don’t want you to compromise with anything. Your happiness always comes first.”
Jimin slid from the couch to sit in front of her and took her hands in his. “I’m not compromising anything, mom.” He met her soft gaze. “This is something I wanted to do since high school. I know what I’m getting into. I’ve been training all years. The sudden transition is a bit hard, but it’s nothing I can’t handle. Also, I have the hyungs. You have nothing to worry about.”
His mother cupped his cheek. “Are you happy, my little Min?”
“I am, mom.” Jimin gave her a true smile. He was genuinely happy. Work was tiresome, but he was content. Maybe it has something to do with a certain doe-eyed brunette.
Jungkook was mostly reserved and talked very less, but Jimin knew he was getting somewhere, especially after last night. Jimin just wanted to fall face-first into the bed after a long week of work, but he somehow ended up in Jungkook’s home. He hadn’t expected to stay. However, he appreciated the hospitality of the youngest. He hadn’t realized how exhausted he was until his head hit the pillow.
“He’s different,” he found himself murmuring as he rested his head on his mother’s lap. She ran her lithe fingers through his hair, gently massaging his scalp. “He didn’t even know who I was until last week.”
His mother hummed. “He looks like a genuine person. Namjoon was full of praises for the boy. I can see why.”
“He makes me happy.” Jimin sighed in contentment.
“And that’s all it matters. Can’t wait for your dad to meet him.”
Jimin groaned. “He’s gonna make fun of me for falling head over heels for someone I barely know.”
His mom laughed. “Don’t forget your father proposed to me on our first month anniversary. He’s no better. And there’s nothing wrong in going after what you want, Min.”
“Ah, it runs in the family.” Jimin straightened. “I got him there.” He winked. “Now come on, mom. I know you haven’t been resting properly. Lie down a bit. Can’t have the old man chewing my ass for not taking care of his wife.”
She laughed again but obeyed. Jimin pulled the covers over her and sat at the edge of the bed with a soft smile. His heart felt light and Jungkook was the reason.

domain: literature


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extraction of gold by cyanide process,Gold cyanidation - WikipediaGold cyanidation is a hydrometallurgical technique for extracting gold from low-grade ore by converting the gold to a water-soluble coordination complex. It is the most commonly used leaching process for gold extraction. Production of reagents for mineral processing to recover gold, copper,.extraction of gold by cyanide process,Process of Cyanide Gold Extraction - 911 MetallurgistFeb 5, 2018 . Here I present an Process EXAMPLE of Gold Extraction Cyanide in which the cyanidation feed consists of a pyrite concentrate floated after the selective flotation of a copper-gold concentrate. The pyrite concentrate is reground to 90% minus 325 mesh and aerated in a high-lime solution prior to cyanidation.
Seperation of Gold using Cyanide ProcessingApr 7, 2013 . Explanation of Gold Separation Using Cyanide Processing at Milling Plant in the Philippines.Cyanide process | metallurgy | BritannicaCyanide process, also called Macarthur-forrest Process, method of extracting silver and gold from their ores by dissolving them in a dilute solution of sodium cyanide or potassium cyanide. The process was invented in 1887 by the Scottish chemists John S. MacArthur, Robert W. Forrest, and William Forrest. The method.
What is the role of cyanide in mining | MiningFacts
Process of Cyanide Gold Extraction - 911 Metallurgist
extraction of gold by cyanide process,Cyanide Leaching Chemistry & Gold Cyanidation - 911 Metallurgist
The Chemistry of the Extraction of Gold - SAIMM
extraction of gold by cyanide process,Extraction of gold using cyanide - NZQA
extraction of gold by cyanide process,What is the role of cyanide in mining | MiningFacts
Use in Mining | International Cyanide Management Code (ICMI) For .
extraction of gold by cyanide process,Cyanide Process - Gold Cyanidation Process | Gold Leaching or .
Extracting Gold | HowStuffWorks
The Metallurgy of Cyanide Gold Leaching – An Introduction
The Management of Cyanide in Gold Extraction - Mining Focus
'Green' gold extraction method replaces cyanide with starch | WIRED .
New Eco-Friendly, Non-Cyanide Based Alternative for Gold .
Non-cyanide Leaching Processes in Gold Hydrometallurgy and .
Treatment of a Copper-Rich Gold Ore by Ammonia Assisted .
Extracting the Gold | Early Gold Mining Techniques | Gold Mining .
Application Note Cyanide Leach Process - pH - Barben Analytical
Breakthrough clean gold mining technique replaces cyanide with .
Cyanide Hazards to Plants and Animals from Gold Mining and .
Activated Carbon in Gold Cyanidation - FEECO International, Inc.
Should cyanide still be used in modern-day mining? - Mining .

domain: chemistry


Nina Tso-Ning Fan joined The Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra in 1997. A native of Colorado, Fan began her violin studies at the age of four. She earned her bachelor’s degree in French literature from Harvard University while studying violin with James Buswell at the New England Conservatory of Music. She later received her master’s degree in violin performance at Indiana University studying with Sylvia Rosenberg and Paul Biss. There, she served as a teaching assistant to Rosenberg and was an associate instructor of violin. In 2002, she was the winner of a McKnight Artist Fellowship for Performing Musicians administered by the MacPhail Center for the Arts and took a leave of absence from the orchestra to participate in a ten-week independent study residency at the Banff Centre for the Arts in Banff, Alberta. She is an active recitalist and chamber musician in the Twin Cities. Fan also has attended many summer festivals including the Aspen, Sarasota, Grand Teton, Mainly Mozart, Quartet Program and the San Luis Obispo Mozart Festival.


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Happy Thanksgiving to all my American readers! It seems like forever since we celebrated the same holiday here in Canada over a month ago.
Christmas is in full swing now and I've begun decorating our home with little touches of seasonal splendour.
After seeing this post written and photographed by Tania at Sew a Little Love I was ready to make something new to help decorate a cabinet in our kitchen .
Here is my version of her cute little fabric hearts:
I made three colours to hang together in a cluster...
It took about two hours to cut, applique and stuff these darling little hearts - but they were well worth the hard work. They make me smile every time I see them!
As you can see on the top of the cabinet I have been having fun filling a few containers with a variety of Christmas-y things. I'll be back next time to share some of my "jar-fillers" with all my lovely readers!

domain: design


When boom goes to bust ? City Editor David Bartlett looks at the battle to fill Liverpool?s empty city centre flats
A DECADE ago, the number of people living in the city centre could be measured in the hundreds. Now the population is around 15,000, thanks to a property boom that saw apartments built at a rate of 2.5 per day between 2002 and 2006, when 3,600 flats were thrown up.
But, for the past three years, as vacancy levels have fallen in the suburbs, the amount of empty properties has remained around 12% in the city centre.
While this is almost four times the national average of empty homes, it is not as bad as Leeds city centre, where 25% of apartments are vacant.
However, some Liverpool developments even put Leeds in the shade. Just weeks ago, Millennium Estates, the company behind the ?35m luxury Alexandra Tower on Liverpool?s waterfront at Princes Dock, went into administration ? 147 of its 201 apartments were empty.
In July last year, the neighbouring City Lofts block also went into administration.
Labour Cllr Steve Munby, whose Riverside ward covers the city centre, said in time these flats will be bought as people like living by the waterside.
But he worries more about developments in other areas that do not have the same draw.
He said: ?We need to work to improve the management of the existing blocks and in particular support the rights of leaseholders. We need to do something to match the need for homes and housing with the supply.
?That means an end to sometimes badly designed and poorly managed one and two bed apartments, where developers either disappear or go into administration. I have been arguing that we are building too many apartments in the city centre for years. I hate to say I told you so, but I have had my concerns confirmed yet again.?
Gerry Protor, general secretary of the Federation of Liverpool Waterfront Residents Associations, said the group had started to notice a shift in ownership.
?Before the credit crunch, the percentage of owner occupiers in apartment blocks had been going up. But apartments that were previously owner occupied are now being rented out.
?That?s not the best context for creating cohesive communities, but it is better to have people living in a flat than it sitting empty. Our concern is to create a city and apartment environment that is sustainable, and a community that changes every six months is not sustainable.? The Federation has helped organise a conference called liverpool leaseholder.com at the BT Convention Centre on Saturday, April 18, that will look at the wide range of issues affecting leaseholders.
Liverpool Council is supporting the conference and Cath Green, executive director for neighbourhoods and communities, said the council was keen to work with leaseholders to improve city centre dwelling.
She said the council had done well to reduce the level of vacant properties in suburban areas in recent years, but was aware of the problems with the city centre.
?It?s hardly surprising that flats are not moving as much as they were before the credit crunch,? she said.
?The city centre apartment market is a difficult area, we recognise there is a job to do.? After the fast pace of development of city centre living, it appears Liverpool is now in for a period of consolidation.
Between April and December, 2008, the city council only received 95 applications for large schemes ? around 53% less than the 200 the council had been expecting, based on a five-year average.
Only a few weeks ago, the Daily Post reported how a major ?100m scheme for Hope Street that would have eventually included more apartments had been mothballed due to the credit crunch.
But not all schemes have stalled. Work on Neptune Developments/Countryside Properties project at Mann Island is currently under way.
The first phase is due for completion at the end of 2009, and the second phase a year later.
More than three-quarters of the 376 flats have already been snapped up, and among them is Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, who has invested in three luxury penthouse properties.
The apartments were the subject of Liverpool?s single biggest residential property deal last year, when all 376 were sold to investment group Dylan Harvey for more than ?70m.
However, estate agents say that some of the vacancy problem is created by investors who bought them off-plan. Now the boom has turned to bust, they are unable to sell immediately at a profit.
But, instead of renting them out, they would rather keep the apartments in pristine condition, hanging on to the property until it can be sold at a profit.
In the current market, it may be some time before that happens. more


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The two teams traded leads four times in the first half and Calgary went into halftime with a 22-17 advantage, then made it a two-possession game on a long 54-yard catch-and-run by Adam Sinagra to Hunter Karl. The Rams responded later in the third with a seven-play, 68-yard drive capped by a 28-yard touchdown catch by Kyle Moortgat to make the score 29-24, but the Rams only scored two more points the rest of the way – and those came off a conceded safety. Calgary went back up by two scores on a 12-yard touchdown rush by Robert Stewart, and ended any hope of a Rams comeback with a late drive that took well over three minutes off the clock and finished with a Karl major on a fake field goal.
Noah Picton was 25-for-37 for the Rams, finishing with exactly 300 passing yards and throwing touchdown passes to Mitchell Picton and Mitch Thompson as well as Moortgat. Mitchell Picton and Moortgat tied for the team high with seven receptions, with Picton ending up with 86 yards and Moortgat registering a career-high 78.
Rookie linebacker Nick Cross led the Rams (1-1) in tackles for the second time in as many games, finishing with five solo and six assisted. Zack McEachern had both a fumble recovery and an interception for the Rams, while Nicholas Dheilly and Ryan Warner both had sacks.
The Rams will now play two consecutive games on home turf at Mosaic Stadium. They'll meet Alberta (0-2) next Saturday and Manitoba (0-1) on Sept. 23.

domain: news


Police in Makueni arrested a high school teacher after he was allegedly caught having sexual intercourse with one of his students in Makueni county.
Vigilant residents tipped off Yinthungu Sub Location assistant chief Christopher Nthiwa after they saw the Kyase Secondary School teacher lock himself inside his house at Kyase market in Kathwonzeni with the female student on March 22.
The administrator then alerted police who rushed to the house over fears that the teacher was sexually abusing the student.
“Immediately, officers rushed to the scene and found one Kevin Otieno Okumu a BOM [Board of Management] teacher at Kyase locked himself in a house where [he] resides,” read a police report.
After police compelled Mr Okumu to open the door, they found both the teacher and the student naked.
The girl was under the bed while Okumu had a condom on and two other unused ones placed on his bed.
Under the bed, police also found two pairs of school uniform, Colgate toothpaste, a toothbrush, and two books belonging to the KCSE candidate said to be 22 years of age.
“The two have been arrested and taken for medical examination at Kithuki Health Center,” police said.
While the student is of legal age(18), the Teachers Code of Conduct and Ethics (the Code) bars teachers from engaging in any sexual activity with a learner regardless of whether the student consents.
Makueni County Commissioner Mohammed Maalim called on school administrators to thoroughly vet teachers to ensure that they uphold the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.
“There are plenty of women out there who are looking for marriage partners. Teachers must stop targeting students,” said Maalim.


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October Baby is going back on the road for another delivery. Next stop? Missouri as part of the 2018 St. Lou Fringe!
Last year, I had the honor of taking my show to my hometown in Texas to perform as part of the 2017 Houston Fringe Festival. I remember being on the plane returning to LA thinking, “Man, it would be great to share the show with Tom’s side of the family.” So, in January, I started doing some research. Low and behold, not only did St. Louis offer a Fringe, but applications were opening a few days later. But, every Fringe operates differently. And for St. Louis, it truly was luck of the draw. They had more than 70 shows enter a lottery for one of 18 “open spots” to take part in this year’s festival. On April 14, I tuned in to Facebook Live for the big drawing, and yours truly captured the #8 spot (which just so happens to be my favorite number). Good sign!
So, in mid-August, the entire fam – me, Tom and the girls – are headed to his hometown to share this hilarious, yet poignant story with his family and friends. Have to admit…performing the “conception” scene in front of my in-laws is going to be a blog-worthy experience in and of itself.
My show dates are Friday, 8/17 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, 8/18 at 9:30 p.m. and Sunday, 8/19 at 6 p.m. All performances will be in the intimate 40-seat “Studio” space at the Kranzberg Art Center, located at 501 N. Grand. Tickets will be $15 each and will go on sale in mid-July.
C’mon on St. Louis. I’m counting on you to come have some October fun with me!

domain: artistic


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Dox Meet Comix in Hybrid Film: The Filmmakers Discuss the Making of 'American Splendor'
American Splendor, a feature film written and directed by Shari Springer Berman and Robert Pulcini, is based on the award-winning autobiographical comic book of the same name by writer Harvey Pekar who, until his retirement in 2001, was a full-time file clerk at the Cleveland VA Hospital. Pekar's comic book, first published in 1976, was illustrated by many different artists, notably R. Crumb, and dealt with everyday scenes from Pekar's life. "Ordinary life," comments Pekar, "is pretty complex stuff."
Producer Ted Hope, a big fan of Pekar's comic book, proposed a film to Berman and Pulcini, who previously had completed the documentaries Off the Menu: The Last Days of Chasen's (1998) and The Young and the Dead (2001). To realize American Splendor for the screen, Berman and Pulcini cast Paul Giamatti to portray Pekar and Hope Davis in the role of Joyce Brabner, Pekar's wife. Filming took place in Cleveland in the actual locations depicted in Pekar's comic book.
Intermittent "documentary moments" take place throughout the narrative, during which the real Harvey and Joyce are interviewed and comment upon the events transpiring in the film. These moments of straight documentary take place in a film studio against a background that is absolutely white and filled with a few key props from Harvey's life.
American Splendor brings many elements of the narrative feature to the documentary form. It's an ingenious hybrid that incorporates cartoon line art and animation of Harvey interacting in the real world of Cleveland in addition to the other cinematic incarnations of Harvey, as enacted by Giamatti and the real Harvey himself. This innovative interaction of the real, cartoon and fictional characters creates a reflexive and anarchic documentary that expands the boundaries of the nonfiction film.
International Documentary talked to Springer Berman and Pulcini about the making of American Splendor, which is being released theatrically this month through HBO Films.
You have made a very inventive movie with American Splendor. Was it tightly scripted?
Robert Pulcini: Yes, it was.
Shari Springer Berman: With the documentary sequences, obviously, we couldn't script what people were going to say or do, but we wrote a wish list and placed in the script where we thought they would belong. Then we wrote a scenario.
RP: We put placeholders in the screenplay where documentary moments could happen that would bridge different scenes. And of course we ended up getting something quite different than what we had imagined. But it helped usand gave us a kind of structure to work with.
You had a wish list of documentary moments. How many of them were you able to include in the final film?
SSB: When I say a wish list, I mean just what we sort of imagined would happen, knowing Harvey and Joyce. I would say, like any documentary, you get something you think you're going to get and then, other times, you get something completely different. But what you actually get may be more interesting or more wonderful.
The only reason we actually put those placeholders in is that we were trying to ask a studio to make a big leap of faith and make a movie without a full script. And we wanted it to read like a screenplay as opposed to a series of unconnected scenes. It was a tool so that HBO could understand what we were trying to achieve.
I can't think of any other film quite like this one. It's a documentary, but it uses many of the devices of fiction narrative. One of the juxtapositions that is particularly interesting is what you did for the documentary moments. How did you arrive at that?
RP: We thought for a while about what the documentary portions of the film should look like. And we decided that they would be the most artificial parts of the movie. That would be the portion where we would explore the comic book panel. We would have a lot of empty space and we would pick and choose which items would indicate what kind of room we were in—kind of the way Harvey does when he makes a comic book panel. We thought it would be a fun way to play with what was real and what wasn't real in the movie.
That happens throughout the film. It's a really unusual mix of the real Harvey, Paul as Harvey and the comic book imagery. It's quite reflexive, in keeping with the comic book itself.
RP: One of the interesting things about American Splendor is that so many different artists draw Harvey, so you have a variety of perspectives on this person. We felt that in order to truly honor the comic book we would have to do something similar. We had the license to have a lot of different Harveys in our movie.
Part of that was to create a vehicle that was as rebellious as Harvey?
SSB: Absolutely. We actually thought it was very in keeping with the spirit of Harvey and American Splendor to have Harvey Pekar debunking the movie as we were spinning the tale. It seemed like we actually had an obligation to do something like that.
How did Paul Giammati and Hope Davis study their characters?
SSB: First and foremost, we wanted to use the comic book as the source material. So, both of them read the whole collection of comic books and studied them. We strung together every scene that was inspired by a comic book story and gave them a primer on American Splendor. Also, Ted had gone down to Cleveland about a year or two earlier and shot some very rough video footage hanging out with Harvey and Toby and Danielle and Joyce. And so we edited together little sequences for Paul and Hope to watch of Harvey and Joyce.
Finally we got them together in Cleveland when we were down there on pre-production and they actually got to spend some time together, hanging out and talking and getting to know each other a little bit.
Why did you decide to stage the final, disastrous Letterman appearance the way that you did, looking from backstage at Paul doing the reenactment?
RP: There were several reasons. The first reason is that it was restricted footage. NBC had restricted it immediately, although Letterman was very accommodating in helping us get what we got. They don't usually license their footage for things like this. But that footage was restricted.
The other reason is, we actually had a copy of that footage and we edited it to see what it would feel like. And nobody really understood it. There's a lot of screaming and yelling going on. It just didn't work. We felt that at that moment in the story, emotionally, you really wanted to be with Paul Giamatti's Harvey because it's very interior to what he's going through. He's discovered a lump of cancer on his body; he's going through a depression; his wife is away and he's very much alone.
So we decided to shoot it in a way that changed the perspective on the show and shoot from backstage with kind of an outsider perspective, and tie it into the whole sequence there—which was the interior sequence of what was going on with Paul.
When the ending comes, it's very sweet. Why did you decide to close the movie on the real retirement party? Or was that the real retirement party?
RP: You know, Harvey's life was work and when he told us he was going to retire, we thought, "Wow, this would be a really wonderful thing to capture on film." And we tried to plan around it.
In reality, he retired earlier than he said. He just decided one day that he had enough. We asked him, please, to not have any kind of retirement party until we were shooting. And he accommodated us in that way. He invited his friends and we showed up with our cameras and stuff. It probably would have happened differently if we weren't filming.
It seems like the different kinds of imagery reach a stylistic apotheosis, mixing line art and photography in the soliloquy where Paul as Harvey talks about the other Harvey Pekars that live in Cleveland.
RP: Our documentaries are more character-based. They're usually about people and places. We've never made a film about an issue or exploring an issue. We always felt that we've brought a lot of our narrative training to documentary. You know we went to film school and learned narrative filmmaking. So with American Splendor, we felt it was appropriate to bring some of those skills to making a documentary.
Ray Zone has produced or published the separations for over 130 3-D comic books. He has won the Inkpot Award and the American Comic Book Award for his work with 3-D comics and their creators in The Overstreet Price Guide, The Journal of Popular Culture, Dreamworks and Parabola.


Orthofix Medical, a Texas-based developer of 3D printed orthopedic devices, has launched its new FORZA Ti PLIF Spacer System.
Designed for use in Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (PLIF) surgeries, the titanium implant features a complex 3D printed geometry, a porous structure, and a nanoscale surface texture that promotes bone growth through the spacer. As well as the product launch, Orthofix Medical has also announced the first patient implant using the lumbar interbody device, with more to come.
“The FORZA Ti PLIF Spacer System, featuring Orthofix’s unique Nanovate Technology, is one of several new 3D printed titanium products we have launched recently,” said Orthofix President of Global Spine Kevin Kenny. “The FORZA Ti system is also ideal for use with our flagship Trinity ELITE allograft with viable cells that supplies the essential components for new bone formation.”
Posterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion
PLIF is a form of lower-back spinal fusion surgery, whereby a bone graft or synthetic cage is added to an area of the spine to initiate a biological response that promotes bone growth between two vertebrae.
Unlike some other forms of spinal fusion, PLIF often requires an interbody device to be inserted between the vertebral elements, which helps relieve pressure on the local nerves while holding the vertebrae in place for fusion to occur. The FORZA Ti PLIF Spacer System is a prime example of such a device.
According to Dr. Joel Siegal, the neurosurgeon at St. Vincent Charity Medical Center who performed the first FORZA implant procedure, “Being able to maximize bone ingrowth is critical to the success of the fusion process. The large opening for packing bone grafting materials and the 3D printed titanium endplates of the FORZA Ti Spacer are well designed to aid in our goal of maximizing bone ingrowth to aid fusion.”
The FORZA Ti PLIF Spacer System
On top of the large open graft window, the FORZA Spacer System has a number of in-built features designed to improve success rates in PLIF procedures. This includes a bulleted nose to enable easier spinal distraction. The titanium structure of the implant also has nanoscale surface textures that have been shown to improve bone proliferation, as well as alkaline phosphatase activity in human stem cells (this is an early bone cell differentiation marker).
Additionally, the porosity of the implant’s midline sits at 80%, which allows for increased fluoroscopic visualization. Meanwhile, the 50% porosity endplates feature an interconnected gyroid structure and 400 micron pores to help facilitate better bone ingrowth.
As well as the FORZA Ti PLIF Spacer System, Orthofix has also recently launched a number of other 3D printed medical devices, such as the CONSTRUX Mini Ti Spacer System, CONSTRUX Mini PTC Spacer System, and Pillar SA PTC Spacer System.
Additive manufacturing has well and truly found its place in the medical sector, with end-use implants now being 3D printed. Onkos Surgical, a provider of orthopaedic oncology medical devices, recently received 510(k) clearance from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its portfolio of modular 3D printed BioGrip collars. Much like the FORZA Spacer, the porous medical devices are designed to support bone growth in bone cancer survivors and other complex limb salvage cases.
Elsewhere, in the materials space, metal 3D printing specialist Z3DLAB recently revealed that it’s currently developing “a new generation of materials” with enhanced biocompatibility and potential 3D printed implant applications. Working with a consortium of French CNRS academics, the company will develop a ‘complex concentrated alloy’ with the properties required for SLM 3D printed surgical grafts.
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Featured image shows the 3D printed FORZA Ti PLIF Spacer System. Photo via Orthofix Medical.