#Concrete Expansion Anchors

[fixdex-fastening-technology]

👍 Wedge anchor All production processes are inside our factory

[the-gone-ton]

The dead malls of York

Continuing on the theme from my last post about York Galleria, I'm going to talk more about the four now-closed malls in York that came before the Galleria.

The York Mall

The York Mall opened in 1968, developed by the famous Kravco Company of Philadelphia. It was a fairly large mall for its era (about 700,000 Square feet of retail space, I believe). It was primarily a single-level mall, though in this rare interior photo you can see stairs leading up to a small 2nd level that included a community room and some offices. The opening anchors were JCPenney, Montgomery Ward, and Maryland-based Hochschild-Kohn (seen in the above picture). The mall also featured a Trans-Lux Theater and a flagship location of McCrory's variety store. In fact, the McCrory's distribution center was located directly next door to the York Mall, and a concrete ramp led straight from the distribution center's parking lot right up to the back of McCrory's store around the rear side of the mall. The ramp still exists today as a relic of this bit of McCrory's history. The layout of the mall had Penney's at one end and Wards at the other, with Hochschild-Kohn right in the middle. You'd have to walk through the Kohn's department store to get from one end of the mall to the other.

Hochschild-Kohn's declined in the 70s, closing their York Mall store in 1975. York's own local department store, The Bon-Ton, opened in this spot that same year. The York Mall remained the largest mall in town for 21 years until George Zamias built the 2-story York Galleria practically next door in 1989. Both The Bon-Ton and JCPenney left the York Mall for the York Galleria when it opened, but it wasn't a total loss because The Bon-Ton kept their store open as a new discount concept called "Bon-Ton Express" on the ground floor and put their corporate offices on what had been the 2nd floor of the department store. Still, the new competition from the Galleria badly hurt the York Mall and forced it to go more downscale. Looking to replace JCPenney, the York Mall signed a lease with Arkansas-based discount store Walmart in 1990 - it was the first Walmart in the state of Pennsylvania and was then the largest in the country at 130,000 square feet. Walmart also built a new Sam's Club right next to Montgomery Ward. At the time, the destructive tendencies of Walmart were not as widely-known.

The York Mall still did alright for a few more years with its new configuration. But stores in the mall noticed a drop in business after The Bon-Ton Express closed in May of 1992. Bon-Ton executives attributed the closure to Walmart, whose cash registers only faced their parking lot entrance (in other words, you could enter Walmart from the mall, but you have to leave out towards your car). Burlington replaced Bon-Ton Express in 1993, but it didn't do much to help sales at the small shops. Around the turn of the century, the demise of Montgomery Ward and McCrory's left gaping vacancies in the north end of the mall while an expansion of Walmart into a 240,000 square foot supercenter swallowed up the entire south end of the mall. It didn't take long after that for the remainder of the mall to be demolished.

North Mall

The North Mall - "the first completely carpeted, enclosed shopping center in the East!" - opened in 1969, as the 2nd enclosed shopping mall in York, PA. It was a smaller mall that was sort of split level; the upper level was fully enclosed and anchored by The Bon-Ton and a G.C. Murphy's variety store. At the end opposite of Bon-Ton, an artistic ramp took you down to a lower level that turned into an open air strip mall. This section was anchored by a J.M. Fields discount store, which included a Pantry Pride discount grocery store inside. The whole mall was owned by Food Fair Properties, which shared the same parent company (Food Fair) as Pantry Pride and J.M. Fields.

Food Fair became a pretty large company in the 60s and early 70s, having expanded its subsidiaries Pantry Pride and J.M. Fields nationally. But the business then began to suffer, leading to bankruptcy and the closure of all J.M. Fields stores in 1978. The Pantry Pride at North Mall closed as well. The anchor building that had housed Fields and Pantry Pride was large and difficult to find a replacement tenant for. It housed women's apparel store Marianne's for a few years in the late 70s/early 80s.

1981 brought the opening of West Manchester Mall, a project of famous developer Crown American Corporation. Compared to the nearby North Mall, West Manchester was much newer and larger. The North Mall had never updated, and was still very much a fully-carpeted, flower-patterned product of 1969. The Bon-Ton closed at North Mall to open a new store at West Manchester when it opened. The Bon-Ton was quickly replaced by the 4th location of discount department store Mailman's. Ironically, Mailman's had a collaboration with The Bon-Ton wherein Bon-Ton would supply their own apparel merchandise at Mailman's stores, so Bon-Ton never totally left the North Mall after all. At that point, the North Mall felt pressured to go downscale, so the mall became known as the "North Mall Factory Outlet Center". Burlington opened in the former J.M. Fields location in 1983, and the mall kept afloat for a while. In 1984, G.C. Murphy's closed their store, apparently in violation of a 20 year lease they had signed which did not expire until 1989 (this prompted a lawsuit from the mall). In 1988, the collaboration between Mailman's and Bon-Ton ended, so the North Mall Mailman's lost its whole apparel department. By the end of that same year, Mailman's closed after failing to reach a lease deal with North Mall management. This was the last staw for North Mall, which by 1990 was slated for redevelopment into "Manchester Crossroads," a strip mall. It was the first mall in York to be de-malled.

Delco Plaza Mall

The Delco Plaza Mall was a small, discount-oriented mall opened in 1974 in west York, not far from the North Mall. It featured Hills and Grant City (both discount department stores) as anchors as well as a United Artists movie theater in the mall and a Pathmark grocery store in the parking lot. The UA theater was the first 3-screen cinema in York and drove a lot of traffic into the mall. The name of this mall has always confused me because "Delco" is common shorthand for Delaware County, PA, a county which York is very much not located in. The first issue for Delco Plaza was the bankruptcy of W.T. Grant Co., the parent company of Grant City. This resulted in what was then the largest retail bankruptcy liquidation in American history when all of the Grant's stores closed in 1976. Many former Grant Cities, including the one at Delco Plaza, were snatched up by Kmart for new stores.

In 1981, the West Manchester Mall opened, hurting smaller, older malls like Delco Plaza. At some indeterminate time after this, the UA cinema in the mall was downgraded to a cheaper, second-run theater, which had an adverse effect on mall traffic. The Pathmark also closed, and slowly the stores inside the mall began to go under as well. Though the addition of some new tenants like a post office branch and liquor store helped keep the mall open, it was not enough to save it. Hills, struggling in face of competition from Walmart in particular, was bought out by Ames discount department stores in 1999. Ames, in turn, went out of business in 2002. Kmart closed shortly thereafter. The mostly vacant mall faced demolition in 2005.

West Manchester Mall

The West Manchester Mall was developed by Crown American, one of the nation's largest privately-owned real estate developers, in 1981. It was located in west York, nearby the much smaller North Mall and Delco Plaza Mall. It was a modern, single-level mall, about the same size as the York Mall on the other side of town. It featured The Bon-Ton, Hess's department store of Allentown (which at the time was a subsidiary of Crown American itself), and Gee Bee discount store of Johnstown as its anchors. West Manchester had little drama in its early years as it enjoyed dominance in west York while being far enough from the York Mall on the east side of town to maintain a delicate balance. That balance was only really upset in 1989 by the opening of George Zamias' York Galleria. The Galleria was much larger than any other mall in York, and drew a lot of business away from the York Mall in particular.

In 1992, Gee Bee, which had just survived a bankruptcy filing, was bought by rival discount store Value City. Then, in 1993, Hess's department store was circling the drain after recklessly opening too many locations too far from its home base. It closed at West Manchester, and Crown American signed a lease with Walmart to fill the space. Crown also expanded the mall in 1995, adding a new wing leading to a new Hecht's department store of Maryland. A few years later, they renovated the mall again and added a 13 screen Regal Cinemas to occipy vacant store space and keep the West Manchester Mall competitive. But the decision to bring in Walmart turned out to be a long-term curse for the mall itself, as Walmart chose to expand into a supercenter in the early 2000s. Just as it did at the York Mall, the West Manchester Walmart took over what used to be a whole wing of the mall when it expanded. Hecht's became Macy's in 2005, and Value City went out of business in 2008, to be replaced by Kohl's. A big nail in the coffin came when in 2011 The Bon-Ton announced that their store at West Manchester was "not performing as well as it should" and would close at the end of their lease the following January. At this point, Regal was mostly the only thing keeping people coming into the mall. The mall was sold in 2012 to new owners who pledged a nearly $50 million renovation to transform it into the West Manchester Town Center, an open-air retail center. With this closure, the York Galleria became the only surviving mall out of five in York, PA.

[sims-realty]

welcome to desert springs, the newest and most premiere lot in beautiful oasis springs. with its iconic butterfly roof and exquisite landscaping, the exterior of the home immediately catches your eye. enjoy the incredible mature cactus and succulent garden in the front yard that provides a natural barrier between your expansive front porch and pool entertainment area, with vintage pink terracotta tiles salvaged from a local home original to the area prior to its demolition on a lot nearby. a landscaped palm oasis welcomes you to the expansive backyard that separates the main house from the greenhouse. because of its humidity control, the greenhouse makes an excellent home for all of your exotic plants and gardening hobbies while also providing space for an office or art studio.

just inside the custom glass doors and windows, you'll be blown away by the custom built-in cabinet that separates the curated entryway (lit by a a truly unique - confirmed one-of-a-kind - chandelier) from the large living room designed for gatherings. the 360-degree fireplace anchors the living room and provides heat to the entire house on those chilly 55-degree desert evenings. custom accordion glass doors separate the living room and kitchen that also features the salvaged pink terracotta tiles. a handmade dining table gifted to the home's original owner by the artist natsukashii herself comes with the home and is highlighted by the second of the home's bespoke lighting fixtures. one thing this home doesn't lack is natural sunlight. from your kitchen enjoy the most beautiful view of your backyard oasis, filled with lavender bushes, cacti and palm trees.

this home features two bedrooms and one bathroom, recently remodeled. the guest bedroom features a cozy sitting area perfect for the bookworm in your family, without lacking adequate closet space. custom bed and shelving seamlessly flow together, making this bedroom an aesthetic retreat.

when you walk through the door adjacent to the guest bedroom, you'll take in the walk-through closet which opens to an expansive primary bedroom featuring a lounge area, natsukashii custom bed and living shelving. the primary bed looks out onto the back patio and a break in the sleek concrete and wood fence surrounding the property allows for uninterrupted south-facing mountain views. living shelving moves out from the primary bedroom onto the patio as well, ensuring that you're never far from green in this home.

desert springs is open for showings now, but don't delay because this gem won't be on the market for long. make this home your oasis in oasis springs.

cc used:

SYB: Fency, Astrid, Nathalie, Dreamy, Julie, Maya, Natsukashii, Laundry, Millenial, Pauline, Sabine, Manon, Diane, Cecile, Nothing to Wear, Agnes, Brigitte, Sophie, Elodie, Rosalie, Oceane, How About Tea

SIMcredible: Advent Calendar 2022, Vocatio, Agreste, Veranda, Amazonica, Emblema, Naturalis, Green Time, Pomeriggio, ScandiFever, TV Corner, Nuance, Coastal Plants, Bontempo, Bossa Nova, Calligaris, Zara, Keep Life Simple, Morning Tea, Ofuro, Breezy, MinimaliSIM, Clarity, Modernism, Chlorophyll, Mix It

Soloriya: Winnie

MincSims: Tara, Basset

Siomi's: Vault Avalon House II

Simsova: Plants, Plant Stands

Lapanemona: HEX

Comiko: Boho, Book Nook Zodiac

[pretty-princess-jeremy]

Let's transform a 0 point 0 1 square meter space into a functional house. Mannequin Mark lived frugally and worked diligently in a woodworking business for two years managing to save up half a million to buy a house in New York.

However, upon moving in, he was shocked by how small it was, tripping upon walking in but was saved by his childhood eagle. He couldn't even fit his grandma's coffin.

Poor Mark had to tie himself up to the doorframe to get a proper night's rest. He would lay on his eagle's and cry. Eventually, he got sick of it and decided for renovation.

Now, let's explore how we can help Mannequin Mark transform it into a functional home.

First, we'll construct a durable frame using galvanized square steel anchored firmly to the wall with expansion screws borrowed from his aunt filled with grid steel bars and concrete for lasting strength.

We'll also install thermally broken aluminum windows, expanding the living space by 2 square meters.

Next, we'll build a multifunctional sitting platform on the floor with hidden storage underneath for bulky items, saving precious space and providing a seating area for Mark and his husband, Wallter. This platform doubles as a comfortable bed that can fit two people, surrounded by cushion panels in blue and yellow for a better rest.

We'll add a movable table on the bed to serve as both a workspace and dining area, with an outlet switch nearby for charging devices, making it perfect for work and meals.

After use, the table can be stored beside the bed, keeping the space organized. Add a projector and projector screen so he can watch his Korean Dramas.

We'll then construct a bedframe from galvanized square steel, enhancing its appearance with eco-friendly wood veneers.

Incorporate a pre-buried drainage system for convenience. Build a set of wall cabinets with a countertop drilled to embed a sink. Underneath, install a build in washing-machine to keep dirty laundry at bay.

Convert the countertop for dual use by placing an induction cooker for cooking, and install a mirror cabinet above. Next to the mirror, add a cabinet for spices and toiletries. Install a showerhead on the wall and an enlarged stand, allowing even space to ride a horse while showering.

Now his tiny space has everything he needs

"Did tou just send me an entire fucking home decor story or whatever. For MANNEQUIN_MARK.?"

[severefartoholic]

Let's transform a 0 point 0 1 square meter space into a functional house. Sergei lived frugally and worked diligently for two years managing to save up half a million to buy a house in New York. However, upon moving in, he was shocked by how small it was. He couldn't even stretch out his fingers. Now, let's explore how we can help Sergei transform it into a functional home. First, we'll construct a durable frame using galvanized square steel anchored firmly to the wall with expansion screws filled with grid steel bars and concrete for lasting strength. We'll also install thermally broken aluminum windows, expanding the living space by 2 square meters. Next, we'll build a multifunctional sitting platform on the floor with hidden storage underneath for bulky items, saving precious space and providing a seating area for Sergei and his girlfriend. This platform doubles as a comfortable bed that can sleep two, surrounded by cushion panels in lucky colors for a better rest. We'll add a movable table on the bed to serve as both a workspace and dining area, with an outlet switch nearby for charging devices, making it perfect for work and meals. After use, the table can be stored beside the bed, keeping the space organized. We'll then construct a bedframe from galvanized square steel, enhancing its appearance with wood veneers. Incorporate a pre-buried drainage system for convenience. Build a set of wall cabinets with a countertop drilled to embed a sink. Underneath, install a build in washing-machine to keep dirty laundry at bay. Convert the countertop for dual use by placing an induction cooker for cooking, and install a mirror cabinet above. Next to the mirror, add a cabinet for spices and toiletries. Install a showerhead on the wall and an enlarged stand, allowing even space to ride a horse while showering.

we get free pet mice from the city new york. hell yes

[auburniivenus]

I was ten years old when you were born. (modern)

In   this   moment,   as   daybreak   unfurls   its   lustrous   embrace   across   the   cerulean   expanse,   there   exists   a   marina.   Here,   serpentine   paths   of   concrete,   aged   as   gracefully   as   a   vintage   from   an   esteemed   vineyard,   curve   alongside   the   gentle   murmurs   of   the   watercourse—a   portal   to   the   immeasurable,   enigmatic   sea’s   heart.   Piers,   resembling   the   outstretched   limbs   of   veteran   mariners,   plunge   into   the   tender   caresses   of   the   waters,   anchoring   an   assembly   of   vessels   with   nylon   strands   to   age-old   cleats.

Water,   an   eternal   artisan,   molds   the   immense   stones   at   its   border   into   timeless   monuments   to   nature’s   dogged   perseverance.   Guardians   of   wood,   sheathed   in   protective   rubber,   stand   watch   over   the   ceaseless   affections   of   the   waves,   while   barnacles,   the   ocean's   inconspicuous   craftsmen,   adorn   the   pylons   at   the   waterline,   manufacturing   a   narrative   rich   with   maritime   heritage.   Metallic   ladders,   reminiscent   of   liquid   silver   streams,   plunge   into   the   depths,   bordered   by   relics   of   sea   life—containers   concealing   the   ordinary,   hoses   and   spigots   poised   to   quench,   and   receptacles   holding   the   echoes   of   humanity’s   dialogue   with   the   deep.

Amid   this   domain,   tools   of   safety   and   prudence   lay   in   quiet   expectation,   encircled   by   the   implements   of   fishing   ventures,   whispering   of   the   unseen   giants   beneath   the   blue   veil.   The   atmosphere   trembles   with   the   pious   dance   of   individuals   clad   in   beachwear,   who,   in   an   ancient   ceremony   as   perpetual   as   the   sea   itself,   prepare   their   vessels   for   the   voyage   into   the   open   waters   or   nurture   them   with   the   tender   care   of   salt   and   wax.   Sun   forms   a   spectacle   of   light   upon   Adam's   ale,   transforming   the   mediocre   into   a   vision   of   awe-inspiring   aesthetic.

They   wander,   in   pursuit   of   solace.   Eyes   deep   with   the   richness   of   caramel   roam,   moving   in   accordance   with   his   presence—a   symphony   of   coexistence   amidst   the   myriad   expressions   of   dasein.   Couples,   families,   children—each   imbues   the   marina   with   vibrancy,   their   laughter   and   conversations   a   rhythm   of   the   human   condition.   Some   stride   past,   casting   glances   that   linger,   admiring   the   synergistic   bond   between   them.   A   petulant   smile   rests   upon   her   lips   as   she   heeds   his   words,   her   complexion   a   study   in   reflection.   The   sweet   resonance   of   his   voice   shifts   her   attention   from   the   terrain   to   his   gaze. “Does   that   bother   you?”   The   concept   of   age,   so   inconsequential   and   yet   so   pivotal   in   societal   judgment,   had   never   dimmed   her   spirit.   Yet,   she   wondered—perhaps   not   for   her,   but   what   of   him?   In   a   realm   often   swift   to   judge,   might   their   union   be   viewed   as   an   act   of   askance?   “I   don’t   really   care   about   what   others   think.   We   are   doing   nothing   wrong.”

@estarion - modern

[thetrinitarianmystery]

A Wave: On Love and Individuality

This is the oldest poem in my collection—the first I wrote as a freshman in college. It was indeed a “starting point for thought” for me.

It was winter when I wrote it. There was a place I would go to think, a little nook in the rocks on the shoreline in a small town near Boston. I would watch the waves crash and break at my feet for hours on end, until the cold or the tide dictated that I should go home.

At the time I was grieving a close relationship, studying physics and theoretical mathematics at university, and reading such figures in classical Chinese philosophy as the Laozi, Confucius, and Zhuangzi.

Amidst this expansion of my worldview, I needed a place to anchor my thought. I felt that I was swimming in new concepts, and I needed a basic way to hold what I had known and what I was learning. I anchored my understanding in a great and generative paradox.

At once, the wave is entirely and only itself; it is irreducibly individual. Even the concept of a “wave” is an abstraction, a many-to-one mapping of real facts to a neat concept that ignores the “suchness,” or haecceity, of each wave itself—that irreducible individuality that escapes full linguistic or mathematical capture.

At the same time, there is no clear division between a wave and the rest of the ocean. It is part-and-whole simultaneously. One can draw a division, but the border is shifting, permeable, and ultimately arbitrary.

I began to notice that the division between myself and the rest of Reality (and by “Reality” I mean, “that which IS, prior to anything we may say about it”) has a similar character.

Once I have declared my borders (my skin, perhaps) in any given moment, I as a subset of Reality have an irreducible individuality. I may be conceptualized many ways, but I retain my haecceity, my unique “suchness.”

At the same time, I am part-and-whole of all that is, as the wave is to the ocean. Wherever I draw the line between self and Other, there is a blending and an interchange—a dance of sorts. The “Other” is continuous with and in constant interchange with “self.” This is a coordinated process of being and becoming.

What does this mean for us, concretely?

Well for one, this idea is experiential: let it be a starting point for thought, and see what comes of it.

See if you can notice that when you conceive of your self, your ego, you do so in relation to some imagined Other. You mutually conceptualize the agent and the arena, to borrow cognitive scientist and philosopher John Vervaeke’s terminology.

Now realize that that Other is not alien from and discontinuous with your self, but likewise part-and-whole of the same unified Reality.

If you’ll indulge it, notice too that in this very moment I am coming to you as that Other, with a message of great love and good tidings.

Indeed, when I started posting my poetry, I had no followers and no engagement. I was very much casting “a stone at the wave in my conceit.” It seems now that the olivine sea has carried the wave to break on your shore.

Let us marvel at how beautiful the world can be.

[foxxydevil]

Lace & Silken Shadows

So this is a lil something something I'm cooking up because I have mega brain rot. This should be a longer fic, maybe even pretty slow burn-y.

The basic principle is that Alexia, a young destitute female college graduate, gets accepted into the Alchemax bioengineering internship under Dr Miguel O'Hara. She struggles with her abusive home life, making ends meat, and her judgmental pain in the ass lab supervisor who stirs feelings in her she can not even begin to understand and he clearly has a few secret second lives of his own.

Fem!OC/Miguel O'Hara third person dark romance + superhero shenanigans

Word count: 8.6k

Content warnings ⚠️

Past child abuse, sexual trauma, prostitution, discussed current sexual abuse, mild injuries due to abuse, abuse denial, age gap, mentor/student relationship, BDSM

The Boomtown Rats droned a particularly fitting chorus in Alexia’s ear as she took the 9 train, shooting through the dim green pre dawn expanses interrupted by the bright concrete and glass structures of Nueva York.

Tell me why?

I don't like Mondays

Tell me why?

I don't like Mondays

I want to shoot

The whole day down

Grim, she thought and yawned into her hand, a wrist looped through one of the few loops hanging from the ceiling to anchor oneself with. And still, fitting. Nerves coil in her stomach, twisting her guts onto a winch with rhythmic efficiency. It wasn’t hard to feel like she was making the wrong choice, again, as hunger roiled in her stomach and she could almost feel the disgusting rubberized anti-slip flooring of the train through the thinning soles of her shoes.

Accepting the scholarships to go to college had been stupid, even if it had covered some living expenses, but an unpaid post graduate internship?

Alexia's mom's screams of how selfish she was still stung in her ears.

Her heavily pregnant sister-in-law's sneer burned into the backs of her eyes.

Somehow the bruises on her back and the way her shoulder ached as she held onto the wrist strap didn’t seem nearly as bad as the words that had bloomed just as deep on repeat in her mind when her brother had shoved her into the doorframe.

“Selfish little princess.”

“So you're just going to let us all starve for your useless BS?”

“I have done nothing but care for you under this roof since dad died. All you do is take and think you're so much better than us.”

Those memories of screaming and shoving from the last few weeks since she had told them the news about being accepted into the internship program crowded her mind, distracting her from the other morning commuters.

Their own little girl

Sweet 16 ain't so peachy keen

No, it ain't so neat to admit defeat

They can see no reasons

'Cause there are no reasons

What reason do you need?

I can give you at least 3 good reasons, Bob Geldof, she thought as the band launched into the repeating chorus once more and the train drove into a tunnel, transforming the window into a dim mirror.

Fuck, were the bags under her eyes always that obvious? And were the windows smudged or did her bun really have that many drab colored flyaways.

At least she was running a comfortable - more like overly anxious - hour early for the first day of her Alchemax internship. She could probably fix herself up a little nicer in a Starbucks bathroom if they didn't require a purchase. She couldn't afford the dollar menu for breakfast much less a 5$ coffee that would only turn her empty stomach gurgling into agonizing cramps.

And daddy doesn't understand it

He always said she was as good as gold

And he can see no reasons

'Cause there are no reasons

What reason do you need to be shown?

Sorry daddy, it's been a couple of years. You probably wouldn’t recognize me anymore. I had to sell all my gold to keep the house.

It was a bittersweet feeling thinking of her dad today. He may not recognize her, but she hoped he would understand what she had to do, that she had to do it for both of their dreams to come true.

Growing up, before she could even walk on her own, her dad had taken Alexia to work with him, boasting about how she was a junior engineer, and someday, she'll work there too.

And today was that day.

As she stepped off the train, she took a deep breath and tried to calm her nerves. She glances up at the towering building that houses Alchemax and couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement at the prospect of starting her internship finally, after all the work she had done to stand there.

Of course it wasn't the first time she had stood in this very spot. Aside from the interviews for the internship, her father had been one of their top engineers. He'd even run his own lab.

Alexia grinned to herself as she walked across the plaza to the crowded chain coffee shop. A line snaked out of the building despite the early hour but she wasn't there to order. She walked to the front counter.

"Bathroom code?" Alexia asked the already tired looking barista and coiled the kinked white plastic headphone cord around her ancient, barely working, mp3 player before shoving it into her ancient canvas backpack.

He gave her a blank stare before reluctantly rattling off the code. Alexia thanked him and quickly made her way to the bathroom, locking the door behind her. She washed her face with cold water and tried to tidy her hair as best she could. She looked in the mirror and took a deep breath. You can do this, she told herself. You can succeed.

She grimaced at the too small, too off white, button up shirt she wore, the very last button hole secured with a safety pin. One of her brother's friends had popped the plastic button off the other night while tearing at the cheap yellowing fabric with an urgency that still flashed through her mind accompanied with a surge of fear that made her want to heave her empty stomach into the sink.

Her skirt wasn't in much better condition. Despite being black originally it had a gray-ish worn out tinge from being washed a few too many times, having outlived its destined fast fashion lifespan. She knew she should have been wearing sheer tights under it, the expected clean look of a Nueva York business woman, but she hadn't owned an intact pair in years.

Alexia sighed and splashed some more water on her face, as if she could wash away the negative thoughts. She had spent too long letting her circumstances define her, elegant sheer tights or not she was making a new life for herself.

Even being 45 minutes early to her scheduled office hours she decided to head into the intimidatingly dark Alchemax building across the brick courtyard anyways. The front receptionist hadn't even laid out all the badges for new interns on the desk yet, a group of about two dozen hopeful headshots looking up at her from their plastic sleeves growing one by one in neat rows.

Alexia was the only one of the group that had the designation "bioengineering" printed in an all caps cobalt font under her portrait. While Alchemax pursued many scientific fields, none were quite as selective as bioengineering, she had earned high marks in her college courses even with her unusual work schedule to qualify for the prestigious field and stand out among all the other applicants. She grinned as she snagged up the card, a renewed sense of pride warming her chest to push out the fear and anxiety.

“Dr O’Hara already came in a few minutes ago. You can head up to the 15th floor rather than wait. I’m sure he’s not preparing a presentation for you anyways,” the receptionist said, shaking Alexia from her thoughts.

Was that a sympathetic or pained look in her eyes? Oh shit-

“Oh- yeah for sure no point in the full production for just one intern,” Alexia answered with a lopsided grin, trying to sooth her nerves with some humor, give herself more of a chance to see if the receptionist was hinting at a far less dire reason she shouldn't bother waiting.

The look the receptionist gave her was definitely sympathy, that and pity. The look one gave someone who was terminal.

Alexia laughed nervously before turning to make her way to the elevator, not having to wait for the direction to go past the center escalator in the hall and to the row of silver doors hidden behind it. She couldn't help but feel a twinge of pain in her gut again. She could only hope that she would be able to meet the expectations of her mentors and live up to her father's legacy and dreams for her. The elevator doors opened and she stepped in, her heart pounding in her chest.

While most of the other interns would be directed to a variety of conference rooms for their first day and introduction to the company, she was to go directly to the lab. Dr O'Hara, it would seem, did not have a separate office space or need for a larger room.

That sympathetic cringe the receptionist had given her set her mind spinning with worry again. She pictured a stern and intimidating figure, someone who would judge her based on her appearance and pedigree, not on her abilities and work ethic. As she walked down the hallway after a gut lurching short trip up, her footsteps echoed in the silence, the sound of her own breathing deafening as it crowded out every thought with beginnings of an anxiety attack lurking in the recesses of her mind.

A deep voice called out to her from a nearby room. "Hey- are you the new intern?"

Alexia looked over to see a dark haired man standing in the doorway, his suit neatly pressed and tie perfectly knotted. He stared at her, his eyes tired with dark bags that emphasized his already deep set eyes with thick brows hooding his narrowed eyes as if he was already over this interaction, annoyed at the inconvenience of her very existence.

"Yes! Alexia-"

"Uh," she realized her mistake almost immediately as the pause drew out just slightly too long to add her last name naturally, introducing herself by her first name alone. She narrowly avoided her legs tangling under her as she made the sharp stop and turn, walking with a confident proud stride that didn’t exactly match the restricted proper stride of most pencil skirts, the material too worn out to give her the ladylike gait.

Her hand stretched out in an offered handshake. "Alexia Gates."

The man stared at her hand for a moment, his expression unreadable. Then he reached out and gripped her hand firmly, his gaze returning to hers.

"Dr O'Hara," he answered, his voice low and gravelly. "You’re early, that's something. Let's get to the lab."

His voice had a rhythmic quality, a scripted practice that hinted at a cool ego he hadn't expected him to be so- large. She never thought of herself as short. Alexia stood a respectable 5'6, neither tall nor tiny. Dr O'Hara dwarfed her, not only because he was at least a foot taller than her but because he was twice her weight, pure muscle. His face wasn’t unfamiliar of course, she had looked him up in the college library almost as soon as she had received her acceptance letter with her program details, but his presence online had been limited to a short corporate bio along with a portrait that was only a few years older than the portrait that glowered at her from the badge clipped to his chest, clearly not one for social media or media engagement in general.

She nodded, chewing the inside of her cheek. It was a bad habit, one that sometimes led to the iron tang of blood in her mouth but people rarely noticed, not paying much attention to her face in her field of work.

"Right, yes. The lab," Alexia agreed.

As they started to walk her eyes assessed her new mentor, picking up any details she could glean from his movements alone. Dr O'Hara didn’t so much as walk as he prowled, his shoulders were massive and rolled forward. It wasn't quite in the same way that most tall men seemed to have a permanently shrinked hunch to their posture, used to training themselves into a less intimidating posture, but like Atlas balancing the sky on his shoulders.

They reached the lab without another word while Alexia considered if she was supposed to say something, to make a good impression on the man that the receptionist had seemed to regard as her executioner. She thought better of it as Dr O'Hara tapped his badge to the door lock and held the door for her, gesturing for her to take a seat at his desk at the far side of the room.

She walked ahead of him, feeling his strangely red eyes burning into her back.

Not red, she told herself. A weird brown like clay, people don’t have red eyes.

She slid into the chair, crossing her legs instinctively and placing her hands, one on top of the other, on her knees. It was a defensive position, closed off and protective of her core. Her green eyes followed him as he made his way to the mesh desk chair on the other side of the wide cluttered desk, too focused on deciding if he was a threat or not to take a good look at the rest of the lab.

Of course he was a threat in her mind, look at him.

Alexia launched into the empty pleasant words she knew most men with an ego liked. If she wanted to learn and drag herself into a new life, she could stroke some egos and make pleasant sounds at self important men. If she wanted to survive this world instead of rotting away on the streets, she had to stay on her toes. She couldn't afford Starbucks coffee, much less useless pride.

"I appreciate the opportunity to work with you-"

"Save the pleasantries, Ms Gates. We have a lot of work to do." Dr O'Hara cut her off mid-sentence, his tone sharp and biting,

Her eyes narrowed as her mouth slowly closed, forgetting those little niceties. Ok, maybe fuck not having pride.

"It's called manners, Dr O'Hara. Some of us have them," she answered, voice clipped, before she could stop herself. She knew her greatest downfall was her inability to shut up when annoyed. Even still, she didn't apologize or show any outward signs of regretting the words.

She could already tell the man in front of her wasn't used to getting any lip back, it would probably do him some good and humble him a bit if he didn’t fire her immediately.

Miguel, the name she had gleaned from his online bio since he hadn’t given her his first name, leaned forward in his chair, his eyes boring into her, "Ms Gates, let's be clear. I am not interested in your pleasantries or your opinions. I am here to work, and I expect you to get in line in my lab and not interrupt my day. I did not request an intern, nor am I interested in putting on a kids' lab day. You will stay out of my way and entertain yourself, making yourself useful whenever possible."

A shiver ran down her spine at his direct cold statement. His words had an almost rhythmic quality, the only hint at an accent that matched his tiger eye skin. She idly wondered why everything about him seemed hard as stone from his grinding voice, to his garnet eyes that definitely had to be a normal brown in a more natural lighting.

"I am not here to be your simpering lackey. I'm here to learn hands on and earn my credits, the actual point of an internship. I expect to be respected as a graduate intern who is here on merit and not pay, not treated like a clueless brat," she pushed back, unable to help herself even though every instinct in her told her to shut up or he would lash out and do what men do, take what they desire regardless of what she needs.

Miguel's eyes narrowed as he considered her words, "I respect your determination, Ms Gates, but I will not stand for insubordination. Here’s your first lesson, don’t talk that way to the person who will decide whether or not you actually get a job in this company."

"I will be your lab intern, run any tests or data you like," she agreed, but her eyes were still hard, matching the gemstone hardness of his eyes piercing into her, still determined to lay down her boundaries and not be dismissed when she knew she was worth this internship. "- but I am not some secretary or personal assistant. I do not run around for coffee orders or your dry cleaning."

Alexia was stubborn to a fault, her foot tapping in the air to an anxious beat and flashing the worn-out bottoms of her soles, unintentionally drawing attention to her less than fashionable attire. Dr O'Hara studied her for a moment, his face the picture of exhaustion despite the day just beginning.

“Well, you actually will be doing that. That’s what an intern is. Or did you think we just hired some fresh out of school kids for the fun of it?” he scoffed, leaning back in his chair and crossing his arms.

“You take on fresh out of school adults to learn in the field so we can earn a paid position. I wouldn't call an unpaid internship employment, Dr O'Hara,” Alexia countered, holding perfectly still. She would stand her ground and not give him an inch, but she wasn’t relaxed enough to put on a confident swagger.

“Call it whatever you want, chica. I call it ‘being used’. Welcome to the real world,” he answered, his voice dripping with condescension.

“Oh, I am plenty experienced with how the real world likes to use people up,” Alexia scoffed with a roll of her eyes. “I was under the impression that Alchemax cultivates brilliance, not wastes it.”

“They like the idea of cultivating brilliance. But when it comes to actually doing it- well, that’s a completely different ball game.”

“Maybe drop the bitter tone when you are the one refusing to cultivate. You have one intern, not a herd like the other departments, I'm sure there are far more useful things for me to help with than running errands,” Alexia countered, hoping a little reasoning would work on her reluctant mentor.

“You know, you’re exactly like every other intern. You think you’re so special, that you’re gonna change this place, but you’re just the same as all of the others- in over your head and going nowhere,” Dr O’Hara observed with cruelty and his latin accent became a little more noticeable as his annoyance grew, “I bet in a month’s time, your so called ‘brilliance’ won’t be worth a dime and if anyone remembers you at all it’ll just be as the office coffee girl.”

“I won't be changing this place, but my work will change the world. Not because I'm special, but because I am determined and unlike the other pedigree kids, I need this. They can drop out and cry to their parents. I need the paid offer after the internship,” Alexia spat out, vaguely aware that she shouldn’t be showing so much frustration even as she leaned forward in her chair.

“Oh yeah? What are you gonna do, cure Huntington's disease? You think we take pity on kids who need this? You think we’re gonna hire you just because you have ‘need’ on your resume? That’s not how it works, chica.”

“There is a difference between need and want, Dr O'Hara,” Alexia said through clenched teeth. “When an animal wants, it makes big pouty eyes and begs. When an animal needs, it will chew off its own leg. Nothing stands in the way of its need. I need this and that's what sets me apart. I will do anything I need to to learn and rise above.”

“Sounds like you’ve got drive, which is more than most people,” Dr O’Hara admitted, his brows rising slightly. Was he impressed? “Maybe you’ll make something of yourself in this world after all. But if you want my advice? You’d better take that energy you’re putting into selling yourself- and put it into not pissing me off.”

‘Selling yourself’, that hit a little too close to home for Alexia and she just barely held back a wince.

“Show me an ounce of basic respect for a mentee, and I will respect you as a mentor,” she countered, hating the common demand for respect by men worth far less than the clothes on their back.

“Oh, I see. You’re one of those. You want respect? How ‘bout earn it?” he smeared, his full lips turning up into an amused grin that was closer to a snarl.

“Ah, so you mean ‘treat me like a God or I won't treat you like a person’ when you say 'earn respect’?” Alexia leaned back in her chair again with a roll of her eyes, any hope for finding something worthwhile in the man in front of her gone.

“Don’t put words in my mouth,” the older man growled, clearly not enjoying the image she was painting of him. “If you want me to do something for you- like say, teaching you instead of letting you run and fetch- then let me see if you’re actually capable of doing things for me. You think I’m gonna tell my bosses and my colleagues that I should hire you because I feel bad for you? That’s not how things work here. So yeah, earn it.”

“Oh, I am more than ready to earn your recommendation,” Alexia said, standing up and placing her palms flat on his desk. “I am qualified for this internship, I can collect and compile data for you and make base analysis for you to review. I earned this internship by being at the top of my course. ‘Go and fetch’ unfortunately wasn't covered.”

“You know, you’ve got more spunk than any of these other interns I’ve had,” he observed, sounding near defeated or just exhausted. “Fine. Collect some data for me and write me up an analysis, and you can work with me in the field instead of doing coffee runs. You got 48 hours.”

Alexia nodded, a little self satisfied and victorious smile pulling at the corners of her lips. She felt proud for standing up to herself and, from all appearances, gaining an ounce of Dr O'Hara's respect.

Despite herself she felt a growing need for more than him simply relenting to her stubbornness. She felt a desire to make him proud of her as well. She wanted to be more than just an annoying student to him. Alexia wanted him to see her as a peer. As these thoughts swirled in her mind, she barely noticed Dr O'Hara walked around his desk and approached her.

"Now, let's get started on your training, Ms Gates."

She straightened her back as he walked up to her, feeling a tinge of nervousness at his approach. Standing straighter didn't exactly help all that much.

"What would you have me do, Dr O'Hara?" she asked, falling into the comfortable familiarity of referring to him just as she had her professors before graduating college. While she was now 23, it was hard to peg down exactly how old Miguel O'Hara was, though it was safe to say he had at least a decade on her. She couldn't help but feel intimidated by his height and presence, but she did her best not to let it show. Miguel looked at her, his eyes piercing and intense.

"Follow me, Ms Gates. I have something I need to discuss with you." He led her through the lab, his lack of hesitation showing his confidence that she would follow his orders.

Alexia did all but scramble after him, gritting her teeth in annoyance with his tendency to leave her behind and expect her to chase after him already. Within a few steps, she had caught up to him, so that she walked only a step behind him, glaring at the middle of his back, the pure white expanse of his lab coat annoying her.

As they walked through the lab, she could hear the sound of his leather shoes against the tiled floor, the sound echoing through the lab. Suddenly, he stopped and turned to her, his face unreadable.

"Ms Gates, I want you to lift your skirt." He said, his voice calm and collected, as if he hadn’t just made a demand so out of the blue, Alexia swore she heard a phantom record scratch. Maybe it was just the blade of disappointment that sliced through her mind, destroying the small inkling of hope that had warmed her only for a moment.

"What?!"

She had to skid to a stop, stumbling back a few steps. She realized they had gone around a corner, no longer visible from the only entrance in the lab. Her eyes burned with fury, her assumptions of him clear as day. She saw him as just another horny man who thought he could take from her.

But he pointed to a yellowed bruise on the inside of her thigh that was just barely visible under her skirt.

"I want you to show me the bruises on your body," he said, his voice low and commanding. "I need to know if they are a result of consensual... interactions, or if they are something else. As your mentor I have a vested interest in ensuring my employees are in a safe environment."

Alexia's face burned. Not just mortified but ashamed of how quickly he'd noticed, how careless she'd been. She was not about to admit to this intimidating stranger, a man she wanted to respect her, that there were many more and they had absolutely not been her choice. The absolute absurdity of this sudden shift sent her mind spinning.

"I think this is highly inappropriate, Dr O'Hara," she fumed, hoping her anger portrayed her as a woman who was embarrassed, not guilty of his assumptions. "I think what the state of my body is is none of your business."

Miguel eyed her as he considered her words. "Ms Gates, I am your employer, and I expect a certain level of professionalism and trust from you. I will not stand for insubordination or dishonesty." He stepped closer to her, his eyes never leaving hers.

"And I will not be exposing myself at my workplace," she hissed between clenched teeth, her fists balling at her sides and refusing to back down even a single inch.

"You will not touch me, Dr O'Hara," she sneered, assuming his approach was to force her compliance. "You will not touch me, do you understand?"

He cocked his head, his nostrils flaring and it was as if her words were a physical strike that he flinched back from.

"Ms Gates, I understand a situation like this could be misinterpreted, but I do not intend to touch you. I assure you that when you show me these bruises, I will respect your boundaries."

To Alexia's surprise he clearly seemed offended, possibly hurt, at the accusation she had thrown her way.

Her face heated as she looked down, her eyes burning into his chest without actually seeing him.

"That bruise is the only one, a clumsy accident," she tried to explain, blatantly lying through her teeth and hoping he would just back off even if she had to portray herself as a clutz. "I'm fine, really. You don't need to worry about it."

Miguel crossed his arms over his chest, his face pulled into hard lines of barely controlled restraint. "Ms Gates, this is a non-negotiable for my employment. That was the last time you will ever lie to me," he paused, and Alexia could hear the unspoken threat hanging between his words. “Tell me you understand. If you wish to be taught by me, I need you to show me these bruises, otherwise you can leave."

It was unexpected for her, the mere option of refusing his demand. Of course, she would lose her dream if she did not comply, but he wasn't going to force her. He was giving her a choice.

"I understand," she gritted out, feeling so much more like a chastised child than a grown woman being told to expose herself, and somehow, as absurd as it seemed, it helped. It made her feel like he genuinely wasn't just trying to leer at her, but was a protective figure trying to gauge her situation to see if she was safe.

"What are you worried about?" Dr O'Hara asked, his voice kept low but it was impossible to tell if he was trying to be soothing or if he was holding back rage, maybe both.

"You, Dr O'Hara- you worry me."

"Elaborate, Ms Gates," he continued to push at her, making her open her thoughts to him.

“You’re smart and strict like my previous professors, you clearly have the qualifications and experience to be a fantastic mentor in this program, but you have the approach and temperament of a barbaric di-” she suddenly cut herself off, realizing she was letting her own temper get her into more potential trouble.

“Language is permissible in my lab, Ms Gates,” he allowed, apparently not considering her words a sign of disrespect this time. “As long as it’s used constructively.”

She narrows her eyes right back. “I was going to say dickhead, but I’m not sure if that's entirely constructive.”

“Give me an example of my alleged behavior, and I’ll decide.”

"You just hauled me around to a private corner and told me to lift my skirt with no explanation or warning beforehand. Asking about the bruise first would have been the least you could do," she snapped, fidgeting with the stretched hem of her skirt with her fingers.

“This is just an examination, for your own good. Nothing inappropriate," he insisted instead, his sheer mass uncompromising. “I’m waiting.”

She starts lifting the hem of her shirt up to uncover her torso, just below her breasts so he could see the band of her black bra but nothing more. Around her hips, only a few days ago, there were more bruises, clear marks of a painful grip but they had faded, he couldn't see anything.

"See, nothing." She said, her voice strained as she tried to keep it together. "I'm fine."

He lowered himself into a squat, his gaze traveling over Alexia's torso, the low waistband of her skirt, then dropping to the knee-length hem. “Now raise your skirt.”

His bent position puts him eye-level with her pelvis, despite his hulking size, and she was momentarily distracted by the soft curls of his dark brown hair, as if her mind was trying to slip away from this dangerous situation rather than experience it.

Physically, he was in an unusual position for a man in her experience. He was lower than her, his face below her waist. More vulnerable, right? She tried to reason in her own mind. Yet he was still trying to take in a way. Alexia could knee him in the nose and run. But the need or want wasn't quite rising up the way she expected it to.

Alexia bunched her skirt up with both fists, lifting it only three inches above her knees, stubbornly refusing to expose herself any more as she kept her gaze lowered, not meeting his eyes.

"Ms Gates, please. This is not an interrogation. I just need to know if there are any other marks on your body that should not be there."

His voice whispered roughly into the foot of space separating his face and her thighs. His hands were there, too, dangling between them, close enough to grab her between the legs if that was his plan. A slight tremble twitched through his fingers, and her shoulders tightened. She shook her head after hesitating, a clear lie but she couldn't voice it. She'd promised herself she wouldn't show weakness.

"Alexia," Miguel said, his tone becoming more stern, as he took in her discomfort. "Keep lifting your skirt."

Alexia took a deep, shaky breath, forcing herself to look down at him. She tried her best to focus past her humiliation.

She lifted her skirt more, until the worn out blackish gray fabric was just barely concealing the purple cotton of her panties.

“Widen your stance.”

She slid her feet out, wobbling with the effort just to keep breathing.

“Just like that,” he breathed, his voice as low as sin. “Good girl.”

His praise wrapped around her like a warm hug. Alexia couldn't remember the last time someone embraced her without hurting her, but if Dr O'Hara spent the next nine months calling her a good girl, she might never need a hug again. The sensation of fear and comfort was dizzying. Who was this man, and why was she not running?

He dipped his head, angling closer. “I’m looking for marks on your inner thighs.”

There were in fact more bruises, some more obvious in their origin than others. Some teeth and some hands. Others were just angry splotches of sickly color.

Alexia's face stayed carefully blank, not revealing the nature of the marks on her skin as she digested her own whirlwind of emotions.

Miguel's eyes scanned her body, his expression remaining as unreadable as her own.

"Alexia," he said, his voice low and commanding. Was that the first time he said her first name? No, he said it before too. She was again distracted, this time by the sound of her name on his lips. "I'll remind you that I need you to be completely honest with me, at all times."

She took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart, fighting to focus.

"Ok, Dr O'Hara," she answered, her voice stiff, only robotic as she stood in front of him, her thighs completely exposed, staring him down with her steely green eyes. "I understand."

Miguel nodded, his eyes back on hers, the impossible dark red hue seeming to boil with some heat she could not place with confidence.

"I need to know if these bruises are a result of consensual interactions, or if they are something else."

"I wasn't raped," Alexia said firmly, defensively even as if she was insulting her for even insinuating that 'weakness'. Everything in her face said she believed that she was being honest. But the lack of elaboration was concerning. She hadn't said no. She hadn't fought back. She had allowed it to happen. She had allowed it to happen again and again.

Miguel's expression darkened, his eyes never leaving hers. "You don't need to be defensive, Alexia. I just want the truth."

She pulled her skirt back down, preferring the anger that boiled in her stomach to the uncertainty of not understanding his motives and the feelings his words stirred in her.

"None of this is any of your concern, Dr O'Hara," she repeated, emphasizing his name to put distance between them when he had slipped into using her first name. "I can handle my own probleMsms."

Miguel took a step towards her, his eyes still locked on hers. "Alexia, you can't handle this on your own. You need help, and I'm here to give it to you."

"I am here to intern in your lab," she shot back, teeth bared like a snarling wolf. "I would appreciate it if we could refocus this orientation on your work in the lab and not my personal life."

Miguel's eyes narrowed, his words turning cold once more, "Don't try to change the subject, Alexia. I won't allow it." He takes another step towards her, his body tense as if ready to fight.

"You don't have a choice in what is or isn't allowed," she answered, standing firm but crossing her arms under her chest, feeling cornered despite having the option to turn and run. "I am just an intern here, Dr O'Hara. I don't have to submit to your demands."

Miguel's eyes flash with anger, but he quickly regains his composure.

"On the contrary, Ms Gates. This is my lab, and you are my intern. You will submit to questions and my interest in your safety, or you will no longer be my intern."

Alexia bit her lip, her eyes darting around the room as she contemplated her options.

"Fine," she snapped, her eyes meeting his again. He wanted to ask questions? He could ask questions. It wouldn't be her fault if the answers made him uncomfortable.

"I wasn't assaulted. I allowed it to happen. I allowed it to happen again and again," her voice was cold and detached, as if she was recounting a grocery list rather than speaking about something so personal.

"Unfortunately I don't take coworkers or supervisors as clients, so you're out of luck," she sneered, needing the biting edge to sooth her own insecurity, bring her back from the dark pool of dissociation that drew her in with a different kind of comforting embrace.

Miguel's eyes widened slightly, his composure broken for the moment.

"That's not what I asked, Alexia," he said, his voice calm but with a hint of warning. "I asked you to be honest with me, and I expect nothing less."

"I am being honest. Are you fishing for proof? Trying to see how open I'd be to you toying with me?" Her question sounded like a taunt, another jab to get him to back off, but something in her eyes said that was truely what she thought of him.

Miguel shook his head, his expression softening slightly. "No, Alexia. I'm not fishing for proof. I simply want to know what happened so that I can better help you." He stepped closer to her again, his eyes locked on hers.

This time she did step back. His tenderness seemed to scare her more than his harsh words. Anger was easy and predictable, his kindness screamed of tempting manipulation. A facet of masculinity she did not see often and trusted less.

"Fuck off, Dr O'Hara." She spat, turning to leave.

Miguel caught her arm, his grip firm but gentle.

"Alexia, please. Let me help you." He pleaded, his voice low and earnest. "I care about you, and I want to make sure that you are safe."

She huffed, indignant, and turned to leave.

A man she barely knew, caring for her? BS

Miguel held her arm, his grip firm but gentle, stopping her from leaving. "Don't walk away from me, Alexia."

She whipped around to face him, her eyes blazing with anger. His strength was overwhelming, even just his arm on hers wouldn't budge an inch as she tried to yank away. Still, this was much more comfortable.

"Don't enjoy the view?" She sneered. "You should focus on your work, Dr O'Hara. I don't need your protection."

Miguel's grip on her arm tightened, his fingers digging into her skin as he leaned in close, his eyes intense and focused on her.

"Here’s today's lesson," he erased the distance between them leaning into her space. "Don’t question me. Don’t lie to me. And never look away from me." He straightens. "Sit down."

He pulled one of the lab chairs towards them, angling it for Alexia to sit. They were ridiculous demands and yet she found herself sitting.

"If you slip up, I will punish you," he promised, his voice low and dangerous. "I do not accept excuses or sniveling. Any distractions, any problems in your life affect our lab work and I will leave my own welts on your pretty ass." He punctuated his words with an intensity and confidence that shocked her, had he really just said that?

Alexia swallowed hard, feeling a mix of fear and arousal. She hated being bossed around, but she also found herself drawn to the power in Miguel's words.

Her pupils expanded as she looked up at him. Approval shone in his face at whatever he saw in hers. He smiled, a wicked glint in his eyes.

"Good girl," he said again, the two words sparking through her veins. His voice had softened again as he released her. "Now, let's get back to work." He turned as if to go somewhere, but paused to look back over his shoulder. "And make sure you wear a damn damn lab coat."

It was far from the first time she had been referred to as a good girl. Generally the words felt demeaning, more insulting than genuine. The warm tension in her stomach, the tension that shot further down, made her crave those words in a maddening confusing way.

She shook her head, trying to shake off the feeling like a mutt shaking of the rain rain.

"I- I don't have a lab coat," she said, flushing with embarrassment.

"I didn't say you had to have one, you have to wear one," he said, his eyes holding on to her with a raised brow, not quite grasping what the issue was.

She felt the fire in her stomach lessen, but she still felt flushed.

"I don't have one-" she repeated.

"Get one," he interrupted her as if she answer was obvious and she was simply dull.

"Can it wait until the beginning of the month? I don't have the cash right now..." she clenched her jaw, muscles tightening. She'd been hoping to get a new pair of shoes now that she'd be on her feet all day again. Well, not new, just newer. She'd get lucky if she found a lab coat at goodwill with it not being Halloween.

Miguel sighed, his expression softening slightly but annoyance at this petty inconvenience pulled at his face, irking Alexia.

"Alright, I'll cover it for now," he said, pulling out his wallet. "But you have to manage your finances better. We can't have our brightest minds distracted by trivial matters."

Her pride choked her off, but not only her pride. In her life, there was only one reason a man did kind things, and that was to put a woman into debt to him so he could demand from her body.

"So kind of you," she said, sarcastically. "But I don't rely on charity, Dr O'Hara. I will keep your brilliant financial advice in mind."

Miguel narrowed his eyes, his expression hardening again.

"I don't give charity, Alexia. I expect something in return." He stepped forward, his body inches from hers. "And if you don't deliver, we will have a problem."

This time she did lean back, her hackles raised.

"That is exactly what I was worried about. I have no interest in delivering on any of your disgusting demands," she snapped back. It was maybe presumptuous of her to imagine his expected payment as lewd but that was her experience with life, the evidence of that were in the bruises under her clothes that he had seen. She couldn't afford to be naive.

Miguel's expression darkened, his jaw clenching with anger. "You have no idea what you're dealing with, Alexia," he said, his voice low and dangerous.

"I think we both know that I have a very good idea of what I'm dealing with, Miguel," she shot back, matching his tone. If he was going to insist on using her first name then he would get the same, regardless of his preferences. "I will not be put in the position of being indebted to a man who thinks he can take what doesn't belong to him."

Miguel's eyes narrowed, his expression cold. "I will make you an offer, Alexia," he said, his voice low and calculated.

"Enlighten me," she ground out, too curious not to hear his offer though it was clear from the tension in her shoulders that she already planned to reject it.

Miguel took a deep breath, his expression softening slightly. "I will give you a clean slate," he said. "No more debts, no more bruises. I will help you rise above your circumstances and become the successful woman I know you can be." He paused, his eyes holding hers.

"I will be doing that regardless of your help," she answered stubbornly. It was a tempting offer, as Alchemax's top bioengineer Alexia had no doubt he was living comfortably. "What would you require for your generous offer?"

Miguel smiled, his expression confident. "Simple," he said. "A little obedience, a little respect. I will train you to become the best version of yourself." He stepped closer, his body inches from hers.

"Bullshit," she answered, standing her ground and squaring her shoulders. "You would require that regardless. Why would you give me a 'clean slate' for something that's already expected?"

Miguel shook his head, his eyes holding hers. "Because I know your potential, Alexia. I see it in your eyes when you talk about your work. And I want to help you realize that potential," he said, his voice earnest. "And I won't take anything that doesn't belong to me."

Alexia's sharp green eyes considered him for a moment. She still deeply distrusted him, had no reason to trust any man, but the offer was so tempting. She knew she was worth it, that she had things to offer this lab and the world as a whole that only she would be able to accomplish. She had no doubts about her abilities, only the chances of her surviving long enough to realize her potential.

"And what exactly does a clean slate entail?" she asked, the hesitation in her voice already giving away that she would cave and agree. She still believed Dr O'Hara would take advantage of her body, but what difference would it make if it was him or some guy off the street? She needed a chance to prove herself, and this seemed to be her best option.

Miguel smiled, his expression smug as he saw her stubbornness start to give.

"It means a new beginning, Alexia," he said, his tone condescending. "A chance to start over and achieve your goals. It means becoming the best you can be, free from any distractions." He stepped closer, his body inches from hers.

"I know what you're trying to sell," she retorted, annoyed. He sounded like a car salesman, raving about the features of the car when you asked for the price.

At least that's what she imagined a car salesman would do, she had never bought a car before.

"What are you giving? Clean slate? I'm not going to magically be able to pay my bills and be 'distraction free' just because you said so with an unpaid internship. If I had better options for a job I would have taken them."

He stepped even closer, his face only inches from hers. "You will work for me three nights a week, in exchange for room and board," he said.

"You want me to abandon my family to the streets so I can be an in-house prostitute?" She sneered, his assumptions about this 'work' he was offering clear.

Miguel's expression darkened. "Do not insult me, Alexia," he growled, his voice low and dangerous. "I have offered you a chance to change your life for the better. And you will not turn it down."

"I do not need your help. All I am here for is this internship under you. I will sort the rest out myself," she decided, stubbornly.

Refusing his offer was hard but she was far too proud to give in to the one person who's respect she wanted. All she could see now was that he was just like every other man, ignoring her true potential for a chance at her body.

Miguel shook his head, his expression twisting with disappointment.

"I warned you, Alexia," he said, his voice cold. "If you don't accept my offer, you will be nothing more than a used up, forgotten whore for the rest of your life."

Alexia's shoulders rolled back, stretching to her full height that was nothing compared to his. Despite her confidence and strength of will she was still small. She knew she should back down, but couldn't.

"That's where you're wrong, Dr O'Hara. My name will go down in history. I will far surpass any measly legacy you leave behind with your step stone findings or as my mentor," she answered, her eyes alight with that passion, a confident promise her father had whispered in her ear before he died. "My name will be in every textbook for the next 150 years."

Miguel's eyes narrowed, his expression a mix of annoyance and admiration.

"You are one stubborn woman," he said, his voice a mere mutter of frustration at her words. "But I admire your determination. I will give you one more chance to reconsider my offer."

"I am not interested in being your free use slut in exchange for a place to live. I don't need you to take care of me. I can take care of myself."

Miguel's e eyes filled with a dangerous intensity. "What is giving you the idea that I want you to prostitute yourself to me? Is that how you make money now?" he asked, his voice a low growl. He had assumed that she had an abusive boyfriend or something similar. Her immediate assumption of sex in exchange for his help opened up other possibilities.

"What I do outside of this lab is none of your concern," she repeated her earlier words, but there was uncertainty in her eyes. He didn't just deny her allegations, he was disgusted. If that wasn't his intent then what was? Was he really different? "I will not be in debt to you."

Miguel shook his head, his expression unreadable. "You are far too proud for your own good, Alexia," he said. "But you will learn humility under my care. You will learn to respect those who help you, and be grateful for what they give you." He took a step closer, his voice dropping to a whisper. "And you will earn my respect."

"And I can do all that the normal way, without you demanding to see my skin or forcing me to live where you want me to live," she stood her ground.

"You don't truly understand what I'm offering you, Alexia."

This time, Alexia finally took a step towards him, refusing to let him intimidate her.

"Then explain," she demanded, eyes cold. "Stop being vague and threatening and explain exactly what you're offering me and what you expect me to give as payment for your generosity."

Miguel took a deep breath, his expression softening slightly. "I'm not asking for anything in return, Alexia," he said, his voice calm and reasonable. "I simply want to help you get to where you want to be in life. And I can offer you the resources to do so." He gestured towards the lab around them.

Alexia looked around, her eyes gave away her thoughts. She wanted to believe him, she wanted his words to be true and to finally have a little help in the world.

"I can't trust that," she said, her voice surprisingly soft, even in her own ears. It felt like a confession more than a rejection. "Nothing is free."

"Go home, Ms Gates," Dr O’Hara ordered, but there was none of the expected rejection in his own voice.

Alexia looked up at him, her eyes wide not in confusion but fear that he was firing her, judging her not worth his time. Why did this man have to be the only one alive who's approval she sought?

"Think about what I'm offering, get yourself a lab coat, and come back tomorrow morning," her mentor listed another few orders, his voice and the sheer exhaustion in his shoulders hinting at some line of thought that Alexia couldn't begin to guess at. "8:30 am, sharp."

[105nt]

Strike Walk #2

Borstal Hill to Marine Parade

The Ink Black Heart chapters 76 and 77

This is part 3, link to part 2 down below.

A pebble beach lay on the other side of the car park's stone wall, and the Swansea-raised 105nt experienced that slight lift of the spirits the smell of the sea and the sound of lapping waves gives anyone not completely soulless. 😁

The skinny on the boat-building industry in Whitstable, for those who seek knowledge, but somehow this legend fails to mention why it's called Keam's Yard and not Holloway's Yard, which seems a bit of an oversight. I've Googled and I am still in the dark. Please comment if you know.

Island Wall, which lay around the corner from the car park, was a narrow street that sloped downwards. The terrace of painted houses on the right hand side would have an unimpeded rear view of the sea.

Aquarelle Cottage, which lay several houses down, was painted eau-de-nil, and the stained glass fan window over the door depicted a galleon in full sale ... Strike lifted the anchor-shapedknocker and rapped twice.

There's no Aquarelle Cottage in real life, and no match for these features in the other cottages, thank heavens or there'd be Strike fans on ladders peering through the fan window. I checked the back gardens and several have raised decking next to the sea wall, but I didn't see one that was wheelchair accessible.

[I later found out some history about the building of the cottages - link below.]

After giving Inigo a hard time Strike and Robin return to the car park, and decide to stay in Whitstable overnight.

Strike climbs the short flight of concrete steps that led up out of the car park, pausing at the top looking at the wide expanse of sea beyond the pebble beach - the better to ignore a text and voicemail from Madeline in peace - while Robin digests some bad news about The Halvening.

Strike secures the last two rooms at The Marine Hotel, and after some shopping for basics and a sandwich in a local cafe (I like to think it was this one, as they do a fish finger sandwich - food of the gods) they drive off.

I am walking though, and get to wander around Whitstable Harbour, which is beautiful.

Self-portrait with oysters:

Part 4

Part 2

The "Dollar Row" information from Whitstable Museum:

[fixdex-fastening-technology]

FIXDEX product 👉 M16x140 eta wedge anchor

[libertylandscapesnj]

Designing Serene Outdoor Escapes with Custom Waterfalls

Transforming an ordinary garden into a peaceful retreat begins with thoughtful design and custom waterfalls, which are key elements in crafting serene outdoor spaces. These features not only enhance visual appeal but also introduce the calming sound of flowing water, creating a tranquil environment for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Here are the key factors you may consider:

Enhancing Outdoor Spaces with Waterfalls

Custom waterfalls can redefine the character of any outdoor area. Whether it’s a small garden or an expansive yard, the gentle flow of water brings movement, sound, and a sense of harmony. With flexible design options, waterfalls can complement various landscapes, from modern minimalism to lush, naturalistic settings.

For residents seeking a garden waterfall feature in Monroe Township, the addition of a cascading design tailored to the area can enrich outdoor spaces and serve as a focal point. Beyond aesthetics, waterfalls promote relaxation by masking ambient noise, making them ideal for both urban and suburban locations.

Key Benefits of Custom Waterfall Features

Enhancing Garden Aesthetics; Custom waterfalls are more than decorative additions—they bring structure and dimension to gardens. By integrating natural stones, creative shapes, and varied heights, these features add depth and elegance, becoming an anchor point for surrounding plants and pathways.

Boosting Relaxation and Well-being: The sound of flowing water creates a meditative atmosphere, helping individuals unwind and disconnect from daily stress. These features are perfect for creating quiet nooks within gardens, making them excellent for mindfulness practices or reading corners.

Supporting Ecosystems: Waterfalls attract birds, butterflies, and other wildlife, enhancing the biodiversity of your garden. The continuous flow of water keeps it fresh, creating a sustainable environment that complements the natural surroundings.

Increasing Property Value: A well-designed garden with a custom waterfall can enhance property appeal, making it a valuable investment. The unique character of these features often catches the eye of potential buyers, offering an edge in the real estate market.

Choosing the Right Design for Your Garden

Selecting the right waterfall design depends on the garden’s layout and the desired ambiance. Here are some factors to consider:

Size and Space: Evaluate the available area to determine whether a large cascading waterfall or a compact bubbling design is suitable. Even small gardens can accommodate elegant features with a creative approach.

Materials and Style: Natural stones, concrete, or tile finishes can set the tone for the waterfall, blending seamlessly with the overall landscape design.

Lighting Features: Adding underwater or perimeter lighting enhances the waterfall’s charm, especially during evening hours.

Water Flow and Noise Level: Customizable flow rates ensure that the sound level of the waterfall suits the space, whether aiming for a gentle trickle or a more dynamic cascade.

Incorporating Fire Safety Training into Outdoor Designs

For those exploring garden waterfall features in Monroe Township, fire safety training ensures that installations are environmentally responsible and safe. The integration of fire-safe materials and adherence to safety protocols during construction reduces risks while maintaining the beauty of your garden.

This emphasis on safety extends to electrical components, like pumps and lighting, ensuring their safe operation near water features. Proper planning prevents hazards, combining aesthetics with functionality for a worry-free experience.

Custom Waterfalls as Centerpieces

When strategically placed, waterfalls can serve as the centerpiece of an outdoor retreat. Surrounding them with complementary elements, like stone seating areas or curated plant beds, enhances their impact. Paths leading to the feature invite exploration, while careful lighting highlights its details, ensuring it remains a focal point even after sunset.

Sustainable Water Features

Modern custom waterfalls can incorporate sustainable practices by using recirculating pumps, which minimize water waste. These systems keep the water moving, maintaining a clean and healthy feature with reduced environmental impact. Sustainable materials and designs also contribute to eco-friendly outdoor spaces, aligning with contemporary landscaping trends.

Transforming Gardens into Peaceful Retreats

Custom waterfalls are not just aesthetic enhancements; they create immersive outdoor experiences. Whether paired with additional landscaping elements or standing alone, these features enhance gardens into tranquil escapes. Their versatility ensures that each installation reflects personal taste and adapts to the unique characteristics of the space.

Conclusion

Designing serene outdoor escapes with custom waterfalls is an art that combines functionality, beauty, and a connection to nature. Thoughtful planning and attention to details like materials, size, and safety protocols ensure these features transform ordinary gardens into extraordinary retreats.

[buildingmaterials580]

The World of Fixing Accessories: What Are They? & Why Important?

Fixing accessories are some of the most important parts utilised in holding and connecting different materials in construction, DIY projects, and furniture assembly. These small but vital elements play a significant role in ensuring that the structure is fully intact, safe, and functional for various applications. Ever wonder how your bookshelf stays securely on the wall? The answer can be found in the right fixing accessories that hold everything together.

II. Types of Fixing Accessories

Screws

Screws are general-purpose fasteners that come in a variety of types, each with a specific application. Common types include:

Wood Screws: They are made to grip wood fibres, and thus they have coarse threads.

Drywall Screws: They are specifically made for attaching drywall to wood or metal studs.

Self-Tapping Screws: They make their own threads in materials like plastic or sheet metal.

Screw head styles vary, such as Phillips, slotted, and Torx and materials vary from steel to stainless steel and brass, each offering different levels of strength and corrosion resistance.

Anchors

Anchors are important when fastening items to materials that cannot support regular screws alone, such as concrete or drywall. Types of anchors include:

Expansion Anchors: These include wedge anchors and sleeve anchors that expand within the material for a secure hold.

Toggle Bolts: Great for hollow walls because the load spreads over a wider area

Chemical Anchors: Anchors that get fixed to the substrate by means of a resin, therefore provide high-strength

Wall Plugs: Simple plastic plugs that will take a screw grip in softer materials

Fasteners

Fasteners make up a bigger category, including

Bolts: with nuts, create secure joints. Types: carriage bolt, eye bolt.

Nuts and Washers: Necessary for transmitting loads and avoiding loosening.

Rivets: Permanent-type fasteners are used in manufacturing and construction.

Clips and Clamps: These are useful for temporarily joining materials together when assembling.

III. Selecting the Right Fixing Accessory

Selecting the correct fixing accessory depends on various considerations:

Material Considerations

Determine what type of materials you are connecting (wood, metal, concrete) since this will determine the use of screws or anchors.

Load-Bearing Capacity

Consider how much weight the fixing accessory needs to hold. For heavier items, use stronger anchors or bolts designed for high load-bearing applications.

Application

Determine the purpose of the fixing accessory, whether it is to hang pictures, secure furniture, or provide structural support, as this will guide your selection.

Aesthetics

If the fixing accessory will be visible, choose options that blend well with your décor or can be painted over to match.

IV. Fixing Accessories in Action

Fixing accessories is integral to various projects:

DIY Projects

From hanging shelves and pictures to assembling furniture and tackling home improvement tasks, the right fixing accessories ensure everything stays in place securely.

Construction Applications

In construction, fixing accessories is vital for framing and sheathing structures, securing HVAC systems, and installing electrical and plumbing fixtures. They contribute significantly to building safety and longevity.

V. Safety Considerations

Always employ safety when working with accessories to fix:

Use correct tooling for accidental prevention.

Wear glasses safely to prevent debris from striking your eyes.

Do not overtighten screws and bolts since this may create tears in the material.

Select only the right type of accessories for your application.

What interesting fixing accessory projects have you tackled lately?

Choosing the right fixing accessories for any project, whether a simple DIY or a complex construction job, is crucial. Knowing what types are available and their specific applications will ensure you get secure and reliable results. Next time you tackle a project, think about what fixing accessories you might need to succeed.

[woodflooringuk]

Choosing the Right Flooring for Open-Plan Spaces

Selecting the right flooring for open-plan spaces is key to creating a cohesive and functional design. The flooring choice both impacts the overall look of the area and plays a vital role in defining zones, improving acoustics, and ensuring durability in high-traffic areas. Here’s how to make the best choice for your open-plan layout.

1. Prioritize Durability

Open-plan spaces usually have high foot traffic as they combine multiple functions, including living, dining, and kitchen areas. Choose flooring materials that can withstand wear and tear:

Engineered Wood Flooring: Offers the warmth of natural wood with better durability and moisture resistance.

Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT): A robust option that resists scratches and spills while mimicking the look of wood or stone.

Laminate Flooring: Cost-effective and scratch-resistant, suitable for busy households.

2. Aim for Visual Continuity

A consistent flooring style throughout the space creates a seamless, open feel. Wide-plank hardwood or uniform LVT flooring in neutral tones like light oak or grey can achieve this modern and spacious look.

3. Define Zones with Flooring Transitions

While continuity is important, defining functional areas within an open-plan layout is important. Consider:

Herringbone or Chevron Patterns: Use distinctive patterns in specific zones to create visual interest.

Area Rugs: Complement the flooring with rugs to anchor furniture and subtly separate spaces.

Mixed Materials: Combine wood with tiles (e.g., in the kitchen) to differentiate between living and cooking areas while maintaining harmony.

4. Choose Flooring for Acoustic Comfort

Open-plan layouts can increase noise levels. Choose materials and underlays that help reduce sound transmission.

Cork Underlayment: Reduces impact noise under hardwood, laminate, or LVT.

Carpet Accents: Incorporate rugs or carpet tiles in specific areas to absorb sound.

5. Opt for Easy Maintenance

With multiple activities taking place in one area, the flooring should be easy to clean and maintain. Water-resistant options like LVT or waterproof laminate are excellent choices for spaces combining living and dining with a kitchen.

6. Consider Colour and Lighting

Flooring tones can affect how open or cozy the space feels:

Light Floors: Reflect natural light, making the room feel brighter and more expansive.

Dark Floors: Add depth and contrast, especially when paired with lighter walls and furniture.

Top Flooring Options for Open-Plan Spaces

Flooring Type

Pros

Best For

Engineered Wood

Natural look, durable, moisture-resistant

Living & dining areas

Luxury Vinyl Tile

Waterproof, versatile, easy to maintain

Kitchen and high-traffic zones

Laminate

Affordable, scratch-resistant

Family-friendly spaces

Porcelain Tiles

Durable, easy to clean, moisture-proof

Kitchen zones

Polished Concrete

Sleek, modern, low-maintenance

Industrial or minimalist styles

Choosing flooring for open-plan spaces is a balancing act between aesthetics, durability, and functionality. Opt for materials that complement the overall design, provide comfort, and meet the demands of a busy household. By prioritizing cohesive transitions and durable finishes, you can create a stunning and practical foundation for your open-plan living.

[aceallyracking]

Why are pallet racking anchors critical to the entire structure?

Pallet racking anchors are mechanical fasteners used to attach a racking system to a building. Their purpose is to hold the pallet racking in place and resist continuous counter forces such as: earthquakes, wind and tipping forces caused by narrow/high racking, accidental impact forces at the bottom of the columns (i.e. from forklifts) and shear forces (horizontal reaction forces) ) reducing the restraining capacity of the racking.

If the anchors are unable to withstand these attack forces, the consequences can lead to significant bending forces on the columns, affecting the overall stability of the system and, in the worst case scenario, leading to collapse. To avoid this, it is critical to select the correct type of anchor for the different conditions and types of racks in the facility.

What common types of pallet rack anchors can be found in warehouses?

Wedge anchors are a popular type of anchor made of carbon steel, hot-dip galvanized, stainless steel or galvanized steel. These fasteners are primarily used for solid concrete and cannot be removed if you decide to rearrange your pallet racking, as doing so would damage your floor. Concrete impact anchors are anchors in the form of impact expansion and are also used in solid concrete; given their mechanical properties, they should not be installed in any other type of masonry material.

Screw anchors are a less common type of fastener found in warehouses. They are used for temporary or permanent anchoring, since they can be removed and can be installed in concrete and masonry.

Finally, we have sleeve anchors that are perfect for light to medium anchoring in concrete and masonry. Whichever type of anchor you choose, you will find a variety of diameters, lengths and thread lengths.

What size pallet rack anchor is appropriate?

A rule of thumb is that the wider the diameter and the deeper the embedment, the stronger the anchor will be. Therefore, it is important to check local building codes or have an engineer determine the bolt size given that several factors need to be considered: the size of the hole in the base plate of the column, seismic activity, and the area where the anchor is to be used. In addition, the thickness of the floor material, the mechanical properties of the floor material and the flatness of the floor should also be considered in case shims are needed.

How many anchors should a post base carry?

The ANSI/RMI standard states that all rack columns should be anchored using at least one anchor per column. Depending on the type of anchor, two anchors may be installed to prevent the column from rotating upon impact. In the event that the user is unable to properly secure the rack, it is recommended to work with the rack manufacturer’s engineers to verify alternative methods of securing the system while ensuring the structure is safe for use.

Should I tighten a loose anchor?

Bolts and anchors must be properly tightened to the minimum recommended torque specified by the manufacturer. 3/8'’ anchors are typically 40 foot pounds. Under-tightening will cause the anchors to fail.

Why are pallet racking anchors critical to the entire structure?

[little-p-eng-engineering]

Little P.Eng. Engineering: Comprehensive Engineering Services Across Canada and the USA

Little P.Eng. Engineering stands as a premier provider of engineering services, delivering specialized expertise in Piping Stress Engineering, Seismic Bracing, Silo Design, Tank Design, Belt Conveyor Design, Pressure Vessel Design, and CRN Registration. Our engineering solutions adhere to the stringent regulations and codes across Canada and the USA, ensuring safety, efficiency, and compliance for a wide range of industries. Whether you are involved in oil and gas, petrochemicals, food processing, or other sectors, Little P.Eng. Engineering is your trusted partner in delivering innovative, code-compliant designs.

Piping Stress Engineering

In industrial piping systems, ensuring the integrity of pipes under various operating conditions is critical. At Little P.Eng. Engineering, our team of piping stress engineers excels at analyzing the structural behavior of piping systems under different loads, such as thermal expansion, vibration, and seismic events. We employ industry-standard software and adhere to internationally recognized codes such as ASME B31.1, B31.3, and other regional standards to provide detailed stress analysis reports and recommendations for piping support, expansion joints, and anchor placement. Our focus is on reducing the risk of fatigue failure, pipe leaks, or bursts that can lead to costly operational downtime.

Seismic Bracing Engineering

In seismic zones, the safety of mechanical and structural systems depends on proper bracing and design against seismic activity. Little P.Eng. Engineering offers specialized seismic bracing services, ensuring your equipment and piping systems comply with seismic codes such as the International Building Code (IBC) and local standards like the National Building Code of Canada (NBC). We design customized solutions to protect your infrastructure from earthquake-induced damage, minimizing risks to both personnel and equipment. Our seismic bracing engineers conduct thorough site assessments, perform dynamic analysis, and provide detailed recommendations for bracing and supports.

Silo Design

Silos play a critical role in industries that require bulk material storage, such as agriculture, food processing, and chemical manufacturing. Little P.Eng. Engineering provides complete silo design services, from conceptual design to detailed engineering. We ensure that the structural integrity of silos complies with the relevant standards, including ACI 313 (for concrete silos) and ASME standards for pressure and temperature conditions. Our expertise in load calculations, material selection, and structural analysis ensures that your silo will safely and efficiently store bulk materials while withstanding internal and external pressures.

Tank Design

Little P.Eng. Engineering offers expert tank design services for industries ranging from petrochemical to food processing. Our designs conform to codes such as API 650 for welded steel storage tanks, API 620 for low-pressure storage tanks, and ASME Section VIII for pressure vessels. We provide comprehensive design services that include material selection, structural analysis, and foundation design to ensure the longevity and safety of your storage systems. Our expertise extends to tanks of all sizes and configurations, including horizontal, vertical, and underground tanks.

Belt Conveyor Design

Efficient material handling is the backbone of many industrial processes. Our engineers specialize in the design of belt conveyors to optimize material transport across manufacturing plants and industrial sites. Whether you're moving bulk materials or individual products, our team adheres to design standards such as CEMA (Conveyor Equipment Manufacturers Association) and OSHA requirements for conveyor safety. We focus on designing systems that maximize productivity while ensuring the safety and durability of your conveyors. From layout optimization to motor selection and load analysis, Little P.Eng. Engineering covers every aspect of belt conveyor design.

Pressure Vessel Design

Pressure vessels are vital components in industries such as chemical processing, oil and gas, and power generation. At Little P.Eng. Engineering, we offer pressure vessel design services that meet the highest industry standards, including ASME Section VIII Division 1 and 2. Our engineers perform detailed analyses to ensure that your pressure vessels can withstand internal pressures, extreme temperatures, and other operational stresses. We also offer customized solutions for specific requirements, such as cryogenic or high-temperature vessels, ensuring your equipment complies with all applicable safety and performance codes.

CRN Registration (Canadian Registration Number)

For equipment used under pressure in Canada, CRN registration is mandatory. Little P.Eng. Engineering simplifies the process of obtaining a Canadian Registration Number by ensuring your equipment complies with provincial and territorial regulations. Our CRN registration services cover a wide range of equipment, including pressure vessels, piping systems, and fittings. We handle the entire registration process, from preparing the necessary documentation to submitting your application and liaising with the relevant regulatory bodies. Our deep understanding of Canadian codes and standards ensures a smooth, efficient registration process.

Compliance with Applicable Codes Across Canada and the USA

At Little P.Eng. Engineering, we pride ourselves on providing engineering services that adhere to the most stringent standards and codes across Canada and the USA. These include:

ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) Codes: For pressure vessel and piping design.

API (American Petroleum Institute) Standards: For tank and piping systems.

ACI (American Concrete Institute) Standards: For silo and concrete structures.

IBC (International Building Code) & NBC (National Building Code of Canada): For seismic bracing and structural design.

CEMA (Conveyor Equipment Manufacturers Association) Standards: For belt conveyor design.

Our engineers stay current with the latest revisions and updates to these codes, ensuring that your projects remain fully compliant with both national and international regulations. Whether you're operating in the US or Canada, we tailor our services to meet your specific needs and regional requirements.

Why Choose Little P.Eng. Engineering?

Expertise Across Multiple Disciplines: Our engineers are highly skilled across various domains, ensuring that all aspects of your project are handled by specialists.

Tailored Solutions: We customize our designs and services to meet your specific operational needs, industry requirements, and regional codes.

Commitment to Safety: All our services prioritize safety and compliance, helping you avoid costly mistakes and regulatory penalties.

Efficient Project Delivery: With a streamlined process and a commitment to excellence, we ensure timely delivery of all engineering services.

Partner with Little P.Eng. Engineering to benefit from our vast expertise and dedication to excellence across Canada and the USA. Whether you're in need of a piping stress engineer or pressure vessel design services, we have the knowledge and experience to make your project a success.Little P.Eng. Engineering: Comprehensive Engineering Services Across Canada and the USA

For more information on our services or to discuss your specific project needs, contact Little P.Eng. Engineering today. Let us help you navigate the complex engineering landscape with confidence and precision.

Tags:

Piping Stress Engineer

ASME B31.3

Seismic Bracing Engineer

Piping Stress Analysis

Structural Engineering

ASME B31.1

API 650

Pressure Vessel Design

Tank Design

ASME Section VIII

API 620

International Building Code

Seismic Bracing Services

CRN Registration

Silo Design

Bulk Material Storage Design

CRN Number Canada

ACI 313 Silos

Canadian Engineering Services

Pressure Vessel Registration Canada

Oil and Gas Engineering

US Engineering Codes

API Tank Design

Conveyor Equipment Design

Belt Conveyor Design

Petrochemical Engineering

ASME Pressure Vessels

Silo Structural Design

Industrial Conveyor Design

National Building Code Canada

Engineering Services

Located in Calgary, Alberta; Vancouver, BC; Toronto, Ontario; Edmonton, Alberta; Montréal, Quebec; Houston Texas; Torrance, California; El Segundo, CA; Concord, CA; We offer our engineering consultancy services across Canada and United States. Meena Rezkallah.

[jimitjain]

The Essential Guide to Fasteners: Types, Applications, and Importance

Ananka Group is among the greatest Fasteners Manufacturer in India. We provide the best fasteners possible to a number of industries worldwide. There is a vast array of forms, sizes, and dimensions available for fasteners. We are also a leading custom fastener manufacturer in India. Fasteners are small but indispensable components in countless industries. From holding together intricate machinery to enabling the construction of skyscrapers, fasteners form the backbone of many structures and devices. 

What Are Fasteners?

Fasteners are hardware devices designed to mechanically join or affix two or more objects together. Unlike welding or adhesives, fasteners are often removable, making them highly flexible for applications where disassembly or adjustment is required. They come in a variety of materials, including steel, aluminum, plastic, and titanium, catering to specific needs based on strength, corrosion resistance, or weight.

Types of Fasteners

There is a vast array of fasteners, each suited for different purposes. Here are some of the most common types:

1. Bolts and Screws

Bolts and screws are threaded fasteners, with bolts usually requiring a nut for tightening, while screws are typically self-threading into a material. They are widely used in construction, automotive, and machinery applications.

2. Nuts

Nuts are paired with bolts to secure objects. They come in various shapes and sizes, such as hex nuts, wing nuts, and lock nuts, each serving unique purposes.

3. Washers

Washers are thin plates with a hole in the center, placed between the nut and the material to distribute load and prevent damage. They can also help reduce vibration and leakage.

4. Rivets

Rivets are permanent fasteners that are deformed after installation to hold materials together. They’re commonly used in the aerospace and automotive industries for their strength and reliability.

5. Anchors

Anchors are used to affix objects to materials like concrete or drywall. Types include expansion anchors, toggle bolts, and sleeve anchors.

6. Clips and Pins

Clips and pins, such as cotter pins or spring clips, are non-threaded fasteners used for quick assembly and disassembly in machinery and equipment.

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Applications of Fasteners

Fasteners are used in almost every industry. Here are a few notable applications:

Construction: Fasteners like bolts, screws, and nails are essential in building bridges, houses, and skyscrapers.

Automotive: Cars rely on a range of fasteners to assemble their chassis, engine, and interior components.

Aerospace: High-performance fasteners made from titanium or aluminum alloys ensure safety and reliability in airplanes and spacecraft.

Electronics: Tiny screws and clips hold together delicate components in phones, laptops, and other gadgets.

Furniture: Fasteners such as screws and dowels allow for the assembly of flat-pack furniture.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Fasteners

Selecting the right fastener requires attention to several factors:

Material: Ensure the fastener material is compatible with the application’s environmental conditions, such as exposure to moisture or chemicals.

Load-Bearing Capacity: Consider the strength requirements to avoid fastener failure under stress.

Type of Joint: Determine whether the connection needs to be permanent or removable.

Corrosion Resistance: Opt for corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel for outdoor or high-humidity environments.

Size and Shape: Use appropriately sized fasteners to prevent overloading or under-tightening.

Why Fasteners Are Crucial

Fasteners contribute to the safety, efficiency, and functionality of various structures and products. Properly selected and installed fasteners ensure:

Structural Integrity: They keep components securely joined, preventing failures that could lead to accidents.

Ease of Maintenance: Removable fasteners allow for repairs and adjustments.

Cost-Effectiveness: They are generally more economical than other joining methods like welding.

Versatility: The wide range of fasteners available means there is a solution for virtually every application.

Fastener Manufacturer In India

They can also be altered to satisfy specific client requests. Numerous sectors, including engineering, construction, aerospace, automotive, and more, employ our fasteners. As a top Fasteners Manufacturer, we offer India's top ss fasteners to our clients. Our products are renowned for their exceptional quality, durability, and dependability.