Tuesday, December 31, 2019
Economic Models Are False And So Government Should Ignore...
Question 1. ââ¬Å"Economic models are false and so government should ignore their predictions.â⬠Explain, discuss and evaluate the accuracy of this statement. Answer 1: Economic models are the imaginary concept which expresses economic procedure by using variables or quantitative correlations. It is a simply method which uses mathematical and other technical aspects to show complex processes. The statement stated above is false because with the help of the economic models, government can predict about the future economy and make some changes in economic behaviours to achieve highest possible outcome. Economy is an unstable factor and it has to be monitored to understand and predict for the future benefit that is where the economic models areâ⬠¦show more contentâ⬠¦Beyond the PPF line, point ââ¬ËEââ¬â¢ is unattainable because resources are limited to get the further outcome. At point ââ¬ËDââ¬â¢, the resources are not utilized fully which will creates the situation of unemployment, less economic growth and many other economic impact. Any point inside the PPF line is inefficient as either resources are not used fully or mi sallocated. Opportunity cost is the choice made to get something by giving up another thing (Nash, n.d., para. 3). Here government have two items to give emphasis computer and television. If government choose to produce computer and wants to make digitalized study system then it has to forgone the television. In the above figure, moving from point B to A, the quantity of television production increased by 2 thousands whereas the quantity of computer production decreased by 3 thousands. The opportunity cost of 2 thousand televisions is 3 thousand computers (Besnek, 2017, slide 3). One of these television cost 1.5 of computers production. Government must have to understand which the most important thing to produce is and how to utilize the available resources efficiently to achieve the maximum benefit for the country. This PPF model shows that, government have to accept and apply the concept of predication in order to properly utilize the resources and get the maximum benefit. Question 2. Using the economics orShow MoreRelatedWhat Predictive Modeling Situations Would The Aic Statistic Be The Most Appropriate Choice, And Why?1849 Words à |à 8 Pagesââ¬Å"trueâ⬠model, f(y), and a proposed model, g(y|à ²), where à ² is a vector of parameters. Based on large-sample theory, Akaike derived an estimator for of the I(f;g) general form ãâ¬â"AICãâ¬â"_m = -2 Ln (L_m ) + 2 ãâ¬â".kãâ¬â"_m where Lm is the sample log-likelihood for the mth of M alternative models and km is the number of independent parameters estimated for the mth model. The term, , may be viewed as a penalty for over-parameterization. A min(AIC) strategy is used for selecting among two or more competing models. InRead MoreBusiness Leaders Should Consider The Impact Of Social Media On All Aspect Of Their Organisations1884 Words à |à 8 Pagesincrease in globalization and outsourcing ongoing technological changes, demand that business leaders should consider the impact of social media on all aspect of their organisations. The recent financial crouch and the demands for better financial managers have prompt business leaders to rethink why and how they build their organisation (McCall and Kaplan, 1985, p .14). Entrepreneur leaders should take advantage of technological advancement to better connect with their customers through the use ofRead MoreEssay on Global Warming - A Problem Blown Out of Proportion2555 Words à |à 11 Pageswant to be there ââ¬â and for good reason. à à à à à The reason had everything to do with cost and benefit. The Protocols would require that the United States reduce its 2008 ââ¬â 2012 overall greenhouse emissions by about a third of the current levels. The economic costs are quite significant and the benefits are not. Tom Wigley, a senior scientist at the U.S. National Center for Atmospheric Research, calculated ââ¬Å"savedâ⬠warming under the assumption that every nation met its obligation under the Kyoto ProtocolRead MoreThe Construction of Risk: 9/11 Terrorist Attack and the Response to It2009 Words à |à 9 Pagesbeen a contestation around risk approach. One approach is so called realism. The exponents of realism propose that risk is the outcome of probability and consequences of an unfavourable event (Bradbury, 1989). They see risk as an objective phenomenon that can be measured separately from cultural and social processes (Renn, 1992a). Because they view risk as an objective phenomenon, they argue that the perceptions of risk among individuals should be similar. Employing a standpoint of cognitive scienceRead MoreEthics And Professional Responsibilities Applied8100 Words à |à 33 PagesHoldings Limited Jingyi Zhang Arkansas State University ââ¬Æ' Introduction Business ethics has developed since the 1960s in the United States. Ethical dilemmas have changed according to the economic environment. During the 2000s, financial failures happened more frequently because of unprecedented economic growth. Nowadays, ethical dilemmas such as financial mismanagement, international corruption, and companiesââ¬â¢ promotional purpose are the main reasons that some high profile companies such as EnronRead MoreAcc 561 Final Exam13802 Words à |à 56 Pages | 2)à Performance reports _____. | |A. |[pic]|provide feedback by comparing results with plans and by highlighting deviations from plans | | |B. |[pic]|ignore areas that are presumed to be running smoothly | | |C. |[pic]|are quantitative expressions of action plans Read MoreSarasvathy, Causation and Effectuation-Toward a Theoretical Shift from Economic Inevitability to14504 Words à |à 59 PagesCAUSATIONAND EFFECTUATION: A THEORETICAL SHIFTFROM INEVITABILITY TO ECONOMIC ENTREPRENEURIAL CONTINGENCY SARAS D. SARASVATHY University of Washington In economics and management theories, scholars have traditionally assumed the existence of artifacts such as firms/organizations and markets. I argue that an explanation for the creation of such artifacts requires the notion of effectuation. Causation rests on a logic of prediction, effectuation on the logic of control. I illustrate effectuation throughRead MoreFair Presentation---an Ethical Perspective on Fair Value Accounting Pursuant to the Sec Study on Mark-to-Market Accounting6378 Words à |à 26 Pagesaccounting, caused the existing crisis, ultimately through bad lending decisions and inadequate risk management. Accounting rules are designed to reveal the full extent of losses and future risks. This transparency would enable banks, regulators, and government to identify specific sources of the crisis and take steps toward recovery and future prevention. Shooting the accounting messenger is not a solution to the problem. Perhaps confusion exists regarding the conflict between t ransparency and financialRead MoreOrganizational Behaviour Analysis28615 Words à |à 115 PagesChange Group and Team Working Cultures and Leaders as Cultural Agents Trust Linking the Themes Introductory Notes on Organisational Analysis Understanding Organisations The Limits of Rationalism Levels of Analysis: The SOGI Model Limitations of the SOGI Model The Individual Level The Group Level The Organisation Level The Society Level Interactions between the Levels Morganââ¬â¢s Metaphors The Metaphors in Brief The Machine Metaphor The Organic Metaphor The Brain Metaphor Cultural (Anthropological)Read MoreDividend Theories and Their Arguments19045 Words à |à 77 Pagesdecision is concerned with what real assets the firm should acquire while the financing decision is concerned with how these assets should be financed. A third decision may arise, however, when the firm begins to generate profits. Should the firm distribute all or proportion of earned profits in the form of divide nds to the shareholders, or should it be ploughed back into the business? Presumably, in taking any course of action, managers should concentrate on how to maximise the wealth of shareholders
Sunday, December 22, 2019
Factory Farming, It Needs to Change Essay - 1862 Words
Factory Farming, It Needs to Change! Factory farming is the process of ââ¬Å"employing abusive practices that maximize agribusiness profits at the expense of the environment, our communities, animal welfare, and even our healthâ⬠(Factory Farming). These methods are used across the United States and have major impacts on not only those consuming the food but the environment as well. Some hold the position that this method is inhumane and should not be allowed. However, others argue that this process creates economically cheap food and allows food to be produced at a faster rate. Therefore, the factory farming industry can improve its conditions in all aspects if it is reformed to successfully satisfy the rights that the livestock deserve andâ⬠¦show more contentâ⬠¦While animal cruelty is the largest issue that arises from factory farming, there are also many other problems that stem from this type of production such as environmental impacts. With this type of food produc tion, ââ¬Å"modern animal agriculture puts an incredible strain on natural resources like land, water, and fossil fuelâ⬠(Factory Farming). This is causing non-reversible environmental damage such as contaminating water supplies and producing mass amounts of exhaust due to production. These practices are going unnoticed by both the government and the companies responsible. Laws and regulations for the environment are not doing their job and need to be changed in order to save the resources that future generations have a right to experience. The industry as a whole stand idly by as they destroy the environment by the practices they perform. This puts a major strain on the fight against environmental degradation by the lack of regard for conserving what is not the industries to ruin. While the environment is currently having some major impacts, rural communities are being equally affected. Some of the impacts that transpire from factory farming include ââ¬Å"an increase in resp iratory, neurobehavioral, and mental illness among the residents of communities next to factory farmsâ⬠(Factory Farming). The mass amount production that is being done leads to exhaust fumes being released into the environment. AnotherShow MoreRelatedA River Of Waste : The Hazardous Truth About Factory Farms1543 Words à |à 7 PagesFactory farming is a modern agricultural method that produces mass amounts of animals to meet the food consumption. In the 2009 documentary film, A River of Waste: The Hazardous Truth About Factory Farms directed by Don McCorkell, people can see actual accounts how modern agricultural methods of meat and poultry manufacturing has on the environment and human health. Observing the film, people can view why this matter is immediately necessary. To reduce operation cost and produce surplus amount ofRead MoreTrying for Humane Farming651 Words à |à 3 PagesHumane Farming When dealing with food, Americans are forced to put their trust into the food industry. Although, there has been an increase of awareness, not enough, on how the industry grows food, processes, and what Americans consume. The United States is riddled with food industry immorality, obesity, and inadequate nutrition education. The government should have more control of the food industry, beyond the mandating of Nutrition Facts labels. In order to enhance the life quality of AmericansRead MoreEating Animals, by Jonathan Safran Foer Essay947 Words à |à 4 PagesIn the book Eating Animals by Jonathan Safran Foer, the author talks about, not only vegetarianism, but reveals to us what actually occurs in the factory farming system. The issue circulating in this book is whether to eat meat or not to eat meat. Foer, however, never tries to convert his reader to become vegetarians but rather to inform them with information so they can respond with better judgment. Eating meat has been a thing that majority of us engage in without question. Which is why among otherRead MoreNew Zealanders Should Never Dream Of Being Cruel1604 Words à |à 7 Pagesbeings. Therefore they are capable of being aware of sensations and emotions of feeling pain and suffering. In todayââ¬â¢s world, factory farming has become popular as they are cheaper ways to produce more output efficiently. The industry strives to maximize output and revenue while minimising cost at the expense of animals. The giant companies that run most of the factory farming have developed caging systems which allow for greater animals to be living in small crammed space for greater profit and outputRead MoreThe Effects Of A Nation s Industrialized Food System Essay1628 Words à |à 7 Pagesnationââ¬â¢s modern industrial farming has become more than only feeding people; it has become a way for the food industry to make more money as human population continues to grow. The food industry has transformed not only how p eople eat, but also has had negative effect on our climate as a result of factory farming as illustrated by Anna Lappe in ââ¬Å"The Climate Crisis at the End of Our Forkâ⬠. Jonathan Safran Foer in his book Eating Animals, illustrates the effects factory farming has had on animals meantRead MoreThe Factory Farming Is The Most Valuable Resource On Earth883 Words à |à 4 Pagesfound that one action seems to be a heavy effector, Factory farms. Although factory farming may seem like the solution to feeding our ever-growing population, the negatives outweigh the positives. Factory farming is largely referred to as Big Ag. Big Ag is the mass production of both animals and vegetables for human consumption. Raising as many animals as you can to make as much profit as you can, is not a new idea. In 1927, the first factory farm appeared on the scene. This farm raised an overwhelmingRead MoreEating Animals By Jonathan Safran Foer Essay1608 Words à |à 7 PagesOur nationââ¬â¢s indu strial farming has become more than just feeding people; it has become a way for the food industry to make more money as human population continues to grow. Jonathan Safran Foer in his book Eating Animals, illustrates the effects factory farming has had on animals meant for human consumption. Furthermore, Foer asks many questions to the reader on what will it take for us to change our ways before we say enough is enough. The questions individuals need to be asking themselves are:Read MoreThe Food Industry And Its Impact On The Society1490 Words à |à 6 Pagesair, and grazing on pastures. Today, over 99% of farm animals in the U.S. are raised in industrialized factory farms, which focus on profit and efficiency as opposed to the animalââ¬â¢s welfare. The industry has forgotten the importance of the animalsââ¬â¢ health and wellbeing and has become obsessed with profit to the point that it is negatively impacting the animals in the industry. The food industry needs to be reform ed to return the focus of the farms to the animals in order to protect them from cruel andRead MoreThe Effects Of Factory Farming On The Health Of The Environment, Animals, And People1138 Words à |à 5 Pagesmeat. This meat can be traced back to factory farms where the animals are kept to be tortured to turn into a product for the appetite of humans. The terrible treatment these animals are forced to endure is the outcome of the greed and want for a faster production of their product. The industry of factory farming works to maximize the output of the meat while maintaining low costs,but will sadly always comes at the animalsââ¬â¢ expense. The effects of factory farming is not worth the damage that is doneRead MoreHow The Vegan Diet Would Fight Against Negative Environmental Changes By Factory Farming And Dairy Industry Essay1079 Words à |à 5 Pagesvegan diet would fight against negative environmental changes created by factory farming and dairy industry. We will cover the aspects of climate change, land sustainability, and water pollution. First, we are going to discuss what a plant-based diet could do to combat the issue of climate change. According to the United Nations, ââ¬Å"a global shift toward a vegan diet is one of the steps necessary to combat the worst effects of climate changeâ⬠(1). Carbon dioxide, methane gas, and nitrous oxide emissions
Saturday, December 14, 2019
Succubus Heat CHAPTER 9 Free Essays
I was starting to envy the teleportation that higher immortals used. Iââ¬â¢d always complained about it in the past (it tended to be a bit disorienting), but suddenly, a spot of dizziness seemed trivial compared to doing the Vancouver-Seattle drive yet again. Annoying or not, I was anxious to talk to Jerome, so as soon as Cedric gave me leave to go home the next day, I hit the road back to the States. We will write a custom essay sample on Succubus Heat CHAPTER 9 or any similar topic only for you Order Now Isabelle had seemed convincing enough in denying her role in the Armyââ¬â¢s shenanigans, and both Carter and Cedric seemed certain she wasnââ¬â¢t involved either. I couldnââ¬â¢t dismiss any leads here, however, not when my permanent return to Seattle was on the line and certainly not when someone was actually messing with Seattle itself. Isabelle might truly be innocent, but I wasnââ¬â¢t going to shut the door on this until Iââ¬â¢d run it by Jerome. ââ¬Å"It seems like youââ¬â¢re here more than you are there,â⬠noted Hugh when I called to tell him I was back in town. ââ¬Å"Doesnââ¬â¢t really seem like youââ¬â¢re being punished all that much.â⬠ââ¬Å"Punishmentââ¬â¢s subjective. Do you know where Jeromeââ¬â¢s at?â⬠ââ¬Å"Last I knew, he was meeting someone.â⬠ââ¬Å"The Cellar?â⬠ââ¬Å"Mmm, noâ⬠¦that new bar in Capitol Hill. Clementââ¬â¢s.â⬠ââ¬Å"Is he going to be mad if I show up while heââ¬â¢s at a lunch meeting?â⬠ââ¬Å"If he doesnââ¬â¢t want to be interrupted, you wonââ¬â¢t be able to find him.â⬠Fair point. Without going home, I drove straight to Capitol Hill, finding street parking that wasnââ¬â¢t actually too far from Cody and Peterââ¬â¢s apartment. Clementââ¬â¢s was a new place that had gone in recently, a bit sleeker and trendier than the Cellar, which was a divey haunt in Pioneer Square we immortals often frequented. Clementââ¬â¢s had the same upscale feel and designer drink menu that Markââ¬â¢s had had, and I had a hard time convincing myself that a drink probably wasnââ¬â¢t the best idea while I was here in the midst of demonic business. I spotted Jerome right away. He was at a back table, facing the doorway. His eyes met mine as I approached, my signature declaring my presence, just as his came through to me. Only, his wasnââ¬â¢t the only immortal aura there. I recognized the bearerââ¬â¢s identity before the woman seated across from him even turned around. Nanette. I came to a stop by their table, speechless more from surprise than fear. Jerome and Nanette together? When had this come about? There was a sly smile on her face, like she was in on some joke the rest of us werenââ¬â¢t. She had on another cute sundress, lavender silk that looked great with her blond hair, though the spring weather didnââ¬â¢t quite seem warm enough for it yet. Of course, when you were a demon, I supposed the fires of Hell kept you warm. ââ¬Å"Georgie,â⬠said Jerome, not unpleasantly, ââ¬Å"it seems like youââ¬â¢re here more than you are in Vancouver.â⬠ââ¬Å"Cedric sent me home. He doesnââ¬â¢t seem to want me around if Iââ¬â¢m not doing something specific.â⬠Nanette chuckled and paused to take a drink of what looked like a Lemon Drop martini. ââ¬Å"I imagine so, after that spectacle yesterday. Brilliant work, I might add.â⬠I grimaced, deciding to out myself and risk losing Jeromeââ¬â¢s regard. ââ¬Å"I actually didnââ¬â¢t have anything to do with that. They did it without telling me.â⬠Jerome didnââ¬â¢t seem to mind. ââ¬Å"That footage is all over YouTube. Iââ¬â¢ve watched it a hundred times.â⬠This whole thing was so confusing. Jerome ostensibly wanted me to help Cedric unravel the cult, yet my boss clearly took great pleasure in seeing the progress stall out. Again I felt like I was missing a piece of the picture here, making me even less secure about my position. ââ¬Å"Look,â⬠I said. ââ¬Å"I donââ¬â¢t want to interrupt your drinks. Iââ¬â¢d just been hoping to chat with Jerome, but I can find you later.â⬠Nanette downed her martini and stood up. ââ¬Å"No, no. Weââ¬â¢re finished here. Have my seat.â⬠I was hesitant, but she was insistent, and Jerome didnââ¬â¢t appear to be too put out at her departure. She walked out of the bar like a normal human, not bothering with any elaborate teleportation-at least not while others could see her. He gestured toward her chair, and I sat down. ââ¬Å"So, what can I do for you, Georgie?â⬠Jerome was drinking brandy, something more suited to a night by the fire than a Sunday afternoon. ââ¬Å"You were hanging out with Nanette?â⬠I asked, momentarily putting Isabelle on hold. ââ¬Å"As you saw.â⬠ââ¬Å"I told you about her meeting with Cedric.â⬠ââ¬Å"And?â⬠ââ¬Å"And, doesnââ¬â¢t it seem weird that sheââ¬â¢s meeting with each of you behind the otherââ¬â¢s back?â⬠ââ¬Å"Itââ¬â¢s not behind anyoneââ¬â¢s back,â⬠he countered. ââ¬Å"I know she met with Cedric, and she knows I know.â⬠Isabelle was moving farther and farther to the back burner of my mind. Suddenly, it all seemed perfectly obvious. Isabelle had denied being the angel because she didnââ¬â¢t want her situation to change. Nanette, however, did want change. She wanted to stop feeling like Cedric and Jerome were eyeing her territory and squeezing her between them. Sheââ¬â¢d claimed her meeting with Cedric was defensive on her part, yet I couldnââ¬â¢t help but wonder if she might be more on the offensive than any of us realized. ââ¬Å"Georgie,â⬠said Jerome dryly. ââ¬Å"I can see those wheels in your head spinning. What are you thinking?â⬠Starting with the meeting at Tim Hortons, I gave Jerome a full report of my experiences with the Army and the theories Iââ¬â¢d put together about the Angel of Darkness being a literal angel-Isabelle. ââ¬Å"Ridiculous,â⬠said Jerome. ââ¬Å"Itââ¬â¢s not her.â⬠ââ¬Å"You sound just as certain as Cedric did.â⬠He shrugged, almost looking embarrassed to have agreed with his rival. ââ¬Å"Because sheââ¬â¢s not running any cult. Iââ¬â¢ve met her. Sheââ¬â¢s not the type.â⬠ââ¬Å"Well, Iââ¬â¢m actually starting to agree.â⬠I took a deep breath and pushed forward. ââ¬Å"I donââ¬â¢t suppose itââ¬â¢s occurred to either of you that Nanette could be the one behind this?â⬠Jeromeââ¬â¢s face grew even more incredulous. ââ¬Å"Nanette? Georgie, this is out there, even for you.â⬠ââ¬Å"What, demons eyeing each otherââ¬â¢s territories? Come on, Jerome. Thatââ¬â¢s not out there at all! Itââ¬â¢s what you and Cedric were-maybe still are-doing for each other. If something blows up, Nanetteââ¬â¢s in a far better position to benefit from it than Isabelle would. Nanetteââ¬â¢s running to both of you, claiming sheââ¬â¢s worried about the other when really, sheââ¬â¢s playing you both off each other.â⬠Jerome rolled the brandy in his glass. ââ¬Å"And let me guess: sheââ¬â¢s blond too, like this alleged golden-haired angel.â⬠ââ¬Å"Wellâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ He sighed, took a last swig of the brandy, and set the glass down hard. ââ¬Å"Not that I have any reason to explain our goings-on to you, but here it is. Nanette doesnââ¬â¢t have the balls to try something like that. Oh, sure, some of your points are correct. This wouldnââ¬â¢t be unreasonable demon behavior, particularly one feeling threatened. But not her. She might want to do something like this, but she wonââ¬â¢t. Sheââ¬â¢s a lot of talk but not much on action.â⬠I didnââ¬â¢t usually get answers that detailed from Jerome and was a bit taken aback. ââ¬Å"Youââ¬â¢re certain?â⬠ââ¬Å"I am,â⬠he said firmly. A waiter delivered a new glass of brandy. ââ¬Å"Leave her and Isabelle behind. Find some other reason for what this absurd groupââ¬â¢s doing. Barring that, disband them like youââ¬â¢re supposed to. And barring that , do give me some credit that I can take care of my affairs without a succubusââ¬â¢ help.â⬠I left not long after that, leaving Jerome to drink alone. As I pushed the door open, I glanced back and studied him. His face was momentarily unguarded, troubled as he stared into the depths of his glass. He seemed very alone, literally and figuratively, despite his bold words. I felt a strange pang in my chest, a bit of sorrow over what was undoubtedly an eternity of torment made worse when complications like our current ones ensued. But then, maybe these bursts of demonic drama helped break up the monotony. I considered errands after that but decided heading straight home sounded best. My phone rang just I stepped into my apartment. I kicked the door closed with my foot while my free hand dug through the depths of my purse. Dougââ¬â¢s number showed on the caller ID. ââ¬Å"Is everything okay?â⬠I asked as soon as I answered. ââ¬Å"You know whatââ¬â¢s sad here, Kincaid? You arenââ¬â¢t asking if Iââ¬â¢m okay. You saw my number, assumed there was some crisis at work, and want to know if the storeââ¬â¢s okay.â⬠ââ¬Å"Your point?â⬠ââ¬Å"The storeââ¬â¢s fine. I wanted to know if youââ¬â¢re in town. Maddie made it sound like you can cross time and space now and be everywhere all the time.â⬠ââ¬Å"I wish I could, but yeah, Iââ¬â¢m at home. Whatââ¬â¢s up?â⬠ââ¬Å"You going to Caseyââ¬â¢s party?â⬠ââ¬Å"Caseyââ¬â¢s what?â⬠Even as I spoke the words, I remembered Casey pulling me aside in the store and asking if Iââ¬â¢d attend her graduation party. ââ¬Å"Ugh. Thatââ¬â¢s today, isnââ¬â¢t it?â⬠ââ¬Å"Yup. You want me to pick you up?â⬠ââ¬Å"Doug, I donââ¬â¢t think I can go. In fact, I even told her I couldnââ¬â¢t.â⬠ââ¬Å"Right. Tell me right now, immediately, what you have to do instead.â⬠ââ¬Å"Well, I, uh-ââ¬Å" ââ¬Å"Too slow. You have nothing going on.â⬠ââ¬Å"Iââ¬â¢m just not in a party mood.â⬠ââ¬Å"The beauty of that is that when people arenââ¬â¢t in party moods, thatââ¬â¢s actually when they need a party the most.â⬠ââ¬Å"Doug-ââ¬Å" ââ¬Å"Come on! How can you not acknowledge the achievements of some brainiac math major whoââ¬â¢s graduating early, for fuckââ¬â¢s sake?â⬠ââ¬Å"Latvian.â⬠ââ¬Å"What?â⬠ââ¬Å"Math and Latvian. Dual majors.â⬠ââ¬Å"Youââ¬â¢re making my point for me. It would be sad and wrong if we didnââ¬â¢t help her celebrate. She overcame a life of adversity, coming to this country in the hopes of making a better life for herself and her family.â⬠ââ¬Å"Doug, sheââ¬â¢s, like, fourth generation. Her dadââ¬â¢s a neurosurgeon.â⬠ââ¬Å"Come on! Maddieââ¬â¢s gotta stay and close, so I have no one to go with. That, and itââ¬â¢s kind of creepy how Iââ¬â¢ve been going to social events with my sister lately. I need you to make me look like a man again.â⬠ââ¬Å"Doug-ââ¬Å" ââ¬Å"See you in five minutes, Kincaid.â⬠I knew how Doug could be in these moods. He wasnââ¬â¢t kidding about showing up in five minutes, and he was also right that I had nothing else to do. With so little time, I simply shape-shifted into a plain gray skirt and black blouse that seemed appropriate for a graduation party. While rustling around for a blank card that I could stick a check into, I dialed Dante to let him know I was in town and to see if he wanted to come with us. Like usual lately, I went to his voice mail. What was it with me and unreliable men? Iââ¬â¢d had trouble getting a hold of Seth when we dated because he was always caught up writing. Now I had trouble getting a hold of Dante becauseâ⬠¦well, because he was unreliable. I left Caseyââ¬â¢s address with the message and hurried to get ready. Iââ¬â¢d wanted to wear Danteââ¬â¢s watch but couldnââ¬â¢t find it before Doug showed up-honestly, it had been more like four minutes-so I ended up just running out the door without accessories. Caseyââ¬â¢s family lived over in Clyde Hill, a beautiful lakeside suburb befitting a neurosurgeonââ¬â¢s family. The party had been going on for about an hour when we arrived, and we found their expansive backyard filled with music, food, and people. Dusk was falling, and the soft glow of lanterns strung along trees and the fence line gave everything a sort of elfin mystique. We paused at the yardââ¬â¢s entry, assessing our surroundings and looking for others we knew. ââ¬Å"This is kind of wholesome for me,â⬠Doug noted. ââ¬Å"There are kids here.â⬠ââ¬Å"Of course there are. This is a graduation party, not one of your after-show keggers.â⬠ââ¬Å"Oh, hey,â⬠he said brightly. ââ¬Å"Thereââ¬â¢s a bartender. Looks like thisââ¬â¢ll be tolerably wholesome.â⬠Casey found us getting drinks and threw her arms around both of us in a massive double hug. ââ¬Å"Oh! You guys came! Thanks so much.â⬠She was aglow with excitement and energy and could barely stay still. She accepted my card with another hug, told us to let her know if we needed anything, and then dashed off when she saw her great aunt from Idaho arrive. ââ¬Å"Wow. All this kind of makes me wish Iââ¬â¢d stayed in college,â⬠Doug mused. A few of our coworkers waved at us from the far side of the yard, and we began winding our way toward them. ââ¬Å"Yup. You could have had all this fun waiting for you after school.â⬠He grimaced. ââ¬Å"The problem is, I was having all this fun during school.â⬠The other bookstore staff were happy to see us, and we all fell into comfortable conversation that varied from the party itself to shop talk from work. Caseyââ¬â¢s family had spared no expense, and waiters came around with various types of finger food. None of us had eaten dinner, so we practically devoured the trays and probably looked like savages in our corner. I was contemplating a second drink when Beth suddenly said, ââ¬Å"Oh, hey. Seth and Maddie are here.â⬠I stiffened. One of the reasons Iââ¬â¢d answered the door when Doug came to pick me up was that heââ¬â¢d said Maddie was closing. Knowing Iââ¬â¢d get a reprieve from her and Seth had made this prospect bearable, but apparently, thereââ¬â¢d been some sort of incorrect intel afoot. I did an immediate 180, hoping I had misheard Beth. Nope. There they were: Seth and Maddie. Worse, Sethââ¬â¢s little niece Kayla was with them. She was the youngest of his brotherââ¬â¢s girls, four years old with blue eyes and a mop of blond curls. Iââ¬â¢d recently discovered that Kayla had the makings of a psychic and was able to sense the unseen world, much as Dante or my friend Erik could. She was a long way from having their skills or having any idea what they meant yet. For now, she was just a happy little girl-albeit a very quiet one-and seeing her with Seth and Maddie jerked painfully at my heartstrings. ââ¬Å"I thought you said she was closing,â⬠I hissed to Doug. He didnââ¬â¢t notice the upset tone in my voice and read it as surprise. ââ¬Å"I thought so. Maybe she got Janice to do it. I know sheââ¬â¢s been giving her more and more responsibility. Makes me wonder about my own job security.â⬠The bookstore gang greeted the newcomers with cheering. Kayla broke from her guides and, to my astonishment, ran over to me. ââ¬Å"Georgina!â⬠I scooped her up, and that dark, angry serpent within me settled down a little. Not only had Kayla sought me out, sheââ¬â¢d also spoken-a rarity. I hugged her to me, and with her in my arms, it suddenly seemed as though all had to be right in the world. ââ¬Å"Youââ¬â¢ve got a fan, Kincaid,â⬠laughed Doug. He winked at her. She gave him a shy smile in return and then turned back to me and rested her head on my shoulder. ââ¬Å"She spoke,â⬠said Maddie in wonder. Maddie knew Iââ¬â¢d been friends with the Mortensens and thought nothing of me knowing the girls. ââ¬Å"An entire soliloquy,â⬠I laughed. ââ¬Å"Weââ¬â¢re watching her while the others are at a school play,â⬠explained Seth. ââ¬Å"This partyââ¬â¢s unreal,â⬠said Maddie, gazing around at all the fanfare. ââ¬Å"Does anyone know why she dual-majored in Latvian?â⬠ââ¬Å"Blow-off major?â⬠suggested Beth. ââ¬Å"Anthropology and Womenââ¬â¢s Studies are blow-off majors,â⬠said Doug. ââ¬Å"Not Latvian.â⬠ââ¬Å"Hey!â⬠said Maddie, elbowing her brother. She often wrote freelance articles for feminist magazines. ââ¬Å"Hey, donââ¬â¢t take it out on me. Iââ¬â¢ll never forget you taking that class called Evolution of the Dress.â⬠ââ¬Å"It was harder than you think!â⬠The rest of us watched the Sato siblings with amusement, and to my dismay, so did Seth. I guess Iââ¬â¢d kind of hoped heââ¬â¢d be shooting furtive, longing glances at me. Instead, he watched Maddie almostâ⬠¦fondly. Like he found her smart and funny-which she was, of course. He was watching her the way any guy would watch his girlfriend. ââ¬Å"Hey,â⬠I said to Doug. ââ¬Å"Why donââ¬â¢t you stop annoying your sister and go get us a refill?â⬠ââ¬Å"Youââ¬â¢re a bad role model for the kid,â⬠he warned. But he took my cup anyway and headed for the bar. If anything, it seemed me holding Kayla gave Seth and Maddie a chance to be more affectionate. They held hands. So, I paid more attention to Kayla, snagging novel appetizers as they went by and explaining to her what quiche and brie were. Once Doug returned with my drink, I took it down pretty rapidly, still conscious of the fact that I held a child. When Iââ¬â¢d finished my third, I knew enough to hand her off. Maddie took her by the hand and led her to look at a koi pond on the far side of the yard. This left me alone with the others, and whether it was alcohol or succubus charisma or just a desire to show up Maddie, I found myself coming to life. I joked and talked to everyone, making sure each person was included in the conversation. I saw them all light up, caught up in the aura of comfort and good cheer I created. Maybe I had ulterior motives, but despite that, I actually enjoyed myself. It had been awhile since Iââ¬â¢d been able to just have a fun, effortless social encounter. When Maddie returned, however, I decided it was time for my fourth drink. I headed across the yard, graceful in spite of the alcohol. While waiting in line, the guy behind me struck up conversation. ââ¬Å"Iââ¬â¢ve seen you somewhere.â⬠I glanced up at him. He was tall, late thirties, and had bronzed hair. I gave him a winning smile. ââ¬Å"Thatââ¬â¢s a very bad pick-up line.â⬠ââ¬Å"No, Iââ¬â¢m serious.â⬠He frowned. ââ¬Å"In the paperâ⬠¦were you in some sort of date auction?â⬠ââ¬Å"Oh my God. You do recognize me.â⬠Through Hughââ¬â¢s machinations, Iââ¬â¢d participated in a charity date auction last December. Iââ¬â¢d ended up going for an obscene amount of money and had made the paper. ââ¬Å"If I remember, you did a lot for that charity.â⬠ââ¬Å"What can I say? I love kids.â⬠Our turns came, and we each got new drinks. Stepping off to the side, we continued our conversation. ââ¬Å"I donââ¬â¢t suppose,â⬠he said, ââ¬Å"that Iââ¬â¢d have to pay that much for a date?â⬠ââ¬Å"Youââ¬â¢re asking me out?â⬠ââ¬Å"Seeing you in person? Yeah. I kind of understand the price now.â⬠ââ¬Å"Wow, you donââ¬â¢t waste time on formalities.â⬠He shrugged. ââ¬Å"I donââ¬â¢t have time to. Too busy with work.â⬠Ah. One of those guys. I didnââ¬â¢t have Hughââ¬â¢s ability to see souls, but something told me I wouldnââ¬â¢t get an enormous energy fix from this guy. Of course, just then, it didnââ¬â¢t matter. I was drunk and distressed and a sleazy guy seemed just like what I needed right then, no matter how inappropriate the setting. In fact, the inappropriateness kind of added to it. ââ¬Å"No, not that much. Though to tell you the truth, Iââ¬â¢m kind of busy myself. I donââ¬â¢t like to waste time on something thatââ¬â¢s going to fizzle out. Iââ¬â¢m sort of a try-before-you-buy girl.â⬠He studied me very carefully, face serious. ââ¬Å"What exactly do you have in mind?â⬠I inclined my head toward the house. ââ¬Å"They must have a bathroom in there.â⬠As expected, he didnââ¬â¢t take much coaxing. The house was wide open to anyone who needed to get in there, and we passed wait staff moving in and out as we sought one of the houseââ¬â¢s many bathrooms. We finally ended up at a small one on the second floor that was adjacent to a guest room. It didnââ¬â¢t look like it saw much use, and as soon as we shut the door, we were all over each other. Heââ¬â¢d told me along the way that his name was Wes and that he had some sort of corporate position in a bank downtown. Iââ¬â¢m not sure why he was trying to impress me, seeing as Iââ¬â¢d made this painfully easy for him, but I appreciated the weak effort anyway. My biggest concern was his relationship to the family, but it turned out he was a friend of a friend of a business associate, so I had little worry about this getting back to Casey. My skirt came off almost immediately, followed by a rapid unbuttoning of my blouse that pulled off a button. It skittered across the floor, lost forever. He left the blouse itself on, simply hanging open, and ran his hands over my body, taking in the black lace bra and matching panties. ââ¬Å"Good God,â⬠he breathed. ââ¬Å"You might be worth more than that auction price.â⬠ââ¬Å"Iââ¬â¢m not a call girl,â⬠I snapped, irritated for some reason I couldnââ¬â¢t entirely understand. ââ¬Å"And make this fast. My friends are going to be waiting for me.â⬠Wes seemed a little surprised that I wasnââ¬â¢t fawning all over him, but he didnââ¬â¢t argue. His pants and briefs came off next, and he grabbed a hold of my hips, tilting me so that I sat on the edge of the counter, with my body at an angle and my head and shoulders against the mirror. The counter and his height lined up perfectly, and a moment later, he was in me, neither rough nor gentle, just somewhere in the middle. It was a little boring, actually, like he couldnââ¬â¢t quite make up his mind and take a stand. But as he gripped my ankles and held my legs up, the pace steadily increased, and I saw sweat break out along his brow. The life energy seeping into me was moderate, just like everything else about this tryst, but compared to Dante, it was fairly significant. That energy made up for the rest of it, and when he came with a primal sort of grunt, that burst of life coursed into me in its entirety. Like fine tendrils of light, it raced through my body, reinvigorating me and making me strong. He staggered back, and I hopped down off the counter to quickly put my clothes back on. ââ¬Å"Wow,â⬠he gasped. ââ¬Å"That was-ââ¬Å" ââ¬Å"Do not say worth the money,â⬠I warned. ââ¬Å"Particularly since you didnââ¬â¢t pay.â⬠He shut up, and I smiled. With a quick kiss on the cheek, I moved over to the door. ââ¬Å"Thanks,â⬠I said. ââ¬Å"It was fun.â⬠He fumbled for his underwear. ââ¬Å"You want to go out sometime?â⬠ââ¬Å"Nope.â⬠I left him to get dressed, discreetly closing the door behind me and remembering to take my drink with me. No one was upstairs, so our encounter had gone unnoticed-or so I thought. When I reached the bottom of the stairs, I nearly walked right into Seth. ââ¬Å"Oh my God,â⬠he said, giving me a once over. ââ¬Å"You really did it?â⬠ââ¬Å"Did what?â⬠I asked in a saccharine voice. ââ¬Å"You know what. Youââ¬â¢ve got that-that glow. That, and youââ¬â¢re missing a button.â⬠I glanced down at the guilty gap in the blouse and shape-shifted it to its former state. ââ¬Å"There. Good as new.â⬠He shook his head, keeping his voice low so we wouldnââ¬â¢t be overheard. ââ¬Å"I didnââ¬â¢t really believe youââ¬â¢d do it. I saw you walk off with him and thought, ââ¬ËNo, she wouldnââ¬â¢t. Not here.ââ¬â¢ So I came over and-ââ¬Å" ââ¬Å"You what? Came to stop me?â⬠I couldnââ¬â¢t help an incredulous laugh. ââ¬Å"Seth, what I do or donââ¬â¢t do is none of your business.â⬠ââ¬Å"What about Dante? You just cheated on him.â⬠ââ¬Å"I cheat on all my boyfriends. Did you forget? Itââ¬â¢s what I do.â⬠ââ¬Å"You didnââ¬â¢t need the energy fix. I could tell.â⬠ââ¬Å"Yeah, but I wanted the energy fix. What are you, jealous?â⬠ââ¬Å"What happened to you?â⬠he demanded, evading my question. ââ¬Å"How did you change so much? Youââ¬â¢re better than this.â⬠ââ¬Å"Iââ¬â¢ve always been like this. You were just too starstruck to notice.â⬠I turned and left him, heading back out to our friends, making sure I neatened up my appearance in tiny increments as I walked. The alcohol was really kicking in at this point, but I was pretty sure I still managed to walk without looking obviously drunk. When I reached the group, Kayla gestured to be picked up again. I was a little hesitant, but she seemed so insistent that I handed my drink to Doug and lifted her into my arms again. Mercifully, I didnââ¬â¢t fall over. She studied me with those big blue eyes, and I wondered what she sensed. Something about her gaze affected me in a way that Sethââ¬â¢s chastising hadnââ¬â¢t. I felt bad for what Iââ¬â¢d done. Dirty. Cheap. ââ¬Å"She sure does like you,â⬠said Maddie. ââ¬Å"And youââ¬â¢re great with her too. You should have kids of your own.â⬠I ran a hand over Kaylaââ¬â¢s fine hair, recalling the dreams Nyx had sent me while sheââ¬â¢d stolen my energy. Theyââ¬â¢d all shown an impossible future, me with a daughter and husband. ââ¬Å"Canââ¬â¢t,â⬠I said. ââ¬Å"Doug would be lousy at child support.â⬠ââ¬Å"Oh, be quiet,â⬠he snapped back good-naturedly. I think heââ¬â¢d been drinking as much as me by now. Seth returned just then and touched Maddieââ¬â¢s arm, his expression grim. ââ¬Å"We should head off. Terry and the others will be back, and Kaylaââ¬â¢s probably getting tired.â⬠Maddieââ¬â¢s face fell a little. ââ¬Å"Already?â⬠It was the first time in their idyllic relationship that Iââ¬â¢d ever seen signs of clouds. ââ¬Å"We need to get her back,â⬠Seth reiterated mildly. ââ¬Å"And Iââ¬â¢ve got a chapter to write.â⬠She rolled her eyes. ââ¬Å"Ah. Now the truth comes out.â⬠Interesting. Maddie had to put up with the same stuff I had. ââ¬Å"Stay,â⬠Doug told her. ââ¬Å"Iââ¬â¢ll give you a ride.â⬠ââ¬Å"Yeah, like Iââ¬â¢d trust you behind a wheel right now.â⬠ââ¬Å"Then you drive me and Kincaid home, and Mortensen can go now.â⬠They all finally decided that was a good idea. As Seth and Kayla were about to go, Maddie suddenly did a double-take. ââ¬Å"Oh! Wait. You have to give Georgina her present.â⬠I blinked. ââ¬Å"Present?â⬠Sethââ¬â¢s face turned almost- almost -mischievous, though he was still clearly bothered by what had taken place in the house. ââ¬Å"Uh, yeah. I just got a box of advanced copies of the next Cady and Oââ¬â¢Neill book and wondered if you wanted one.â⬠ââ¬Å"Iâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ I stopped, unsure what to say. Maddie laughed. ââ¬Å"Youââ¬â¢ve been the belle of the ball all night, and this is what makes you speechless?â⬠ââ¬Å"Hey, itââ¬â¢s not that easy. I meanâ⬠¦this is Cady and Oââ¬â¢Neill. You know how I feel about them. Iââ¬â¢ve sort of accepted that I wouldnââ¬â¢t get to read their next installment until October. If I get it now, my whole universe will be thrown out of whack.â⬠ââ¬Å"So you donââ¬â¢t want it?â⬠asked Seth. ââ¬Å"Oh, I want it. Just seemsâ⬠¦I donââ¬â¢t know. It feels like cheating.â⬠ââ¬Å"Theyââ¬â¢re in the car right now,â⬠teased Maddie in a singsong voice. ââ¬Å"Sure you donââ¬â¢t want one?â⬠I looked at Sethââ¬â¢s smile, and something weird passed between us. I could hardly believe that minutes ago, weââ¬â¢d been fighting in the house. The looks we exchanged, the way I feltâ⬠¦it was almost like it used to be. I hastily turned away. ââ¬Å"Yes,â⬠I groaned. ââ¬Å"Of course I do.â⬠Seth said good-bye to the rest of the bookstore gang and tried to find Casey, but she was surrounded by a throng of relatives. Giving up, he led me out of the yard to where heââ¬â¢d parked a block or so away. Kayla was still in my arms. None of us spoke, and it was just as well because my feelings were all tangled up. Every post-breakup interaction between us had been angry or painfully tense lately. Yet, in these last few moments, things had become almost comfortable again. Was it possible weââ¬â¢d ever move past this phase? Could the pain Iââ¬â¢d gone through with him really ease up so quickly? He unlocked the car and got the book for me. I hoped I didnââ¬â¢t gape like a schoolgirl when I saw it. All Fools Night . The cover showed the skyline of Washington, DC, blurred like a Renoir painting and overlaid with dark indigo. All sorts of warnings about it being an advanced copy and not for sale were on it, but I paid those no heed. I didnââ¬â¢t want to sell it. I wanted to read it. Now. When I dragged my eyes up from the cover, Seth regarded me with happy amusement. ââ¬Å"I canââ¬â¢t believe youââ¬â¢re really that excited.â⬠ââ¬Å"Why wouldnââ¬â¢t I be? And why are you surprised? Lots of people love your books.â⬠He shook his head. ââ¬Å"Yeahâ⬠¦but itââ¬â¢s still surreal to think that I can write something-create something-that affects people so strongly that they get an emotional involvement with what Iââ¬â¢ve pulled from my head. And to realize that someone I know personallyâ⬠¦knowing it affects you like thatâ⬠¦well, like I said, surreal.â⬠The sweet, earnest look in his eyes was making butterflies dance in my stomach, so I hastily looked back at the cover. I almost wished weââ¬â¢d start fighting again. ââ¬Å"Sethâ⬠¦whyâ⬠¦why are you doing this?â⬠ââ¬Å"Giving you the book?â⬠He was puzzled. ââ¬Å"No, I meanâ⬠¦being nice. And worrying about me back there.â⬠ââ¬Å"You donââ¬â¢t think Iââ¬â¢m normally nice?â⬠I looked back up and sighed. ââ¬Å"You know what I mean. Weââ¬â¢ve been avoiding each other since New Yearââ¬â¢s, and when we have been together, itââ¬â¢s been disastrous. Yet, here you are bringing me thisâ⬠¦I just donââ¬â¢t understand it. Was it Maddieââ¬â¢s idea?â⬠He stared at me for a long time, or at least it felt like it. A chill ran down my spine, and for a second, I felt disoriented, like I was in this time and another, reliving the same moment over again. ââ¬Å"No. I did it because hate shouldnââ¬â¢t last forever,â⬠he said finally, voice soft. ââ¬Å"Because eventually, you have to forgive. You canââ¬â¢t just stop caring orâ⬠¦Ã¢â¬ He didnââ¬â¢t finish the phrase. ââ¬Å"I think weââ¬â¢ll always have a connection, no matter where we go or what we do. And if so, Iââ¬â¢d like us to be friends.â⬠For the second time that night, I was speechless. There were a hundred things that would have made good responses. Telling him I agreed. Telling him I forgave him. Telling him I wanted us to be friends too. Yet, I couldnââ¬â¢t muster those words, and I never had a chance to ponder exactly why because Kayla suddenly jerked in my arms, coming awake with wide-eyed alacrity. ââ¬Å"Hey,â⬠a voice called to us. We turned. Dante was about half a block away and walking toward us. With each step, Kayla recoiled further and further from his approach. Danteââ¬â¢s lifetime of power-seeking and wicked deeds had left a taint on him, one that Kayla could sense the way she could sense my aura. I didnââ¬â¢t entirely know what it felt like for her, but it couldnââ¬â¢t be good. ââ¬Å"Here,â⬠I said to Seth. ââ¬Å"Trade me.â⬠Kayla went to him eagerly, and he handed over the book just as Dante reached us. He put an arm around me and kissed my cheek. ââ¬Å"Got your message and thought Iââ¬â¢d come by. Hey,â⬠he said, by way of greeting to Seth. Seth nodded back, and whatever fragile companionship he and I had been rebuilding disappeared. Eager to distract, I employed the conversational gift I allegedly had. ââ¬Å"Seth was leaving and just had to get this book for me.â⬠I held it up as explanation. ââ¬Å"How was work?â⬠Dante kept his arm around me in a way that was almost proprietary. Heââ¬â¢d always regarded my past with Seth nonchalantly, but I think me being so deeply involved with someone bothered him sometimes. His eyes lighted on Kayla for a moment. She was trying so hard to keep away from him that she was practically crawling off Seth. Mortal magic and abilities varied considerably, but I imagined Dante must be able to sense her too. A ghost of a smile crossed his lips, and then he turned his attention back to me. ââ¬Å"Slow, as usual. I did get a couple of high teens wanting Tarot.â⬠ââ¬Å"Oh, lord. Your favorite kind of teens.â⬠ââ¬Å"Yup. Never questioned the price. I donââ¬â¢t even know if they comprehended the fortune, to be honest.â⬠ââ¬Å"You didnââ¬â¢t tell them about tree frogs, did you?â⬠ââ¬Å"Tree frogs?â⬠asked Seth. ââ¬Å"Yeah, Dante had these kids on acid come in once, and as part of their reading, he told them to beware of tree frogs.â⬠Grinning, Dante shook his head at the memory. ââ¬Å"Shit, that freaked them out. You should have seen them when they left the store. They were practically crouching on the ground, looking up everywhere, peering at every window and telephone wire. That would have almost been compensation enough.â⬠The image always made me laugh. ââ¬Å"But not this time?â⬠ââ¬Å"Nah, this group was just sluggish and out of it. On the bright side, they paid me ten dollars for a bag of Doritos I had sitting around. Gotta love kids spending their allowance.â⬠Dante and I were both amused by his clientsââ¬â¢ antics, but glancing over, I saw that Seth was not. Something cold clenched inside me, and I could suddenly see us through his eyes. He didnââ¬â¢t really find taking advantage of teens under the influence of drugs funny, whether it was monetarily or psychologically. When Iââ¬â¢d first met Dante, Iââ¬â¢d actually been appalled by the charlatan side of his business. When had I come to accept it? When had I come to enjoy it? I felt ashamed all of a sudden and hated what Seth must think of me. Then, I became angry for feeling that way, for letting myself feel judged. He had no power over me anymore. It didnââ¬â¢t matter what he thought. The last of the coziness between us shattered, and I felt my icy exterior slip into place. I moved closer to Dante, and Sethââ¬â¢s body language told me heââ¬â¢d seen the transformation Iââ¬â¢d just undergone. ââ¬Å"Well, you guys probably need to go,â⬠I said abruptly. ââ¬Å"Yeah,â⬠Seth said uncomfortably. ââ¬Å"I guess weââ¬â¢ll see you later.â⬠ââ¬Å"Thanks for the book.â⬠He merely nodded and then turned to put Kayla into her car seat. Her eyes met mine and I waved a good-bye, but the look of horror on her face never faltered. I knew it was for Dante, not me, but it hurt nonetheless. Dante wanted to head home and had mostly come to give me a ride. By that point, I felt weary and emotionally disoriented. Home sounded good. We went back inside to drop off my glass and tell Doug I was leaving. Doug looked about as thrilled to see Dante as Seth had, but he said nothing that wasnââ¬â¢t in his usual jovial style. On the drive home, I stared vacantly out the window and ran my hands over the bookââ¬â¢s cover. ââ¬Å"You were kind of chummy back there,â⬠noted Dante. ââ¬Å"Huh?â⬠ââ¬Å"With Mortensen. I felt like I was interrupting something.â⬠ââ¬Å"Oh. No. I just got kind of giddy over the book. You know how much I like them.â⬠We came to a red light, and he glanced down at the cover. ââ¬Å"Advanced copy? We could make a lot of money on eBay.â⬠ââ¬Å"Dante!â⬠ââ¬Å"Just a joke, succubus. Well, kind of. If you ever wanted to work your wiles on him and get more books, you could start a little side business.â⬠ââ¬Å"I donââ¬â¢t need any extra cash. And my wiles are no good. Things are done. He and Maddie are happy.â⬠ââ¬Å"That doesnââ¬â¢t mean anything. You donââ¬â¢t think he still wants you? You donââ¬â¢t think heââ¬â¢d sleep with you if he could?â⬠ââ¬Å"Why do you assume the worst about everyone?â⬠ââ¬Å"Because itââ¬â¢s always true. Iââ¬â¢m trying to break you of seeing the world through rose-colored glasses.â⬠He paused while we merged onto the freeway and headed back toward the city. ââ¬Å"And he can want you all he wants. I donââ¬â¢t care, as long as you donââ¬â¢t want him back.â⬠ââ¬Å"There you go again, acting jealous.â⬠I tried to keep my voice teasing in order to deflect how close heââ¬â¢d hit to home. ââ¬Å"I thought you didnââ¬â¢t care who else I slept with.â⬠ââ¬Å"I donââ¬â¢t. Just so long as you donââ¬â¢t like them better than me.â⬠I laughed and left that as my response, indicating how foolish a notion I thought it was. And yet, as we rode back in silence, I found myself hugging the book closer and closer. How to cite Succubus Heat CHAPTER 9, Essay examples
Friday, December 6, 2019
National Institutions and HRM
Question: The selected country is Japan For this assignment, identify three national institutions in your selected country (Japan), and respond to the following: What is the historical foundation of your selected country? How might your selected country's national culture, institutions, ethics, and values influence its HRM practices? Answer: Japan is the land of spanning ancient history, art, literature and vibrant culture. The country experiences wide diversity as its culture has been highly influenced by Chinese culture as well as that of the western European regions. The country has seen several ups and downs in its socio-economic environment including the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombarding. Japan adopted its revised constitution in the year 1947, and has consistently progressed to become one of the leading nations of the global economy in the twenty first century (Clements, 2010). The National Institute for Natural Sciences Japan, National Institute for multimedia education and National Institute for Information and communications technology, are the three esteemed national institutions selected for the study. This essay on the National Institutions and Human Resource Management (HRM) revolves around the HRM practices of three of the prominent National Institutions of Japan; and rightly identifies the unique influence s of the countrys national culture, institutions, ethics, and values influences on the HRM practices of these esteemed Institutions. The country of Japan has lately evolved as one of the progressive countries of the Asia-Pacific region making its economy as the 20th freest economy in the world as per the 2015 index (The Heritage Foundation, 2015). The Historical foundations of Japan although rich and vibrant have been deeply affected by the two-decade economic slump, which is the key reason for the japans economy operating far below its actual potential. The social behavior of the population has always been hardworking and consistently striving for coming up with innovations. This country is rich in talented and hardworking skilled manpower resources that are positively influencing the HRM policies of the leading national institutions of the country. The ancient Japanese philosophy of managing its human resources is all about considering and treating its employees above a mere factor of production. Treating the human resources as member of a family (organization), has been ingrained in the national culture and ethnicity of Japan. However the deep economic crises suffered by the nation, out rightly diluted the traditional Japanese HRM concepts in several western cultured modern organizations. Some of the national institutions of the country however, are observed to have a great influence of Japanese culture, traditions, values, ethics and human relations practices even in the current century. The National Institute for Natural Sciences (NINS) is one of the four national research institutions in Japan that has independent administrative functions. The Human resources of this institution have many times collaborated its activities with other national research institutes in Japan to support international research projects (NINS website, 2015). The ethics, liberal values and equality promoting cultural influences of Japans national heritage have positively influenced the HRM practices and policies of this organization. NINS takes consistent effort in maintain gender equality in its recruitment and retention policies of the Institution. The institution has also incorporated the plan for promotion of gender equality in the medium term goals of the organization. Respect for People is one of the prominent concepts imbibed in the Japanese cultural and ethnicity, that has been reflected in the work policies of the modern Japanese institutions like that of the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (Pudelko and Harzing, 2009). The National Institute of Information and Communications Technology, is an independent administrative institution that has staff and employees who are specialized in the field of information and communications technology. The Institution strives a lot to establish comfortable work life balance policies for its human resources by establishing adequate child care leave and family care leave systems (NICT, 2015). The National Institute of multimedia education (NIME) was established in the year 1978, with an objective conducting research and development on contents and methods of university education, predominantly using the broadcasting medium. The most of the staff recruited by NIME is from technical background that are been given equal opportunities by the institution to participate in its new projects and ventures of providing innovation in broadcasting of education services. The Percentage of women employment and maintenance of healthy male-female ratio in the organization was always a prominent aspect of recruitment function of HR. The incentives disbursed by the Organization were also shared by teams, instead of giving it to single individual employee (Center of ICT and Distance Education, Japan, 2011). Overall the organization depicts a one family work culture that is reflection of the ancient Japanese HR cultural practices. References Center of ICT and Distance Education, Japan (2011). Vicissitudes of National Institute of Multimedia Education. , Retrieved on February 7th 2015, from https://siteresources.worldbank.org/EDUCATION/Resources/278200-1289345265576/1101_006_Kato_ppt_Japan.pdf Clements, Jonathan (2010). A Brief history of the Samurai. Running Press: USA NICT website (2015). About NICT. Retrieved on February 7th 2015, from https://www.nict.go.jp/en/about/ NINS website (2015). Promotion of Gender Equality. Retrieved on February 7th 2015, from https://www.nins.jp/english/gender_equality/index.php Pudelko Markus and Harzing Anne-Wil (2009). Japanese Human Resource Management: Inspirations from abroad and current trends of change, Retrieved on February 7th 2015, from https://www.harzing.com/download/jhrm.pdf The Heritage Foundation (2015). Japan: 2015 Index of Economic Freedom. Retrieved on February 7th 2015, from https://www.heritage.org/index/country/japan
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