1. **State the problem:** We are given that $x = 8$ and some conditions involving $x$ and $y$. 2. **Translate the problem into equations:** - "-x didn't like being multiplied. It always cut itself in half" means $-x$ becomes $\frac{x}{2}$. - "-y was so jealous, so it took 13 away from x's half" means $y = \frac{x}{2} - 13$. 3. **Substitute $x = 8$ into the equation for $y$:** $$y = \frac{8}{2} - 13$$ 4. **Calculate:** $$y = 4 - 13 = -9$$ 5. **Final answer:** $$y = -9$$