#Driveway Dublin

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Gravel Driveway Dublin: Top Tips for Installation and Maintenance

Streetscapes in Dublin are witnessing a surge in a particular driveway trend: gravel. It’s not merely the rustic charm captivating homeowners but a winning combination of practicality and aesthetics that gravel driveway Dublin installations offer. Whether you live in a classic Georgian townhouse or a modern development, gravel driveways can complement various architectural styles.

Compared to other paving options, gravel reigns supreme in cost-effectiveness, low maintenance requirements, and exceptional water drainage. This makes it a practical choice for both urban and rural settings. However, the advantages extend beyond the initial installation. Homeowners appreciate the natural beauty gravel brings to their properties, along with the design flexibility and colour options it affords. Plus, the inherent drainage capabilities of gravel play a vital role in managing Dublin’s well-known rainfall, making it an environmentally friendly solution for the eco-conscious homeowner.

Planning Your Dublin Gravel Driveway

Like any home improvement project, a little planning goes a long way. Here are some key aspects to consider:

Permits and Regulations

As with any construction project, it’s crucial to check with Dublin City Council to determine if permits are required for installing a gravel driveway. The council website provides a handy search tool for planning applications and permits, ensuring your project complies with local regulations. This preliminary step can save you from potential setbacks or fines, laying the groundwork for a smooth project execution.

Choosing the Right Gravel

The type of gravel you select significantly impacts the aesthetics and functionality of your driveway. Popular options in Dublin include crushed stone, pea gravel, and granite chippings. Consider factors like size, colour, and material.

Smaller-sized gravel (pea gravel) creates a smoother walking surface but may require more frequent top-ups. Meanwhile, apart from providing better vehicle stability and drainage, larger crushed stones offer a more natural look and better drainage. Colour and material type can complement your home’s exterior, creating a cohesive landscape design. Granite chippings, for instance, come in a variety of colours, allowing you to customise the look of your driveway and achieve a unique aesthetic that matches your property.

Additional Considerations

Beyond the gravel itself, there are other crucial elements to consider during the planning stage. Drainage is a key factor, particularly in the rainy Dublin climate. You may need to incorporate a drainage system to prevent water from pooling on the surface.

Edging is another vital aspect. Installing edging materials like timber or plastic helps contain the gravel and prevents it from migrating onto surrounding areas. Weed control is also essential. Laying a weed control fabric beneath the gravel significantly reduces weed growth, saving you time and effort in the long run.

Estimating Gravel Needs

Once you have selected your gravel type and included elements such as edging, calculating the required amount of gravel for your driveway involves simple math. First, measure the length and width of the driveway area, then decide on your gravel depth, which generally ranges between 50-100mm in Ireland. Multiply these three figures together to get the volume in cubic metres. It is also advised to include an additional 5-10% of gravel to account for possible wastage during installation.

Gravel Driveway Dublin: Installation Guide

When installing a new driveway or replacing an old one, you have two options: hire a professional driveway paving company or do it yourself.

Hiring Professional Gravel Driveway Pavers

The value of getting professional gravel driveway pavers in Dublin cannot be underestimated. Here’s why:

Expertise

Professional pavers possess the knowledge and experience to handle every aspect of the installation process, from site preparation and base layer creation to proper gravel laying. They ensure your driveway is built to last and adhere to best practices for drainage and stability.

High-Quality Materials and Equipment

Professional paving companies typically have access to high-quality gravel materials and specialised equipment for excavation, compaction, and levelling. This guarantees a professional finish and reduces the risk of errors during installation.

Time-Saving and Efficiency

Hiring professionals can significantly save you time and effort. They can complete the project efficiently, allowing you to enjoy your new driveway sooner.

The DIY Approach

Embarking on a DIY gravel driveway installation can be a cost-effective and rewarding project. It allows you the flexibility to work at your own pace and the satisfaction of personal accomplishment upon completion. If you’re a confident DIY enthusiast, here’s a breakdown of the key steps in installing a gravel driveway:

1. Site Preparation

This is the groundwork for a successful driveway. Start by marking out the desired area and excavating the soil to the required depth, ensuring a slight slope for drainage. Install edging materials like timber or plastic along the perimetre to contain the gravel. Don’t forget to lay weed control fabric to prevent unwanted plant growth.

2. Base Layer

Creating a stable base layer is crucial for a long-lasting driveway. Use crushed stone (around 40mm in size) for this layer. Spread it evenly across the prepared area and compact it thoroughly using a plate compactor. This ensures a solid foundation for the gravel.

3. Laying the Gravel

Finally, it’s time for the star of the show – the gravel! Carefully spread the chosen gravel over the compacted base layer. Use a rake to achieve a level surface and ensure the desired depth throughout the driveway.

The decision to DIY or hire professionals depends on your comfort level, skills, and budget. However, it is worth mentioning that laying a gravel driveway is a complex and labour-intensive project that requires precise planning, physical labour, and knowledge of materials and construction methods.

While a DIY approach may seem cost-effective, it often becomes overwhelming due to the expertise needed for proper grading, compaction, and drainage. This is why hiring professionals is frequently the best choice. Additionally, the cost of gravel driveway installation in Dublin isn’t that expensive compared to other paving solutions.

Gravel Driveway Dublin Maintenance Tips

Even the most expertly installed gravel driveway requires some maintenance to keep it looking its best and functioning properly. Here’s what you need to know:

Regular Top-Ups

Over time, gravel can become displaced through use and weather. To maintain the desired depth and level surface, plan on topping up the gravel every few years.

Weed Control

While weed control fabric helps significantly, some persistent weeds may still emerge through the gravel. Regularly hand-pulling weeds or applying a safe herbicide designed explicitly for gravel driveways will keep them at bay.

Edging Maintenance

Over time, edging materials like timber can deteriorate or become loose. Inspect your edging regularly and replace or repair damaged sections to ensure the gravel remains contained.

Drainage Solutions

Heavy rainfall can sometimes cause puddles to form on your gravel driveway. If this becomes a recurring issue, consider implementing additional drainage solutions, like installing a French drain system.

Winter Maintenance

Dublin experiences mild winters with occasional frost or sleet. Consider using pet-safe de-icing solutions to ensure a safe and functional drive if you encounter icy conditions.

Additional Considerations for Gravel Driveways in Dublin

Beyond the core installation and maintenance aspects, there are a few other factors to keep in mind:

Security Considerations

Gravel driveways can be slightly noisier underfoot than other paving materials like tarmac. This might be a security concern, especially if you value a discreet entrance.

Accessibility

While generally accessible, gravel driveways can be slightly uneven underfoot. Discuss alternative driveway materials with a professional if you or someone in your household has mobility concerns.

Adding Decorative Features

Gravel driveways offer a blank canvas for adding decorative elements. To enhance the visual appeal of your driveway, consider incorporating stepping stones, edging with contrasting colours, or low-maintenance plants along the borders.

So, is a gravel driveway the perfect choice for your home? You’re well-equipped to make an informed decision by carefully considering the information presented here.

Ultimately, gravel driveways present an appealing solution if you are seeking a balance of economy, beauty, and ease of upkeep. By ensuring diligent planning, careful installation and consistent maintenance, a gravel driveway can significantly enhance your property’s value and utility over the long term. This choice not only meets practical paving needs but also enriches the aesthetic character of your home environment, making it a wise investment for the future.

Ready to transform your driveway into a beautiful, functional gravel pathway? Elevate your home with our gravel driveway Dublin solutions. Quality installations and unique designs enhance curb appeal and property value. Call us today on 014851582 or click here to request a free quote.

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Transforming Your Home with the Best Driveways in Dublin: Your Guide to Finding the Right Driveway Contractors

When it comes to enhancing the curb appeal and functionality of your home, a well-designed and professionally installed driveway can make all the difference. Whether you're looking to replace an old, worn-out driveway or install a new one from scratch, finding the right driveway contractors in Dublin is crucial to ensuring a successful project. In this article, we'll explore the importance of a quality driveway, the various types of driveways available, and how to choose the best driveway contractors in Dublin to bring your vision to life.

The Importance of a Quality Driveway A driveway is more than just a place to park your car. It serves as the entrance to your home, providing the first impression to visitors and passersby. A well-maintained driveway can significantly boost your home's curb appeal, potentially increasing its value. Moreover, a quality driveway offers practical benefits such as:

Durability: A properly installed driveway can withstand the weight of vehicles and resist wear and tear from weather conditions. Safety: A smooth, even surface reduces the risk of tripping or falling. Convenience: A well-designed driveway offers easy access to your home and ample parking space. Low Maintenance: High-quality materials and professional installation can result in a driveway that requires minimal upkeep.

Types of Driveways Before you start your search for driveway contractors in Dublin, it's essential to understand the different types of driveways available. Each type has its unique characteristics, benefits, and considerations:

Concrete Driveways: Known for their durability and longevity, concrete driveways are a popular choice. They can be customized with various finishes, colors, and patterns to match your home's aesthetic. However, they can be prone to cracking over time, especially in areas with significant temperature fluctuations.

Asphalt Driveways: Asphalt is another durable option, often preferred for its smooth surface and quick installation process. It's also relatively cost-effective compared to concrete. However, asphalt driveways may require more maintenance, such as sealing, to keep them in good condition.

Gravel Driveways: Gravel driveways offer a rustic and budget-friendly option. They provide excellent drainage, making them suitable for areas with heavy rainfall. However, they can be less stable and may require periodic replenishment of gravel.

Paver Driveways: Pavers come in various materials, including concrete, brick, and stone. They offer a high level of customization with different colors, shapes, and patterns. Paver driveways are known for their aesthetic appeal and durability, but they can be more expensive to install.

Resin-Bound Driveways: Resin-bound driveways are made by mixing resin with aggregate materials like gravel, creating a smooth and permeable surface. They are visually appealing, durable, and low-maintenance. Additionally, they are environmentally friendly as they allow water to drain through the surface, reducing runoff.

Choosing the Best Driveway Contractors in Dublin Selecting the right driveway contractor is crucial to ensure your project is completed to the highest standard. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing driveway contractors in Dublin:

Experience and Reputation: Look for contractors with a proven track record of successful driveway installations. Check online reviews, ask for references, and look at their portfolio of completed projects to gauge their expertise and reputation.

Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the contractor is licensed and insured to protect yourself from potential liabilities. A reputable contractor will have the necessary credentials and be willing to provide proof of insurance.

Quality of Materials: Ask about the materials the contractor uses and ensure they are of high quality. The longevity and durability of your driveway depend on the materials used and the installation process.

Customization Options: A good contractor should offer a range of customization options to match your preferences and the style of your home. Whether it's different patterns, colors, or finishes, the ability to tailor the driveway to your liking is essential.

Detailed Quotations: Obtain detailed quotations from multiple contractors. The quote should include a breakdown of costs, including materials, labor, and any additional services. Be wary of significantly low quotes, as they may indicate subpar materials or workmanship.

Warranty and Aftercare: Inquire about the warranty offered on the driveway installation. A reputable contractor should provide a warranty that covers materials and workmanship. Additionally, ask about aftercare services and maintenance recommendations to ensure your driveway remains in excellent condition.

The Driveway Installation Process Understanding the driveway installation process can help you better prepare for the project and ensure everything goes smoothly. While the specific steps may vary depending on the type of driveway, the general process typically includes:

Initial Consultation: The contractor will visit your property to assess the site, discuss your preferences, and provide recommendations based on your needs and budget.

Design and Planning: Once you've agreed on the type of driveway and customization options, the contractor will create a detailed plan and design for your approval.

Site Preparation: The existing driveway, if any, will be removed, and the site will be prepared. This may involve excavation, grading, and ensuring proper drainage.

Base Installation: A stable base is crucial for the longevity of the driveway. The contractor will install a layer of compacted aggregate or other suitable materials to create a solid foundation.

Driveway Installation: The chosen driveway material will be installed according to the design and specifications. This may involve pouring concrete, laying asphalt, placing pavers, or spreading gravel and resin.

Finishing Touches: Once the driveway is installed, the contractor will add any finishing touches, such as sealing, edging, or decorative elements, to enhance the appearance and functionality.

Final Inspection: After the installation is complete, the contractor will conduct a final inspection to ensure everything meets your expectations and the project specifications.

Conclusion Investing in a high-quality driveway can significantly enhance the appearance and value of your home. By understanding the different types of driveways available and carefully selecting the best driveway contractors in Dublin, you can ensure a successful project that meets your needs and preferences. Remember to consider factors such as experience, reputation, quality of materials, and customization options when choosing a contractor. With the right team, your dream driveway can become a reality, providing both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits for years to come.

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Mastering Driveways in Dublin: A Comprehensive Encyclopedia

Driveways in Dublin represent more than just a pathway to your home; they are an integral part of the city's architectural landscape, reflecting its rich heritage and diverse styles. Whether you're looking for a traditional cobblestone driveway reminiscent of Dublin's historic streets or a contemporary design that complements modern architecture, Dublin offers a plethora of options to suit every taste and preference.

Chapter 1: Introduction to Driveways in Dublin

Dublin, the vibrant capital of Ireland, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and picturesque landscapes. At the heart of every beautiful home in Dublin lies an equally captivating driveway, serving as the gateway to your property and setting the tone for its aesthetic appeal. From quaint cobblestone lanes to sleek modern surfaces, driveways Dublin embody a fusion of tradition, innovation, and timeless elegance. This chapter serves as an introduction to the diverse world of driveways in Dublin, exploring their significance, historical context, and evolution over time.

Chapter 2: Historical Evolution of Dublin Driveways

Delve into the past and uncover the fascinating history of driveways in Dublin. Trace the evolution of driveway materials, designs, and construction techniques from ancient cobblestone pathways to contemporary resin-bound surfaces. Explore how socio-economic factors, technological advancements, and architectural trends have shaped the development of driveways in Dublin, reflecting the city's ever-changing landscape and cultural identity.

Chapter 3: Materials of Choice: Exploring Dublin's Driveway Options

Discover the myriad of materials available for creating exquisite driveways in Dublin. From traditional favorites like cobblestones and bricks to modern innovations such as concrete and resin-bound surfaces, this chapter provides an in-depth analysis of each material's characteristics, advantages, and suitability for Dublin's unique climate and architectural styles. Gain insights into the aesthetic appeal, durability, and maintenance requirements of different driveway materials, empowering you to make informed decisions for your property.

Chapter 4: Design Inspirations: Transforming Your Dublin Driveway

Unlock your creativity and explore a plethora of design inspirations for crafting stunning driveways in Dublin. Whether you prefer the timeless charm of a cobblestone pathway, the sleek sophistication of a modern minimalist design, or the rustic allure of a gravel driveway, this chapter offers endless possibilities to suit every taste and architectural preference. Discover how landscaping, lighting, and decorative elements can enhance the visual impact of your driveway, transforming it into a work of art that complements your home and reflects your personal style.

Chapter 5: Professional Installation: Ensuring Quality and Longevity

Embark on a journey of professional installation as we delve into the intricacies of constructing durable and aesthetically pleasing driveways in Dublin. Learn about the importance of site preparation, proper drainage, and skilled craftsmanship in ensuring the longevity and structural integrity of your driveway. Explore the latest installation techniques and technologies employed by Dublin's leading driveway contractors, and gain valuable insights into project management, timeline estimation, and budget considerations for a seamless construction process.

Chapter 6: Maintenance Matters: Preserving the Beauty of Your Dublin Driveway

Maintaining the pristine condition of your driveway is essential for preserving its beauty and functionality over time. In this chapter, we delve into the best practices for driveway maintenance, including cleaning, sealing, and repairing common issues such as cracks, potholes, and surface damage. Discover how seasonal maintenance tasks and proactive measures can safeguard your driveway against the effects of harsh weather conditions, ensuring its longevity and enhancing your property's curb appeal for years to come.

Chapter 7: Environmental Sustainability: Green Solutions for Dublin Driveways

In an era of increasing environmental awareness, sustainability has become a key consideration in driveway design and construction. Explore eco-friendly alternatives and green solutions for creating environmentally sustainable driveways in Dublin. From permeable paving materials that promote water infiltration and reduce runoff to native plant landscaping that enhances biodiversity and habitat conservation, this chapter offers innovative approaches to minimize the ecological footprint of your driveway while preserving the natural beauty of Dublin's landscapes.

Chapter 8: Future Trends and Innovations in Dublin Driveways

Peer into the future of driveway design and construction as we explore emerging trends and innovations shaping the evolution of driveways in Dublin. From smart driveways equipped with integrated lighting and heating systems to modular paving solutions that enable quick installation and customization, discover the cutting-edge technologies and design concepts that promise to redefine the aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability of driveways in the years to come.

Conclusion: Crafting Your Dream Driveway in Dublin

As you conclude your journey through the world of driveways in Dublin, you are equipped with the knowledge, inspiration, and resources to transform your vision into reality. Whether you seek to recreate the timeless charm of Dublin's cobblestone streets or embrace the innovative trends shaping the future of driveway design, let your driveway be a reflection of your unique style, personality, and appreciation for the beauty of Dublin's architectural heritage. With careful planning, professional expertise, and a commitment to sustainability, your driveway can become not just a functional necessity, but a stunning focal point that enhances the beauty and value of your property for generations to come. Below is some information to know more. Call 01 6877143

Business: Pineview Business Park

Address: Pineview Business Park, Firhouse Rd, Templeogue, Firhouse, Co. Dublin, Ireland

Website URL: http://driveways4you.com

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Finding the Best Driveway Contractors in Dublin

When it comes to enhancing the curb appeal of your home, one of the most impactful improvements you can make is upgrading your driveway. A well-constructed driveway not only boosts the aesthetic appeal of your property but also increases its value. If you're in Dublin and looking for the best "driveways Dublin" and "driveway contractors Dublin," you've come to the right place. In this article, we will explore what to look for in a driveway contractor and the various options available for your driveway needs.

Why Choose a Professional Driveway Contractor? Hiring a professional driveway contractor in Dublin is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, professional contractors have the expertise and experience to ensure that your driveway is built to last. They understand the local climate and soil conditions, which is essential in choosing the right materials and construction techniques. Additionally, professional contractors have the right tools and equipment, ensuring that the job is done efficiently and effectively.

What to Look for in Driveway Contractors Dublin When searching for driveway contractors in Dublin, consider the following factors to ensure you hire the best professionals for the job:

Experience and Reputation: Look for contractors with a proven track record of successful projects in Dublin. Check online reviews, testimonials, and ask for references to gauge their reputation in the market.

Portfolio of Work: A reputable contractor should have a portfolio of completed projects that showcase their work. Reviewing these projects will give you an idea of the quality of their work and the types of driveways they specialize in.

Licensing and Insurance: Ensure that the contractor is licensed and insured. This protects you from any liabilities in case of accidents or damages during the construction process.

Quality of Materials: Ask about the materials the contractor uses. High-quality materials are essential for a durable and long-lasting driveway. Contractors who use premium materials may charge more, but it is an investment worth making.

Customer Service: A good contractor will listen to your needs, provide expert advice, and keep you informed throughout the project. Excellent customer service is a sign of a contractor who values their clients and takes pride in their work.

Types of Driveways to Consider Driveway contractors in Dublin offer a range of options to suit different tastes, budgets, and requirements. Some popular types of driveways include:

Concrete Driveways: Concrete is a popular choice due to its durability and versatility. It can be stamped, colored, or textured to mimic the appearance of other materials, such as stone or brick.

Asphalt Driveways: Asphalt is a cost-effective option that provides a smooth and sleek finish. It is easy to install and maintain, making it a popular choice for homeowners.

Gravel Driveways: Gravel is an affordable and easy-to-install option. It provides a rustic look and is ideal for large driveways. However, it requires regular maintenance to keep it looking good.

Paving Stone Driveways: Paving stones offer a high-end, elegant look. They come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, allowing for customization. While they are more expensive, they are also extremely durable and can last for decades.

Resin-Bound Driveways: Resin-bound driveways are a modern option that combines aesthetics with functionality. They are permeable, allowing water to drain through, which helps prevent flooding and puddling.

Conclusion Choosing the right driveway contractor in Dublin can make a significant difference in the outcome of your driveway project. By considering factors such as experience, reputation, materials, and customer service, you can ensure that you hire a contractor who will deliver high-quality results. Whether you opt for concrete, asphalt, gravel, paving stones, or resin-bound driveways, a professional contractor will help you achieve the perfect look and functionality for your home. Don't hesitate to invest in your driveway—it’s a decision that will pay off for years to come.

Contact Info: Driveways 4 You Phone: 353 86 106 0388 Email: info@driveways4you.com Website: http://driveways4you.com

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Transforming Your Home with Top Driveway Contractors in Dublin

When it comes to enhancing the curb appeal and functionality of your home, few projects are as impactful as installing a new driveway. In Dublin, a beautifully constructed driveway not only provides a smooth, durable surface for vehicles but also significantly boosts property value. If you’re considering this home improvement project, working with professional driveway contractors in Dublin is essential. They bring expertise, quality materials, and efficient processes to ensure your driveway stands the test of time.

Choosing the Right Driveway The choice of material is a critical decision in driveway installation. In Dublin, tarmac driveways have become increasingly popular. Known for their durability and smooth finish, tarmac driveways offer numerous benefits. They are resilient under heavy loads, resistant to weather changes, and require minimal maintenance. Additionally, tarmac can be laid relatively quickly, minimizing disruption to your home life.

Benefits of Tarmac Driveways

Durability: Tarmac is known for its ability to withstand heavy usage and harsh weather conditions. This makes it an ideal choice for Dublin's variable climate, ensuring your driveway remains intact and functional for years.

Aesthetic Appeal: A well-laid tarmac driveway provides a sleek, clean look that complements any home style. Its smooth surface can be easily customized with edging stones or patterns to add a unique touch to your property.

Cost-Effective: Compared to other materials like concrete or brick, tarmac is more affordable. Its quick installation process also translates to lower labor costs, making it a cost-effective solution for homeowners.

Low Maintenance: One of the biggest advantages of tarmac is its low maintenance requirements. Regular cleaning and occasional sealing are usually sufficient to keep it in top condition.

Finding Reliable Tarmac Contractors in Dublin To ensure your driveway project is a success, it’s crucial to hire experienced tarmac contractors in Dublin. Here are some tips to help you find the right professionals:

Research and Reviews: Start by researching local contractors and reading reviews from past clients. Websites like Google My Business and Yelp can provide insights into the quality of service offered by various contractors.

Portfolio and Experience: Look for contractors with a strong portfolio and extensive experience in installing tarmac driveways. Experienced contractors are more likely to deliver high-quality work and handle any challenges that arise during the project.

Licenses and Insurance: Verify that the contractors are licensed and insured. This protects you from any liabilities in case of accidents or damages during the installation process.

Detailed Quotes: Request detailed quotes from multiple contractors. A comprehensive quote should include the cost of materials, labor, and any additional services. This helps you compare different offers and choose the one that fits your budget and needs.

Paving Contractors in Dublin In addition to tarmac, there are other popular paving options available for driveways in Dublin. Paving contractors dublin offer materials like concrete, brick, and gravel, each with its unique advantages. Concrete driveways, for example, are highly durable and can be customized with various finishes and colors. Brick driveways offer a classic, timeless look and excellent durability. Gravel driveways are cost-effective and provide good drainage.

Conclusion Investing in a new driveway is a significant decision that can enhance the appearance and functionality of your home. By choosing tarmac driveways and working with experienced tarmac contractors in Dublin, you can ensure a durable, attractive, and cost-effective solution. Remember to research and compare different contractors, check their credentials, and ask for detailed quotes to make an informed decision. Whether you opt for tarmac, concrete, or brick, a professionally installed driveway will undoubtedly add value and beauty to your property for years to come.

Contact Info: Driveways 4 You Address: Pineview Business Park, Firhouse Road, Firhouse, Co. Dublin. Email: info@driveways4you.com Phone: 01 6877143 Website: http://driveways4you.com

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Refresh Dublin Driveways: Expert Pressure Washing by Mobile Power Washing

Is your Dublin driveway plagued by persistent grime that regular hosting can't tackle? Over time, built-up oil, moss and tire marks can create an unsightly mess while posing slip hazards. Restore the aesthetic and functional value of your driveway with thorough pressure washing from Mobile Power Washing.

Our Dublin-based crew brings specialized equipment, solutions, and techniques to revitalize your driveway's surface down to the pores. Driveways subjected to regular vehicle traffic get bombarded with contaminants that eventually dull colors, roughen textures, and create slippery conditions.

Our pressure washing process combats all these issues by:

Removing Ingrained Grime – We blast away the grime that housing alone can't budge, leaving a fresh, clean slate.

Killing Moss and Algae – We target the roots with cleaning solutions to prevent regrowth.

Clearing Tire Marks – Dark rubber skid marks come up easily with agitated water pressure.

Uncovering Original Color – We remove fading and oxidation to restore newness.

Improving Safety – Clean traction and visibility rejuvenate the walking surface.

Extending Lifespan – Grime removal prevents premature deterioration and damage.

Why Choose Mobile Power Washing For Your Driveway's Needs?

✅ Our hot water pressure washers pack 10x the cleaning power of home hoses.

✅ We equip 3000PSI rigs for heavy-duty cleaning of even robust surfaces.

✅ Our plant-derived solutions are tough on oil and gentle on concrete.

✅ Technicians are extensively trained in equipment use and safety.

✅ We provide fast, effective cleaning that traditional washing can't match.

✅ As a local Dublin business, we deliver reliable service you can trust.

Don't settle for a lackluster eyesore in front of your home or business. Call Mobile Power Washing at (085) 235 1341 for affordable pressure washing that restores safety and aesthetics to your driveway. We serve all of Dublin with quality workmanship guaranteed. Request your free quote today!

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Driveway Powerwashing Services Dublin

Maguire Green Clean offers professional driveway power washing services in Dublin. Our team of experts uses the latest equipment and techniques to deliver high-quality results for both residential and commercial properties. Our services are affordable and tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Trust us to revitalize your driveway and make it look like new again. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.

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Tar and Chip vs. Asphalt Driveways: What’s Best for Dublin Homes?

Choosing the right driveway material is a crucial decision for any homeowner. Not only does it impact your home’s curb appeal, but it also determines the durability, maintenance, and overall value of your property. For Dublin homeowners, the debate often comes down to tar and chip vs asphalt driveways. Which one offers the best value for your Dublin home?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the features, benefits, and drawbacks of both options, helping you make an informed choice.

Exploring the Basics of Tar and Chip Driveways

 What Is a Tar and Chip Driveway?

A tar and chip driveway, often referred to as a chip seal driveway, is a blend of hot liquid tar and stone chips. This combination creates a textured, natural-looking surface that is both functional and visually appealing. The process involves spreading a layer of hot tar, followed by stone chips compacted into the surface.

This type of driveway is especially favoured for its rustic charm, offering a look that blends seamlessly with natural surroundings.

Key Features of Tar and Chip

Tar and chip driveways are known for their unique characteristics, which set them apart from other materials:

A textured, non-slip surface that provides excellent traction.

Natural, muted tones that enhance rural or suburban aesthetics.

A cost-effective alternative to asphalt or concrete.

 Advantages of Tar and Chip Driveways

Affordability: Tar and chip driveways are typically less expensive to install. This is primarily because the materials and installation process require fewer resources, making it an economical choice. On average, tar and chip driveways cost around €25 per square metre, meaning a 50 square metre driveway would cost approximately €1,250.

Low Maintenance: With minimal upkeep, tar and chip driveways can remain functional and attractive for years.

Traction in Wet Weather: The textured surface provides superior grip, which is especially useful during Dublin’s frequent rainy days.

Customisable Appearance: Homeowners can choose from a variety of stone chip colours, allowing for a personalised look.

 Potential Drawbacks 

Moderate Lifespan: While cost-effective, tar and chip driveways may not provide the longevity needed for high-traffic or harsh weather conditions. Regular upkeep, such as resurfacing, can help extend their usability.

Stone Displacement: The loose stones on the surface can become dislodged over time, especially in areas with frequent vehicle traffic. Periodic top-ups are needed to maintain the driveway’s appearance and functionality.

Best for Light Use: Tar and chip is better suited for light to moderate residential use. For areas with consistent heavy traffic, this material may wear down more quickly than alternatives.

Everything You Need to Know About Asphalt Driveways

 What Is an Asphalt Driveway?

Asphalt driveways are constructed from a mixture of bitumen and aggregate (crushed stone, gravel, or sand). This combination is heated and poured onto a prepared base, creating a smooth, durable surface. Asphalt driveways are commonly used for their sleek, modern finish and ability to withstand heavy traffic.

Key Features of Asphalt

A smooth, clean appearance that complements contemporary homes.

High durability, capable of withstanding significant wear and tear.

Flexible material that resists cracking in mild temperature fluctuations.

 Advantages of Asphalt Driveways

Longevity: Asphalt driveways are built to last, and when properly maintained, they can last up to 20 years.

Ease of Maintenance: While periodic sealing is required, cracks can be repaired easily without replacing the entire surface.

Professional Appearance: The smooth black finish offers a polished, modern look.

Weather Resistance: Asphalt handles extreme weather conditions well, from heavy rains to frost.

Potential Drawbacks

Higher Initial Cost: Asphalt driveways are more expensive than tar and chip. For a 50-square-metre driveway, homeowners can expect to pay between €3,000 and €5,000, compared to €1,250 for tar and chip.

Maintenance Requirements: Regular sealing is necessary to maintain its appearance and durability.

Vulnerability to Heat: Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can soften the material, leading to deformation.

Tar and Chip vs. Asphalt: Direct Comparison

Cost

For a 50 square metre driveway, tar and chip costs around €1,250, while asphalt costs between €3,000 and €5,000, meaning you could pay an additional €1,750 to €3,750 for asphalt. Tar and chip remains a cost-effective choice, but asphalt’s higher price reflects its durability and performance.

Durability and Longevity

Tar and Chip: Suitable for light to moderate use but less durable for heavy traffic or harsh weather conditions.

Asphalt: Lasts up to 20 years or more with proper maintenance, making it a better choice for high-traffic areas.

Aesthetics

Tar and Chip: Offers a rustic, textured appearance that blends well with natural surroundings.

Asphalt: Provides a sleek, modern finish that complements contemporary homes.

Maintenance

Tar and Chip: Requires occasional reapplication of stone chips to maintain its surface.

Asphalt: Needs regular sealing to prevent cracks and maintain its appearance.

Suitability for Dublin Homes

Dublin’s wet climate makes traction a priority, giving tar and chip an edge in this area. However, asphalt’s durability and weather resistance make it a reliable option for long-term use.

Tar and Chip vs. Asphalt Driveways: The Environmental Pros and Cons

Eco-Friendliness of Tar and Chip

Tar and chip driveways utilise natural materials, and their installation process consumes less energy. This makes them an environmentally friendly option for homeowners concerned about sustainability.

Eco-Friendliness of Asphalt

While asphalt is recyclable, its production has a higher carbon footprint due to the energy-intensive process of creating bitumen. However, advancements in technology are making asphalt more sustainable over time.

Which Is More Sustainable?

For eco-conscious homeowners, tar and chip may be the better choice due to its minimal environmental impact. However, the recyclability of asphalt adds to its appeal as a sustainable material.

Practical Driveway Considerations for Dublin Homeowners

Driveway Size and Traffic: Consider the expected level of use when choosing a material. Tar and chip is ideal for light residential use, while asphalt suits larger or busier driveways.

Local Regulations: Check for any restrictions or recommendations in your area regarding driveway materials.

Contractor Expertise: Ensure you hire professional driveway pavers in Dublin with experience in tar and chip or asphalt installations to guarantee a high-quality finish.

Making the Right Choice: Which Is Best for You?

Both tar and chip and asphalt driveways have their strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice depends on your specific needs.

If you’re working within a tight budget and prefer a natural, rustic aesthetic, tar and chip driveways are an excellent option. They offer affordability, a non-slip surface, and low maintenance, making them ideal for light residential use.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a sleek, modern finish and a driveway that can handle heavy traffic or last for decades, asphalt is the better choice. Its durability and minimal upkeep make it a popular option for urban or high-traffic properties.

Both tar and chip and asphalt driveways have their strengths and weaknesses, and the right choice depends on your specific needs.

In conclusion, deciding between tar and chip and asphalt driveways comes down to understanding what matters most to you as a homeowner. Whichever option you choose, working with an experienced driveway specialist is key to ensuring a high-quality result. A professional can help you navigate the decision-making process, assess your specific needs, and provide a driveway that enhances your home’s overall appeal.

Still deciding between tar and chip vs asphalt for your driveway? Call us now on 014851582 for expert advice and professional installation tailored to your needs. Upgrade your driveway with confidence—get started today!

[cillianmurphysdimples]

Female Y/N / Cillian fanfic. (Part Ten)

Absolutely not based on anything real at all, all totally fictional, fanciful and all total bollocks.

Warnings for sexual references and language. Adult themes so not suitable for under 18s.

Gif credit - @remembering-angels

We Got Issues

Part Ten: Y/N returns to England to attend the London premiere of Small Things Like These with Cillian. She's missed him and he's missed her, and when they delay their intimate reunion until after the premiere, Y/N's intense love overwhelms her at a deceleration from Cillian. [Sexual scenes]

@remembering-angels @dragonsneversharetheirtreasure @aesthetic0cherryblossom @lavender-haze-01 @meister95 @vivianleighwishesshewasme

------

You're not sure how it has arrived so quickly, given how empty the days have been - apart from work - without Cillian around, but the day of the London premiere seems to have landed at your feet fast. You have less than ten minutes until your booked taxi arrives to take you to Dublin Airport, and you're bustling around the house ensuring that your hand luggage contains everything you need. At the front door, your small case is ready to go and your Chelsea boots are waiting beside it. Dressed in black skinny jeans and a cream, turtleneck jumper beneath your denim jacket, you feel trussed up and stuffy inside of the house, but you know you'll be comfortably warm once you step out into the autumnal air. You feel butterflies in your stomach, and you're not sure if it is knowing you'll be able to kiss Cillian again in a couple of hours, or the prospect of a solo flight. You kick off your slippers and push your sock-clad feet into your boots. You glance around, ensuring you'd left everything neat, before you pick up your bag by the strap and hook it over your left shoulder. You push your phone into the right breast pocket of your jacket and exhale loudly. You're satisfied you're ready to go, and you pull out the handle on your case, dragging it with you, as you step out to wait at the door for the taxi that is moments away. You set the alarm as you leave and lock the door securely. You push the keys deep down into your bag to ensure they aren't accidently lost. As you turn to face the short driveway that spans out before the house, your taxi pulls in, the wheels noisy on the gravel below. It's the ‘home stretch’, now, and those butterflies double in your belly. It confirms to you that they are indeed fluttering around at the knowledge that Cillian isn't too far away.

Once you're through check in at the airport, you squirrel yourself away in the same bar that you and Cillian had hidden in. With your phone in hand, and a caramel latte, you perch yourself on a stool. You flick through your email account for work briefly and answer the three that have arrived in the time it has taken you to get to and through the airport, before you declare your annual leave by switching on the automated ‘out of office'. Closing down the app, you tap open your Facebook page and browse through the newsfeed. You smile at the photos of your old school friend, Anna, back in your hometown, sharing the announcement of her new baby daughter, as you send her a heartfelt message of congratulations. She'd been incredibly supportive when there had been circulating stories about your relationship with Cillian, and though you haven't seen her in person for some time, you want her to know you're happy for her. Continuing to scroll, you see a collection of photographs uploaded by Aran and you scroll through them. Lots of funny faces and friends you know you'll probably never meet. He looks happy, smiles like his Dad, and you smirk to yourself as you scroll away again. You place your phone down on the table for a moment and pick up your coffee. Sipping carefully at the hot drink, you glance around you. You watch people moving by and see children skipping and running up and down, excited about upcoming holidays. You smile fondly as you watch an obviously newly-walking little boy as he toddles awkwardly on chubby legs, with his mother close behind him. You place your coffee down and pick your phone back up, and as you turn it on, you look up as someone calls to you timidly.

“Excuse me?” Casting up your eyes, you see a girl before you. She can't be much older than eighteen, and she is made up and has her hair perfectly curled. “Sorry, excuse me,” She has a thick Northside accent and you raise your eyebrows as you smile at her.

“Hi?” You say with a questioning inflection.

“It's gonna sound thick, but are you Y/N?” She asks, and she turns her phone over in her hands nervously.

You frown for a second, then smile softly. “Yes,” you say, unsure. “I am.”

“I knew it was you.” You grins, “I saw your picture on Tumblr, with Cillian Murphy. Youse two were here before weren't you? I just think you're so beautiful, and, like, I don't believe half the shite that got said, you know, about you and him, and his ex.” She laughs, still clearly nervous. “I can't wait to see his new movie.”

You feel a wave of extreme stress flutter through you and hope you don't look as bothered by her presence as you feel. This has never happened before, and you can't for the life of you work out why it's happening now. What was it? A sort of ‘famous by association' kind of thing? You give her another smile. “I'll let him know.” You say, not sure what else to say.

“Can I…?” She asks, holding out her phone. “Just a selfie, like?” Before you even have a word ready to give her in response, she moves closer to you and holds her phone out with her arm stretched, and quickly snaps a picture of the two of you. “Ah, that's deadly! Thanks a million.”

Startled and flustered, you simply smile. “Uh…no problem.” You mumble and watch her with an astonished, wide-eyed look as she walks away cheerfully. “What the fucking fuck…?” You whisper to yourself as you unlock your phone. Processing the interaction, you open your messages and quickly tap out a bewildered text to Cillian.

Just been approached at the airport and apparently they can't wait to see Small Things. Said I'd tell you haha How do they even know me? My flight’s in half an hour. Counting down. See you soon x

You set your phone down again and pick up your coffee. Just as you take the cup away from your lips, you receive a text reply from Cillian. You swipe if open with your index finger.

Fly safe, don't be making friends with random people who come up to you ha ha. Give me a text when you land. X

You shake your head, smirking at his response, and you wonder what he's doing that he has the time to reply so quickly. The excitement to see him soon begins to build again and releases the butterflies in your belly. You want to kiss him, inhale him, and fuck him, and you remind yourself that you've a busy evening ahead before you'll get the opportunity to fulfill your wish with the latter.

When you land in England, it is almost impossible to keep your excitement and desire at bay. You walk at speed, and allow the music thumping through the earphones you'd stolen from Cillian's dresser to keep you from floating away entirely. Dragging your case behind you, you walk with the rabble if people through the arrivals doors and out into the sea of waiting people. Your eyes scan through the crowd hungrily, looking for a specific set of eyes and a telltale beanie hat. But it's Cillian who sees you first, as you turn round to look to your right and slowly scan back to looking ahead of you, your heart beats quickly in your chest. He stands forward from the crowd just a step with a controlled smirk tugging his lips, giving him a cheeky expression all around - and of course, the beanie is on. You grin as you walk towards him, and as you get closer he opens out his arms, welcoming you in with a hug as you drag your earphones from your ears.

“Cill,” you whisper into his ear as you rest your chin on his shoulder, fully encased by his arms. You close your eyes as he holds you tightly, and you return the warm hug with your arm wrapped around his back. You sigh as his affection washes over you. “God, I've missed you.” You continue to whisper, almost disappointed when he slowly pulls back from the hug. When he kisses you, though, that disappointment is quickly replaced. His index finger is under your chin, positioning you where he wants you, and you close your eyes as he firmly but very lovingly presses his lips down against yours.

As he draws back his head, with a sleepy-lidded smile, he reaches down and takes your case in one hand and laces his fingers into yours on the other side. “C'mon,” he says quietly, twitching his head towards the exit. “I can't tell you how much I missed you surrounded by all these people.” He says in a growling whisper, and you know he knows what he's doing to you. Evidently, you're not the only horny one.

He's handsy in the taxi to the hotel, and you rest your head against his shoulder, inhaling him, as he runs his hand up and down your thigh slowly. He doesn't push it any further, and you know he won't, but the tingles that it breeds at the thoughts of ‘if’ he did are delectable. He's the perfect gentleman as you reach the hotel; he carries your case and keeps your hand in his as he leads you to the room. He barely has the door locked behind him, before he abandons your bags to the floor and all but shoves you against the wall. He forces his knee between your legs, leaving you practically sitting against his thigh, as he claims your mouth for his own. His tongue is searching and his hands are wandering, and if it had moved his thigh at all to give you friction, you fear you'd have cum on the spot. You plant your hands around his face, feeling the angles of his jaw beneath your fingers, and you find yourself gasping for air as he pulls his face slowly away from yours. His positioning allows you to feel his obvious erection against your hip, and while you desperately want to strip you both of your clothes, you suspect he's about to engage you in the long game. He draws his body back from yours, smiling at you with an arousal-drunk haziness in his eyes. You clear your throat as you reposition yourself, “Yeah, I, um, I imagine that would have been a bit of a spectacle at the airport.” You say, and it takes a moment before he smiles brightly, shaking his head.

“I told Eileen we'd meet her for a wee while,” he says, and he's controlling himself well considering he'd just pinned you up the wall and you know that he's as horny as it gets. “She wanted to catch up before tonight. Are you fit to go and grab a drink with her now, yeah?” He asks.

You're amused and impressed at his acting skills; if you didn't know his cock was throbbing in his pants then you'd never have guessed. You decide you're going to play him at his own game and you slowly moisten your lips with your tongue as he stares at you, waiting for your answer, before you reply. “I'm easy,” you say, “You lead, I'll follow.” You catch the twitch of his eyebrow and the hard swallow that bobs in his throat.

“What, um…” he fumbles his words and clears his throat. “What did you decide on for tonight?” He asks, “You said you weren't sure what you were going to wear when you text.”

“Oh,” you smile, “The black dress, with the thigh slit, and the overcoat.” You say, and you know from a previous dinner that that particular dress is a favourite of his. Looking around, before you ask him the reciprocal question, you can see his olive green, almost grey coloured shirt and burnt orange jacket hanging in the door of the wardrobe against the far wall of the hotel room, and you smile at his choice. “You're wearing those?” You ask as you point across.

He can see he's slowly simmering down, which is a good thing really if he truly plans on you both meeting with Eileen, and he turns his head over his shoulder towards the wardrobe where you're gesturing. He inhales deeply and gives a slow nod as he turns back to face you. “Will I do?” He asks cheekily. As he smiles softly your eyes roam over his lips, and the subtle movement of his tongue as he laps the tip of it back and forth against his misaligned lower tooth.

You avert your eyes and lock yours onto his sharp blue stare, “You'll look great.” You say softly, and the feverishness of the sexual tension seems, for both of you, to have been dampened in favour of loving affection.

He moves closer to you again, and he wraps his arms around you tightly. “I'm so glad you're back.” He whispers as he rests his chin against your shoulder.

Your arms snake around him and as your right hand reaches up to the back of his neck, you once again miss the length of his hair to turn your fingers over in. “Me too.” You smile, turning your face a little, and you breath deeply against the skin at the side of his neck. He smells of comfort and familiarity, and while the sexual desire hasn't disappeared, you're almost glad it has taken a back seat to allow for the comfortable intimacy of physical touch without the need to strip one another bare getting in the way.

When you arrive for the premiere, you feel like you've entered Narrnia. You feel incredibly overwhelmed by the sights and sounds of the bustling London street, lined with fans, journalists, and photographers. Cillian is in a mood - it isn't a typically bad mood, but he is hyper focused and a little bit on edge at the immense level of social expectation ahead - and he does his best to keep you within arms reach in the throngs of people, as much for himself as for you, even as he is moved from pillar to post to speak to people. When you can, you stay close to Emily and Eileen, or with Enda, but it is difficult to attach yourself to one person when they're all being called to stand before cameras and speak into microphones. You stand aside awkwardly as he is called away from you once again, and he waves his fingers towards you subtly as he walks away. You watch him swallow his anxieties as he smiles and responds to the questions asked of him. He speaks with such passion and intelligence, and though you are on the outskirts of his interview, you feel a swell of pride at the gushing responses he receives from the people he speaks with. You're absorbed in watching him, taken by a genuine laugh and lingering smile as he talks to a journalist, and it startles you when Eileen taps her hand against your back as she comes to stand beside you.

“Hello,” you turn your head to her. “Hope you're proud of yourself, everyone's so excited for you two.” you say, and she smiles at you, her eyes crinkling at the sides underneath her thick fringe.

“He fakes it well, doesn't he?” Eileen says, nudging you gently with her elbow. “That he's not desperate to turn around and go home again.” She chuckles.

“I think being so busy at the moment is probably helpful, it's giving him less time to dread all of this.” You laugh lightly. “And then being so absorbed in the work for Peaky, I don't think there's a whole lot of Cillian left.” You say. As you look at him, you can see he's all focus, and he does seem present, but you know his mindset is completely shifted towards ‘Tommy Shelby', and you can see the character mingled with your man. You think you've said it offhandedly, but when you find that Eileen is frowning, you wonder if it didn't come out as you'd expected. But then she speaks, and you know she's understood you perfectly.

“He does give it his all, doesn't he?” She says quietly. “Ah, sorry,” she quickly apologises as she's waved over from off into the crowds. As she walks away, shifting her posture, you stand alone once again and it's to Cillian that your eyes instantly fall. Once again he's before a shining light and held-out microphone, and he's speaking earnestly with gesticulating hands and considered words. You're proud of him, deeply so. This has been a real passion project for him and being able to be here tonight as it debuts makes you so happy. And still, in that earnest love and pride, burns the same sexual tensions of earlier in the day. He looks amazing; his physical body as much as his outfit choice, and it's all you can do, really, to remind yourself that you cannot sweep him into a toilet or dark corner with the number of eyes that are on him tonight. As your stomach stirs with excitement for him, you make your own need for his body worse by running around your mind all the things you want to do, all the parts of his body you want to see and touch, when the door closes behind you at the hotel again later on. You've never been more relieved that it is decidedly easier for a woman to hide her arousal than a man, as you know if your body were his there would be very obvious indications to your train of thought!

You're so lost in your mind that you fail to notice he has walked away from the crowd and made his way towards you. When he twists his fingers into yours, you blink yourself back to awareness, and the smile that captures your face, you know, is uncontrolled and unintentionally wide. “Y'alright?” He asks, beginning to walk and bringing you with him.

“Yeah,” you smile, looking down at your feet for a moment as you pass a small collection of gathered fans who call out to Cillian. You glance across at them, smiling sweetly, as Cillian gives them a wave and soft smile. You want to ask him how he's coping but you're worried people may overhear anything personal either if you say, so instead you smile as a young girl calls out your name, and you wave nervously towards her. You feel him squeeze his hand against yours as you walk, and the feeling of overwhelming relief when you step through the double doors of the large complex ahead of you is a welcomed one. You glance back briefly, smiling as Emily steps inside a few beats behind you with a cheerful grin.

“Coping okay?” Emily asks, smiling again. “I know it can be a bit daunting.”

“It's fine,” you say, considering it could have felt so much more overwhelming than it had. It's cold inside, still, and Cillian being so close to your left side is a comfort. His hand is still in yours and you know he's probably counting down the minutes, now, until returning to the hotel is the only thing on the itinerary.

“Don't know about you two, but I want a cup of tea and a comfy pair of slippers,” Emily laughs, pulling her cardigan around her more tightly. You feel a bit unsure of what's next as you stand together in the large lobby, waiting for Eileen who, to your relief, slips through the doors just at that moment.

“Me too,” you chuckle in response to Emily. “And maybe a glass of wine.”

“Oh, wine, now you're talking.” Eileen laughs as she comes up behind you. “What was that one we had earlier in the hotel there,” She asks, and she taps her hand against Cillian's shoulder as she speaks. “That red, it was lovely. Cill?”

“I don't know,” you shrug. It had been Cillian who'd brought drinks to you and Eileen at the table of the hotel bar that afternoon.

“What?” Cillian raises his eyebrows and you know that, in his silence, he's been in his head entirely. You don't know if it's the total control that ‘Tommy’ still has, or his social clock meeting its maximum, but you know he isn't focusing on you all.

“The wine at the hotel, what was it?” Eileen asks, crossing her arms over her chest to keep off the cold.

Cillian pulls down the corners of his mouth and his eyebrows rise up his forehead, “Ah I don't know,” he smirks, “Your man just handed it over.” with his freenhand, he scratches his thumbnail against the side of his nose. He looks a little tired, now he's dropped the mask for the people outside, and you lean your head on his shoulder gently.

“Bedtime soon,” you say quietly, and you can see him smile gently and he squeezes his hand in yours again.

By the end of the engagement the majority of the people outside have cleared. There are a few waiting fans, who call out hopefully and wave with excitement as you and Cillian walk towards the waiting car at the end of the pathway, and a lone pap with a quickly clicking camera. He waves politely, calling out a friendly goodbye to the small group, quickly switching his expression to a brighter one. As you reach the car he pulls open the door into the back seats and waits as climb in and shuffle along the seats before he slips in beside you and pulls the door shut with a slam. He sighs loudly and then laughs, and you can see the relief wash over him.

“My feet are killing me, and we sat for ages,” you laugh, turning your ankles to take the pressure off your feet. For a moment, his hand rests on your leg just above your knee, then he draws it back to himself. His fingers fidget together in his lap and you know he's had enough. He hasn't got an ounce of social ability for the outside anymore, and you know that it'll take him the trip back to the hotel, and maybe even a little longer, before he has words for you, even. You take no offence, though, because you know that there's nothing personal in it. You'd experienced this reaction in him in numerous situations and, just as he didn't take your anxieties to heart, you tried your hardest not to, too.

It makes you feel better, though, when you reach the front of the hotel and he holds open the car door for you, and instantly clasps your hand when you start to walk inside. As you wait for the lift he keeps hold of your hand, with an altered angle, and stands behind you slightly with his body pressed into yours. Gone is the fatigue, you think to yourself when his free hand rests against your hip, over your ankle-length coat. You lead into the elevator when the doors slide open, and he follows without letting go of your hand. As the doors slide slowly closed again, he turns towards you and his free hand slides up against your cheek, his thumb against your cheekbone, and he kisses you hungrily. Despite holding tight to your bag, you wrap your arm round his back, pulling him closer, and sigh through your nose as he pushes his lips against your harder. It's almost a loss when he draws back his head, his hand still on your cheek. Your eyes flick side to side as you scan his eyes. Moving his thumb back and forth a couple more times, he smiles softly then draws his hand away. Lucky, really, as the doors draw open just as he steps back. You walk together, hands still entwined, towards the hotel room. Cillian unlocks the door, only then releasing your hand, and pushes it open to allow you into the room ahead of him.

With the door shut securely, he watches from the doorway as you shrug your coat off. You drape it over the back of a chair tucked in under a dressing table, and then toe your heels off with a sigh of relief. Your dress reaches the floor, now, and the side, thigh-high split reveals your leg as you stand with your hip dropped. The thin straps on your shoulders remarkably haven't slipped all night, and your carefully positioned bust has, too, stayed in place inside the deep v-shaped front of the dress. You smile as he walks through into the room properly, sliding his jacket down off his shoulders. He tosses it easily over onto the chair and it lands on top of yours. The short sleeves of his shirt are tight around his biceps, and you let your eyes wander over his entire body as he stops before you, both of you standing by the foot of the bed. He reaches out both hands and cups them around your face, and plants his lips to yours. It's soft and loving, but there's a feverishness to the way he breathes, and after a moment his hands are on your back - the kiss unbroken - as he finds the zip of your dress and pulls it down slowly. His hands come back to paw at the thin straps on your shoulders and he sends the dress tumbling down your body with a quick swipe of his hands. With you standing in your strapless bra and rarely worn super-small thong, he steps back just enough to run his eyes up and down your body. There isn't an inch of feeling exposed in you; you want him to look, you want him to want you.

Then the hunger wins. He takes you in his arms but allows you to swiftly remove his shirt. It's mere moments before his trousers are gone, too, and he frees himself from his boxer shorts as you unhook your bra and throw it to the floor. He takes the task of removing your thong for himself, and slides the barely-there material down your thighs and lets it fall at your feet with your dress. He takes you to the bed awkwardly, too focused on kissing you passionately to move with any coordination. He brings you to the edge of the bed and finally releases you. At the pause, you climb up onto the bed and sit in wait as he turns around for a moment. When he turns back, he's clutching a small silver packet, and you know that the risk of a fight after this is far from both of your minds. You hold out your hand, and when he raises his eyebrows, you nod with a smile.

“If you're paddling with your socks on, we may as well make it fun to put them on.” You say, pushing up onto your knees as he stands at the side of the bed. After a moment of looking a little unsure, he hands you the condom. You hold it for a moment, and instead of immediately placing it on you lower your body and take him in your mouth. His hands instantly cup around your head, his fingers in your hair, and by the sounds he's making you know that his mouth is wide open in ecstasy as your tongue and lips work the length of his penis. Your tongue cups around the underside of his full shape, and you slide your mouth up and down until you feel him beginning to apply a little more pressure to the back of your head. His moan of annoyance is hilarious to you as you release him and rise again, grinning at him for a moment. You make swift work of opening the condom with your teeth, and take it from the wrapper. With your free hand you reach for his penis, and line your body up against his as you stroke him slowly. His lips immediately fall open again, his tongue travelling around his mouth, and he looks deep into your eyes with pupils so wide that the blue is almost gone. You move your hand a little quicker for just a moment then stop abruptly, and the moan in his throat that it draws sends a shiver through your body. Pinching the end of the condom with the fingers of one hand, you slowly slide it down his length with the other until it sits securely at the base of his penis. As you straighten up, still on your knees, he reaches out and cups his hands around your breasts. Massaging softly, he edges his head forwards and peppers featherlight kisses over your collarbone. Your hands roam across his neck and the back of his head.

And once again the fire seems to suddenly ignite in him. He places his hands on your shoulders and gently pushes against you, encouraging you to lie back. As you recline, he climbs up onto the bed beside you. With a little repositioning, he moves your legs apart and places himself between them. With his arms pushed into the bed beside you, he blindly presses himself against your vagina and slides achingly slowly inside of you. The perfect intrusion sends signals all over your body, and you wonder how you've lived without his body for well over a week. Your arms wrap around his shoulders and back, sighing sweetly into his shoulder as he moves in and out of you at slowly increasing speed. His chest is down against yours, his skin grazing your nipples as he moves, and it only doubles the pleasure. His breaths are hot and heavy into your neck as he speeds up again, his body practically slamming into yours as he seems to lose the ability to savour this reunion. His breaths become muttered huffs of “fuck…fuck…” as he rutts into you. The angle of his body provides enough stimulation that your own clitoral orgasm could be easily coaxed, but whatever way he has himself positioned threatens to shudder your body through an intense g-spot climax. There's a passion unlike previous experiences with this tight now. He's needy for you, hungry and desperate, and it's almost animalistic how his hands claw at you constantly. As his thrusts become unexpectedly even faster and deeper, you find yourself unable to control your reactions and you gasp gleeful, breathy variations of his name as you orgasm, your legs shuddering wildly either side of Cillian's sweat-slickened body as he thrusts into you twice more before he moans softly, slightly more high pitched than his growling curse-words, and then pushes into you slowly as he cums, his damp forehead pushed against yours and his mouth open wide. He nuzzles his nose against you for a moment then kisses you softly, before awkwardly drawing his body back just a little then lying down beside, breathing raggedly.

You reach up your right hand and push your hair from your sweat-damp forehead, lying open and unashamed on top of the sheets. You stretch your hand over and pat somewhat comically against Cillian's thigh, drawing an airy laugh from him as his breathing slowly regains its normal pattern. You shift slowly, and turn to your side to face Cillian, then shift once again so you can place your head on his chest. You throw your leg over his. Almost instantly he envelops you in the arm half trapped beneath your body, pulling you even closer against him, and you realise that you've missed the feeling of the hairs on his thighs touching your skin, that you've missed the thud of his heartbeat in your ear, and you close your eyes to absorb the slowly settling beats inside of his chest.

“You looked so beautiful tonight,” he says, breaking the silence, and you're taken aback for a moment. His fingers move a little where his hand is resting against your hip and your skin prickles goosebumps beneath his touch. “Really fucking beautiful,” he continues. “You always do, like, but I looked at you earlier on with Enda and Eileen and I just…” he trails off, and you feel an overwhelming swell of emotion flood through you. You've missed him so fucking much. You shift your head and move just enough to arch up and see his face. His eyes are closed but he opens them as you move, and he meets your gaze with a gentle, sated expression on his face. “I missed ya,” he says quietly. “I'm glad you came back.”

You move forward and push your lips hard against his. You think that if you tried to speak you might cry, so instead you push your lips harder against him and then lie back against his chest, not saying a word, but feeling like you're falling into the warmest of abysses whilst simultaneously feeling like you've finally come home.

[siampie]

Finding You||Chapter 6

Pairing: Michael Kinsella x Fem!Reader

Word Count: 2.4k

Warnings/tags: pinning, childhood trauma, eldest daughter syndrome, mention of emotional abuse, mentions of SA

A/N: Enjoy this chapter, you guys. Comments and reblogs are always welcomed, greatly advised and strongly appreciate.

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Dividers by @cafekitsune

“In the latest gangbang shooting, the young father of two was gunned down in this Dublin’s pub, last night.”

The news anchor was standing in front of the aforementioned pub. The guards surrounded the establishment, collecting evidences. You put down the remote on your coffee table, and moved in the kitchen.

“Caolan Moore was celebrating the birth of his daughter Leah, when the gunman entered the pub and shot him five times. Moore’s fiancée, Shannon Gogarty, said he was a loving father who enjoyed nothing more than spending time with his kids.”

You started a fresh pot of coffee before sitting down at the small kitchen table. It all had seemed surreal, last night. Everything all happening at once, your mother calling you, Michael being arrested. It all had seemed surreal and chaotic. Unfortunately, you were no stranger to chaos. You did grow up in a pretty unstable home, walking on eggshells around your father at times. The man was able to explode at the drop of a hat. Although, as he grew older, he became less violent and less controlling.

You stared out of your large kitchen window. The red and blue lights had flashed across your walls well into the night. The guards had swarmed the streets, coming in and out of Jimmy’s home, collecting evidences. The news of Caolan Moore’s death had hit the internet long before the news outlet got a hold of it. Words were that the Kinsella did it, specifically Michael Kinsella.

You knew those words to be true. You knew, deep down, that Michael had done it. You knew it was for revenge for Jamie’s death on behalf of his brother, Jimmy. It didn’t take a genius to know that. It also didn’t come as a surprise that it happened. After all, you had watched enough tv shows and movies to know that this was the next course of action for the Kinsella. It was bound to happen.

You let out a long breath. You weren’t all that thrilled to go to work on no sleep. You had been restless for most of the night, thoughts of your mother whirling around your mind.

“I’m in Dublin.”

Thoughts of her being in Dublin had you reeling. You didn’t know what to do, what to think. You had thought of calling your sister or your little brother but—you didn’t want to worry them. And now that Michael had been arrested, you didn’t think you should burden him with your own issues. He already had a lot to deal with. He didn’t need to deal with you on top of it all.

You were anxious, you could feel it in the pit of your stomach. You didn’t want to go out and take the risks of bumping into her, or bumping into him. And since they had your address, the chances of that happening were pretty high. But you couldn’t just stop living your life because they were in Dublin, because you might come face to face with them.

A black car pulled into your driveway. It was Birdy’s, you frowned up at the car through the window. Your breath hitched at the sight of Michael climbing out the car. He had been released. You stood up and moved to your front door, as the car pulled out of your driveway.

“Michael?” You called as soon as you opened your door. The man walked up to you. “Are you okay?” Your eyes roamed over him quickly.

“I’m alright, pet.” Michael answered, smiling softly at you. “Yer up early?”

“Well, I didn’t really sleep.” You shook your head quickly. “Do you want to come in? Have a cup of coffee and maybe some breakfast?”

“I’d love that, yeah.” He nodded before stepping in.

The night before had seemed surreal but was long forgotten. Michael had been released. You felt relieved to see him, sitting across from you, in your kitchen. Although, you had barely slept the night before, you somehow felt energized. And the coffee had nothing to do with it.

You felt like you could breathe again.

“So, not that I’m not glad to see you here,” you started, “but they released you early. I thought that they were supposed to keep you for—at least twenty-four hours.”

Michael let out a snort, amused by your question. “You know how the guards operate in Ireland already?”

You shrugged, “I couldn’t sleep last night. So, I did some research.” He hummed, taking a bite out of his toast. “Why did they release you so soon? Did something happen?”

Michael did not answer immediately. He looked down at the table, pondering whether he should tell you about his seizures or not. He didn’t want people to know. Somehow ashamed of his own weakness, reminder of what had happened the night Allison died. He would lie to his family without hesitation, they didn’t need to know. They had no business to know about his seizures. But to you—well, you were different. You left room for him to be vulnerable, you genuinely seemed like you cared.

Maybe he could tell you.

“You don’t have to tell me, if you don’t want to.” You said, pulling him out of his thoughts.

Michael put down his cup, “seizures,” he simply said. “Or at least, that’s what they’re thinkin’.” He looked up at you. “They can’t question me after havin’ one. So, they released me this mornin’.”

“Oh.” You nodded. “Have you seen a doctor yet?”

“Gonna need to see a GP to find out what’s happenin’ really.”

“I’m sure—I’m sure you’re gonna be alright.” You tried to reassure him; his lips tugged up at the corner. “My dad had epilepsy for a while, and he did okay. So, trust me when I say, it’s manageable. And you’re gonna be alright. I’m sure of it.”

Your phone rang in the living room and you froze. It couldn’t be your mother. Not that early in the morning. And your brother had been definitely blocked, couldn’t be him either. It was probably Bessie calling to make sure you were coming into work. It was logical. Yet, you couldn’t help the fear you felt at the sound of it.

“Your brother still bothering ya?” Michael questioned and you weakly shook your head.

“Not my brother.” You took a deep breath. “Last night—my mother called. She’s in Dublin and she wants to meet up.”

“Alone?” Michael stood up with his plate, going to the sink.

You shook your head as a snort of disbelief pushed past your lips. “Chances are that—my stepfather came with her.” Your eyes followed him, “I can do that later." you protested.

“’S alrigh’,” Michael assured you as you stood, moving closer to the kitchen island. “What happened between you and your stepda?” He questioned.

Could you burden him with this? After what he had been through the night before. Before he appeared in your driveway, you thought it’d be a bad idea. But now that he was standing in your kitchen, offering to hear you out, you found it difficult not to confide in him.

You took a deep breath, “nothing happened. Not really.” You offered him a kitchen towel so he could dry off his hands. He leaned against the sink. His eyes on you, waiting for you to continue. “Let’s just say that—after my mother abandoned us, we didn’t hear from her for almost a whole year. And when she came back in our lives, she didn’t come back alone.”

“Yer stepda,” he stated.

You nodded, “in the beginning, he was nice enough. I even liked him but after a while—he started to—get a little handsy with me. Trying to get me to sit on his lap, massages, that sort of things.”

Michael clenched his jaw at your words, gripping the sink, his knuckles turning white. A barely contained rage making itself known at your words.

“I didn’t say anything at first,” you continued. “All I wanted was to see my mother, you know. But—uhm, one night—he went too far,” you paused. “Nothing happened, but I woke up to him standing in my bedroom, in the middle of the night. He was just standing there staring at me. And then, he sat on my bed and started stroking my hair. I didn’t move—I couldn’t—I just—I just froze.”

Michael crossed the space between you, pulling you straight into him. Without realizing it, tears had sprung from your eyes, your voice cracked on the last words. Your arms wrapped around his middle, eagerly. His arms felt as strong as they had before. His scent wrapped around you, offering you the comfort that you needed more than anything in this moment.

“Did he—?” Michael started but you cut him off.

“Didn’t have time,” you shook your head. “First thing I did the day after was told my father. He pulled us out of there as quick as possible. Tried to tell my mom too but she didn’t believe me.” You sniffed. “In the end she chose him over us. Over me. And I’ll never forgive her for this.”

Michael’s hold on you tightened, his large hands splayed over your back, running up and down your spine. You felt his chin rest on top of your head.

“Like I told ya before, I won’t let anyone hurt ya.” He said quietly, “I won’t.”

“I know.” You buried your face deeper into his warm chest, “I know.”

In spite of the chaos that was your life at the moment, regardless of the fear that was gripping your guts, you felt safe in his arms. You felt oddly content and at peace in his arms. He was offering you much needed comfort. And there in his arms, you felt less alone.

“Ya know what I did last night?” He whispered in your hair.

“I do.” You pulled away slightly, so you could look up at him. A frown was pulling his lips downward, his guilt filled eyes were roaming over your face. “It’s all over the news, and the internet.”

He didn’t need to say the words. The question was admission enough on his part. Michael had gunned down Caolan Moore, you already knew. And yet, he was willing to share this part of him with you. The darkness and the danger that came with it.

“And yer not afraid of me?” His hand came up to cradle your face.

“No.” His palm pressed further into your cheek, and you leant into his touch.

You weren’t afraid of him. You had been in the beginning, and then you got to know him. And the more time you spent with him, the more you realized that Michael was no threat to you. He had been genuine in the way he spoke to you, quiet and yet, eager to know more of you.

Michael Kinsella was a threat only to those who wronged him. Caolan Moore was a blatant proof of that.

Hope was shining in his eyes. Your hand covered his, as you held his gaze. Along with hope, there was affection, and a softness in his eyes. His thumb brushing against the apple of your cheek. A small smile graced his lips, wrinkling the corner of his eyes.

The world around you faded away as you held each other’s gaze. Your tongue darted out to wet your lips, your eyes falling on his. Your heart raced beneath your ribcage. The arm he had around your waist pulled you further into him as he leaned down. His nose brushed against yours, his lips inched closer to yours and he paused, leaving room for you to push him away. Hesitantly, you closed the distance, your lips meeting his. Making the final decision to kiss the man, putting yourself out of your own misery.

His hand left your cheek, to hold the back of your head as your kiss grew more passionate and heated. Your arms made their way around his broad shoulders, your fingers grazing the hair at the nape of his neck. Your chest pressed against his, heart pounding in your ears, panting and moaning, each time his lips briefly left yours.

Your hand had wounded up in his brown locks, soft and thick between your fingers. You gasped as he lifted you up, placing you on the kitchen island. His lips latching onto yours as he came to stand between your legs. Your legs locked behind his waist. His tongue slid into your mouth, warm against yours. His hands were on your thighs while your arms around his shoulders pulled him further into you.

You got lost into him, his scent, the touch of his hands, his lips. In everything that was him. You wanted him. You wanted to touch, and kiss every inch of his body, wanted his hands and his lips to roam every inch of yours. But as much as you wanted to see and feel more of him, you had to put a stop to it.

Not today, not like that.

You pulled away, bringing your forehead against his. Both of you breathless, shoulders heaving as you were trying to catch your breath.

“I have to go to work.” You regretfully told him. “I need to get ready,” you almost groaned letting your head fall back.

Michael pushed your hair away from your face, tucking a strand behind your ear. “''S alrigh'. I let ya get ready,” he grinned at you, “we can continue this on another time?”

“Yeah, you still owe me a date.” You bit down your bottom lip, a smile tugging at your lips.

“Is that so?” He snorted in amusement, his thumb tracing your bottom lip.

“It is so.” You huffed out a laugh. “Want me to walk you out?”

“That’d be grand, pet,” he helped you down the counter, his hand wrapping around yours.

You laced your fingers with his, he grabbed his jacket as you walked past the small table. Once you’ve reached the door, you turned to him, grinning up at him. Butterflies erupting in your belly, fluttering around in excitement.

“See ya later, yeah?” He asked.

“Yeah, see you later,” you nodded.

“How about I take ya out for a drink later tonight?” He suggested.

 “I’d love that very much.” He leaned down and rested a soft kiss on your lips.

Michael released your hand, and opened the front door, you followed him on your doorstep. You watched as he walked up to his own door, you waved at him. And a large smile split his face in two, he waved back at you before disappearing into his home.

With a deep sigh you walked back into your home, closing your door behind you. You couldn’t help the grin on your face, your heart skipping away in your chest. Energized in a new way, and with something to look forward to, you rushed up the stairs to get ready for work.

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[bellaxgiornata]

Safe Haven [Chapter One]

Pairing: Michael Kinsella x Fem!Reader Word Count: 3.3k [Series Masterlist]

Summary: Contracted to work on your next novel, you leave the States and move in with your sister in Dublin in hopes of a quieter, peaceful place to work on your writing. And somewhere safe to hide. But you weren't expecting to meet your sister's attractive and curious neighbor, the one fresh out of prison–Michael Kinsella. And you certainly weren't expecting to become his safe haven, or for him to become yours–especially when your past eventually finds you.

Warnings/tags: 18+ for this series; contains violence, drug use, domestic abuse, smut, hurt/comfort, angst, mutual pining, friends to lovers

a/n: In this series, Reader is American and has a backstory and family (though if you'd like to pretend Reader was adopted at birth to feel more like a reader-insert to fit you, feel free). She will use a fake name as well. This story is also fairly dark at times, but if you watched the show you should be just fine. Though it's not all dark, because I just really want to give our man Mikey some happiness and comfort! You get Mikey in chapter two though, sorry! You can find the chapter list for this series here.

Also I apologize in advance for incorrect terms of things--I'm American but I am trying my hardest to get correct terms/slang/dialect as I go. But I know there will be mistakes. Feel free to kindly point them out to me if you know something is incorrect!

Head resting against the car window, your eyes scanned the row of houses as your sister drove slowly down the street she’d just turned onto. With each passing moment since you’d left the Dublin Airport, you’d felt a weight steadily easing off of your shoulders. You were free. For now, at least. 

Your body was aching from your time trapped in that cramped seat in the airplane for the more than seven hour flight from Chicago to Dublin, and you were certainly worn out from the time change. In Chicago it would’ve been the middle of the night, but here it was just after nine in the morning. Despite the sun shining bright with the promise of a brand new day, you were desperate for sleep. 

As Megan turned and pulled the car into the driveway of the house at the end of the street, you began to unfasten your seatbelt. You were eager to get out of the car and grab your bags before settling in. Maybe you’d manage to grab a nap after your long trip. It had certainly been exhausting.

Your sister turned off the engine before shifting in the driver’s seat, shooting you a bright smile. "Well, this is home," she told you. "What do you think?"

You leaned forward to look out of the windshield, eyeing the white house with the bit of brick on the front. It was the last house on the corner, with a tall stone fence surrounding the driveway and separating it from the one just next door. Your eyes shifted, taking in the sight of the house just beside it from what you could see over the stone fence. They looked almost identical. 

"It's nice," you told your sister, settling back into the seat and focusing on her again. A tired smile made its way onto your face. "Looks cozy. How do you afford it with just a nurse’s salary at Dublin Central?”

Megan’s shoulders sagged at the question, her bottom lip catching between her teeth as she stared at you quietly for a moment. And then her mouth curled into a sheepish grin. “I suppose I can be honest now that you’re here,” she said.

“And what is that supposed to mean, Megan?” you asked her.

“The house actually sold for a bit under value,” she admitted. “Because of the neighbors.”

Your eyes narrowed instantly at her, one brow rising curiously up onto your forehead. “The neighbors? What do you mean?” you asked. “Are they noisy or something?”

Megan’s eyes dropped down to her lap, an awkward laugh leaving her as she fidgeted with her car keys. “I mean sometimes, sure. But no, it’s uh, it’s because of who they are.”

You rolled your eyes with an amused huff, your attention returning to the house before you. “What? Like you live next door to a damn crime syndicate or something?” you teased.

A heavy silence fell over the pair of you in the car. When she still hadn’t answered, you turned to look at your sister beside you. That sheepish smile was still on her face and it immediately had the amusement on your own dying instantly. Shaking your head roughly at her, your eyebrows flew up onto your forehead.

“You’re kidding, right?” you pressed. “This is a joke?”

The sheepish smile didn’t fall off of her face. Eyelids slowly lowering, you muttered a curse as your right hand came to rub at your forehead. 

“The Kinsella’s,” Megan said softly. “They’ve got a house across the street and the two next door to me. Though the one right next door has been empty for a bit. But uh, Birdy was telling me that’s changing. In a couple of days now, actually.”

Your eyes landed back on the house beside Megan’s, the one that looked almost identical. “Who’s Birdy?” you asked. “And why was that house vacant?”

“Her name’s Bridget but she goes by Birdy,” Megan answered. “She’s the sweet lady across the street. The one with the curly, dark hair. She was interested in meeting you, actually. Very welcoming woman. Brought me a nice housewarming gift when I moved in just over a year ago.”

“She’s part of this crime family?” you questioned.

“Uh, well, yeah,” Megan admitted awkwardly. “But she’s real sweet. And none of them have really been any trouble since I’ve lived here.”

Your attention returned back to your younger sister beside you, eyeing her carefully. You gestured your head at the neighboring house. “So why is that one about to not be empty this week?” you questioned.

“It belongs to Jimmy Kinsella’s brother,” she answered slowly. “He lives in the big, fancy gated house just next door to it with his wife and two sons.”

You shot your sister a pointed look. “You’re avoiding answering the question,” you stated.

“Okay, fine,” Megan said with a huff. “The house belongs to Michael Kinsella. He’s been in prison for eight years–and no, I have no idea for what because I don’t really go poking around into their business. So don’t even ask. But I guess he’s being released on Wednesday. Though Birdy was saying she’s not sure if he’s going to even want to stay there anyway, so it may remain empty.”

“Fucking hell, Megan,” you growled, throwing your head back onto the headrest. Two fingers flew up to pinch the bridge of your nose as you squeezed your eyes shut. “Why the hell didn’t you tell me about this before I agreed to move to Dublin?”

“Because you needed somewhere to go!” Megan answered earnestly. “And I just wanted you here and safe with me. I promise you, they’re not going to be a problem.”

“You know I’m trying to keep a low profile out here, Meg,” you shot. “You know that.”

Megan’s hand gently rested along your shoulder as she softly said your name. You bristled instantly, your body tensing.

“I told you not to call me that here,” you warned her. “Not my real name.”

“Alright Grace ,” Megan corrected herself, overly emphasizing the name you’d chosen. “I promise, they’re not going to go digging into you. You’ll remain private and hidden for as long as you want here, I promise. You tell them you’re Grace Moore and you’re my half-sister and no one will bat an eye. I swear. They’re too wrapped up in their own shit to care.”

Holding your sister’s gaze, a frown spread across your lips. “I hope for both our sake’s your right, Meg,” you told her, tone firm. “Because if word gets out that I’m here–”

“It won’t ,” she pressed. 

Your eyes narrowed back at your sister as you continued, “If word gets out that I’m here, we’re probably both as good as dead.”

“Yeah, I understand the situation,” Megan replied. “You can drop the doom and gloom, though. You’ll be fine here.”

A knock on the window just beside you caused you to startle in your seat, a hand flying up to cover your chest, just over your racing heart. Spinning quickly towards the noise, you spotted a dark haired woman standing just beside the car door wearing a dress and heels. A bright smile was spread across her lips. She sent you a wave with one hand, holding up a bottle of wine in the other.

“That’s Birdy,” Megan whispered.

You forced a smile onto your face as you gazed back up at the woman through the car window. Through the smile and gritted teeth you whispered back, “Just remember my name is Grace Moore here, sis.”

Reaching a hand out, you opened the car door as Birdy took a step back, giving you room to exit the vehicle. The smile on your face felt stiff and worn-out, but you kept it plastered along your lips.

“Well good morning to ya both,” the woman said, her bright blue eyes fixed on you. “Your sister told me she was picking ya up from the airport this morning. Thought I’d stop by and introduce myself.” 

She held out a hand towards you, the gesture drawing your eyes instantly at the movement. For a moment your gaze lingered on her offered hand. 

“Bridget Goggins, though you can call me Birdy,” she introduced herself, her accented voice drawing your attention back up to her smiling face. “And you must be Megan’s sister, yes?”

“Half-sister,” you corrected quickly, your hand sliding into hers. “Grace Moore.”

“Oh well that’s such a lovely name, dear,” Birdy said.

The smile never wavered from her lips as your hand returned to your side, but the calculated and scrutinizing look in her eyes wasn’t lost on you. You were going to have to be careful around her, be extra cautious that you didn’t slip up. She looked like the type who’d notice the tiniest detail and store it away for later, all while still displaying the friendly facade. 

What the hell had Megan done keeping her goddamn criminal neighbors a secret from you?

“Oh, and this is for you, Grace,” Birdy said, holding out the expensive looking bottle of merlot to you. “Consider it a welcome to the neighborhood gift.”

Your mouth felt strained with the effort of maintaining the tight smile on your face as you accepted the wine. “Thank you, that’s very kind of you,” you replied. 

“Your sister Megan is such a lovely young lady, I’ve truly enjoyed having her in the neighborhood,” Birdy continued, her blue eyes piercing through you as she spoke. “I certainly expect you’ll be just as wonderful an addition as she has been.”

Teeth gritting together, you felt the edge of something like a threat in her words. A warning to stay out of their business. 

“I’m rather a private person,” you replied, noticing the faint arch to her brow at your words, “but I’m sure we’ll get along just fine, Birdy.”

“Ahh, lovely then,” Birdy said easily. “I suppose I’ll let ya get settled in, dear. I’m sure it was a long flight for ya from the States. Wonderful chatting with you both.”

“You as well,” you told her. “And thank you–” you said, raising the bottle of wine in your hand, “–for the welcoming gift.”

Birdy’s smile somehow only grew, though whether the smile was genuine or still meant as a warning you couldn’t quite decipher. But it had unsettled you a bit.

“Of course, dear," she replied. "I’m sure we’ll chat again quite soon.”

You watched as she turned, her heels clicking along the pavement as she sauntered off down the driveway and across the street. She’d left you with a strange feeling in your stomach, wondering whether she truly was as friendly and safe as Megan made her out to be or not. But there was certainly more to her than just being the sweet lady from across the street.

Spinning on your heel when Birdy had disappeared, you turned and raised a brow at your sister on the other side of the car. Megan rolled her eyes.

"What?" she asked in exasperation. "She was nice ."

You pointed a thumb over your shoulder in the direction Birdy had just left. "That's nice to you? Because to me that screamed keep your fucking head down and stay out of our shit."

Megan shrugged, making her way to the trunk of her car. "So? You'll be doing exactly that anyway, why does it matter?" Megan asked.

"Because I'd like to keep my head," you told her, making your way over to the trunk.

Your sister opened it, grabbing one of your suitcases and pulling it out with a huff. You reached in, tossing your duffle bag over your shoulder before pulling out the last suitcase. As you adjusted the strap of the bag on your shoulder, Megan reached up and closed the trunk. She hesitated, eyeing you seriously as her hand wrapped around the handle of your luggage.

“I’ve already told you, they’re not going to take an interest in you,” she pressed.

“Oh, really? Is that why I’m getting a welcoming gift from what I presume is probably the damn matriarch?” you whispered harshly.

“Good lord you have written too many of those damn mafia books,” she muttered, turning and dragging your suitcase to the front door with her.

“Well I certainly had enough fucking inspiration for them,” you whispered under your breath.

You followed up the driveway behind your sister, coming to a stop as she took a minute to unlock the door. A moment later she opened it and you were stepping inside behind her, your eyes examining every inch of her house. It was certainly cozy, with a small kitchen and table just off of the front little entryway. Everything looked clean and well organized. You spotted a few plants near the big window.

“So, this is the kitchen, obviously,” Megan said, gesturing a hand at the space as she kept walking forward. “Here is the living room,” she continued as she pointed out the big room just past the kitchen and a staircase to your left. “Though here they call it a sitting room.” She paused, shooting you a smile over her shoulder. “You’re going to sound very American for a while here.”

“That’d be because I am,” you replied.

She rolled her eyes playfully at you before gesturing to a door just in the corner of the space. “Half bathroom.” She turned, gesturing to a sliding glass door on the far end of the living room. “The backyard. Or the garden I suppose is the term here. And then,” she said, hefting your bag up into her arms as she began to ascend the stairs, “the bedrooms are up here.”

Getting a good hold on your bag, you followed your sister up the handful of stairs. Eventually you came to a short landing, setting your bag down as your sister tried to catch her breath.

“Feels like this weighs a hundred pounds,” she complained, pushing some hair off of her forehead. “Right, well, my room is just here,” she told you, pointing at the door on the far left. “Full bathroom here,” she said, gesturing to a door in the middle. “And then your room.”

Megan led the way to the room on the far right, pushing the door open with her shoulder as she pulled your suitcase inside. Dragging your other bag behind her, you made your way in and took in the sight of where you’d be staying for a while. The room wasn’t large, just big enough for a queen sized bed and a small, upright dresser in the far corner. There was a big window just beside the dresser too, a curtain drawn across it.

“You like it?” Megan asked hopefully as she set your luggage by the bed’s footboard.

Nodding, you stepped over to the bed, rolling your suitcase up against it before dropping your duffle bag onto the mattress. “Yeah,” you told her. “It’s bright in here. And you always had a knack for decor.”

“It’s nothing extravagant,” she told you as you made your way over to the window. “But it’s big enough for the both of us. And the garden is nice, you’ll love it out there.”

Pushing back the curtain, the first thing your eyes saw was another window directly across from it. It looked like it was barely ten feet away from yours. There were curtains drawn over the window, but despite that you could easily surmise it was probably the bedroom window of the aforementioned Michael Kinsella. A frown settled onto your lips at that realization. 

Great, so the man fresh out of prison could easily peep into your room while you slept. That certainly didn’t make you uncomfortable. 

Sighing, you turned back around towards your sister, crossing your arms over your chest. You sent her a smile, one which she readily returned.

“Sorry I’ve been an ass,” you apologized. “I appreciate what you’re doing, letting me stay here. Really. It’s just been a long trip and the time difference is killing me. And I’m–I’m a little stressed knowing there’s people just next door who’d probably be very uncomfortable knowing a neighbor is living here under a false identity.”

“Not like you’re a threat to them,” Megan said.

You blew out a rough breath, your head turning over your shoulder to glance out the window behind you. “No, I’m not,” you agreed softly, eyes lingering on the neighboring window. “But I know how people like them think. One little thing seems off and then they’re all over you. Wondering if you’re an undercover fed or cop.”

“Guard,” Megan cut in, catching your attention. “They call the garda–the police here–guards. Just so you know. But I highly doubt they’re going to take an interest in some quiet novelist.”

“Well, considering I write ‘those damn mafia books’,” you said, uncrossing your arms to air quote your sister’s words, “and they're under my real name, I’d think they could get curious.”

“You’re already telling people it’s a pen name,” Megan said with a wave of her hand. “No one’s going to bat an eye.”

“Right,” you mumbled. Feeling the weight of your fatigue settling in, you asked her, “You uh, you mind if I just have a chance to settle in? Maybe grab a shower and a nap?” 

“Oh! No, sorry,” Megan said quickly, making her way towards the door. “Get comfortable, of course. I bet you’re beat. I’ve got spare towels under the sink in the bathroom, too. And if you need anything just holler. I don’t have a shift at the hospital until later tonight so I’ll be around. And there’s some food in the fridge, help yourself to whatever.”

You sent Megan a warm smile as she headed to the door, but after a few steps she hesitated in the doorframe. Eventually she turned, glancing at you over her shoulder.

“I’m glad you’re here,” she whispered. 

“Me too,” you replied.

You watched as Megan made her way out of the room and across the landing, listening to her footsteps as she descended the stairs. When you finally were alone, you trudged over to one of your suitcases, lying it down on its side. You unzipped it, digging around a minute for some comfortable clothing to dress into before grabbing your bag of toiletries. Afterwards you headed out of your room to the bathroom just beside it. 

You set your clothes and toiletry bag onto the bathroom counter and then bent down, searching for a clean towel in the vanity. You pulled out a soft, fluffy blue towel and then rose to your feet, spotting an extra towel hook by the shower. Walking over, you hung the towel up before reaching a hand into the shower, turning the water on and letting the water warm up. The spray came out loud, the noise sharp to your ears in the silence.

Turning around, you grabbed the hem of your sweater and slipped it up and over your head before tossing it to the floor. You discarded your bra next before slipping out of your jeans and underwear. But before you could focus back on the shower, your eyes caught sight of your reflection in the mirror and you paused.

There were a few bags under your eyes, no thanks to the flight you’d just endured and the stress of actually getting onto that flight and getting out of the States. You certainly looked as tired as you felt. And your hair looked a little dingy, in desperate need of a wash. Inevitably your eyes dropped lower to the sight of the three long, thin scar lines that were drawn across your stomach. Your right hand reached up, fingertips lightly tracing the length of the healed-over skin. 

Exhaling a shuddering breath, your hand eventually dropped back to your side. Forcing your eyes back up to meet your own in the reflection, you reminded yourself that you were safe now. Hidden. And if you laid low long enough, maybe one day you’d truly be free again. 

[farfromstrange]

Pain Relief | Michael Kinsella x F!Reader

Masterlist

Pairing: Michael Kinsella x F!Reader

Summary: You're on your period and you tend to get bad periods, but today is a particularly rough day. You call in sick from work, and when Mikey comes home to find you still in bed, he gets worried. When he finds out why you're writhing in pain, he doesn't hesitate to help you out.

Warnings: Description of period symptoms, use of pain killers, mentions of menstrual blood, fluff, fluff, FLUFF.

Word Count: 2.9k

A/n: So I just got my period and I could barely move for the past three hours. I wrote this while I was literally bawling from the pain, but I thought some of you might need this as well. There is a serious lack of period comfort with Mikey.

It’s half past three in the afternoon, and the sun is up over Dublin, a welcome change in the usually so dull weather. You should be sitting in the backyard with a book and a cup of tea and enjoy the nature behind your house. Instead, you are bound to the bed. 

Every muscle in your body aches. The stabbing pain in the left side of your lower abdomen spreads into your legs, making it impossible to move without feeling like you might pass out. The pain comes and goes in heavy waves. Your muscles contract and you can only whimper as the cramps ripple through your stomach. You’ve tried all kinds of positions, but either your back starts hurting or the pressure you can feel on your lower half gets worse, so you find yourself flipping around every five minutes, and it’s starting to get exhausting. 

It’s not unusual that you wake up long after Michael has gone out, especially not when you have a late shift, though today when you woke up and the bed was empty, you found yourself crying at the loss of warmth. And when you went to the bathroom and realized just why you’ve been feeling like utter shit the past week, you knew that you had to call in sick. Working in the state you're in is not something you can do or should do.

It’s worse this time around. You’re not sure why. Maybe you have been working a little too much lately and the stress is finally getting to you, but it seems almost rude of your uterus to treat you like a criminal during your period. You’ve taken as much Ibuprofen as you could find in the medical cabinet, and it still wasn’t enough. It got to the point where you cried yourself into a restless nap. But the pain only continues to roll you over like a bulldozer.

Now you’re alone at home, the afternoon sun streaming in through the curtains, and you still feel like shit. Another sharp cramp hits you, and you roll onto your side, pulling your knees up to your chest. It elevates the pressure only for a moment before the pain returns tenfold and you try to lie on the other side, curling around your boyfriend’s pillow and hoping that maybe that will help. 

It doesn’t.

You’re not strong enough to get up and grab a hot water bottle or take a shower. You’re stuck here. For a moment, the thought of calling Michael and asking him to come home crosses your mind, but it instantly makes you feel bad. He has more important things to do than to take care of you through something that you’ve been having for years, and before him, you managed perfectly fine on your own. You’re not sure how because you are immobile at this point, but it’s not his responsibility, you think. 

After another miserable hour of agony, the key rattles in the lock. You listen to his distinctive movements as he drops the bag with his prescription on the dining table, takes off his jacket, and grabs himself a glass of water before going on a search for you. 

Michael is more than surprised to find your car in the driveway. He figures you might have come home from work earlier, and that makes him smile, but then he notices that the house is unusually quiet and he grows worried. 

He makes his way up the stairs toward your shared bedroom. He knocks. When you don’t answer, he pushes it open just enough to step inside. The curtains are still in the same position he left them, and you’re still in bed. Under any other circumstances, he would have figured you decided to take a nap after work, but you’re still wearing his shirt that you went to bed with, there is a pack of Ibuprofen on the nightstand and an empty water bottle lying next to your frame on the mattress. 

You’re not okay, and he doesn’t have to ask you to know that. 

“Love?” he says softly. You must be sensitive to light today or the curtains wouldn’t be closed. “I’m back.”

You have your back turned to him. At the sound of his voice, tears well up in your eyes. You missed him a little too much, but now that he’s back, you realize how miserable you look and how ghastly you must smell after hours spent in bed without properly moving. You wouldn’t be surprised if you bled onto the sheets.

The mattress dips as he sits down. “What’s wrong?”

You sniffle and answer, “I’m fine.”

“Yer not fine.”

With a grunt, you manage to roll over. When he sees the sunken bags under your eyes and how pale you are, his eyes soften even more. Michael reaches out to touch your face. “What happened?” he asks. “Are you hurt?”

“I called in sick,” you admit, “because I got my period this morning.”

“Oh.”

“I’m sorry, it’s nothing serious, I promise.” As if to demonstrate, you try to sit up, but your arms lose balance and your face contorts as another cramp tears through your uterus. “Fuck me!” This time, you can’t stop the tears from falling, and you grab a pillow to bury your face in it. The sounds you let out are utterly broken, the exhaustion palpable. 

His hand moves from your face to your arm. “That doesn’t sound like nothin’, love. Ya look like yer in quite a lot of pain.”

“It’s okay, don’t worry about me.”

“I do.” 

“I can handle it.”

“Ya should have called me,” he says. He inches a little closer. “I could have helped ya, maybe got ya something stronger for the pain.”

Another tear slides down your cheek and you look up at him. “I didn’t want to be a burden,” you choke out.

His heart breaks when he realizes that you didn’t tell him because you felt guilty, maybe even a little disgusted. “But yer not–”

“This is not something you should have to concern yourself with.”

“I love ya, of course, your wellbeing concerns me.”

“It’s just a period.”

Michael offers you a soft smile. “Exactly. Nothing I can’t handle.” He strokes your arm. “Is it always that bad?”

You shrug. 

He reaches out to wipe your tears. “So it is?”

“It just…” your eyes look helpless as they stare into his. “It hurts so much and nothing helps.”

He grunts in the back of his throat. That’s why the Ibuprofen is still lying next to you. Michael hates a lot of things, but seeing you cry is definitely the worst because it hurts him just the same. “Oh, my love–” he cradles your cheek, and your eyes flutter shut at the impact, fresh tears pearling off your lashes. “Ya should have called,” he says again. His voice is soft, it doesn’t hurt your head more than it already does, but the guilt has nestled its way into your brain. 

You don’t want to be weak. It’s bad enough you have to use a sick day every month around the first or second day of your period. Now that Michael is in your life, this is new territory for both of you. You’ve never had someone around on bad days, and he’s not used to seeing the effect a bad period has on you because you’ve only just moved in together and before that, you isolated yourself for a day to get better and then swallowed the rest of the pain after. This is bad though, and you hate that you still have found no way to manage it. No doctor or scientist has found a cure for the kind of pain you and many other women experience for many months, and your hormones are so all over the place that even taking the pill will only make it worse. 

You hate yourself and you hate being a woman, especially right now, maybe only right now, but the world just sucks and you want nothing more than to crawl under a rock and die. 

He leans down, his lips brushing your temple. “Shh,” he coos. “I’m here now. Let me help ya."

“How?” you ask. You don’t have the strength to argue as another cramp seemingly knocks the air out of your lungs, and you want nothing more than for it to stop or at least ease up one way or another. 

Michael offers a helping hand and you would be stupid to deny it. You can’t. Your body is too weak to withstand it on its own. You don’t want to be alone. The whirlwind of emotions inside of you feels like such a mess and it’s stupid; you feel like an idiot, but you’re also sad and angry and frustrated and in pain, and it has to stop. You need it to stop. 

He starts rubbing your arm more firmly now. “First, let’s get ya in the shower. I’ll take care of the rest,” he says. 

“I can’t stand–”

“Okay, pet, c’mere.” 

With what little strength you have left, you climb into his arms. He lifts you up with ease, your legs wrapping around his waist, and he carries you to the bathroom. He even holds you as he turns on the shower and makes sure the water is warm enough for you, making sure you don’t fall over. When it comes to taking your clothes off though, you blush. 

“What?” He stops at the hem of your shirt. 

You cross your arms. “I don’t want you to see, you know, the blood,” you say, your voice barely above a whisper. “It’s disgusting.”

He gives you a stare of confusion before it turns blank and then the bastard even has the audacity to laugh at you. 

Your eyes widen and you stare at him. “It’s not funny!” The tears in your eyes stem from anger now. 

He catches onto them, and his laughter dies into a small chuckle, his arms wrapping around you. “I’m sorry,” he says. “I’m so sorry, I– I’m just– yer scared I’ll get disgusted… by the sight of blood. Me.”

“Yes, and that’s not funny!” You try not to sob, but you fail miserably. 

Michael takes you back into his arms, his broad shoulders caging you in. He has you fully engulfed now, his lips pressed to the crown of your head. “I’m sorry, love. I didn’t mean it in a bad way, I just… I don’t mind the blood, okay? I don’t mind any blood. Ya know that.”

“I know.” You cling to him. 

Still, it feels like such a huge step in your relationship, one that isn’t fresh but it’s also not years in the making either, and you simply don’t want him to see you like that. But you also know that standing straight with the pain that is tearing your lower abdomen to shreds is a task that’s going to exert you to the point you might as well fall unconscious. 

“I’ll turn around if that’s what you want, I just want to help,” he says. His puppy-dog eyes meet yours. “Will ya let me do that?”

You take a deep breath. “It’s gonna be a crime scene.”

“Lucky me that I didn’t cause that one, eh?”

Your brain takes a moment to process the words, and they sound so nonchalant coming out of his mouth. His smile is bright and a little mischievous and you can’t help but laugh a little. He can be such a dork if he wants to be. 

“Shut up,” you mutter as you begin taking your shirt off. 

Michael rushes to your rescue. “Made you laugh,” he says. 

“Astute observation, Mister Kinsella.”

“Shut up,” he mimics you, and you can’t help but chuckle again. 

“I’m in pain, I get to say what I want.”

“Fair point.”

He helps you out of the rest of your clothing before turning around as he promised. You step under the warm water, holding onto the wall for leverage. You feel dizzy. All the lying around and the lack of sustenance have caused your blood sugar to plummet, and it’s gradually going down. 

He is by your side in seconds, his promise to stay behind long forgotten. He holds you up, washes your hair, and the sweat off your skin. You protest at first, but he shoots it down with a gentle kiss to your lips, and then you’re on fire again and you can’t deny it feels good to be taken care of. It’s relaxing, almost.

The pain continues to wash over you, but at least you have someone to hold onto now. If you had been fully lucid, you would have cursed him and thrown him out, but you have to admit that you need help. You need his help. He understands you in ways no one else can, and he is the first man to prioritize your well-being when it comes to your period. He’s not disgusted, he’s merely worried and he loves you. That’s something you have to get used to; it might take some time, but Michael does it in a way that makes you feel safe. He has never made you feel anything short of safe. He’s your home. You need him, that’s no longer a secret, and you allow yourself to let loose a little. 

It’s easier to breathe now. He washes you carefully, gets you one of his oversized shirts (his sweaters are too warm, you tell him), and even helps you brush your teeth for the first time today. 

Soon enough, you’re tucked back into bed, once again put on bed rest, while he rummages around downstairs in the kitchen. There is a knock on the front door. You can hear Michael’s voice and is that… Jimmy? It doesn’t last long though, and you hear the stairs creak as he makes his way back to you. 

You’re curled into a ball on your side. Michael smiles when he sees you, obviously a lot more relaxed than before, and closes the door behind him again. He’s carrying a tray with a plate of different variations of fruits, a cup of tea, water, a Coke, and two different kinds of pills. The latter makes you frown. 

“Made you some food before ya pass out,” he says. 

You make some space for him to sit next to you. “Thanks,” you say, then point to the pills. “What’s that?”

“I asked Jimmy if they had something against nausea and maybe some painkillers that might be stronger than the ones ya have here. He just brought them over.”

“Mikey…” You tear up again, but this time not because of the pain. He is so considerate, it makes your heart swell. And maybe it’s a little because of the pain. 

He hands you the water bottle. “Here, take ‘em.”

“You didn’t have to do all this.”

“Nonsense, I– well, I guess I just want to be a good man for ya, and if that means taking care of you while yer on your period, I take my job very seriously.”

“It’s not your responsibility.”

He shakes his head. “You are, my love. I love ya, which means I’m here, always, and I want ya to tell me when yer not feeling well.” Guiding the bottle and the pills to your lips, he smiles. “Now take your pills. Don’t want ta have to tell ya twice.”

You swallow them without hesitation. At some point during your relationship, you gave up on asking what kind of medication his brother and his wife keep around and just hope they haven’t given you any hard drugs. But Michael wouldn’t let that happen, anyway. 

He senses your struggle for a comfortable position and moves the tray aside so you can sit between his thighs. He wraps his arms around you, pulling you into his chest. Your legs pull up instantly, wanting to get rid of the annoying pain in your front, but his next action confuses you. He forces them back down and on either side of his thighs before he slips his large hand under your shirt and places it over your stomach. 

You gasp, feeling a little exposed, but then his fingers start kneading your skin and you crumble completely. Your head drops back against his shoulder. It feels like magic. He’s massaging the sore muscles of your lower stomach while at the same time numbing all other oncoming cramps. He pushes a button inside of you that instantly makes you slack in his arms, and he holds you tighter around your shoulders with the free one.

“How’s that?” he asks. 

“Don’t stop,” is all you know how to answer. 

“So… what?”

“It’s good.”

“Okay, grand.”

“Yeah. Now shut up.”

He chuckles, burying his nose in your hair that now smells like his shampoo, and he continues digging his fingers right where you need them.

Your body grows limp after a while, and when he looks down to check on you, your eyes are closed. You’ve fallen asleep in his arms, and there are no more creases of worry on your face.

Michael presses another kiss to your temple. “Good girl,” he says.

Then, he retreats his hand and gently lays you next to him. He tucks you in the same way he did before. You’re quick to move around in your sleep until you’ve found him again, and your head subconsciously moves to his chest. 

He doesn’t waste time wrapping his arms around you and holding you close, just like every night. And you know that when you wake up, he will be right by your side, not leaving until he’s certain that you’re feeling better. 

Mikey Tag List: @acharliecoxedfan @lina-mar @itwasthereaminuteago @mattkinsella @norestfortheshelbywicked (if any more of you want to be added, let me know)

But also tagging @bellaxgiornata bc I know you're on a Mikey trip and I think you might want to read this, darling <3

[weepingfoxfury]

The man on the radio talks of Fridays and Solstice and longest days. Weatherwise it's humid with a heavy background helping of someone having something noisy done to their driveway. The chef on the radio is all about burgers, blue cheese and rib eye steak. The man on the radio throws on Cheeseburger in Paradise by Jimmy Buffet as the chef shuffles out of the studio. The traffic lady is all about Galway, The Old Dublin Road, Murphy's Cross and The Bog Road.

Today's groaner: what kind of soap does a dolphin use? ... All porpoise cleaner ;-D badoom tish ... here all week!!

The bbq kits are stacked high in the shiny metropolis. Oh what piles of irony for a place that's wetter than wet most of the year and getting wetter still. Advert after advert on the radio for such things, plus offer after offer on patio furniture. At least there are prettier things to look at. Quite happily took time away from the commercial crap to gaze at the water and watch the birds.

One and only marble is just about rolling. Coffee and a little quiet and not a soul in sight is the order of the day. Friday, Friday, Friday and an old black and white offering on the TV ...

[books-in-a-storm]

Book Of The Week

Title: Hunters Creek Archangel's Warriors MC #1 Bull's Duchess

Author: Ciara St. James

Pages: 351

Synopsis:

Jocelyn: Being a teenage mother, Jocelyn knew what it was to struggle for everything she had. Disowned and abandoned, she fought to make a life for herself and her daughter. Now, her daughter is on her way to fulfilling her dreams. Jocelyn has no time for men, that is, until the night a silver-fox biker roars into her driveway. He makes her body come to life, unlike it has ever done before. However, everyone knows a happily ever after isn’t something you look for with a biker.

Bull: As the Co-founder and Charter President of the Archangel’s Warriors, he has led his club for more than two decades. He raised his daughter without a mother. Now, his daughter is grown, married to the President of the Dublin Falls chapter and a mother. Bull is a grandfather. However, when he meets Jocelyn, he realizes he’s not content to remain alone. He feels something for her that is intense, fast, and frightening. He feels the burn to make her his. Now, he desires to love again and wishes to start life again. But only if it’s with his duchess.

[loveroftoomanyfandoms]

It's Always Been Us - Michael Kinsella x Reader (Chapter 3 - Michael)

Rating: Explicit

Pairing: Michael Kinsella x F!Reader

Story Summary: The continuing saga of Michael and Reader from Michael's PoV, starting with the morning after It's Always Been You.

Warnings/Tags for entire story: S2E7 & S2E8 AU, Oral sex (m & f receiving), p in v sex (like... a lot of it -- these two have 20 years to make up for), past attempted non-con (if you've seen S2 you know what's up), other additional tags to be added as we go along.

Word Count: ~2400 for this chapter

A/N: And we're back with part 1 of Mikey and Reader's big date! Enjoy!

Michael took a deep breath as he walked back down Y/N's driveway. He honestly hadn't expected their conversation with Anna to go nearly as well as it had, but thankfully Anna had ultimately agreed to stay away from Bren.

What Michael wasn't pleased about was the newfound knowledge that no matter how much he had tried to protect Y/N from his father's predatory ways, Bren had still managed to get his hands on her. 

As he had sat and listened to Y/N recount her trauma, it had taken every ounce of self-control he had to not go hunt Bren down and kill the bastard right then and there. The only reason Michael was sticking to the plan was because he finally felt like he was at least getting a chance to be happy, and he didn't want to fuck that up by going back to prison for killing his father in broad daylight.

He shook his head. He had a lot to do in order to prepare for his and Y/N's date and not a lot of time in which to get it all done, so he needed to focus.

He had already made dinner reservations online, so next on his list was flowers.

Florist Dublin, he typed into the search bar on his phone's web browser, scrolling through the list of results until he found a nearby flower shop within walking distance that also happened to conveniently be located next door to a wine shop.

As he walked there, he grinned to himself at the thought of possibly having gotten to take Y/N out as teenagers, a bright smile blooming on her face as Michael shyly handed her a single red rose upon picking her up for their first date.

"Good afternoon," the clerk, an older lady with gray hair, said as he entered the shop. "May I help ya, sir?"

"Err, ah, yes, ma'am," Michael replied, looking around at the different arrangements. "I'm lookin' fer some flowers."

The clerk let out a gentle laugh. "Well, ya've certainly come to tha right place, dearie. What's tha occasion?"

"Well, it's fer a date." Michael couldn't help but smile. "A firs' date, actually, but she's been my best friend fer years." 

The clerk nodded in understanding. "Do you know wha' kind a' flowers she likes?"

Michael thought for a moment. In all his years of knowing Y/N he actually had never known her to have mentioned receiving flowers from anyone. "Actually, no."

"Okay, in tha' case, maybe roses? It's a classic tha' never goes out 'a style." The clerk pulled out a binder, flipping through it briefly before turning it to face Michael then pointing at the photograph of a bouquet of roses. "Perhaps a mix of yellow and white then, symbolizing friendship and new beginnings."

Michael nodded. "That sounds grand. How soon can ya have it done?"

"Luckily we keep plenty of roses on hand, so… twenty minutes or so?"

"Perfect." Michael paid for the flowers then popped into the wine shop next door to look for a bottle of champagne while he waited for the bouquet to be ready, then on a whim he went into the hardware store across the street to look for some LED candles.

He collected his purchases and headed home, putting the roses in some water to keep them fresh until the evening.

He marked them off of his to-do list then smiled as a text from Y/N arrived. Ya busy? 

Nah, not really, Michael replied. Just straightening up around the house.

Good, because I need some help deciding what to wear. 

A new message arrived, this one with an attachment.

Michael's throat went dry as he opened it. Fuckin' hell.

Y/N had sent several photos of herself modeling various lingerie sets, the marks Michael had left on her proudly on display. 

Michael swallowed before replying. Honestly, pet, ya look beautiful in all of them.

Mmm, so that means surprise ya, then?

One more photo arrived. Y/N was topless in this one, her left arm strategically covering her breasts.

Michael huffed out a breath, fighting to keep all of his blood from rushing south. Keep that up and we won't even make it to dinner.

Maybe that's what I'm counting on.

Michael grinned. Patience, pet. You're definitely gonna need your strength for later tonight.

Mmm, I'm looking forward to it. 

Me too. See ya soon, love.

Michael stuck his phone back in his pocket and finished unloading his purchases, putting the champagne in his refrigerator before setting the candles up.

He headed upstairs, changing the covers on his bed before going to take another shower.

As he stood under the hot spray of water, his mind drifted back to the photos Y/N had sent him earlier that day.

He could picture her spread out beneath him, little whimpers and moans escaping her lips as Michael slowly peeled whichever lingerie set she had chosen to wear off of her then kissed and marked his way down her body to her warm, waiting core --

He shook his head. He was already running a bit behind, he didn't have time for shower fantasies at the moment.

He hurried through his shower then pulled on a suit before drying and styling his hair.

He examined himself in the mirror. The last time he had worn a suit had been at Jamie's funeral over a year ago.

Y/N was one of the few people who had always known the truth -- that Michael, not Jimmy, had been Jamie's biological father -- and had agreed to accompany Michael to the funeral despite Amanda's explicit demands for a private service attended only by family.

Y/N may not be a Kinsella in name , Birdy had said when Amanda had protested Y/N's presence, but she is family. She has every right to be here as the rest of us.

After the service, Y/N had gone back to Michael's with him and held him as he had privately cried over the loss of his son. "I'm here fer ya, love, ya can let it out," she had murmured into his ear while gently stroking his hair. "I know, it's okay, I'm here, I've got ya."

Once Michael had cried himself out Y/N had pressed a gentle kiss to his forehead and gotten up from Michael's sofa.

He had assumed she had been getting ready to leave but instead she had returned with a warm, wet washcloth and gently wiped the tears from Michael's face before grabbing a blanket and covering the both of them up. 

"I'm not goin' anywhere," she had said after Michael had said as much. "Not as long as ya need me here wit' ya."

In hindsight, Michael was surprised that he hadn't confessed his love for her that day. The emotions that had been rolling around in him had been a strange mix of grief over the loss of Jamie combined with his love for Y/N and gratitude for the comfort she brought to him. 

He shook his head. He wasn't going to dwell on the regrets of the past, he was going to focus on his future with Y/N. 

He made sure he had his keys and wallet then headed downstairs, grabbing the bouquet of roses as the cab he had called for pulled up.

"Good evenin'," the cab driver said as Michael climbed in. "Where ta?"

Michael gave Y/N's address. "And then 1900 Bar and Restaurant."

The cabbie nodded and input the addresses into his GPS. "Alrigh', we'll have ya at yer firs' location in a jif'."

Michael sat back as the cab began to move, and a couple of minutes later, the cab pulled up to Y/N's.

Michael opened the door. "I'll be right back."

He walked up to Y/N's door and rang the bell, butterflies beginning to flutter in his stomach.

He could hear Y/N's heels clicking across the floor as she approached the door, and after a brief pause, the door opened.

Michael's heart skipped a beat.

Y/N looked breathtaking in a long black dress with a slit up the side and a top that covered her chest and wrapped around her neck, hiding the love bites Michael had left on her the night before.

…As beautiful as she looked in it, Michael couldn't wait to get her out of it later.

He mentally shook his head. Dinner first, then dessert.

A slow smile spread across Y/N's lips. "Hello, love."

Michael smiled back at her. "Ya look mesmerizin', pet." 

He held the roses out. "These are fer ya."

Y/N took the bouquet. "Oh Mikey, they're beautiful."

Michael rubbed the back of his neck nervously. "Tha, uh, tha woman a' tha shop said they symbolize friendship and new beginnin's."

Y/N gave him a kiss on the cheek. "I absolutely love 'em. Let me go pop 'em in some water before we go."

Michael nodded. "Okay."

He waited as she went to put her flowers into a vase, then they headed to the waiting cab.

He opened the door for her and gestured for her to get in. "Ladies firs'."

He waited for Y/N to get in then slid in after her, taking her hand as the car began to move once again.

Y/N smiled over at him. "By the way, ya look amazin' too, love."

Michael grinned. "Thank ya. So how was yer afternoon?"

Y/N shrugged. "It was grand. Went ta tha grocer's and finished up some housework, then got ready fer our date. How was yers?"

"Same. Ran some errands then got ready fer tonigh'." Michael gave Y/N's hand a soft squeeze. "Ya have no idea how many times I've imagined gettin' ta take ya out on a date. I still can't believe I'm actually gettin' tha chance."

"Me too." Y/N squeezed his hand back. "I never thought ya'd feel tha same way about me as I feel about ya."

Michael shook his head. "I've loved ya fer a long time, pet."

They rode in comfortable silence the rest of the way to the restaurant.

After thanking their driver, Michael slid out of the car then extended his hand to Y/N. 

Y/N took it and stepped out, a beautiful smile across her face.

Michael opened the door to the restaurant and they walked in.

"Good evenin', welcome to that 1900," the maitre'd said as they approached the host stand. "Do ya have a reservation with us?"

Michael nodded. "Fer 6:30. Name's 'Kinsella'."

The maitre'd tapped on a computer screen. "Ah, yes, sir. Righ' this way."

He escorted them to a private table near the bar. "Here we are. Yer server'll be righ' wit' ya."

Michael nodded as he pulled Y/N's chair out for her. "Thank ya."

Y/N smiled up at Michael as she sat. "So gentlemanly. Thank you, love."

Michael sat across from her with a grin. "Yer' welcome, pet."

He looked around. "This is nice."

Y/N nodded as she opened her menu. "Yeah, I've heard good things."

A few seconds later their server walked up to pour them each a glass of water and take their drink orders.

After they had gone, Y/N gave Michael a cheeky grin. "So… Michael, tell me a bit abou' yerself."

Michael chuckled and took a sip of his water. "Well, I'm widowed with a 16-year-old daughter, I spent 8 years in prison, and I'm hopelessly in love wit' my childhood best mate, who's tha mos' beautiful woman I've ever met both inside and out."

Y/N let out a light laugh. "Hmm, well okay, I can work wit' tha'."

Michael gestured to her. "Your turn. Tell me about yerself."

"Well, I've never been married and have no children but I do have a sort-of niece tha's always been more like a daughter ta me, and I'm also hopelessly in love wit' my childhood best mate, who is the sweetest, kindest, mos' caring, loving, and handsome man I've ever clapped eyes on."

Michael grinned as their server came to deliver their drinks and take their orders. "Glad ta see we have somethin' in common then."

Y/N shot him a wink. "Few things."

Michael shook his head. "Seriously though, love, thank ya for always bein' there fer me."

Y/N bit her lip, then nodded. "Yer' my best mate and one of tha mos' important people in my life, Mikey. Nothin's ever gonna change tha'."

Michael nodded back. "I feel tha same way about ya too, pet."

Their conversation flowed easily throughout dinner, switching back and forth from their usual jokes and good-natured ribbing with each other to more serious topics, like Y/N's latest shifts at the hospital and their discussion with Anna earlier that day.

Michael was still curious what Y/N had spoken privately to her about, but believed Y/N when she had said that Anna was fine physically and that if she had been in any sort of danger that Y/N would let him know.

After they had eaten and he had paid the check, he bit his lip with a smile. "So I was wonderin', uh, would ya be interested in continuin' tha evenin' by comin' over ta my place fer a nightcap?"

Y/N grinned as she pretended to think. "Well, I don' normally go home wit' someone on tha firs' date," she replied, "but we've been gettin' on so well tha' I don' see the harm in one drink."

Michael stood and held his hand out to her. "Shall we, then?"

Y/N stood as well and took his offered hand. "Yeah, let's go."

They headed outside and hailed a cab, then were on their way back to Michael's.

Michael's stomach fluttered in anticipation as they pulled up to his house. 

He took Y/N's hand as they stepped out of the cab. "Well, here we are."

Y/N gave his hand a little squeeze as they walked up the driveway to Michael's front door. "Jus' so ya know, this has been tha bes' firs' date I've ever been on."

Michael smiled. "Yeah, fer me too."

He unlocked the door and led her inside, hoping that the rest of their evening would go just as well.

[newstyledriveways]

Top 5 Reasons to Choose Block Paving for Your Dublin Driveway Renovation

Imagine pulling up to a beautifully paved driveway with clean lines, a unique pattern, and a welcoming feel that complements your home. In Dublin, where weather and wear demand robust solutions, block paving offers a long-lasting and versatile option for homeowners looking to upgrade their driveways.

If you are considering a driveway renovation, understanding the unique qualities of block paving can make all the difference. Let’s start by taking a closer look at block paving and why it’s such a popular choice.

What Is Block Paving?

Block paving involves arranging individual bricks or blocks to create durable surfaces for driveways, patios, and pathways. Unlike poured concrete, the interlocking structure of block paving adapts to ground movement, preventing cracks and providing a stable, resilient surface that can endure Dublin’s changing weather. This flexibility, combined with the ability to replace individual blocks, makes block paving a practical choice for homeowners.

This paving material has become increasingly popular among homeowners, especially in cities like Dublin, where driveways need to withstand regular use and challenging weather. This surge in popularity can be attributed to its durability and ability to elevate the appearance of a home’s exterior without extensive maintenance. With more homeowners recognising the value of a well-designed driveway that balances practicality and curb appeal, block paving has quickly emerged as a top choice for modern driveway renovations.

Why Choose Block Paving for Your Dublin Driveway? 

1. Versatile Design Options

Block paving offers an extensive range of design possibilities. The blocks come in various shapes, sizes, and colours, allowing homeowners to create patterns that align with their aesthetic preferences. Some popular patterns include herringbone, basketweave, and stretcher bond. Each offers a unique visual effect and varying levels of structural strength.

Herringbone patterns, for instance, are particularly popular because they offer high load-bearing capacity, making them ideal for driveways. This versatility allows you to tailor your driveway’s look to match your home’s architectural style or create a striking contrast that enhances curb appeal. The choice of materials—such as clay or concrete—also impacts the final appearance. Clay blocks typically offer richer, earth-toned hues, while concrete blocks provide a broader colour range.

2. Durability and Strength

This paving material is known for its strength and ability to withstand heavy traffic. The interlocking structure distributes weight evenly, preventing cracks and making it ideal for high-traffic areas like driveways. Dublin’s variable weather poses no issue, as block paving materials like concrete and clay are designed to resist erosion and wear.

3. Low Maintenance

Compared to other driveway materials, block paving is relatively low maintenance. Routine cleaning with a broom or power washer is often sufficient to keep it looking new. Additionally, if a block becomes stained or damaged, replacing it individually without disrupting the entire driveway is easy.

Weeds can sometimes grow in the joints between blocks, but this is manageable with occasional maintenance. Some homeowners choose to apply joint stabilising sand, which helps lock the blocks in place and reduces the likelihood of weed growth. This level of upkeep is minor compared to the maintenance needs of other surfaces, like asphalt, which may require regular sealing or resurfacing.

4. Eco-Friendly Drainage

Block paving is an environmentally friendly driveway option due to its permeable nature. The small gaps between blocks allow rainwater to drain naturally, reducing surface runoff and minimising the risk of flooding. In Dublin, where rainy days are common, this natural drainage capability is particularly advantageous, as it prevents puddling and reduces the strain on local drainage systems.

Furthermore, many block paving materials are designed to comply with SUDS (Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems). This means they meet standards for sustainable water management. This feature not only benefits the environment but also prevents water from pooling on the driveway, which can cause damage over time.

5. Increases Property Value and Kerb Appeal

Block paving can significantly enhance a property’s kerb appeal, creating a polished, welcoming look that appeals to visitors and potential buyers alike. A block-paved driveway gives a property a well-maintained appearance, positively impacting its market value. In case you didn’t know, homes with attractive, functional driveways often fetch higher prices, as potential buyers appreciate the added durability and aesthetic appeal of block paving.

The ability to customise block paving also contributes to its value-adding potential. A beautifully designed, well-kept driveway can make a strong first impression, increasing the likelihood of a positive response from buyers or guests.

Choosing the Right Materials for Your Block Paving Driveway

When selecting materials for your block paving driveway, it’s essential to consider factors such as durability, appearance, and maintenance needs. The most common materials for block paving are concrete and clay, each offering unique advantages.

Concrete Blocks: These are popular for their durability and wide range of colours. They can be dyed to match virtually any design scheme, making them versatile. They are also relatively affordable and provide excellent strength. As such, they are suitable for high-traffic areas like driveways.

Clay Blocks: Known for their rich, natural colours, they are favoured for their aesthetic appeal. Although they are more expensive than concrete, clay blocks retain their colour over time, even in harsh weather. Their density also provides extra strength, making them a durable option for Dublin’s wet climate.

Both materials are durable and perform well under heavy use, but the choice often comes down to budget and design preferences. Consulting with a professional Dublin driveway paver can help you decide which material best suits your needs and complements your home’s style.

Understanding the Block Paving Installation Process in Dublin

Installing block paving driveway requires a careful, step-by-step process to ensure durability and visual appeal. After clearing and levelling the area, a sub-base layer is applied to create a solid foundation. This base is typically compacted and followed by a layer of sharp sand, which ensures an even, level surface for the blocks.

Once the base is ready, the blocks are laid in the chosen pattern, with attention to alignment and interlocking structure. After the blocks are in place, the surface is compacted to lock the blocks together, followed by a final layer of kiln-dried sand brushed into the joints. This sand secures the blocks, prevents shifting, and contributes to the overall strength of the driveway.

Working with skilled professionals ensures that the surface is level, secure, and well-prepared for Dublin’s climate, minimising the risk of future maintenance issues.

Is Block Paving the Right Choice for Your Dublin Driveway?

Block paving’s durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic versatility make it an ideal choice for a long-lasting, attractive driveway. While the initial cost may be higher than some other materials, block paving’s longevity and ease of repair offer excellent long-term value. It’s a particularly good choice if you want a surface that’s both functional and customisable.

For Dublin homeowners like you, block paving offers the added benefit of eco-friendly drainage, which helps manage rainwater efficiently and reduces environmental impact. Choosing block paving for your driveway not only enhances the look of your home but also provides a durable, practical solution that can withstand years of use.

In conclusion, block paving offers a winning combination of beauty, durability, and functionality. With its design versatility and resilience, this paving material provides an attractive, low-maintenance solution for driveway renovations. The eco-friendly drainage benefits and potential to increase property value make it an excellent investment if you are looking to enhance your property.

Ready to transform your Dublin driveway? Consult with our driveway paving experts to explore your block paving options and find the perfect design for your home. Call us today on 014851582 or click here to schedule a consultation!